JESUS: The Reason for the Season

“December 7th, 1941 a day that will live in infamy.” This phrase, uttered by then president Franklin Delano Roosevelt, reminded the world of the attack on Pearl Harbor by the Japanese Empire.  Now, 70 years later, we are still able to recall those words and REMEMBER the significance of the event.  While some people urge us to forget the significance of that singular event, all thinking people are constantly remembering those who gave their lives in defense of both our nation and for freedom of the entire world.  As Winston Churchill said “Never give in–never, never, never, never, in nothing great or small, large or petty, never give in… Never yield to force; never yield to the apparently overwhelming might of the enemy.”

As I think about those events, I am still conflicted over the fact that we are able to remember those words and yet we have so neglected the marching orders of the Lord Jesus himself.  Jesus said, “Go into all the world and preach the Gospel.” (Mk. 16:15) yet still nearly 1 in 7 people globally have virtually no access to the gospel of Jesus Christ. More sobering even is the fact that six of seven people are still without a personal relationship with Jesus Christ!

Why have we, the redeemed of Christ, been so negligent in our efforts to share the gospel of Christ with a lost and dying world?  Why have we seemingly relegated to the back of our minds the clear command of Christ to take His message throughout the world?  It is my prayer that during this season of the year we will share more aggressively, pray for fervently, give more generously, and go more regularly with the life-changing message of Jesus Christ.  This is a day to remember — not only Pearl Harbor, but more importantly remember, JESUS IS THE REASON for the season.