Tips for this Christmas

By Pastor Latt

Reading scripture texts, quotes, prayers, and words of wisdom on seasonal greeting cards are so meaningful when you read them prayerfully. They were carefully chosen by card givers especially for the receivers. Some people take hours of time to pick just one card for someone special. Sometime a small card with meaningful words can change lives. Sending cards to families and friends on Christmas season is one of a significance of the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ.

I have treasured some of the cards I received which inspired me in many ways. Members of YAF used to gave me cards with their short notes, photos, and signatures on pastor’s appreciation Sundays and my birthdays. This year, Junior fellowship also created their own card for me with their thank-you notes on thanksgiving Sunday. They encouraged me to be a better shepherd or a better spiritual leader. At this Christmas season I would like to share with you some meaningful tips from a card that I have received last Christmas. It was gift from Ma Elizabeth Makha and published by Harvest Ministry:

Seven Tips For This Christmas Season

(1) Read the word. Nothing will remind you of the Christmas story like the Christmas story itself.
(2) Remember to pray! Pray for Godly priorities, for unsaved family members, and for those in need.
(3) Don’t replace worship with holiday work. Don’t get so busy that you forget to worship God. Don’t lose sight of your first love (see Revelation 2:4).
(4) Meet with God’s people. Make time for you and your family to go to church.
(5) Be about your Father’s businesses. Make sure that you’re not getting caught up in the world’s view of Christmas rather than the Word’s view of Christmas.
(6) Remember who the celebration is for. As you decorate, shop, and plan, remember that Jesus Christ is the reason for it all.
(7) Repent and repeat. If you find yourself losing sight of Jesus this Christmas, change your direction. Chances are you need to get back into prayer, the Word, fellowship, and sharing the gospel with others.

It reminds me to be a spiritual leader to lead a true and meaningful Christmas for our congregations so that the good news of the birth of Jesus will give impact to our society. We have carefully and prayerfully prepared our Annual Christmas Celebration with Candlelight Worship service on December 25th (Christmas Day). I do not want you to miss this meaningful event. Bring entire family and friends to our church and join with us to celebrate the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. Visit our website http://www.fbbcsf.org/announcement.htm for more detail.

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas!

Pastor Latt