Remember the Reason

“Remember the Reason” proclaimed the Googled banner on my Christmas morning Facebook post. So, how did we do? In the midst of the now-normal Christmas activities, did we remember the real reason for the season, or did the birth of the Christ-child get lost in the tinsel and tunes of the holidays. I confess that I heard many more wishes for having a “Happy Holiday” than I used to hear. I guess wishing a “Merry Christmas” is becoming politically incorrect. I’m certainly not against having happy holidays, and I’m only in favor of the “Merry Christmas” greeting because it proclaims “Christ” as the reason for both the greeting and the season. I’m also aware that the origin of the December 25 celebration is not exactly Christian, and that Jesus was more likely born in the spring time when shepherds would have been “abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night” (Luke 2:8). However, December 25 is when we celebrate the incarnational birth of our Lord. When the accompaniments are all stripped away, it is finally, all about Jesus, the only valid reason for the season. I hope you had a meaningful Christmas – for all the right reasons.

Join me in remembering the following global concerns or this day following Christmas:
• Pray for those who will be following Christmas celebrations with explanations as to it true meaning.
• In many European traditions, December 26 is “Boxing Day” when people give money and gifts to those who are needy. Pray for generous gifts accompanied with gospel truth.
• Pray for a needed Volunteer Prayer Coordinator and a Volunteer Editor for the “WestCoast Challenge” newsletter of the metro Vancouver, Canada area.
• Pray for safety in post-Christmas travel for those who minister globally.