"Keys to the Kingdom"

Matthew 5:6

"BLESSED ARE THOSE WHO HUNGER AND THIRST FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS,

FOR THEY SHALL BE FILLED"

1 Corinthians 1:30

"FOR CHRIST HAS BECOME FOR US WISDOM FROM GOD, RIGHTEOUSNESS,

SANTIFICATION AND REDEMPTION"

Madison Avenue is in the business of creating, fueling and feeding cravings within the population. If we are not careful we will buy things we don't want, don't need and cannot afford simply on the persuasion of an advertisement. Impulse purchasing is a real problem for the American consumer, especially at Christmas. Misguided shopping isn't our only issue at this time of year, is it? My wife hates when I say on October 25, " just two months from now is Christmas Day". So, of course, I must repeat that idea on November 25th as well. It is overwhelming that it is quickly arriving because it has become our most sacred holiday with Thanksgiving Day a close second. Thus, we want to make them as special for ourselves and our own as possible. They are sacred not in a spiritual sense unfortunately. They are so because we treasure our time with family and friends as we embrace our traditions and pleasures. I am as guilty as any.

I challenge you this year to budget your spending and prioritize your time so as to not be any more stressed than necessary, but you know that already. My actual challenge is simple, keep your focus on Christ more than ever.

Do you want your life/this Christmas to be full of joy, blessing, satisfaction and peace?? If so, DO NOT SEEK THEM. If you do you will never possess them.

The only way to have them is if you seek Christ who is those things.

Truly get ahold of Jesus and this will be the fullest holiday season ever.

In Christ

Pastor Todd