1 John 3:16-17

The world sees the meaning of Christmas time as an opportunity to give and receive gifts. I would actually agree, but with a major point of clarification—the true meaning of Christmas is celebrating the gift given by God for us to receive. Jesus’ perfect, self-sacrificial love for us was displayed by His willingness to temporarily give up the riches of Heaven to live as a human. Let this Christmas season remind us to give sacrificially as He gave Himself for us.

PASSAGE: 1 John 3:16-17 - "By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers. But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him?"

PAUSE: The Gospel is not just mere words. The Gospel is love in action. God sent Jesus into the world to meet our need for salvation. This Christmas, we must pause and look at the world around us. Who is in need? Ask God to show you ways to love others practically by meeting the needs of those near you. Christmas is not about us; Christmas is about loving those around us.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I confess that sometimes I focus on myself more than others. Open my eyes to see all the needs around me and how I can practically love my friends, family, and neighbors. Let your light shine in me!