I have been thinking about this the past couple winters when the “Holiday Season” rolls around. I have found that with myself it is a lot harder to worship my God in spirit and truth during this time of the year. I think that it is because many times all of the Santa and gift-buying and commercialism seems to overwhelm me to the point that I enjoy the essence of Christmastime much more than I do my God and Savior who came to earth from heaven to become man like me. Brothers and sisters in Christ, do not become prey to the enjoyment of the world and the complacency that so often accompanies it. At the same time, realize that there is an enjoyment that God does give us to enjoy in this world. For instance, check out this post that John MacArthur posted on Christmas Trees. Most of all, shoot for God’s glory in all things and do not forget the incredible thought of Christ coming to earth as a man to be sin for us. This is what I must constantly remind myself of. Hopefully, you can do the same.

Grace my brothers and sisters,

Josh Blaha

PS – In response to my sister’s post about the Cross and Christmas, I think it is essential for us to live a daily life with a mind set on the cross. The cross is the very essence of the life of a believer. So many people do NOT do this to their loss and shame. However, as believers, I think it is good to preach the cross to everyone whether suspected believer, affirmed believer, or complete pagan. We all need it. Jesus Christ’s death is the blood by which our lives exist. So, if it is a Sunday School class full of defiant 4′s and 5′s or just someone on the street, first make sure that you are constantly rejoicing in the cross as well as living by the cross and thereby speak the cross. You can always find a way.