What does God want for Christmas?

Reference text: 2 Peter 3:9

This Christmas season has been difficult for me to embrace for several reasons.  Sadly, I hear from others that they just cannot get into the holiday spirit this year.  Many of us are experiencing changes and losses that, admittedly, have rocked the cores of our worlds.

I put on some holiday music in an attempt to feel some Christmas magic, and I heard a song by Darius Rucker titled “What Does God Want For Christmas?”.  The song gave me pause because I hadn't asked Him what He wants during this gift-giving season.  Sure, I intentionally ask my family and friends about their wish lists, but I didn’t think about His…until now. 

Immediately after asking the question in my heart, I was led to 2 Peter 3:9 where Peter reminds us of God’s patience as He waits for all to come to repentance.  As defined by Merriam-Webster, repentance is the action or process of repenting or turning from one’s sins.  It’s interesting that Peter is speaking about repentance as he denied that he knew Jesus three times!  Jesus offered mercy for each denial, and Peter lived the rest of his life proclaiming the good news of Christ.

We, too, can offer God something – not just on December 25th, but every day that we’re alive.  Whether it’s repentance, obedience, or something else, I encourage you to spend some time in His presence and ask Him what He wants.  I believe He’ll be glad you did.

The Lord bless you and keep you.  The Lord make His face shine upon you.  The Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace.   - Numbers 6:24-26 NKJV