Replay: Jesus is the Reason… for our lack of unity?

Posted by Alan Knox on Dec 24, 2011 in discipleship | 1 comment

I originally wrote the post “Jesus is the Reason” to be published three years ago on Christmas Day, December 25, 2008. If you have been reading my blog for even a short time, I hope you have noticed that I am very concerned about the rampant divisiveness among the followers of Jesus Christ. There is a lack of unity among the church that is apparent not only to believers, but also (and perhaps even more so) to those who are not Christians.

Even something like Christmas – to celebrate or not to celebrate – is a cause of division. I hope this post helps us move toward unity in Christ – even if it’s only in a small way.

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Jesus is the Reason

 
So, it’s Christmas Day [or Christmas Eve in this “Replay”].

If you believe that this is the most holy day of the year, then I have a request of you. Please remember that Jesus is the reason for you to live every day – he’s not simply a slogan to tack on to your life on Christmas Day. Celebrate this day as unto the Lord. Also, remember your brothers and sisters who choose to view all days as equally holy. They also celebrate all days as unto the Lord.

If you believe that Christmas Day should not be celebrated as the most holy day of the year, then I have a request of you. Please remember that Jesus is the reason for you to live every day – including today. You do not have an excuse to be unkind or ungenerous simply because you do not choose to celebrate Christmas Day. Celebrate this day, as all days, unto the Lord. Also, remember your brothers and sisters who choose to view this day as special. They also celebrate this day as unto the Lord.

Even the hearts and minds of unbelievers are turned toward God and spiritual things during this time. Look for opportunities to speak of God’s grace and truth to those who need to hear.

Live today for the glory of God. Love him and love those around you. Serve the people that God brings across your path. Serve them before they can serve you. Accept those who are different. Be patient with those who are less mature. Follow those who are more mature. Walk in Spirit. When you come together with your brothers and sisters in Christ, seek to build them up, to stir up love and good works within them, and to mature them in Christ Jesus.

Have a Merry Christmas!