Category: Gratitude

Jesus is The Reason for the Season

Published on by Editor

In a season filled with lights, sales, schedules, and celebrations, it’s easy to get caught up in everything surrounding Christmas. The consumerism. The shopping lists. The time off from work. The pressure to keep up, to smile, to spend, to attend. The gatherings, the traditions, the expectations. Even believers—those who sincerely love Jesus—can find their hearts distracted by the noise.

None of these things are wrong in themselves.

But they were never meant to be the focus.

At the center of it all stands Jesus.

Jesus came not wrapped in luxury, but in humility—born in a stable, laid in a manger, unnoticed by the powerful, yet announced by heaven. While the world celebrates what it can buy, God reminds us of what can only be received: grace, mercy, forgiveness, and everlasting love.

“The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” (John 1:14)

The gospel tells us that God stepped into our brokenness—not to sell us something, not to impress us, but to save us, to restore us, and to invite us into real hope.

Because the truth is, we all need saving.

“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23)

Christmas exists because humanity was lost—and God refused to leave us that way.

“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)

Jesus lived the life we could not live and willingly died the death we deserved. On the cross, He carried our sin, our shame, our guilt, and our rebellion against God.

“But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)

The gospel calls us to respond—not just with warm feelings, but with repentance and faith.

“Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out.” (Acts 3:19)

To repent means to turn—to turn away from ungodly ways, from self-rule, from sin, and to turn toward God. It is not about being perfect; it is about surrender. It is about laying down our pride, our excuses, and our old life, and placing our faith fully in Jesus Christ.

“If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come.” (2 Corinthians 5:17)

And the story does not end at the cross.

Jesus rose again on the 3rd day.

“He is not here; He has risen, just as He said.” (Matthew 28:6)

Because He lives, forgiveness is real. Because He lives, new life is possible. Because He lives, salvation is offered freely to all who believe.

“If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9)

This season calls us to pause. To step away from the rush, the pressure, and the endless pursuit of “more,” and remember the miracle that changed everything: Emmanuel—God with us.

“For unto us a Child is born… and He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6)

And to those who feel alone—this message is especially for you.

To the one spending this season without family.

To the heart carrying grief, loss, or disappointment.

To the person surrounded by people yet feeling unseen.

To the weary soul wondering if anyone truly cares.

Jesus came for you.

“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18)

You are not invisible to God. You are not forgotten. You are not beyond hope. The manger tells us God draws near. The cross tells us how far His love will go. The empty tomb tells us that darkness does not win.

Jesus is our peace when life is busy. Our comfort in lonely nights. Our hope when the world feels uncertain. Our joy beyond gifts and gatherings.

As we reflect on all that Jesus has done, this season also calls us to gratitude. Not gratitude rooted in circumstances, but thankfulness anchored in truth.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

Even when the year has been hard, even when prayers seemed delayed, we can give thanks—not because everything was easy, but because God was faithful through it all. The greatest gift has already been given, and His presence has never left us. Gratitude shifts our eyes from what we lack to Who we have—Jesus.

If you are struggling or feeling alone this season, please know that reaching out is not weakness—it is courage. There are people who care and are ready to listen:

UK: Samaritans — call 116 123 (24/7)

USA: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — call or text 988 (24/7)

And beyond any human support, Jesus Himself invites you:

“Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)

Salvation is not found in traditions, good works, or religion—but in Jesus alone.

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith… it is the gift of God.” (Ephesians 2:8–9)

May we enjoy the celebrations, but never lose sight of the reason we celebrate. Because without Him, it’s just another season—but with Jesus, it is the story of repentance, redemption, forgiveness, love, and eternal life.

Hope has a name.

Love has a name.

Salvation has a name.

And His name is Jesus. ❤️

Trusting God’s Will: Finding Peace in Surrender

Published on by Editor

In a world that often encourages control, ambition, and personal success, it is easy to fall into the trap of believing that we can dictate our own outcomes. We plan, strive, and expect life to unfold according to our desires. But when things do not go our way, we become frustrated—sometimes even angry at God. However, Scripture reminds us that our plans are not ultimate; only God’s will prevails.

God Alone is in Control

We cannot control other people, nor can we force circumstances to conform to our will. Proverbs 16:9 tells us, “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” This truth challenges our human desire for control. We often enter situations with preconceived notions of how they should unfold, and when they don’t, we blame others, complain about life’s unfairness, or feel discontent.

But why should we let unmet expectations rob us of peace? Jesus Himself taught us to pray, “Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10). Surrendering to God’s will is not about passivity—it is about trust. It is about acknowledging that He sees the whole picture while we only see a fragment. His wisdom is infinite, and His plans are far greater than ours.

