December 25
Zech 8:1-23 | PS 144:1-15 | Prov 30:29-31 | Rev 16:1-21
Another Christmas season. Another day of celebration and feasting. But, what exactly will you be celebrating? More importantly, who will be celebrated this year at your festivities? Pontius Pilate asked Jesus in John 18:38, "What is truth?" The truth of the world, who always existed, humbled Himself and became Man. That is what Christmas is all about. Yet this is not what Christmas is really about for almost everyone celebrating it. Rather than discuss truth, which is wrapped up in Jesus, we can choose to talk sports, gossip about relatives, reminisce about the good old times. None of this represents truth. None of this leaves the day with a feeling of fulfillment. Yes, perhaps a few laughs, some good food, but real nourishment for your soul, no. So, as we assemble for our Christmas celebration, why not steer the conversation onto Jesus, whose name means God is salvation. For that is what it is that we can offer to even one of those who doesn't know Him, this day.
We read in Zechariah 8:16-17, "These are the things you shall do: Speak each man the truth to his neighbor; Give judgment in your gates for truth, justice, and peace; Let none of you think evil in your heart against your neighbor; And do not love a false oath. For all these are things that I hate,’ Says the Lord.”" But realize that people don't really want the truth. During the Tribulation, the world will be confronted with unmistakable truth. One judgment after another will rain down on those remaining, yet we see a common phrase being said of those people, as we read in Revelation 16:21, "And great hail from heaven fell upon men, each hailstone about the weight of a talent. Men blasphemed God because of the plague of the hail, since that plague was exceedingly great." Despite being presented with truth, rather than repent, they chose to blaspheme God.
Perhaps, many would feel that their unsaved loved ones would never do such a thing. But realize the word despise, does not mean "hate" as we use today. It means to "take lightly". Wouldn't we say this accurately represents the majority of those we are in contact with who really are not in a true saving relationship with Jesus Christ. So, as you are preparing yourself for your celebration, perhaps think less about what you will eat, what you will bring, what you will wear, etc. Perhaps, consider in your heart how you can bring up that baby in the manger, who changed the world, and is the only option for a true living Hope. Christ is born. May this ring loudly this Christmas Day.
Messages from Pastor Lloyd Pulley: