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The Shadow Side of Leadership

June 4, 2025 / / 1 Comment

Leadership has a spotlight. People see you on the platform, hear your words, watch your decisions, and feel your energy. They see the meetings, the prayers, the big ideas, the vision cast into motion. But behind that spotlight, there’s a shadow few people talk about. It’s the part of leadership that doesn’t make it into the highlight reels or Instagram stories. It’s quiet. It’s invisible. And for many of us, it’s achingly personal.

For me, the shadow shows up when I walk through the door at home.

After pouring myself out all day listening, guiding, teaching, and carrying the emotional and spiritual burdens of others, I often come home on the verge of empty. Not because I don’t love my family deeply, but because I’ve already spent everything I had to give. My family often doesn’t get the version of me who stood strong at the funeral or prayed boldly in the hospital. They get the version who crashes on the couch, struggling to engage in conversation, completely zoned out to the world around me, and often too tired to really be present.

It’s a strange contrast: I can rally the energy to lead a meeting of twenty or preach to a crowd of hundreds, but when I’m in the comfort of my home with my family I’m sometimes disconnected and have a hard time holding down a real conversation. I know the right thing to do. I want to be fully present. But sometimes the cost of being “on” all day means I end up emotionally “off” at home.

There’s guilt there. And a bit of shame too. And then there’s the quiet wondering: Is this what they signed up for?

This is the shadow side of leadership where passion meets limitation, where strength in public masks weariness in private. Most people don’t see the pastor who silently prays on the drive home just to have enough energy left to be fully engaged when he gets home.

But here’s what I’m learning: acknowledging the shadow doesn’t make me a failure. It makes me human.

And more than that, it makes space for grace. Not just from others, but from God. His power is made perfect in weakness, not in performance. My family doesn’t need the best version of me; they need the real one. The one who admits when he’s tired. The one who asks for help something I don’t do very well at all. The one who chooses to show up even when it’s hard.

Leadership in the spotlight may inspire people. But how we live in the shadows, that’s where real integrity is forged.

So to all the tired leaders, the weary parents, the ones who give their best in public but feel spent in private: You are not alone. Your shadow doesn’t disqualify you. It just means you’re carrying more than most people can see.

And maybe today, that’s the place where God wants to meet you. Not in your strength, but in your surrender.

Stop Mistaking Empathy for Compassion

May 15, 2025 / / 0 Comments

They’re Not the Same, and It’s Hurting Us

Let’s cut through the fluff: empathy is not compassion. And pretending they’re the same is making us soft in all the wrong places, blind to what’s broken, and oddly proud of standing still while people suffer.

Empathy says, “I feel your pain.”
Compassion says, “I see your pain, and I’m going to help you do something about it.”

See the difference? One sits in the mud with you and calls it solidarity. The other reaches in, lifts you up, washes you off, and walks with you toward healing. That’s compassion — and it’s what we need more of.

Let’s be honest: empathy sounds nice. It’s trendy. It sells. It wins likes on social media. “I see you.” “I hear you.” “I’m with you.” But here’s the hard truth: empathy, when left alone, is passive. It doesn’t fix anything. It just wallows in shared misery. And worse — it can become a mask for cowardice. We use it to avoid confrontation, delay hard conversations, and excuse inaction.

We say, “I don’t want to judge,” when what we mean is, “I don’t want to deal with the mess.” We say, “I’m just empathizing,” when we’re actually enabling. Empathy left unchecked coddles dysfunction. It listens without challenging. It observes pain without interrupting the cause. And in the end, it lets sin fester, addiction deepen, and wounds rot — all in the name of “understanding.”

That’s not love. That’s apathy dressed in empathy’s clothing.

Now look at compassion. Real compassion feels — yes — but it moves. It confronts. It speaks the truth in love. It’s gentle, but it’s not soft. It’s kind, but it’s not afraid to correct. It knows that healing sometimes stings and growth is often uncomfortable. Compassion refuses to leave people in their pain — it enters in with purpose.