His Grace is Sufficient for Today

Instead of chasing after the wind—seeking fulfillment in things that will never satisfy—why not rest in the sufficiency of God’s grace? The Apostle Paul, despite enduring trials, declared, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). Each day, God provides exactly what we need to endure, to thrive, and to glorify Him. His mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23), a fresh reminder that He sustains us, no matter what yesterday held.

Choosing Gratitude Over Discontent

Gratitude shifts our focus from what we lack to what God has abundantly provided. Paul writes in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” When we live with gratitude, we stop seeing life as a series of disappointments and instead recognize each moment as a gift from God.

If we truly trust that our Heavenly Father knows us better than we know ourselves, then why do we resist His plan? Why do we struggle to obey when He has ordained our lives before the foundation of the earth (Ephesians 1:4)? The choice is clear—we can either walk in obedience, resting in His perfect will, or we can resist and continue striving in vain.

A Call to Surrender

Ultimately, our role is not to manipulate outcomes but to trust in the One who controls them. Our task is not to demand that God follow our script but to surrender joyfully to His perfect plan. When we release our grip on control, we find true peace—the peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7).

Let us, then, be content in the day the Lord has given us. Let us rest in His grace, trust in His mercies, and live with gratitude. And above all, let us surrender our will to the One who holds all things in His hands. For His will be done—not ours.

——————

** Photo by Irina Iriser

The Magnificence of Christ Our Savior and Soon-Coming King

Published on by Editor

The Magnificence of Christ Our Savior and Soon-Coming King

The story of Jesus Christ is the centerpiece of human history. His birth, life, death, resurrection, and promised return encapsulate the glory of God’s redemptive plan. Jesus, whose name means “The Lord saves,” is also called Emmanuel, meaning “God with us” (Matthew 1:21-23). His magnificence is proclaimed not only by heavenly hosts but also by humble shepherds, learned Magi, devout prophets, and even the unborn John the Baptist, pointing to His divine mission to save humanity from sin and reconcile us to God.

The Prophecies of the Messiah

Long before His earthly arrival, the coming of the Messiah was foretold by the prophets. These prophecies reveal the grandeur of His identity and mission:

  1. His Virgin Birth:
    Isaiah prophesied that the Messiah would be born of a virgin, signifying a divine and miraculous conception:
    “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Emmanuel” (Isaiah 7:14).
  2. His Identity and Mission:
    Isaiah described the Messiah as both a mighty ruler and a source of eternal peace:
    “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).
  3. His Eternal Kingship:
    The prophet Daniel foretold that the Messiah’s kingdom would never end:
    “His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed” (Daniel 7:14).
  4. The Place of His Birth:
    Micah foretold that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem:
    “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times” (Micah 5:2).

The Announcements of His Birth

The fulfillment of these prophecies was marked by divine announcements and extraordinary events.

To Mary

The angel Gabriel appeared to Mary, a humble young woman in Nazareth, and declared:
“Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end” (Luke 1:30-33).

Mary, in awe, humbly accepted God’s will, saying:
“I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled” (Luke 1:38).

To Joseph

Joseph, initially troubled upon learning of Mary’s pregnancy, was reassured by an angel in a dream:
“Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:20-21).

The Joy of Elizabeth and Unborn John

After receiving the angel Gabriel’s announcement, Mary went to visit her relative Elizabeth, who was miraculously pregnant with John the Baptist in her old age. As soon as Mary greeted Elizabeth, an extraordinary event occurred:

“When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice, she exclaimed: ‘Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy’” (Luke 1:41-44).

This moment underscores Jesus’s divine nature even as an unborn child. John, filled with the Holy Spirit even in the womb, recognized and rejoiced in the presence of the Savior.

The Birth of the Savior

The birth of Jesus was marked by simplicity and splendor. Born in Bethlehem, He was laid in a manger because there was no room for them in the inn. This humble setting did not diminish His magnificence but instead highlighted His mission to bring salvation to all people, from the lowliest to the greatest.

The Celebration of His Birth

The Shepherds – The First Witnesses

On the night of Jesus’s birth, shepherds in the fields outside Bethlehem became the first to hear the good news. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, proclaiming:
“Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger” (Luke 2:10-12).

Suddenly, a multitude of heavenly hosts praised God, saying:
“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests” (Luke 2:14).

The shepherds, filled with wonder, hurried to Bethlehem. Finding Mary, Joseph, and the baby as the angel described, they became the first earthly witnesses to proclaim His arrival:
“When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed” (Luke 2:17-18).

