CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS WITH JESUS

Title: CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS WITH JESUS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Luke 2:11
Supporting Texts: John 3:16, Matthew 1:23, Isaiah 9:6

INTRODUCTION:
Christmas is the celebration of Jesus Christ, the Saviour of the world. However, many people celebrate Christmas without acknowledging the very reason for the season—Jesus Himself. True celebration begins when we honour Christ in our lives and hearts. This message focuses on how we can celebrate Christmas meaningfully with Jesus at the centre.

1. ACKNOWLEDGING THE GIFT OF JESUS

a) The Greatest Gift
Jesus is God’s ultimate gift to humanity (John 3:16).

b) The Saviour of the World
He came to save us from sin and reconcile us to God (Matthew 1:21).

c) The Fulfilment of Prophecy
His birth fulfilled God’s promises of a Messiah (Isaiah 7:14).

d) A Personal Relationship
Celebrating Christmas with Jesus starts with knowing Him personally (John 17:3).

e) Biblical Example: Simeon recognised Jesus as the salvation of God (Luke 2:25-30).

2. MAKING ROOM FOR JESUS IN YOUR LIFE

a) A Heart of Humility
Jesus was born in a humble manger, teaching us to humble ourselves (Philippians 2:8).

b) A Heart of Worship
Celebrate Him with sincere worship and adoration (Psalm 95:6).

c) A Heart of Gratitude
Thank God for the gift of His Son (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

d) A Heart of Surrender
Surrender your life to Christ and let Him reign (Romans 12:1).

e) Biblical Example: The wise men made room for Jesus in their journey, offering Him gifts (Matthew 2:11).

3. CELEBRATING WITH LOVE AND GENEROSITY

a) Love for God
Love Him with all your heart, soul, and mind (Matthew 22:37).

b) Love for Others
Share Christ’s love by showing kindness and compassion (John 13:34).

c) Giving to Others
Reflect God’s giving nature through acts of generosity (Acts 20:35).

d) Spreading the Good News
Use this season to tell others about Jesus (Mark 16:15).

e) Biblical Example: The shepherds shared the good news after meeting Jesus (Luke 2:17).

4. HONOURING THE TRUE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS

a) Christ at the Centre
Ensure your celebrations focus on Jesus, not materialism (Colossians 3:2).

b) Spiritual Reflection
Reflect on the purpose of Christ’s birth (Luke 2:19).

c) Joyful Celebration
Rejoice in the gift of salvation (Philippians 4:4).

d) Prayer and Fellowship
Spend time in prayer and with fellow believers (Acts 2:42).

e) Biblical Example: Mary treasured and reflected on the significance of Christ’s birth (Luke 2:19).

5. LIVING OUT THE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS

a) Walking in Christ’s Light
Let His light shine through your actions (Matthew 5:16).

b) Carrying His Peace
Share the peace of Christ with others (John 14:27).

c) Demonstrating Forgiveness
Forgive others as Christ forgave you (Ephesians 4:32).

d) Hope for the Future
Christmas reminds us of the hope we have in Christ (Titus 2:13).

e) Biblical Example: Anna the prophetess lived out her faith, speaking of Christ to others (Luke 2:36-38).

CONCLUSION:
Celebrating Christmas with Jesus means focusing on His birth, mission, and love. It’s not just about the festivities but about honouring Him in our hearts and lives. Let this Christmas be a time of worship, gratitude, and sharing the good news of Jesus with others.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Father, help me to celebrate Christmas with Jesus at the centre.

2. Lord, thank You for the gift of salvation through Christ.

3. Father, help me to reflect Your love and light this season.

4. Lord, give me the grace to honour the true meaning of Christmas.

5. Father, let my heart be a dwelling place for Jesus.

6. Lord, help me to share the good news of Christ with others.

7. Father, fill my home with the peace and joy of Christmas.

8. Lord, let my celebrations bring glory to Your name.

9. Father, help me to reflect on the significance of Christ’s birth.

10. Lord, use this Christmas to draw me closer to You.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:

1. I declare that Jesus will be the centre of your Christmas celebration.

2. May this season bring you closer to the love of Christ.

3. The peace and joy of Christmas will fill your heart and home.

4. You will shine as a light for Christ in this season.

5. The true meaning of Christmas will be evident in your life.

6. Your life will reflect the love and generosity of Christ.

7. This Christmas will mark a turning point in your walk with God.

8. The message of Christ will flow through you to others.

9. May this season bring divine encounters that transform your life.

10. Jesus will reign supreme in your heart and home this Christmas.