Think of Jesus. He had compassion on the crowds — and He healed them. He taught them. He fed them. He called them out of darkness into light. He didn’t just say, “Wow, that’s tough,” and keep walking. He did what needed to be done — even when it meant flipping tables or confronting hypocrisy. That’s what love looks like when it has a backbone.

So let’s get this straight:
Compassion does what empathy won’t.
It makes the hard phone call.
It says, “You’re not okay — and I’m going to help you get there.”
It tells the addict, “I love you, but I’m not going to watch you destroy yourself.”
It tells the friend, “You’re spiraling, and I’m stepping in.”
It’s the parent who says “no” out of love.
The leader who holds a line.
The friend who speaks truth, even if it hurts.

This world has had enough of people “feeling for” others without actually helping them. What we need is a revival of compassion — gritty, loving action that heals instead of coddles.

You can feel with people all day long and never lift a finger to help them change. But compassion? Compassion rolls up its sleeves. It doesn’t just listen. It acts. It builds. It restores.

Empathy might leave you stuck. Compassion will carry you forward.

So here’s the challenge: stop applauding yourself for your feelings, and start asking what your love is actually doing. Is it changing anything? Healing anyone? Calling anyone to more?

Empathy whispers, “Stay where you are.”
Compassion says, “Let’s go — I’ll walk with you.”

Choose wisely. One path leads to deeper pain. The other leads to real freedom.

When the World Goes Quiet: The Hidden Face of Trauma

May 7, 2025 / / 0 Comments

Trauma doesn’t always look like what we expect. It’s not always tears or trembling hands. It isn’t necessarily someone lying in bed, unable to move, or openly speaking about the nightmares that haunt them. More often, it’s hidden in plain sight—in the bright light of day, in the loud, busy moments when the world keeps spinning. Trauma wears a mask, and many people wear it so well you’d never know it was there at all.

In the daylight, trauma can look like a successful professional who hits every deadline. It can sound like laughter at a lunch meeting or appear in the form of perfectly crafted social media posts. Highly functioning individuals are often the ones carrying the heaviest burdens, because they’ve learned how to keep going no matter what. Not because they’ve “healed,” but because continuing to move feels safer than stopping. To stop would mean facing what waits in the silence.

And that’s when trauma speaks loudest—when the world shuts down.

In the quiet of night, when distractions fade and the demands of the day are gone, trauma comes out from the corners where it hides. For some, it shows up as insomnia or racing thoughts that make sleep impossible. For others, it’s a sudden wave of sadness, anxiety, or fear that seems to come from nowhere. The mind replays moments long buried, feelings long suppressed. There’s no applause for surviving in the dark. There’s no one to witness the fight. But it rages on.

We often assume that if someone is functioning—working, parenting, creating, joking—they must be okay. But trauma doesn’t work like that. It doesn’t need permission to exist. It doesn’t check your calendar before showing up. Trauma from years ago can feel as fresh as something that happened yesterday. And recent trauma can hide behind a smile so convincing even the person wearing it might forget it’s there—for a time.

This is why compassion matters. This is why slowing down and looking beyond the surface matters. Not everyone will talk about what they’ve been through. Not everyone has the language, the safety, or the support to name their pain. But that doesn’t mean it’s not there.

So the next time you’re tempted to assume someone is “fine” because they seem fine, take a pause. Understand that for many, survival looks like achievement. Coping looks like productivity. And healing? Healing is often messy, invisible, nonlinear, and deeply personal.

Let’s normalize checking in with our strong friends. Let’s hold space for those who appear to have it all together. And most importantly, let’s remember that trauma isn’t defined by how loud it screams in public—but by how silently it haunts when no one is watching.

In the stillness, when the world goes quiet, some people are still fighting battles. Just because you can’t see them, doesn’t mean they’re not real.

The Weight of the Towel: When Serving Hurts

April 29, 2025 / / 0 Comments

Part 3 of the “Towel-Bearers: Redefining Leadership” Series

You said yes to serve.
You said yes to love.
You said yes to Jesus – (after he said yes to you).

But somewhere along the way, that towel you picked up started to feel like a weight chained to your soul.

