The Care & Keeping of Joy

Christmas comes earlier each year.  We buy more gifts, travel farther, and go to more parties in hopes of some great return that never seems to come.  We know what the meaning of Christmas is supposed to be.  Don’t we all just want Christmas to pay off?  Are we missing something?  Listen to “The Christmas Payoff Series” from November 27  – December 18, 2016 to reignite the wonder of Christmas again in your heart.

Listen to this message by clicking the “Listen” button above and follow along with the message notes by clicking on the “Download” button. 

Read the scripture from this message online:  Philippians 4:4-9; Luke 2:10

After listening to this message, apply its teachings to your life by following these next steps: 

1. Take a vow with your family, friends or people you exchange gifts with to refrain from buying new gifts.  Give them something that was meaningful to you or pass along something you think they may really enjoy.
2. If you’re having a family meal, make a point to see if there’s someone in your neighborhood that may be alone and invite them to spend Christmas with you.
3. Instead of gifts, give love and time.  Give someone a card that expresses how you feel about them and schedule time with them.
4. Find new ways to refocus on growing in discipleship this season including eliminating things that keep you from putting God first.