Philippians 1:27 (NIV) - Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel.

Wouldn’t it be amazing to keep the Christmas spirit alive year round? That joy-filled feeling day after day. It may be hard for some to embrace this idea. How can I have enough money to shower my friends, family and the needy with gifts and blessings all year long? How can I remain joyful every single day? How can I be intentional to reach out to my Grandma or Mom throughout the year and not just at Christmas time?

Some may have given up hope with the first question. You may say this is impossible. There is no way a human being can maintain this hope, peace, joy and love we feel at Christmas year round. Life happens, problems surface and pursue you, loved ones die, someone dear to you is diagnosed with cancer, you get the picture. You say, how is it possible to keep this joy of Christmas year-round?

What if I said it is possible and may not be so difficult. Here are a few ways: 1- Be grateful for all and annotate those things daily; 2-Do something for someone else. Sharing a smile or a hug counts; 3- Be intentional about gathering often with loved ones and spending quality time; 4-Increase your prayer and meditation time; 5-Make love the center of your life. Today’s verse is a reminder that whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel. I encourage you today to strive to conduct yourself in the same manner you do for Christmas throughout the year.

Dear God,

Thank you for the reminder to conduct myself in a manner worthy of the gospel and to stand firm in one Spirit. I pray that all your children conduct themselves in a manner worthy of the gospel. That the hope, peace, love and joy they experience during the holidays, remain in their hearts throughout the year. I ask this in your son Jesus’ name. Amen!