John 3:16 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.

Today is Christmas Day. It is the end result of our frantic efforts to make sure that everything is perfect ... a day for our family and friends to gather in love ... a day that will be held dear in our memories.

But what about tomorrow? What will we take from Christmas Day 2013?

As I was gathering my thoughts for our Constant Friend Christmas message, I came across a moving poem by Dr. Howard Thurman that reminds us of our purpose for ALL of our tomorrows....the work that lies beyond each Christmas Day for all who believe in Jesus!

The Work of Christmas

When the song of the angels is stilled,

When the star in the sky is gone,

When the kings and princes are home,

When the shepherds are back with their flock,

The work of Christmas begins:

To find the lost,

To heal the broken,

To feed the hungry,

To release the prisoner,

To rebuild the nations,

To bring peace among brothers,

To make music in the heart.

Today's scripture, John 3:16, holds a very powerful promise ... reveals the ultimate gift that we could ever receive. We are assured of eternal life through our belief in Jesus. Unfortunately, there are many in this world ... in our world that desperately need the revelation that eternal life with Jesus is also available to them.

My challenge to you today is to joyfully embrace the Work of Christmas for the next 365 days. Find the lost, bring healing to the broken, feed the hungry... bring peace to individuals who are in turmoil! Bless someone each and every day just as you have been blessed abundantly by the One Who gave us so very much ... Who continues to bless us even today!

Dear Lord, I pray that in every act I perform, in every breath I take, in every word I speak, I am always, always glorifying You and pointing others to Your saving grace ... to Your offer of eternal salvation.  Open my eyes to the opportunities that surround me to share Your love. Let my life be a true reflection of You!

I thank You, my Jesus, for dying for me. I believe that You are Lord and that God raised You from the grave so that I can have eternal life.