What did you find? Christmas is the start, not the end

The biggest mistake we make around Christmas is we think that after the decorations are put away and all the toys are broken, it’s over. (until next December). We often forget that Christmas is really the beginning, not the end.

Matthew 2 is the only place where we learn of the Magi. These were sky observers, and they noticed something. They were well read in the traditions of different cultures and when they observed something wonderful in the sky they had to act. So, they mounted their camels, loaded up with gifts and headed west. Eventually they ended up in Jerusalem. Expecting to find a prince, they went to the palace. Herod was king, and he freaked out. He forced his own scholars to study and learn where this King of Kings was to be born. Finding out it was in Bethlehem; he sent the Magi with orders to return to him and report the newborn king’s location. You probably know the rest of the story. (If not, might I suggest attending Sunday School and going to church.)

These wise men did something that we often don’t do, they acted on what they had been studying. How many times have we done bible study, and just studied on it? When was the last time your bible study required action as well as reading? The point is, Christianity is an active belief. Just like the Magi, we need to act on what we know. We need to study and work for the Kingdom.

Finding Christ is not that hard, if you look for Him. Doing the work of the Kingdom is not that hard if you do it. (Kind of like a diet, it only works if you truly diet.) When we study about the Kingdom, it must be applied to the Kingdom. Let’s face it, the Good News of Jesus Christ is too wonderful to keep to ourselves.

Knowing what the Bible says is great. I am always impressed with someone who can quote chapter and verse. But if you really want to impress, apply that scripture to life. Try living the Good News, rather than studying it.

The funny thing about living in the Word, is getting to know the word is so much easier. Loving your neighbor makes more sense when you truly love your neighbor. Sharing the Gospel works better when you actually share the Gospel.

A Minister teaches and preaches in hopes that people will learn, grow, and go. Just as the Magi did so long ago, we need to act on what we learn and observe. Maybe that could be a good addition to you New Years resolution. Maybe actually doing what you learned in Bible Study is the way to learn more in Bible Study. Either way, you are not going to lose.

In fact, if you truly act on what you learn in the Bible, the world will be better for it and so will you. (That’s called a win-win.)

Just a thought.

Shalom my friends. See you in church.

Rev. Kent Wilfong is the pastor at the United Methodist Church, Doniphan/Neelyville.