Thursday, December 20th, 2018

With Christmas Day only days away, it is easy to be swept up in the fervor of the season, looking forward to time with our families, the traditions we hold dear, and the giving and receiving of gifts. While these are all good things, they can also give us a version of “tunnel vision” as we block out others to focus on ourselves and our families. The spirit of Christmas extends far beyond just giving to our immediate families and friends. Did Jesus come to just save Mary and Joseph and his 12 disciples, or did he come to save all of creation? Paul urges us to think along these lines in Philippians, saying, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” Today, use the days leading up to Christmas to extend blessings to others outside your circle of friends and family and so draw close to the true heart of Christ.

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves” – Philippians 2:3 NIV