12/22/16
“By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye
have love one to another.” John 13:35
Dear Congregation,
The world
makes a habit of focusing its gaze on Christians and on the Church during the
Christmas season. Despite its attempts to cover up the holiday with Santa Claus,
parties, commerce, toys, vacations, and all the other cultural norms, They
still cannot avoid the image of the nativity as the real origin of the holiday.
We know that God is the one who works in people’s hearts and minds to draw them
to Himself. We rest in His providence and power to use weak and unexpected
things to advance His kingdom. Yet we are told to be conscious of our testimony
as His people. Above, He tells us to love one another as He has loved us. Despite
the sinful nature of mankind and the world covering up Christ and His gospel,
there is still a yearning for something different. I submit to you that one of
those different things is genuine love for others. Not rivalry, not business
partnership, not casual acquaintance, but love. When true genuine caring is
seen among God’s people, it makes an impact that cannot be ignored and is
attractive, on some level, even to the most hardened sinner. As we interact
with unsaved family, friends, and neighbors, let our love for one another at
Grace Church stand out. As visitors come to us, let them be impacted by our
differentness. This is what I challenge you to consider this coming week that
you show an unworldly genuine love, warmth, and meekness that comes from above.
That people may see it and glorify your Father in Heaven.
Merry Christmas,
Pastor Basile
