Christmas Day - Wednesday, December 25

Christmas morning as a child felt magical. You wake up with eager anticipation,
rushing to see the presents under the tree. Soon, wrapping paper flies in all
directions as laughter fills the room. For parents, all the stress and preparation melt
away in those precious moments of joy, watching their children’s excitement. As
we grow older, Christmas takes on new meaning—not just a magical day, but a day
to celebrate the profound love that binds us together.

The essence of Christmas is beautifully captured in John 3:16. Billy Graham, who
preached the gospel to millions, said this verse was at the heart of every message he
shared: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever
believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” This simple verse is a
reminder of a love so deep, it’s beyond our understanding.

Think of how we give gifts—carefully chosen, usually for those we love.
Sometimes, we give to those in need because we want everyone to experience the
joy of Christmas. But giving gifts to those who hate us? That’s unthinkable. Yet
that’s exactly what God did. His love was so vast that while we were still sinners
and enemies of God, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8). God’s gift wasn’t reserved
for those who were deserving but extended to everyone, even those who rejected
Him. Through Jesus, God reached out to a world that was broken, distant, even
hostile toward Him. He didn’t wait for us to make the first move.

Romans 5:10 reminds us, “For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to
God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be
saved by his life.” God's love didn’t just stop at forgiving our sins; it went further,
reconciling us to Him, making us alive with Christ even when we were dead in our
trespasses (Ephesians 2:4-5). Colossians 1:21-22 adds that though we were once
“alienated and hostile in mind,” God chose to draw us close, offering us a new life
through Jesus’ sacrifice.

So today, let’s remember that Christmas is not only about giving and receiving gifts
but celebrating the ultimate gift—God’s love in Christ. As we gather with family,
let’s cherish the love that surrounds us, a love that reflects the heart of God, who
gave everything to be with us. This Christmas, may we not only remember the gift
of Jesus but respond to it, allowing His love to shape our lives and overflow to
those around us.

For His Glory & Merry Christmas
Pastor Dillon Evans

Prayer: Abba Father, thank You for loving us even when we were far from You.
Thank You for sending your only begotten Son, our Lord Jesus, to show us the
depth of Your love. As we celebrate today, help us to focus on Your gift, the gift
that brings eternal life. Fill our hearts with gratitude and let Your love shine
through us as we share it with others. Amen.