My wife asked me the other day if I was going to step away from our series on John’s Gospel to teach about Christ’s birth for Christmas. I have taken much time to think and pray about that.
This week, we would be teaching on John 2:13. I had to ask myself: who is leading me to preach on Christ’s birth? Was it the Holy Spirit, or was it the peer pressures of religion and the traditions of the church? I already knew the answer to that question.
With that said, I am sure there are thousands of churches that will be sharing the story of Christ’s birth on Christmas eve and on Sunday, but God is leading our ministry in a different direction. So different in fact, it moves against such traditions.
I find it fitting that as 2020 comes to an end, Jesus cares not about venerating His Birthday like the heathen Kings did in the past. America is entering a time of judgement. The global Church is facing severe discipline from the Lord for the compromises it has made over the past 30 years.
And that is why as most Christians celebrate the joy of a baby in a manger, we are going to focus on how Jesus is once again tossing the tables of the moneychangers. God disciplines those He loves and He blesses those who remain in His will.
This Sunday we are not going to reflect on our traditions and history; rather, we are going to hear a fresh Word of the Lord that brings hope and Life. I keep running into more and more people who are done playing Christian. That is what are ministry is all about. We don’t want to fill our year with weeks and seasons of festivals and sacred traditions, we seek relationship with a living God and with each other. And He cares not about such traditions. I tell you the truth, if you really want to honor Jesus for His birthday or any day, surrender your will, pick up your cross and obey His commands. Walk in the Light, and you will bring glory and honor to His Name. And that is a gift He would love to receive.