ZPCBlog

About the author: Karin Berry and her husband, Mike, have been members of ZPC since 1992.  They have two adult children, Alicia and Wilson, who recently graduated from college so the family celebrated with an Alaskan cruise.  While Mike has serves in bigger capacities like the building committee, finance committee and elder, Karin has been behind the scenes with Home Group and leading a Bible study in their home. 

For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.  It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.  Titus 2:11-14, NIV

When my children were young, I used Santa Claus as a threat during the weeks leading up to Christmas. The reminder that Santa is watching every move they make was enough to encourage them to be on their best behavior. It was the easiest time of year to be a parent that produced obedient children. I recently had a co-worker with small children tell me he started using the Santa Claus parenting technique the day after Halloween! That allows 8 weeks of easy compliance as children eagerly await Christmas morning and the anticipation of what that good behavior brings in form of fabulous gifts under the tree.

If Santa Claus is the one that brings the prize in our fallen world, how much more does our Lord provide? God gave us his son so we can receive the ultimate gift—the gift of salvation and the prize of eternity with him. Oh how glorious that day will be when we receive the crown of glory from the Lord himself! But if children can see that their obedience can result in great gifts, why can’t we recognize it? If you’re anything like me, I fall short every single day. I know what God wants me to do. But I tend to forget that Jesus is watching, Jesus is coming. 

I once heard that there is no such thing as a free gift. In order to give a gift, you must spend something—your hard earned money, your precious time, or something of value. God gave you the most precious gift in the form of a baby. He gave up his son so you can receive the great prize of heaven. And all you have to do, is accept it. 

Jesus says all you need to do is believe in him and your faith will save you. But that is just the start. Paul points out that we Christians should go deeper by living “self-controlled, upright and godly lives.” Being a Christian is like falling in love. When you find that special someone, you behave in ways that create a relationship—you go on dates, you give them time, attention, gifts, affection, etc. When you love someone, you want to do nice things for them. You don’t feel like it’s an obligation. Rather, you desire to make him/her happy. It is the same with Jesus—create that relationship with him, spend time with him, give him your attention and affection. As a result, you won’t feel obligated to live a pure life. You’ll be eager to please Jesus by living the life that says “no” to the worldly passions and “yes” to godly living.

During this fabulous season of Christmas, don’t think about Santa coming. Think about Jesus returning to us. Receive the gift, fall in love, and live a pure life so that when he arrives you can rejoice in his loving arms.

Prayer

Jesus, I love you! I know that I fail at living the pure life you want me to live. Forgive me Lord! Thank you for the gift of salvation and redemption. I want to spend more time with you, to feel connected with you, and to return your love. It’s difficult at times, especially during this bustling season, to turn away from the distractions. Thank you for pursuing me, even when I let those distractions win me over. Help me to receive your love and turn away from wickedness as I anxiously await your return. May my actions demonstrate my love for you so that all of those around me can witness your gracious affection and accept your gift not only at this Christmas season, but throughout the year. Amen. 

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