Will that new ugly sweater change your life? Will the IPod make you happier? Will more crap fulfill you?

Christmas was about revolution, it was about change. Will it change you this year? Will knowing that Jesus came for you this Christmas change you this year? What will that change cause? 

Here are ways that Christmas is changing others… 

From Advent Conspiracy

We recently started sponsoring a child from Compassion International as a family. The kids give their tithe money from their allowances to sponsor Ludwin, a little boy in Peru. I started this because I wanted them to see the money they give to God in action. It’s only been a couple of weeks, but this has been a blessing to my family. My kids have such joy to give their offering to the Lord. They know they’re making a difference and acting like Christ, helping those who need help.

I knew we were doing a good thing, but all of that didn’t prepare me for a conversation I had with Samuel (my 3 year old) the other day. He came home from Wednesday night Cubbies at church and was in an obviously bad mood. So I asked him what was wrong and he told me that some nasty little boy tired to hug him and that he didn’t like it.

Surprised at his answer, I asked him “why.” And he replied, “I only liked to be hugged by my family… and my friends.” I was a bit amused at this because he doesn’t really have any friends besides his brother and sisters. So I asked him who were his friends. He said, “Ludiwn. Ludwin is my friend and I love him. I love him very much. He can hug me too, Daddy. It’s okay if Ludwin hugs me.”

Samuel meant it. He’s not a kid that just says stuff like that. Samuel’s transparent love broke me. Sure, on the surface it was sweet, but he really loves that little boy whom he has never met. Samuel prays for Ludwin and talks about him as he was the kid next door. He really loves him. 

Giving of yourself changes you. Christmas was about Christ coming to this earth as a gift to us. Will we follow in His footsteps and give of ourselves to others. Remember what having Jesus in your life has meant to you. Then go and do the same for someone else.   

How will this Christmas change you?

[HT: Rev Kev]

Let’s rethink Christmas. Or at least think about Christmas. How often do we just act on impulse and get caught up into the “Christmas Spirit” of capitalism, selfishness and Wal-Mart. Let’s break the cycle this year.