You’re tired. Not just in your body—but in your spirit.
You still show up. Still pour out. Still smile when you’re asked, “How’s ministry going?” But underneath it all, you’re running on fumes.

Welcome to the weight of the towel.

Serving Hurts Sometimes. And That’s Not a Sign You’re Doing It Wrong.

Myth: “If I were really called to this, it wouldn’t feel this hard.”

Jesus was called. Perfectly. And still—He sweat blood in the garden.

He served, knowing the cross was waiting. He washed Judas’ feet, knowing the betrayal was coming.
He kept showing up—not because it didn’t hurt—but because love is stronger than pain.

So yeah, it’s going to hurt sometimes.
Not because you’re broken.
But because you’re becoming like Jesus.

3 Realities of Leading With a Tired Soul

1. You Will Run Out—That’s Why You Need to Be Filled

You’re not the source. Never were. You were never meant to carry the weight of every need, every crisis, every expectation.

Even Jesus withdrew to lonely places to pray (Luke 5:16).
If the Son of God had to unplug to be filled—what makes you think you can run without stopping?

This is your reminder: Rest is not weakness. It’s worship.
You’re not abandoning the mission when you sabbath—you’re sustaining it.

2. Just Because It Hurts Doesn’t Mean It’s Not Holy

Pain doesn’t always mean you’re out of place. Sometimes, it’s proof you’re walking the right path.

Paul didn’t plant churches from a place of comfort—he planted them with scars.
Real servant leaders don’t avoid pain—they endure it for the sake of others.

But here’s the catch: Suffering in silence isn’t sainthood—it’s pride. Don’t wear burnout like a badge. Talk to someone. Let people in. You’re not less spiritual for needing help—you’re more human.

3. You’re Not Saving Anyone—Jesus Is

You’re not the Messiah. You’re not the answer. You’re a messenger.

When the weight gets too heavy, remember: you were never meant to carry the cross. You’re just called to carry the towel.

Let Jesus carry you.

To the Worn-Out Leader…

You don’t have to be strong every day.
You don’t have to fix everything.
You don’t have to carry this alone.

God sees you.
Not the polished version. Not the public one. The real you.

He sees the tears you’ve cried in your car.
The text messages you never got a response to.
The late nights. The misunderstood moments. The quiet serving no one ever applauded.

And He says, “Well done.”

Want more?
Stay with us for Part 4 of Towel-Bearers: Redefining Leadership:
“Not Your Platform: The Kingdom Isn’t About You” — a gut-check on ego, branding, and who the spotlight really belongs to.

Real Leaders Bleed for Their People: Not Themselves

April 23, 2025 / / 0 Comments

Let’s stop pretending. Not all leaders are actually leading. Some are just collecting titles, hoarding influence, and stepping on people to build their brand.

That’s not leadership. That’s ego dressed in a suit and given a fancy title.

True leadership is bleeding for people, not basking in applause. It’s wiping the tears of the hurting, not curating a platform for personal glory. It’s making late-night phone calls, sitting in hospital rooms, helping someone move, delivering meals in silence, showing up again when nobody else does. Leaders aren’t called to be adored—they’re called to serve.

Let’s call it what it is: the world is packed with self-aggrandizing leaders. They love the microphone, the likes, the platform, the “vision casting,” and the endless meetings where they get to hear themselves talk. They talk at people, not with them. They think being “up front” is proof of anointing. They say phrases like, “If I don’t lead, who will?” as if God’s church would fall apart without them.

Newsflash friend: if your “leadership” ends when the camera turns off or the praise team stops playing your favorite walk-up song, you’re not leading—you’re performing.

The servant-hearted leader lives differently.

They lead from the back of the line, not the front of the stage. They’re not chasing attention—they’re chasing people who are slipping through the cracks. Their heart beats for the broken, the ignored, the exhausted. They don’t keep score. They don’t manipulate with spiritual language. They don’t delegate compassion. They do the work themselves.