The Magi – Honored Guests from the East

Some time later, wise men (Magi) from the East arrived in Jerusalem, guided by a miraculous star. They asked:
“Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him” (Matthew 2:2).

Herod, troubled by their inquiry, sought to use the Magi to locate Jesus for sinister purposes. But the star led the Magi to Bethlehem, where they found Jesus. They worshiped Him and offered gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh—symbols of His kingship, divinity, and sacrificial death (Matthew 2:11).

Warned in a dream not to return to Herod, the Magi departed another way, protecting the child from harm.

Simeon and Anna’s Testimonies

When Mary and Joseph brought Jesus to the temple for consecration, Simeon, a devout man awaiting the Messiah, took the child in his arms and praised God:
“Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel” (Luke 2:29-32).

The prophetess Anna, who worshiped in the temple day and night, also recognized Jesus as the Redeemer. She gave thanks to God and spoke about Him to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem (Luke 2:36-38).

Jesus: The Savior and Soon-Coming King

The magnificence of Jesus extends far beyond His birth. He lived a sinless life, taught with divine authority, performed miracles, and ultimately gave His life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45). Through His death and resurrection, He conquered sin and death, offering eternal life to all who believe in Him:
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16).

As we celebrate His birth, we also look forward to His glorious return, when He will reign as King of Kings and Lord of Lords:
“Look, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him” (Revelation 1:7).

Conclusion

The birth of Jesus Christ is a cause for joy and celebration. His arrival fulfilled ancient prophecies, was heralded by angels, acknowledged by shepherds, worshiped by wise men, and even celebrated by John the Baptist in the womb. He is Emmanuel, God with us, who came to save His people from their sins and bring light to the world.

As we await His return, let us proclaim with the heavenly hosts:
“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests” (Luke 2:14).

———————

**Photo by Krivec Ales at Pexels

Trusting God’s Plan for You

Published on by Editor

In life, some may walk, and others may run, but remember—the same Creator gave both the tortoise and the horse time to reach Noah’s ark. It’s not about the speed or pace of your journey but rather the perseverance to stay the course, trusting in God’s timing. Life can be rough and full of challenges, but if you rely on His guidance, you will reach your destination.

When Jesus encountered Peter, he was an ordinary fisherman—not a religious scholar, a leader, or a figure of faith. Peter was impulsive, hot-tempered, and unrefined, known for using rough language and even denying Jesus at a crucial moment. Yet, Jesus still called Peter, saying, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19). Jesus didn’t focus on Peter’s weaknesses; He saw beyond them to Peter’s potential to become a history-maker. God doesn’t see us through the lens of our flaws or failures but with eyes of love and purpose, calling each of us to leave behind our past and step into His divine plan.

Consider Joseph’s journey in the Bible. His father, Jacob, saw him as a beloved son, but his brothers only saw a dreamer and plotted against him. To travelers, Joseph was merely a slave; to Potiphar, a loyal servant; and to Potiphar’s wife, a man she could try to seduce and manipulate. Even in prison, Joseph was labeled a prisoner. But through God’s eyes, Joseph was something far more: he was a leader, a future Prime Minister of Egypt in the making. His story reminds us that, while others’ judgments can feel limiting, God’s vision surpasses them all. He sees the purpose, promise, and potential within each of us. Don’t let others’ labels define you—God sees a masterpiece being shaped within you.

Throughout the Bible, God calls people from humble, flawed, or broken circumstances and transforms them for His purpose. David was a shepherd boy, unseen and overlooked, yet chosen by God to be king. Esther, an orphan, was elevated to queen and used her influence to save her people. Even those you might overlook today, like a gardener or a maid, may be destined for greatness, seen by God with unique purpose. God’s grace isn’t limited by background, social standing, or appearances; He sees beyond our pasts to the hearts and potential within us.

God’s transformative power touches lives from all backgrounds and walks of life. Abraham was elderly, yet he became the father of nations. David was young, yet anointed as king. Esther was a woman in a male-dominated society, yet she rose to royalty. Paul was once a violent persecutor of Christians, yet he became a pillar of the church. Moses stuttered and doubted himself, yet God chose him to lead His people to freedom. Zacchaeus was short and despised as a tax collector, yet Jesus chose to visit his home. Mary Magdalene was once a prostitute, known for a sinful life, yet she became a devoted follower of Jesus and a symbol of redemption. These lives show that God’s power can redeem anyone, turning brokenness into testimony and struggles into stories of faith.

