READ | Revelation 21:22-22:7
Death is inevitable. The thief on the cross knew when his would occur, but we can not predict our own. After his death, the crucified criminal went to live in paradise with Jesus. Some of us will also live eternally in God’s presence. But others will be separated from Him.
If we receive Jesus as our Savior, our penalty for sin is paid. We are adopted into God’s family, and Heaven is our eternal home. If we reject Jesus, we remain alienated from the Lord and under judgment for our sins. We know better. God won’t accept any of man’s excuses because there is no acceptable defense for unbelief (Acts 4:12).
The Christmas story is familiar to the world. Every year it is regaled and recounted. But most still do not see its meaning or worth to their lives. Can anyone you know imagine standing before God and feigning ignorance?
Yet many believers will forfeit opportunities to worship or serve Him during this holy time. They will offer busyness as an excuse. Unbelief takes on many forms. The simplest is disobedience and disregard. Don’t take Christmas for granted. It is a time to renew the story and our devotion.
What if this Christmas is to be your last? Would you celebrate it any different? The choice is yours.
Michael