Christmas 2025 - Remember the GIFT

by Pastor Phil Collins

Christmas has always been special time for many people; for its traditions, decorations, and time with loved ones. While I use to center my thoughts and attention on presents as a child, I now appreciate the deeper meaning behind the celebration.

The holiday season often becomes rushed with shopping and preparations, but I find value in pausing, reflecting, and giving thanks to God for His Son, my savior Jesus Christ.

Christmas is more than gifts and festivities; it's about commemorating the birth of Jesus, a reminder of the greatest gift—Immanuel, God with us.

Matthew 1:23..... "BEHOLD, THE VIRGIN SHALL BE WITH CHILD, AND BEAR A SON, AND THEY SHALL CALL HIS NAME IMMANUEL," which is translated, "God with us."

Here are four ways to celebrate Christmas meaningfully:

1. Remember the Wait

Christmas represents hopeful waiting, like anticipating a new child's arrival. It reminds us to patiently trust God's timing, just as believers once awaited Jesus' birth and now await His return.

Isaiah 9:6 says....For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

2. Choose Joy

Joy isn't based on circumstances but on faith in Jesus. Even during difficult times, we can choose joy because of what God did for us by sending Jesus.

John 15:11 says...."These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full".

3. Cultivate a Heart of Worship

Christmas centers on worshipping Christ. Like the wise men who came to honor Him, our focus should be on praising Jesus, not just celebrating the season's trappings.

Matthew 2:9-11 tells us....

9. When they heard the king, they departed; and behold, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came and stood over where the young Child was.

10. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy.

11. and when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

4. Create Lasting Memories

Though celebrations may look different, especially during challenging times, cherish moments with family and friends. Thank God for your community and make the most of the time you have together.

Keeping Our Eyes on Jesus

Ultimately, Christmas is about remembering Jesus’ birth and keeping Him at the center of our lives, memory and all that we say and do. Let’s focus less on material things and more on the true reason for the season.

May our hearts be focused on the true gift given to the world, not just during Christmas, but every day of the year as 2025 ends and as 2026 begins.

Pastor Phil

Comments from readers

"Pastor Phil's insights through the Word of the Week have truly transformed my perspective on life's challenges. His simple yet profound words of encouragement help me make it through the day."

Emily Johnson

Springfield

"I find new strength and motivation through Pastor Phil's Word of the Week post. They resonate deeply and guide me in my daily life."

Michael Lee

Atlanta

"Recently I read pastor Phils word for the week on not being alone. Pastor Phils word, impacted me at a time when I felt like ending my life. After losing my wife to cancer, I did not want to live anymore, but now I know God is with me no matter what I face, I know beyond a shadow of a doubt I am never alone."

William

Greensboro NC

"Recently while going through a touch situation in my life, I was devastated at the impact it had on my life emotionally. I was at my "wits end". I read books, talked with people, sought counseling, but nothing worked. After reading the Words for the week the past few weeks, I sense a change in my life attitude and decision making processing. It is amazing what a few words can do to change your life."

Barbara

Greensboro NC

"Thank you pastor Phil for your word of the week. I have been reading them since I found your website while searching for a church. Although you are in North Carolina, the past two months have been a blessing because the word you have been posting on your website is something have looked forward to. It means. a lot and I wanted to say thank you."

Harold R.

Fort Worth Texas