The concern this time of year is that if we don’t get beyond the surface of all the Christmas activities going on – we’ll have more stuff than normal but no depth or weight to what we’re doing in this season.

What if we chose to see Jesus in all things this season? In the good times with family, the gift exchanges and parties – but also in the hurts, stress & difficulties this time of year can bring.

What if we looked at our friends and family enjoying their gifts and remember the words of Jesus that if we know how to give good gifts how much more does our Heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask – suddenly that moment becomes more than getting a new power tool.

When gathered to eat, what if we look at the gathered loved ones and good meal as practice for heaven? Now something deeper is happening than candied yams and a smoked ham – we’re seeing Jesus in all things.

Maybe you have a hard time with family members- is there a time when the gospel of Jesus makes more sense than when you can serve & love those who you feel have mistreated you? Now where there was a toxic situation, God’s presence lingers instead. Now we’re not just seeing Jesus – we’re showing Jesus in this season.

This season, let’s refuse to breathe superficial air and live deeply in the beauty and majesty of God coming to be with us.

Hear Sunday’s talk here.