I love this time of the year!

The tree is up, and decorated. Christmas parties are planned. And it's cold outside! There are so many reasons to enjoy the holidays, but I would like to challenge you this year; make Christ the center of your Christmas! Over the years I have been so caught up on what to get who, and what I want that Christ has been put on the back-burner of my thought life. As much I love being around family, and watching all the Christmas movies; our thoughts, hearts, and world should be consumed with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

Is Jesus birth just a good story we tell during this time of year? Or is He the story of our lives? So many others spend this time trying to do good deeds for our "fellow man," but when is the last time we just loved Christ for who He is and what He did for us? We are never saved by our good deeds, but when we are saved, we will perform good deeds. And it doesn't take a few weeks at the end of the year to give us the opportunity. There are many people that are hurting, lonely, and just want someone to care about them. We know more importantly that we should care about their soul. When we wish people a merry Christmas this year; let us show them how to have one. Share with someone the word of God, and show them to Jesus!

Some of you have never taken an opportunity to share the gospel with someone. I challenge you to do so this year, and what a great time to begin! May the Lord bless you and your loved ones this Christmas, and may we all honor our Savior and not our "stuff".

Merry Christmas from the Underwood's!