It’s been a year, hasn’t it? My husband commented the other day, “I don’t know how people who don’t know Jesus handle it.” 

It’s true. My heart breaks for those who are facing the trials of 2020 without the hope of Christ. Because in Him we know that there is a plan for a hopeful future (Jeremiah 29:11). We know that God is good, sovereign, and in control. We have access to joy in the midst of any suffering. We have dwelling within us the Spirit of peace and love that drives out fear. And we have a calling to serve and love the most vulnerable, which—if we seriously obey—keeps us too busy for FOMO, loneliness, boredom, and self-protection. 

Now more than ever followers of Christ should be passionate about sharing the hope we have in Christ. The Church is meant to be a beacon, a lighthouse of hope. And it’s at Christmas when we celebrate that hope most visibly. 

Let’s not lose sight of the message of Christmas. Because it’s pretty wonderful and utterly relevant in 2020. God has not abandoned this world to its own devices. He gave His own Son in ransom. He’s Immanuel—right here in the muck and mire with us. He’s not a distant judge, shaking his head while we destroy ourselves, but a God of love. A God who draws close and takes our issues and hangups and fears onto Himself. He promised to never leave us or forsake us, and then He fulfilled that promise in the most dramatic possible way—born in a stable in Bethlehem. Helpless. Poor. Oppressed. Hunted. Obscure. Betrayed. Belittled. Executed. He took the worst this world has to offer, and He defeated it for our sakes. And through it all, He accomplished His purpose: to reconcile all things to God. 

It’s good news. And people need good news right now. People need hope. 

Around the world, Christians are sharing the hope of Christ this season. Some in the face of persecution. Some despite fears of rising Covid cases. Some whose own families will reject them. Yet we share because we know that the hope of Christ is the best gift anyone can receive.  

Will you join us in praying for evangelism this month? Our monthly prayer mailing has detailed prayer points to guide your intercession. Consider praying for one prayer point each day for a week or gathering with a small group to pray through the list. 

Thanks for your prayers. May you know the peace and comfort of our Savior this Christmas, and may you boldly share that gift with those around you.