You might be wondering how to keep Jesus at the center of your life during the busy holiday season. With all the hustle and bustle, it’s easy to get caught up in the rush and forget what this time is truly about. But what if this Advent season could be different for you? What if you could experience a deeper connection with Jesus by choosing to worship fully?
In our recent sermon in the series, “Advent Conspiracy,” we explored how to make this season meaningful by focusing on worship. We all worship something, whether we realize it or not. It could be celebrities, careers, relationships, or even ourselves. But what if we shifted our focus to worshiping Jesus fully? This change can transform not only our Advent season but our entire lives.
Worship Beyond Sunday
Worship isn’t just about attending church on Sundays. It’s about how you live your life in response to your encounter with Jesus. In Luke 2:8-20, we read about the shepherds who experienced an angelic encounter announcing the birth of Jesus. Their response was immediate obedience and worship. They didn’t just hear the message; they acted on it, glorifying and praising God as they returned to their daily lives.
This story reminds us that worship is an active participation, not a passive observation. It’s about showing up in your everyday life—at work, school, or home—and looking for opportunities to point others to Jesus. It’s about living with a sense of urgency to share the good news, just like the shepherds did.
What Are You Worshiping?
Take a moment to reflect on what has your attention right now. Is it your career, a relationship, or something else? Whatever it is, it might be what you’re worshiping. Our hearts are shaped by what we worship, and this Advent season is an opportunity to refocus our hearts on Jesus.
Consider the story of Mary in Luke 1. Despite the challenges she faced, her response to God’s call was one of worship: “My soul magnifies the Lord.” Like Mary, we can choose to worship fully, even when it’s difficult.
Your Next Step
So, what can you do to worship fully this Advent season? Here are a few steps to consider:
- Reflect on Your Priorities: Identify what currently has your attention and consider how you can shift your focus to Jesus.
- Seek Encounters with Jesus: Look for moments in your daily life where you can experience Jesus’ presence and respond with worship.
- Share the Good News: Like the shepherds, carry the message of Jesus with a sense of urgency. Look for opportunities to share His love with others.
- Commit to Worship: Make a conscious decision to worship Jesus fully, not just on Sundays, but in every aspect of your life.
Conclusion
The point is, Jesus wants your whole heart. This Advent season, will you commit to worshiping Him fully? What steps will you take to ensure that Jesus remains at the center of your life? Remember, without taking this step, you might miss out on the peace and joy that Jesus offers.
Prayer
Dear Jesus, thank you for the opportunity to encounter you this Advent season. Help us to worship you fully, not just in church, but in every part of our lives. May we be like the shepherds, eager to share your message with others. Guide us to focus our hearts on you and experience the peace and joy that only you can bring. Amen.
