‘Tis the Season!
We’ve officially entered one of the most beloved times of the year–Christmas! For many of us, this season is filled with cherished traditions, meaningful experiences, and unique opportunities to connect with others.
One of my personal favorite traditions is our family’s “Gift-Giving Guide.” It’s a shared note on our smartphones where we each add ideas to help us pick the perfect gifts for one another. It’s a fun way to ensure our gifts are meaningful and thoughtful.
But what about giving gifts outside our immediate circle? More importantly, what about giving gifts that go beyond the season and have a lasting impact?
Over the past eight weeks, we’ve been exploring what it means to live as Everyday Missionaries. As we step into this Christmas season, I want to challenge each of us to put that teaching into action. One of the greatest gifts we can give–one that surpasses anything wrapped under the tree–is an invitation to meet Jesus.
It sounds simple, but consider this: so many people around us are not enjoying the holidays this year. Their lives may be weighed down by grief, pain, or a sense of hopelessness. They’re searching for meaning, comfort, and hope. Your invitation to attend a church service this Christmas could be the lifeline they’re longing for, a gift that could change not only their season, but their life, family, and eternity.
Why Your Invitation Matters
Research shows that personal invitations make a significant difference. A 2016 Lifeway Research study found that 35% of unchurched individuals would likely attend a worship service if they were invited. Think about that, over one-third of people outside the church are willing to say “yes” to an invitation.
What if that person is your friend? Your family member? Your coworker? Your neighbor?
You won’t know until you extend the invitation. And while inviting someone to church might feel intimidating, it doesn’t have to be. It can be one of the most natural and exciting things you do this season. Here’s how you can live out your role as an Everyday Missionary and make this Christmas unforgettable for someone you care about:
Step-by-Step Encouragement for Everyday Missionaries
1. As a Surrendered Worshiper:
Think about what makes weekend services meaningful to you. Is it the message, the music, the sense of community? Now, consider who in your life might benefit from sitting beside you during the next service. Make a list and ask yourself, “Who should be here with me?” Never attend a service without that question in mind.
2. As a Maturing Follower:
Turn that list into a prayer list as a personal prayer discipline. Offer those names to God and pray for opportunities to share your desire for them not just to attend church, but to come with you. A simple invitation, paired with a kind gesture—like offering to take them out for lunch afterward—can make all the difference. (Sometimes a little incentive doesn’t hurt!)
3. As a Compassionate Servant:
Look for ways to serve those you want to invite. Whether it’s babysitting their kids so they can have a date night, helping with a project around their house, or simply offering a listening ear, small acts of kindness can open the door to a heartfelt invitation. These gestures show that you genuinely care, making your invitation even more powerful.
4. As a Kingdom Multiplier:
Don’t underestimate the power of your own story. Sharing how Jesus has impacted your life can create a deeper connection and inspire others to seek that same hope and joy. An invitation to church is a great starting point, but it may also open the door to ongoing conversations, prayer, and opportunities to walk alongside someone in their faith.
The Greatest Gift
As you check off your Christmas shopping list this year, think beyond the wrapped presents and consider the eternal gift of an invitation. Someone in your life might be waiting for it right now. This could be the Christmas that changes everything for them.
Let’s make this season about more than giving gifts—we have the opportunity to give the ultimate gift: an introduction to the Savior. Who will you invite?
This could be the best Christmas yet—for you and for someone you care about.