I have found that often we shy away from new or difficult things because they appear too complex. One of those things is sharing the gospel with another person. During our men's conference the speaker wanted to answer this question for the men, "What is one thing that men should be, know and experience during his life?" To answer this he reached out to other Christian men in his life. One of the response he shared with us was that every Christian should know the joy of sharing the Gospel with another person.

Here is something that has helped me understand and share the gospel with others. This comes from , "A Summary of the Gospel and How To Enjoy and Share It." from Desiring God.

Christ also died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God. (1 Peter 3:18)

Here’s a summary of the gospel to help you understand it and enjoy it!
* God created us for his glory - (Isaiah 43:6–7) * Every human should live for God’s glory - (1 Corinthians 10:31). * We have all sinned and fallen short of God’s glory - (Romans 3:23). * We all deserve eternal punishment - (2 Thessalonians 1:9). * In his great mercy, God sent forth his only Son Jesus Christ to provide for sinners the way of eternal life - (1 Peter 3:18).

Continue to grow family

It wasn't always like this in our house. When my brother(39) and I(30) were small we were fanatical about Christmas. Shortly after Thanksgiving we would start the countdown and we would start dragging the ornaments out. We would unravel the lights and test them. The entire atmosphere in the house would change. It is surreal to have been caught off guard by Christmas.

God is interesting like that. I mean this is exactly how things were in Israel at the time of Christ's birth. Life was going on in a normal fashion. People went to work and operated as they always had. And then out of nowhere the entire would changed.

“Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.” -Isaiah 7:14Immanuel, God with us, had been born and life continued on its merry way. Would you have noticed the shift? Would you have been ready? Will you be ready now?
I know at this time of year we focus on the baby but there will come a day when the image of the baby will pale in comparison to the majesty of the man. One day while we are going about our daily lives. One day when we are playing with our children or talking with our significant others. One day while we are idly surfing the internet.
"I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and makes war. His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself." - Revelation 19:11-12Jesus told us Himself that we won't know when it is time.

"No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man." - Matthew 24:35-37When He comes many will say, "But I thought I had more time. I wanted to have fun first. I didn't want to change so soon." At that point it will be too late. Even some of us who claim to be part of His family. He will even turn some of us away.

"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'" - Matthew 7:21-23 Seek Relationship
At this time of year we look to restore relationships with family and friends. We don't want to close out a year with unresolved issues. As we barrel through this holiday season don't forget the most significant relationship that you will ever have. Welcome Jesus into your life today. Don't wait. Don't hesitate. Embrace Him and never look back.

Merry Christmas if I don't make it back onto the blogosphere before it passes. I've got another thing to thank God for this year.

-God's Man