No doubt that 2020 is a year that will long be remembered! For many, those memories will undoubtedly include the challenges from the political and social unrest as well as the impact of COVID-19. Yet, even in the midst of all that has happened, hope is alive! Christmas brings us the message of hope and because of that, this Christmas could be one that is long remembered. You could very well be a part of not only changing someone’s Christmas but also changing their eternity. Listed below are several ways that you make this a Christmas to remember for someone who needs the Gospel.
- While we’re socially distanced, give even more time to praying by name for folks to turn to Christ. The apostle Paul said his heart’s desire and prayer for Israel was that they be saved (Rom 10:1). As God breaks our heart over particular people, that ought to be our prayer as well.
- Put a reminder ornament in honor of someone on the tree. This can be a fun project with kids or a special ornament you purchase. Each time you see it, it is to be a reminder to pray for that someone. Hopefully later, when they receive Christ you can give it to them as a way to remember their decision and your prayers.
- Practice telling the Gospel. If you aren’t able to socialize with others as much as you would like, use the time to practice telling the Gospel. One of the most effective tools for sharing the Gospel is called Three Circles. Here is a video showing the presentation and a number of different people sharing it.
- Meet someone new. One of the reasons some people don’t share the Gospel with people they know is that are afraid of rejection from someone they know. Look for an opportunity this Christmas to meet someone new and in so doing simply ask them, “Do you know the real meaning of Christmas?” Use this question to then share with them about Jesus.
- Use your Christmas letter to tell the story of Jesus. Many of us receive numbers of holiday letters, and we learn what people have been doing through the last year. This year, focus your Christmas letter on Christ and His blessings more than on yourself.
- Put an “invite” card in the gift you exchange. We have prepared some cards that can be picked up at the Connection Desk. (Or just make your own.) This can be simple way to invite people to join us online or in-person for our services. These cards are small to keep in your wallet or purse to use anytime.
- Be up front about offering the greatest gift ever given. Contact a loved one or friend, and say up front: “This Christmas I’d love to take ten minutes to tell you what Jesus, the greatest gift ever given, means to me. Would you allow me that privilege?” Somebody might give you that opportunity.
- Give simple gospel gifts to your unchurched family members or neighbors. Even while maintaining social distancing, give a filled stocking to your neighbors, and include a simple book or tract about the truth of Christmas. Don’t overwhelm your unchurched neighbors, but get the gospel in their hands.
- Do servant evangelism during this season. Servant evangelism is doing good deeds in Jesus’ name, with the hope of gaining an opportunity to share the gospel. Shovel a friend’s driveway for no charge. Scrape the ice from a car windshield. Offer to shop for a non-believing elderly friend or family member. In so doing, have a conversation with them about Jesus and leave an invite card.
- Work with your church, local social services, or schools to assist an impoverished family. Meet some needs, especially for families who’ve lost employment this year. Show them the love of God through your actions, and ask permission to explain why you’re doing what you do: because Jesus came to earth and died on our behalf.
- Use social media to do more than wish others a Merry Christmas. The greeting is fine, but do more than that: talk about how much your relationship with the Son of God born in Bethlehem means to you. Do it briefly but clearly.
- Focus on sharing the gospel with non-believing family members. When it’s tougher these days to invite co-workers, neighbors, and friends into our homes, give attention to those closest to you—whether they live with you or elsewhere. You may find that the stress of 2020 makes somebody you love more open to the gospel.
Merry Christmas and let’s make this Christmas one that will always be remembered!