Read 1 Corinthians 16:14

“Let all that you do be done in love”

Easy enough, right?

You may have heard this from me before, whether in a blog from past seasons or in conversation, but October to December is my favorite time of year. As the seasons shift, it seems so do the attitudes of people.

Why is that, do you think?

Could it be the clean crisp air around us, causing us to feel new or knowing that newness is close with a new beginning to a new year on its way? Could it be because we all love the holiday season for different reasons?

For me, October to December represents all of the above. In October, I get to thank the Lord for this life that He has gifted me as my birthday approaches in the month. November is a time of reflecting on gratitude. November reminds me to shift my perspective back to what really matters and be grateful for all that has happened in the seasons past and seasons to come.

Then December.

I am the girl who goes full out for Christmas. I put my tree up the day after Thanksgiving, I play Christmas music as often as possible. Driving around looking at Christmas lights brings happiness to my heart. Buying gifts for those I care about and love brings me so much joy. It is that time of year where joy, cheer and happiness seem to be widespread and I love it.

But why must we remember to spread love, joy, happiness and gratitude just one season a year? Hasn’t Jesus called us to be the light fully? Hasn’t He called us to love daily?

Joy and love should be year-round not just a month or so at the end of the year.

So how do we change this? How do we plan to start fresh daily? To see people as Jesus sees them, daily . . .year-round?

Let us challenge ourselves to be THE love that Christ has called us to be, even after Christmas morning.

Christ is the word. God’s message to mankind. So, when we think of how to continue on, why not look at the life of Jesus and the call He gave to us? As you approach Christmas, as you approach a new year, be Jesus. Represent the word and walk in the light and be the light to those around us.

It is easier said than done, but it is possible! You know why? Because you have the Word living inside of you. Not only challenging you to be who you were intended to be, but helping and guiding you to bring joy and love to those around.

Jesus changes it all.

The word became flesh.

An example to follow.

Kelly Lawson