CHRISTMAS: A TIME OF REFLECTION

Title: CHRISTMAS: A TIME OF REFLECTION

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Luke 2:19
Supporting Texts: Isaiah 9:6, John 3:16, Matthew 2:1-12

INTRODUCTION:
Christmas is not just a time for celebration but also for reflection. It is a season to meditate on the profound significance of Christ’s birth and its implications for our lives. Mary, the mother of Jesus, serves as a model of reflection as she pondered all that happened surrounding the birth of Christ. This message challenges us to take time to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas and its impact on our relationship with God and others.

1. REFLECTING ON THE GIFT OF SALVATION

a) God’s Love Demonstrated
Christmas is a reminder of God’s ultimate love for humanity, shown through the gift of His Son (John 3:16).

b) The Need for Salvation
Reflect on the reason for Christ’s birth—to save us from sin (Matthew 1:21).

c) The Fulfillment of Prophecy
The birth of Jesus fulfilled the prophecies of the Old Testament, proving God’s faithfulness (Isaiah 7:14).

d) A New Covenant
Christ’s birth signified the beginning of a new covenant between God and man (Hebrews 8:6).

e) Biblical Example: Simeon reflected on the fulfilment of God’s promise when he saw Jesus (Luke 2:25-32).

2. REFLECTING ON THE NATURE OF CHRIST

a) Jesus as the Prince of Peace
Reflect on the peace Christ brings to a troubled world (Isaiah 9:6).

b) Jesus as the Light of the World
He came to illuminate our darkness (John 8:12).

c) Jesus as the King of Kings
His birth signifies His eternal reign (Revelation 19:16).

d) Jesus as Emmanuel
Reflect on the reality of God being with us (Matthew 1:23).

e) Biblical Example: The wise men recognised and worshipped Jesus as King (Matthew 2:11).

3. REFLECTING ON THE CALL TO WORSHIP

a) Personal Worship
Reflect on your relationship with Christ and offer heartfelt worship (Psalm 95:6).

b) Corporate Worship
Gather with others to celebrate and honour Jesus (Hebrews 10:25).

c) A Lifestyle of Worship
Worship is not seasonal but a daily commitment (Romans 12:1).

d) Sacrificial Worship
Be willing to give your time, resources, and heart to Jesus (2 Samuel 24:24).

e) Biblical Example: The shepherds worshipped Christ and spread the good news (Luke 2:16-20).

4. REFLECTING ON OUR MISSION

a) The Great Commission
Christmas reminds us of the need to share the good news of Christ (Matthew 28:19-20).

b) Living as Christ’s Ambassadors
Represent Jesus in your words and actions during this season (2 Corinthians 5:20).

c) Generosity and Kindness
Reflect Christ’s love by showing kindness and generosity to others (Acts 20:35).

d) Building God’s Kingdom
Use the season to advance God’s kingdom through service and evangelism (Matthew 6:33).

e) Biblical Example: Anna the prophetess proclaimed Christ to all who sought redemption (Luke 2:36-38).

5. REFLECTING ON THE FUTURE HOPE

a) Christ’s Return
Christmas points us to the hope of Christ’s second coming (John 14:3).

b) Eternal Life
Reflect on the promise of eternal life through Christ (John 11:25).

c) Heavenly Joy
The joy of Christmas is a foretaste of the eternal joy in heaven (Revelation 21:4).

d) Faithfulness in Waiting
Live with anticipation, staying faithful to Christ until He returns (Matthew 24:42).

e) Biblical Example: The early church lived in expectation of Christ’s return (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).

CONCLUSION:
Christmas is a season to pause and reflect on the profound truths of Christ’s birth, His mission, and His love. As you celebrate, take time to evaluate your relationship with Him and ensure that your life reflects His light. Let this Christmas be a turning point that draws you closer to the Saviour.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas.

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

3. Lord, let my life reflect Your light and glory this season.

4. Father, give me a heart of worship that honours You daily.

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

6. Father, let the joy and peace of Christmas fill my heart and home.

7. Lord, grant me grace to live as Your ambassador.

8. Father, prepare my heart for the second coming of Christ.

9. Lord, use this season to draw many to Your kingdom.

10. Father, let this Christmas mark a new beginning in my walk with You.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. I declare that this Christmas will bring a deeper revelation of Christ into your life.

2. May the joy and peace of the season fill your heart and home.

3. You will reflect the light of Christ to everyone around you.

4. The true meaning of Christmas will be evident in your celebrations.

5. Your worship will bring glory and honour to God this season.

6. This Christmas will mark the beginning of new spiritual growth in your life.

7. You will share the good news of Christ boldly and effectively.

8. The love of Christ will overflow in your actions and words.

9. May this season draw you closer to the hope of Christ’s return.

10. Christ will reign supreme in your life and home this Christmas and always.