When someone’s world falls apart, servant leaders are the ones who cancel their plans to be there. When someone’s marriage is struggling, they listen without judgment. When a church member can’t pay a bill, they quietly cover it without a word. No social media posts. No public applause. Just a heart that says, “I’m here because you matter.”

Jesus didn’t build a brand—He washed feet.

He didn’t hold strategy meetings to decide whether the disciples were “aligned with the mission statement.” He knelt on the floor, grabbed a towel, and scrubbed the dirt off their feet like a lowly house slave. And then He said, “I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you” (John 13:15, ESV).

He meant it. Leadership in the kingdom is not power—it’s posture. A towel, not a throne. A cross, not a crown.

So here’s the gut check: Are you the kind of leader who lays down your life—or just one who talks about sacrifice while protecting your own comfort? When your people are in need, are you reaching down, or are you too busy reaching for a microphone?

Servant-hearted leadership is not glamorous. It’s not always visible. But it’s real. It looks like someone who shows up with groceries when the fridge is empty. Someone who stays after the meeting to listen to the one who didn’t speak up. Someone who prays with others, not just over them.

It’s raw. It’s inconvenient. It’s beautiful.

We need more of it.

Let’s stop chasing titles and start chasing towels. Let’s be the leaders who go out of our way—who go the extra mile without anyone watching. Let’s bleed love. Let’s live low. Let’s lead like Jesus.

That’s the kind of leadership the church needs. It’s the kind of leader the world needs.

Don’t Let Belief Kill Your Faith

March 19, 2025 / / 0 Comments

We’ve gotten really good at believing.

We’ve got our doctrinal ducks in a row. We know the creeds. We defend the truth. We believe in Jesus, we believe in the Bible, we believe in grace.

But if belief is all we’ve got—if it never grows legs, never rolls up its sleeves, never does anything—then our faith is on life support.

James doesn’t mince words, so let’s not either:

“Faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” (James 2:17, ESV)

Dead. Not dormant. Not developing. Dead.

That should rattle us. Because we’ve built a version of Christianity in the modern world that’s all about belief—but stripped of action. We’ve traded cross-bearing for pew-sitting. We’ve made Christianity a mental exercise, not a lifestyle. A Sunday ritual, not a daily surrender.

James takes aim at this hollow version of faith:

“You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe—and shudder!” (James 2:19, ESV)

Think about that. Demons have great theology. They believe in God. They know who Jesus is. But they’re not saved. Why? Because belief without obedience is worthless. It’s lip service without life change.

This is where we need a serious wake-up call.

If your faith never moves beyond your brain—if it doesn’t spill into how you love your neighbor, serve your church, speak truth, forgive enemies, and sacrifice for the sake of the Gospel—then it’s not faith. It’s theory.

And theory doesn’t change the world.

Let’s get something straight: We are not saved by works. Paul couldn’t be more clear:

“For by grace you have been saved through faith… not a result of works.” (Ephesians 2:8–9, ESV)

But too many people stop reading there. Verse 10 isn’t a suggestion—it’s a call to action:

“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10, ESV)

You weren’t saved to sit. You were saved to move. To serve. To do good works.

Real faith shows up. It gets uncomfortable. It forgives when it’s hard. It gives when it hurts. It risks boldly. It takes up a cross. If your faith costs you nothing, it’s probably not faith—it’s just belief with a Jesus bumper sticker.

Jesus never said, “Believe in me and live your best life.” He said, “Deny yourself. Take up your cross. Follow me.” (Luke 9:23)

There’s no world where that’s comfortable.

But we’ve made faith safe. Predictable. Tame. And that kind of faith doesn’t scare the devil one bit.

Here’s the bottom line:
Faith that doesn’t do anything is faith that isn’t anything.
James doesn’t care about your belief unless it leads to bold, visible, tangible action.

So don’t let belief kill your faith.
Don’t hide behind good theology while your heart stays untouched.
Don’t nod through sermons while your hands stay clean.
Don’t settle for head knowledge when Jesus is calling you to whole-life surrender.

We don’t need more people who believe the right things—we need people whose belief burns so hot it sets their lives on fire.

