Christmas 2025 – CHRISTMAS – A Day of Hope & Worship
- Vernita "Neat" Simmons
- 1 hour ago
- 5 min read
Christmas is a glorious time of the year. The core reason for the season is to celebrate the birth of Jesus, whose power transforms lives in ways nothing else can. One effective way to share the gospel of Christ is through the church. I believe the Lord places a church within a community to go beyond the four walls of the church and reach the community. The Lord even foretells us in Matthew 26:11, AMP, and Proverbs 3:27-28, NET that the poor will always be with us, but do not withhold any good thing from those who deserve help when we have the means to help them. And what greater time than this Christmas season to fill their lives with hope.
Yesterday, December 13th, DJICC Outreach Ministry, along with other churches and the community, gathered to celebrate this rare and precious holiday. Yet, our purpose was not to present a program, but to inspire souls to accept Jesus as their Savior. Likewise, leaving them with hope that carries them not only for a moment but through each season of their lives. Beloved, we united to show the world what Christmas looks like.
Dear One, to reach those in need, we must extend our hand. Besides, Matthew 25:35-40, AMP assures us that what we do for the least of these, we do it to Christ. As the singers ministered in psalms and the dancers graced us with a jubilant offering of sacred dance, they extended their hands through their gifts, while touching lives.
Anthony Yanuardy and his family set our hearts ablaze with Christ Jesus, Glorified. With each strum of the guitar, their message resonated deeply, and through their music, God received His glory.
While DJICC's Dance Team displayed an eloquent exuberance of Emmanuel, we felt the Awe-inspiring touch of God as they twirled and spun. They declare in dance, Emmanuel, God with us. They had us on our feet.
And what can we say about Sis. Patti LaPraise, as she sang from the heart of a child, Happy Birthday, Jesus. Sweet Jesus, her soulful voice and childlikeness resonated with each of us, creating a spectacular moment of worship.
Brianne Heaney ministered to Hark the Herald Angels Sing. As she swirled gracefully across the room with her flags, we could feel His presence. And when she picked up that crown, she took us to an even higher level of praise.
And what of Minister Harvey Lott, Forever. He didn't only sing, he stopped the music and reminded us that the message is vital and not the song. He urged us to praise the author and finisher of our faith, Jesus Christ, while, all the while, reminding us that Jesus will love us forever. Forever is truly a long time!
Then, the Skit, How to Download Love with Pastor Rosa Starr, as an expert Tech Supporter, guided us on how to allow love to take over in our lives and empty our hearts of anything - resentment, past hurts, low self-esteem, and even holding grudges that would prevent the flow of the love of God. She emphasized that such love would impact lives in ways we never imagined becaus its purpose it to be shared with others.
Still, we took it further as Pastor Densie Baldwin brought words of encouragement that filled our hearts with even more hope. She reminded us that regardless of our challenges and whatever is happening, Christ has the answer to every situation.
Then the finale with "Praise," as we danced and glorified God with streamers and flags. Even the children joined us in this astonishing time of worship.
Beloved, it did not stop there because what is a service without an altar call? And we know that Jesus went to great lengths to save souls. Dear One, it is not His intent that none perish, but all to repent and accept Him as their Savior. (2 Peter 3:9). The invitation went out, and three souls accepted Jesus as their Savior. We rejoiced with Heaven because they will not be the same.
Because this was an outreach service, we continued at the Fellowship Hall by blessing the community with gifts and a hot meal to take home. Again, Matthew 25:35 teaches that serving the needy is the same as serving the Lord.
We are grateful for our gracious Emcee Sabrian Owens of Upper Room Faith Ministry, OCM Grace Church, Minister Harvey, and Jackie Lott, Pastor Rosa Starr, and Abundant Life Church. We appreciate your gift of time, service, and enthusiastic support. God received the glory, and the service was a resounding success. Likewise, a big shout-out to my pastor, Bishop Vanessa Everett, for her vision and mission for DJICC. Her willingness to support us in serving God in such a way is a testament to the call God has on her life. We could not have done so without each of your services and heartfelt contributions.
Beloved, because of baby Jesus, Christmas is to bless someone whom you prefer not to with a gift. You can even visit somebody so that they won't be alone. Likewise, forgive that person you hold a grudge against, even if they do not accept your forgiveness. The Bible encourages us to fulfill this mandate in several scriptures, such as Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:13; Matthew 6:14, and even 18:22.
These are only a few of the countless ways you can be an example of who Christmas is all about. You have a profound opportunity to make Jesus on a pedstal this glorious time of the year by bringing hope to the hopeless. Be the shoulder for those who need comfort. Listen with a heart of love and not judgment or condemnation. Practice compassion and be patient because God is patient with you, regardless of how many times you mess up.
You mean the world to Him, and Jesus loves you and wants nothing but the best for you. Jesus will always go to great lengths to save you because He was born to be your Savior. We ask you to show everybody what Christmas really looks like through your outstanding example. Dear One, Merry Christmas!
May Jesus, Born on This Day, by Avalon, stir your heart and remind you of the true meaning of Christmas!
TIME FOR REFLECTION: Share with us some ways you will help the needy this Christmas season. Let's encourage others and bring them hope. Leave your comment below. Hit that heart and share.
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