Articles
Make the Most Of This Time Of Year
I was raised in a family and a church tradition that did not celebrate Christmas in a religious way. To many in the in the world who call themselves Christian this may seem strange. It was pointed out that Jesus most likely wasn’t born in December and that holiday of Christmas wasn’t celebrated for hundreds of years after Christ actually walked the world. While these facts are true I have come to see this time of year as one of the most effective times to talk to others about the Gospel. Rather than having a judgmental attitude that tries to correct others’ misconceptions I believe we must take advantage of this unique time to share the good news about Jesus. In his letter to the Colossians Paul wrote the following, “Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving; praying at the same time for us as well, that God will open up to us a door for the word, so that we may speak forth the mystery of Christ, for which I have also been imprisoned; that I may make it clear in the way I ought to speak. Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person” (Col. 4:2-6). I just wanted to share a few reasons why I believe this is a season of open doors.
People are actually reading the Bible and going to church. To me this is a wonderful blessing. Even if someone reads the Bible with a misconception at least they are reading it. The truth is on the page and perhaps their eyes, ears, and hearts will be open to the truth. Also someone might only attend a church once or twice a year but at least they are interested in some spiritual things. When talking with contacts be sure to notice these things. Comments like, “Hey friend it is great to see you going to church. You should come visit with me sometime.” Or maybe, “I see you are reading your Bible. My church does a simple plan where we read the entire New Testament with just one chapter a day. Have you ever considered something like that?” or many similar comments. Use these open doors!
People are kind and giving. While it is true that some focus on materialism or overeating at this time of year it is just as true that this time of year is more about giving than any other. Charities and food banks see large donations as people are in the giving spirit. I believe that this is a great thing for our communities and the world in general. Christians would do well to be generous and give their time, money, and efforts to others in need. You might come across people who love God and others the way we do. Talk with these contacts about God and religion. Share with them the truth and see if they might be interested in Bible study. They will see by your generous example a sincere believer.
Don’t be harsh or judgmental at this time of year. Make the most of every opportunity. Pray for open doors. Jesus may not have been born at Christmas but He did come with great shouting and fanfare from Heaven itself. He was born to live as a man and eventually to suffer and die. His coming in the flesh was planned before the foundation of the world and it is this coming that gives us hope.