Because dead faith sits still.

But living faith changes everything.

Top 5 Ways the Church Can Actually Listen to Culture (Instead of Just Criticizing It)

March 6, 2025 / / 1 Comment

Let’s be honest—sometimes the church is better at talking than listening. We love a good sermon, a strong rebuke, or a theological mic drop. But when it comes to understanding culture, too often we respond like a grumpy old man shaking a fist at the kids on his lawn. And guess what? The kids aren’t listening. Trust me I know! That’s why I moved to the county. 😉

If we want to be relevant to both Christians and non-Christians, we have to do more than critique culture from a distance—we have to engage, understand, and listen. Here are five ways we can stop the shouting and start hearing what’s really going on.

1. Stop Reacting—Start Listening

Cultural shifts happen fast. One day, everyone’s talking about AI; the next, it’s all about deconstructing faith. Our knee-jerk reaction is often to condemn, but what if we hit pause instead? Before jumping to conclusions, take time to understand why a trend is resonating. What need is it meeting? What fear is it exposing? Jesus didn’t react in outrage—He asked questions. Maybe we should, too.

2. Find the Common Ground

Not everything in culture is anti-God. Many of today’s cultural movements—things like justice, purpose, belonging—actually point to deep biblical truths. Instead of dismissing them right out the gate, why not affirm what’s good? Paul did it in Athens (Acts 17), using Greek poetry to connect with his audience. He didn’t come onto the scene and blast them for idolatry. He explained in a loving way what they were missing. We can do the same. Instead of fighting every trend, how about trying to highlight where culture and Christianity align. Then, after you gain some respect, offer your insights on what might be missing.

3. Speak the Right Language

Imagine walking into a coffee shop and ordering a “Kung-Pao Chicken .” Everyone would be confused, right? That’s how non-Christians feel when we flood our conversations with insider church jargon. We don’t need to water down the gospel, but we do need to make it accessible. Jesus told parables; we tell people to “walk in sanctification.” One of these is easier to understand. Learn the language of the people with whom you’re speaking and use it.

4. Stop Making Everything a Battle

Not every cultural moment requires a Christian war cry. Culture isn’t the enemy—it’s a mission field. Yeah…Yeah, some ideas contradict Scripture, but that doesn’t mean we need to engage in a never-ending fight. People aren’t looking for a church that constantly yells, “You’re wrong!” They’re looking for a place that says, “Let’s talk.” Approach cultural issues with curiosity and grace, not a megaphone. The old adage “people don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care” is actually true. When all we do is yell and condemn, it definitely sends a message…and not a good one!

5. Actually Engage With People Outside the Church

This one’s simple but unfortunately for many it’s not easy. You can’t understand culture if you never step outside your Christian bubble. If your entire life is spent with church people, reading church books, and listening to worship music, you might miss what’s happening in the real world. Have conversations with non-Christians. Follow cultural conversations without instantly condemning them. Be present in the places where people are asking life’s big questions. Not every situation needs a full blown theological presentation. Heck, you might even learn a little something if you talk to someone who doesn’t know Jesus.

People don’t have a problem with Jesus, but they don’t always like His people.

Jesus didn’t storm into towns with a picket sign—He sat with people, listened to their stories, and responded with truth wrapped in love. If we want to be relevant in today’s culture, we need to do the same. Less outrage, more understanding. Less judgment, more grace. Because when the church truly listens, people lean in.

So, let’s get off our soapbox and into some real conversations.

Top 3 Things Every Parent Should Know About Raising Teens in Today’s World

February 25, 2025 / / 0 Comments

Ok. Let’s be honest: raising teenagers today feels like trying to read a book that keeps rewriting itself. Just when you think you understand the rules, bam! – there’s a new social media platform, slang that sounds like another language, or a trend that makes you question reality (Tide Pods, really?). Parenting teens has never been easy, but in a world that moves at the speed of a Formula One Race, it can feel overwhelming. The good news? You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be present, prayerful, and prepared. Here are three essential truths every parent should know about raising teens today.

