Sermon for December 20, 2015
Advent at St. Apkar is a time to prepare for the glorious birth of Jesus and celebrate this experience of God’s love.
Jesus was born into poor circumstances and he lived a life of humbleness and simplicity. This season reminds us that it is a time of reflection and should be the time for us to live as Christ lived. It is a time for us to love, help, support and cherish one another. We cannot spend time on hatred, gossip or conflict. Rather, we must comfort each other and grow together spiritually.
I encourage you to keep this in mind as you prepare to celebrate Christmas – KEEP IT SIMPLE. There is no need for everything to be so big or fancy; nor do your holiday tables, decorations or gifts need to be so elaborate. The gift that the Lord is seeking for today is your humble heart. God doesn’t want your possessions; he wants your heart (Matt. 6:21).
Keep your holidays simple, so you are free to be there for those in need. Celebrate Christmas with those you love. Share your love with friends and family members and let them feel appreciated. Just make time for them.
When you remove yourself from your full and busy schedule, on then are you able to find time for someone you love; you’re giving this person a portion of your life. That is MORE VALUABLE than ANY gift. You can always make more money yet, it’s impossible to make more time. Use your time wisely. Christmas is time of GIVING and GIVING is a matter of willingness, not wealth!
The generosity of giving means you become a blessing for others.
A gesture of kindness, thoughtfulness, honesty and helpfulness can and will impact the lives of those you assist. It touches the heart and that gesture becomes priceless!
Don’t hesitate to be the one who brings about positive change and good blessings to others. Share love, joy and good news. Be the good news!
“… But the angel reassured them. ‘Don’t be afraid!’ he said. ‘I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people…’” (Luke 2:10-11),
“Good news … great joy!” Spared joy, tell the story of salvation.
We are forgiven. My sinful past is forgiven, and your past is also forgiven.
We are new creations, as God, through Jesus Christ has given us reconciliation.
God states that you are not a sinner, whom He wants to punish, but rather His son and His daughter of whom He saved.
“Let there be peace …” It is time for reconciliation. It is time to restore those broken or strained relationships. It’s a time to say “I’m sorry” and most importantly, it is the best time to offer forgiveness to all those who have hurt you and say to them, “You are forgiven.”
When you deeply understand and feel God’s forgiveness towards you, then you will find it much easier to forgive others and make peace with them.
Enjoy this Advent and the special moments with your family this season.