Our God is a God of transformation. He has never made a promise He couldn’t keep. He has never encountered a person He couldn’t help, a prayer He wouldn’t answer, or a sinner He wouldn’t forgive. This is the God we serve—unchanging, ever-present, and all-powerful. No matter what stage of life you find yourself in, rest in the knowledge that God sees the best in you. His love is without limits, His grace is sufficient, and His plans for you are always for good. As you walk through life, remember: it doesn’t matter how people see you; it only matters how God sees you.

Prayer

“Father, thank You that You look beyond my flaws and see a masterpiece in the making. I trust that You’re working in my life, transforming weaknesses into strengths, brokenness into purpose, and my journey into testimony. Help me to see myself as You see me, full of potential and purpose. I am grateful that Your grace is sufficient for every step of my journey. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

Take heart, and trust in His plan. Share His love with others, lift each other up, and be reminded every day that God’s grace covers all. Embrace the journey, lean into His grace, and know you are loved, chosen, and called. Be encouraged—God’s grace covers all.

————

** Photo by Pixabay at Pexels

Why It Is Important to Reflect on the True Meaning of Christmas

Published on by Editor

In a world where consumerism, materialism, and gluttony are pervasive, it seems that every day is treated as an opportunity to indulge, and holidays like Christmas have become occasions of excess rather than moments of gratitude. Yet, in the hustle of buying the latest gadgets, preparing lavish meals, and creating elaborate decorations, the deeper meaning of these celebrations risks being overshadowed. As Christians, we are reminded that Christmas is not just another day of festivity or an excuse for indulgence—it is a sacred time to give thanks and reflect on the greatest gift humanity has ever received: Jesus Christ.

The Reason for the Season

The world may often overlook the significance of Christmas, reducing it to commercial exchanges, but for believers, Christmas is a time to honor the birth of Jesus, God’s ultimate gift to the world. This is not just a day to exchange gifts, but a time to remember the immense love that God showed by sending His only son to save a broken world. John 3:16 states: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” This verse beautifully encapsulates the core of what Christmas represents—God’s gift of salvation, freely given to all who would receive it.

The Problem of Consumerism and Gluttony

It is no secret that, particularly during the holiday season, we see an increase in spending, overindulgence, and sometimes even stress as people attempt to create a “perfect” Christmas. From overspending on presents to overloading on food, the season can easily become a frenzy of excess, often leaving people feeling more drained than fulfilled. Instead of bringing joy and peace, it often creates anxiety, debt, and dissatisfaction.

What was meant to be a time of reflection and gratitude has, for many, morphed into a pressure-cooker of social expectations. This is in stark contrast to the simple, yet profound, reason for Christmas: the birth of Christ, who came to give us eternal life, not fleeting material possessions.

A Call to Give Thanks and Return to the Heart of Christmas

Christmas should remind us of the importance of gratitude, not just for earthly blessings but for the eternal gift of salvation through Jesus. Romans 6:23 says, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” This gift is freely offered to all of us. It is not something we can buy, nor something we deserve, but a testament to God’s infinite love for us.

Instead of focusing on the material aspects of the season, we are invited to reflect on Jesus’s life, His teachings, and most importantly, His sacrifice. As Christians, we are called to celebrate Christmas by remembering why Jesus came to this earth—to pay the price for our sins and offer us the gift of eternal life. This is the heart of the holiday, the reason behind all the joy, lights, and music. Without Christ, there would be no Christmas.

The Greatest Gift of All

The poem “The Greatest Gift” beautifully highlights the core message of the gospel: God’s love for us was so great that He sent His son to die in our place, offering us salvation and eternal life. This is the greatest gift the world has ever known—far more valuable than any material possession we might receive during the holiday season. It is a gift that cannot be earned, only accepted, through faith in Christ.

To receive this gift, we are invited to trust Jesus as our Savior and call upon His name. Through repentance and belief, we are born again, and our sins are forgiven, as Jesus already paid the price on the cross. This is the good news we celebrate during Christmas—a reminder that no matter how flawed or unworthy we may feel, God’s love for us is boundless.

Bringing the Focus Back to Christ

As the holiday season approaches, let us challenge ourselves to return to the true meaning of Christmas. Yes, it is a time for gathering with loved ones, enjoying good food, and exchanging gifts—but most importantly, it is a time to reflect on the immeasurable love of God shown through the birth of Jesus. Rather than getting lost in the distractions of consumerism and excess, we can choose to celebrate Christmas with a heart of gratitude, worship, and remembrance of God’s eternal gift.

In a world that constantly encourages us to seek more, Christmas reminds us that we have already been given the greatest gift—Jesus. Let us remember that Jesus is the reason for the season, and let that truth shape how we celebrate.

John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”

——————

*** Photo by George Dolgikh by Pexels