When you think about the reason for Christmas what comes to mind?

When we think about Christmas we often think about how Jesus came and where He was born. Then when we go a little bit deeper we think about why He came to the earth. If you’ve grown up in church you know the Sunday School answer is because Jesus loves us. It’s true that Jesus came to the earth because He loves the world. When we read scripture Jesus reveals that he has come because of that - so that we may have a full life!

In John 10:10 Jesus said, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” Everyone’s definition of life to the fullest might look a little different. Have you ever thought of what abundant life looks like to you, to your family? Does an abundant life mean that you are incredibly wealthy? Does it mean that you have a mansion? The newest/latest phone, car, computer, etc.? Does an abundant life mean that you’re never sad, lonely or anxious? I've heard it said that the meaning of an abundant life is a life that is spiritually rich, complete, and fulfilling. It is more than material possessions and includes a deep relationship with God and the power of the Holy Spirit. It is a life of purpose, peace, and joy, even in the face of hardship.

If you noticed, hardship wasn’t taken away - someone who is living an abundant life will still see hardship but it will be accompanied by purpose, peace and joy. To have an abundance of something means that there’s more than enough. When we are in relationship with Jesus we can have more than enough peace and joy through Him.

Jesus came to this earth so that we could experience that abundance. He came so that through Him we could have peace and joy. We can receive that by listening to His voice, following and trusting Him. This life that Jesus came here to give us is not just a future heavenly reward. This is something that we can experience here on earth, now, at Christmas, and in the year to come. When Jesus says He came to give us an abundant life, it comes through our relationship with Him.