Stated Beliefs Must Be More Then Words

This Christmas season reminds us of the birth of Jesus Christ once again.  Many people either are or will be singing the traditional Christmas carols that mean a lot to them during this season.  Some of the phrases are: Joy to the world, the King has been born, Glory to God on Highest, Silent Night Holy Night, it is the night of our Savior's birth, and there are  many more songs and phrases that Christians all over the world love to hear.  The point here I am making is we have the words right, we are saying the right things, putting the emphasis on Jesus coming into the world but often that is as far as it goes for many who claim to be a Christian.  I am not casting judgment on anyone but if we truly believe the Savior is born then how ought that affect our daily lives?  If what we say we believe does not change us then just how seriously do we believe in Jesus as your Savior?  Let us be reminded that Jesus came into the world to save sinners.  This means Jesus came into the world to change us.  If Jesus came into the world to change us then it is only logical to ask the question; changed from what and changed to be what.  First, what is it that I am changed from?  I rebelled against God and His ways so I need to be changed in my attitude toward God.  I must be changed from my self-centeredness because until I realize that my own selfishness will always hinder my relationship with God and others I will likely filter most of life through my selfish prism.  I must be changed from being controlled by sin and sinful desires that cause me to stray from living the life I know I ought to live.  I could include many other things that we must be willing to be changed from but what is it we are to be changed to be?  Second, I need to be changed to become a follower of Jesus and His ways.  I need to be changed to be a humble servant so I look more like Jesus.  I need to change so that love will be my primary focus toward God and others, which is fulfilling the greatest commandments.  I need to change my actions so that they are pleasing to God which must be accomplished out of a heart of love.  If I say I believe in Jesus, I am a Christian, I am a disciple of Jesus then the words that I say or sing during this Christmas season needs to lead to corresponding actions rather then just giving Jesus lip service for the holidays.  May the love of the Father, may the grace and mercy of the Son, Jesus, may the presence of the Holy Spirit bless you this Christmas season.