Celebrate the Good News of Christmas

Celebrate the Good News of Christmas
Thursday December 25, 2008
Pastor Rick Warren recently published The Purpose of Christmas, a book about the true meaning of Christmas. His message is simple: "Christmas is a time for celebration, it's a time for salvation, and it's a time for reconciliation. It's good news. It's going to bring you great joy and it's for everybody! It's a party. Christmas is a party!"

The Good News of ChristmasImage: SW Productions / Getty Images
Some Christians don't celebrate Christmas. Many are concerned about the pagan roots associated with the holiday and the fact that Christ never commanded us to commemorate his birth. However, in Warren's Christmas gift book he suggests one very good reason to celebrate Christmas. It comes from Luke 2:10-11 when the angel announced, "I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord."

The good news of Christmas is the Gospel. The message is about the greatest gift of all time—God gave the gift of Jesus Christ, his Son, who brings great joy to everyone who receives him. The purpose of Christmas is to share this gift. And what a perfect opportunity! It's a holiday that focuses on the Savior of the world. That is why I celebrate Christmas.

If you don't know Jesus Christ as Savior and you'd like to experience great joy, may I invite you right now to receive his gift of salvation and join me in celebrating Christmas! It's very simple. Here's how:

* Admit you are a sinner. (Romans 3:23; 10:9-10)
* Believe Jesus Christ died on the cross to save you from sin and death and give you eternal life. (Romans 5:8; John 3:16)
* Recognize your sin before God and let him help you turn from your old life to a new life in Christ. (Acts 3:19; 2 Corinthians 5:17)
* Receive, by faith in Jesus Christ, his free gift of salvation. (Ephesians 2:8)

If you've just received Jesus, Merry Christmas! Why not celebrate by telling someone? You can leave a comment below or post a note in the forum.

Learn More About the Gift of Salvation:

* Why Become a Christian?
* How to Become a Christian
* Pray A Salvation Prayer
* What's Next? Get Started