Christmas Party time

Paul's arrival in Jerusalem was cause for celebration and for getting together as family. These people were friends and brothers in faith. To get the party started, they went first to visit James, the brother of Jesus and leader of the Jerusalem church.

After greeting each other, sharing pertinent bits of their lives since last they met, they began to tell the story of what God was doing.

Acts 21:17-20 (MSG)
In Jerusalem, our friends, glad to see us, received us with open arms. The first thing next morning, we took Paul to see James. All the church leaders were there. After a time of greeting and small talk, Paul told the story, detail by detail, of what God had done among the Gentiles through his ministry. They listened with delight and gave God the glory. They had a story to tell, too: "And just look at what's been happening here—thousands upon thousands of God-fearing Jews have become believers in Jesus! But there's also a problem because they are more zealous than ever in observing the laws of Moses.

When we share our story, a testimony of faith and obedience, we are telling the world the Good News.  And pointing to Jesus, our Savior, as the reason for our changed lives and, we give all the glory to God. We know that only God, who loves us, could have orchestrated such a changed heart. Looking back at my story, it is clear that God was working. They listened with delight and gave God the glory.

What's your story?  Have you shared it with someone who needs to hear of a loving and forgiving God? This is called Intentional Discipleship. When we go out of our way, stepping outside our comfort zone, and encouraging someone who has not yet seen the Light of the World. Christmas time is a good time to do this.

The Christmas Story is a powerful testimony of God's faithfulness.






Acts 21:17-26