Romans 5:20 tells us that when sin increases grace increases even more.
What does that mean for us Christians?
That means that every seed we plant, every little word we say in Jesus's name; every little thing that even remotely points to Jesus will shine brighter than it ever has before.
Let me give you a couple of examples:
First, see that cross to the left? My husband made it for me; I absolutely love it. It is just a couple of fork tines soldered together. The cool thing is that in this time in history this little cross has power. It stands out a whole lot more than it would have ten years ago.
How do I know? Because how they look at it -- I mean really look at it. Since the world is getting darker this little token gives off the light of Christ!
The other example I want to give you is something I encourage you to do. Everywhere I go -- like especially when I check out somewhere or have a brief conversation -- whenever I talk to another human, I end the conversation with "Merry Christmas."
When I was young, everyone said that.
Heck, when my kids were young, everyone said it. But somewhere along the line in the last 15 or so years people feel awkward saying it because we are told it might offend someone. But this season, the Christmas season is named Christmas because it is about Jesus's birthday. We have every right to say "Merrry Christmas."
I tell you this -- most people i say this to love it! They respond back with a huge smile and say, "Merry Christmas" quite enthusiastically. It is like a relief to some that they can say it . . .
But not always.
Last night I was asked to take a random health survey over the phone. I had nothing better to do so I stuck with her till the end. Before we hung up, I said to the caller, "Merry Christmas." This caught her off guard. She replied, "And happy holidays to you." I could tell the words "Merry Christmas" hit her in the heart. If we had been face-to-face, I really think she would have accepted it. But no matter. She probably is still hearing those words in her head since we quit talking.
Do you see? Two simple words that didn't have power 15 years ago carry tons of power now. I urge you to say to everyone you interact with "Merry Christmas" with a big smile on your face. Those are seeds for the kingdom!! It is like the darkness and the sin and the evil are making our job of planting seeds easier!
What a great time to be alive!
And what a great time to love Jesus and love people. This world needs Jesus's hope and love and Good News! We have what it needs. Just try to commit to saying "Merry Christmas" this season and see what happens. You will be amazed!