“Yet to all who received Him [Jesus], to those who believed in His [Jesus’] name, He gave the right to become children of God.”  – John 1:12 (NIV)

The writer of this verse, John, is giving us an invitation…

Receive Jesus – you are invited to accept His love for you, let it sink in, soak it up until there is no doubt that this man who was born 2007 years ago thought you were worth the effort of all that happened to Him on this earth.

Believe in Jesus’ name – the name Jesus means Jehovah is salvation.  In this case, you are saved from sin – the wrong things you have done in your life.  You are invited to believe that Jesus is the key to salvation from sin.  Remember – no sin is too big for God to forgive.

Become children of God – you are invited to join God’s family.  Being a child of God is a wonderful    experience, He is a good Father.  You can talk to Him anytime about anything by praying.  He will take care of you, meet your needs, and help you fulfill your dreams (or give you new ones to enjoy).  He loves His children in the best way.  Life doesn’t necessarily get easier, but going through the life you’re living certainly does. 

I think of the tiny baby in the manger so many years ago, about the hope He brought to His world.   That hope has never changed, time cannot destroy His message of salvation.  It is the same today as it was for the first Christians. 

The invitation stands.  It will always stand.  For everyone.  

Receive, Believe, Become.  It really is as simple as that.   

I wish you the merriest of Christmases as you celebrate this season of love, hope and joy! 

 – Written for the December 2007 issue of Mom’s Moments.  www.momsmoments.ca/pdfs