This is the time of the year when the hands on the clock seem to speed up more than usual.  Our time is focused on preparing for family get-togethers, practicing the Christmas play, purchasing gifts for loved ones, and so on.  There is so much hustle and bustle taking place, not only around us but in our minds as well.  When Christmas Day arrives, we tend to be relieved and ready to clean up the house and move on. We get so tied up in our own circumstances that we tend not to see others around us anymore.

December is known for having the highest suicide rate of the year.  Past losses, failures, and current loneliness affect people all over the world, all year round. But, at Christmas time it becomes even more apparent to them.  And while we are in our hustle and bustle mode getting everything done, we forget the most important purpose for this time.  As believers we are celebrating the arrival of our precious Savior that gave us LIFE!

In 1 John 3:16, it says, “By this we know, because He laid down His life for us.  And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.”  This time of the year is not about getting our children the greatest gift, or making the yummiest appetizer, or even having the best Christmas play, but it is about the gospel of Jesus Christ, the news that “for unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder.  And His Name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6 NKJV).  Our message that we have to give is more wonderful, more valuable than all the riches of this world.  The best brand of clothing or the most expensive car could not compare to the gift of eternal life that we have through Christ Jesus!!

Next time you go to super market look past the candy isle, the decoration displays, or the long check-out lines, look for the one.  Look for the one that you could share the message of Jesus with, the one that you could share joy with while they may be facing depression, the one that you could direct to LIFE rather than death!