Christmas takes on a whole new meaning when you live in a place like North Korea, where even one decoration in your home could get you arrested. Where telling the story of Jesus is against the law, and Bibles are forbidden. Where being a Christian could cost you your livelihood, your freedom, your family, or even your life. Where singing carols must be silent, and gathering together with other believers is a felony.
That’s how it is in many Communist, Muslim or Hindu countries in the Middle East, Africa and Asia. Our family lived in one of those countries for many years. We even raised our kids there. So, whenever I’m in a place like the US at Christmas time, where we can worship the King openly, I can’t help but feel moved to tears.
This Christmas, as you gather with your families and worship openly in churches, enjoy every ounce of your freedom. Celebrate Jesus vibrantly. Love others deeply. Help the needy. Forgive that family member who has a grudge against you. Encourage those who slander leaders to pray for and bless them instead. Live your faith out loud. Tell your children about the glorious things God has done in your life. Make together special remembrances of His goodness. Sing of His beauty. Don’t be afraid to let your children see your tears of gratitude and joy, as you read that passage or sing that carol that touches you so deeply. Tell them why it moves you so. And as you shop, look for gifts that will make a difference not only in their lives, but in many others’ as well.
And as you celebrate, pray for missionaries who can’t be with their families this Christmas, and for our brothers and sisters all across the world who suffer for their faith and who may risk everything this Christmas to tell someone the good news about Christ.
Lord, thank You for the freedom to worship You. Help us lay down our petty differences this Christmas and reach out in love to those around us. Be with missionaries and others who are far from family and friends, and bless them in special ways by Your hand. Shield persecuted Christians from harm and make the way for them to safely gather together to share a meal and celebrate the birth of the Savior of the World. Let this Christmas be one of Light and Love. Push aside the busyness for us and remind us to focus on the Miracle. In Your precious name, Jesus. Amen.
Mikaela Vincent and her husband are missionaries who live by faith, trusting in God to provide for their needs as they pray for and share Christ with the nations. If you would like to help their ministry through a donation, or by shopping at Mikaela’s online bookstore, click the buttons below:
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