1. They’re Listening… Even When It Seems Like They Aren’t

Yes, they roll their eyes. Yes, they respond with one-word answers (“Fine.” “Whatever.”). And yes, they often have earbuds in like it’s their default setting. But here’s the deal: your voice matters more than you think. Studies consistently show that parents remain the most influential voices in a teenager’s life, even when culture suggests otherwise.

So, talk to them. And not just about chores or grades. Talk about real stuff: faith, friendships, struggles, dreams, and yes, even those awkward topics you’d rather avoid. They may act disinterested, but your consistency speaks volumes. Keep showing up in the conversations. Plant seeds. They’re listening more than they let on.

Pro tip: Sometimes the best talks happen when you’re not looking at each other: driving in the car, taking a walk, or doing dishes together. No pressure, just presence.

2. They Need Boundaries (Even If They Fight Them)

Teenagers crave freedom, but they also need fences. Think of boundaries like guardrails on a winding mountain road: they may complain about them, but they help prevent a dangerous fall. Setting clear expectations around things like technology use, curfews, and responsibilities isn’t being controlling—it’s being a parent! It’s actually loving to have some clear expectations and boundaries.

Yes, you’ll face pushback. There may be dramatic sighs, door slams, or the classic, “You just don’t understand!” (insert whining voice here) That’s okay. Stay calm. Be firm but fair. Boundaries aren’t about punishment; they’re about guidance. Teens feel more secure when they know where the lines are, even if they love to continually test them.

And remember: it’s okay to say no. No is a complete sentence. You’re not your teen’s best friend; you’re their parent. Friendship may come later, but for now, they need you to lead with love and clarity.

3. They’re Wrestling with Big Questions (And Need a Safe Place to Ask Them)

Adolescence is a season of searching. Teens are figuring out who they are, what they believe, and where they fit in the world. That means they’ll have questions—sometimes big, unsettling ones about faith, identity, and purpose.

The worst thing you can do? Shut down those questions or panic. Telling them what they can or can’t believe or how they have to react won’t be helpful! Instead, create space for honest conversations. If they ask something that stumps you (“Why does God allow suffering?” or “How could you vote for ______”) it’s okay to say, “That’s a great question. Let’s explore that together.” You don’t need all the answers. What your teen needs is your willingness to journey with them.

Look – matters of life and faith aren’t just taught—they’re caught. When your teen sees you wrestling with questions, seeking God, and living authentically, it makes an impression. Don’t underestimate the power of your example.

Bonus tip: Encourage your teen to get involved in groups with grown up humans they can trust. Sometimes they need another trusted adult to echo the truths you’re teaching at home.

Parenting teens in today’s world isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s messy, unpredictable, and often challenging. But it’s also filled with incredible opportunities to guide, love, and shape your child as they navigate the journey to adulthood.

Remember: you’re not alone. If you’re a Jesus follower or a church goer, I’ll remind you that God is with you. If you’re part of our community of faith, your church family at Living Word Galena is here to support you. Stay patient, stay prayerful, and never underestimate the impact of your presence. Your teenager doesn’t need a perfect parent—they need you.

Merry Christmas

December 25, 2024 / / 0 Comments

As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, I find myself overflowing with gratitude for each of you. This past year, we’ve seen God’s hand moving powerfully in and through our church family. Together, we’ve lived out our mission to help busy families experience the grace of Jesus, and we’ve done so in ways that truly embody the joy and hope of this Christmas season.

This year has been one of growth and transformation. Our worship services continue to bring strangers into our community, and we’ve watched them become family. Our KidConnect Worship and Littles Connect Sunday school have taken on a new face, introducing more young hearts to Jesus’ love. We’ve supported parents with new ministries, and Delco Youth is reaching more young people than ever, helping them find meaning and hope in Christ. These aren’t just ministries—they’re evidence of God at work.

We’ve also laid some strong foundations for the future. With three full-time and one part-time staff members, our team is more equipped than ever to meet the needs of our growing church family. We’ve also been actively preparing for some significant ministry enhancements, which will serve both our members and our wider community. Our focus on families reflects a heart for bringing people closer to Jesus.

