Thursday, December 2, 2010

Sharing Jesus

Last night, I let my kids do something that under normal circumstances, I would never let them do. I let them ding-dong ditch the neighbors -- you know, when you ring the doorbell and run. They thought it was great fun, and believe it or not, they were sharing Jesus.

You see, before we rang the doorbell, we put a stable from a nativity scene on their porch with a note stating that it was part of the 12 Days of Christmas. Every night for the next 11 days, the girls will leave a piece of the nativity scene with the related scripture on the doorstep, ring the doorbell and run. It's a fun experience for my girls and it's a great way to bring the true meaning of Christmas to others.

As we hustle through this busy season, be careful not to forget to help your kids find ways to share Jesus with other people. You don't have to take your kids to the street corner and preach or go door-to-door presenting the Roman road to salvation to your neighbors. Simply find ways to let your kids be ambassadors for Jesus. People are often more receptive to hearing about Jesus during the Christmas season, and your kids need to know that the gift of Jesus is available to everyone.

We are called to share the good news of Jesus' birth with everyone. Matthew 28:19-20 tells us "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." That circle includes our family, friends and neighbors.

Try some of these ideas to help your children share Jesus with those they love:
  • Choose Christmas cards for your kids' teachers and friends that include a message about Jesus. These don't have to be "preachy." Simply choose cards that celebrate Jesus' birth rather than Santa or a snowman.
  • Ding-dong ditch the neighbors with a nativity set or a plate of cookies with a note that tells them to celebrate Jesus' birth.
  • Let your kids invite their friends to one of your Christmas church services. Extend the invitation to the whole family.
Jesus is the reason we celebrate Christmas. Don't hesitate to help your kids share that reason with others.

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