As we look forward, I’m excited about the blessings God has in store for us at Living Word Galena. Our vision to become a community focused church is coming to life. I see it in every smile, every hug, every handshake, and every story of transformation shared within these walls. The new year holds so much potential—not just in numbers, but in lives changed by the grace of Jesus.

Christmas reminds us that God stepped into our world to bring hope, peace, love, and joy. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, let’s also celebrate the ways we’ve seen His light shine through our church family this year. Thank you for being part of this mission, for your prayers, your service, and your love for one another.

May this Christmas season be filled with His presence and the new year overflow with His blessings.

Pastor Derrick

More Than Wrapping Paper and Eggnog

December 23, 2024 / / 1 Comment

Every year, Christmas rolls around with its usual fanfare: twinkling lights, jingle bells, peppermint mochas, and of course, the annual question of what exactly is Aunt Edna allergic to again? While these traditions are great, they can sometimes overshadow the deeper meaning of Christmas. So let’s strip away the tinsel, and get to the heart of it: Christmas is about the ultimate gift—the birth of Jesus as our Savior.

The Real Reason for the Season

In Luke 2:10-11, the angel announces to the shepherds:
“Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord.”

Christmas is the story of how God didn’t just hang out in the comfort of heaven but stepped into our messy, chaotic world. Jesus came to save us from sin, restore our relationship with God, and bring hope to a weary world. Spoiler alert: this is way more important than whether or not your Amazon packages arrive on time.

John 3:16 sums it up: For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.

God didn’t just send a card or a gift basket; He sent His Son. Jesus is the ultimate gift—better than the sweater you’ll get from your grandma (even if it has sequins).

So, What Does Christmas Mean for Us?

It’s easy to nod along and say, “Yes I know, Christmas is about Jesus,” but what does that look like in your daily life? Here are three practical applications to help you live out the true meaning of Christmas this season:

1. Celebrate with Purpose

Christmas isn’t just a time to throw a great party (although those can be fun). It’s a chance to reflect on God’s gift to us and share that joy with others. Start a tradition of reading the Christmas story as a family (Luke 2:1-20 is a great place to start). Or maybe pause before tearing into the presents to thank God for the gift of His Son.

Most definitely enjoy those festivities! Jesus didn’t come so we’d be miserable; He came so we’d have joy. Go ahead and eat that extra Christmas cookie, but let your joy come from something deeper than frosting. And that’s saying something! I’ve seen how much frosting some of you blob on your cookies.

2. Be a Giver, Not Just a Getter

God gave us His best in Jesus. Following His example means shifting our focus from what we want to how we can bless others.

This doesn’t have to mean maxing out your credit card. It could look like giving your time, lending a listening ear, or even forgiving someone who’s hurt you. After all, Jesus didn’t wait for us to deserve His gift before giving it.

Acts 20:35 reminds us: It is more blessed to give than to receive.

3. Shine Jesus’ Light even in the Chaos

Ok let’s face it—Christmas can bring out the best and worst in people. (If you’ve ever been elbowed in a Black Friday sale, you know what I mean.) Followers of Jesus are called to be light in the darkness and the chaos.

What if you used the long checkout line as a chance to show patience? Or reached out to someone who’s lonely this season? Even a simple “Merry Christmas” with a smile can point someone to the joy of Jesus.

Matthew 5:16 says: Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

Don’t let the busyness of the season snuff out the light of Christ in you.

Keeping Christ in Christmas

In the end, the true meaning of Christmas isn’t found in perfect decorations, one of those Pinterest-worthy dinners, or even the Hallmark Channel’s latest movie marathon. It’s found in the humble birth of Jesus—a Savior who came for you and me.

So this Christmas, just keep it simple. Celebrate Jesus with joy. Give like He gave. Shine His light wherever you go. And if your turkey burns or the kids knock over the tree? Laugh it off and remember: the first Christmas happened in a stable.

Now that’s a reminder to keep things in perspective.

Merry Christmas!

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