In this week’s #GreatCommission Recap, we have numerous articles to share with you related to Christmas, missions, and glorifying God. Before we share those, here’s an update on what’s going on around the world.
An Eye on the Nations
As we enter into this time of celebrating the birth of our Savior, it’s easy to become distracted by our culture’s own celebration of Christmas. Around the world—and even in our own nation—brothers and sisters will celebrate in less than ideal circumstances, with no Christmas lights, trees, or presents. The beauty of the Christmas celebration is not that all is as it should be, but that Christ’s first coming—the incarnation of God himself—set the stage for his second coming. We wait with hope because we trust that his promises are sure. Nevertheless, we wait among a world of difficulty, strife, and brokenness. Protests continue in Lebanon, Iraq, and India. Our own government faces uncertainties and discord. Believers are being targeted and killed.
As you spend time with family and friends, would you take the time to pray for the nations? Pray for other believers, especially those who tend to be targeted during the holidays. Pray also for unbelievers—that the true Christmas story would be proclaimed and many would hear the gospel of grace.
This month’s articles:
Every Good and Perfect Gift: The Impact of the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering by Drew & Alexandra*: Training. Immunizations. Language learning. Resources. Travel. Visas. These are just a few of the ways the LMCO impacts Southern Baptist missionaries. Read this testimony from a couple serving in South Asia.
This Year, Give the Gift of Christmas by Keelan Cook: As you and your family prepare to celebrate the birth of our King, know there is really no better way to do so than by sharing the news of his coming with someone who has never heard.
Praying for Missionaries During the Christmas Season by Anna Daub: A list of some holiday-specific requests that hopefully will be a springboard for you as you intentionally pray for those sent out from your churches, friends who have gone overseas, and those sent out by the IMB.
Advent: Waiting and the Mission of Every Christian by Stephen Stallard: All of history’s pent up hopes and fears, frustrations and longings come to a head with the arrival of Jesus. But before that, humanity waited. In Acts chapter one, we discover that the Church is waiting yet again.
Advent: Sent by the Sent One by D. Scott Hildreth: Jesus’ first coming into the world sets the stage for the commission he gives to his church to make disciples of all nations. What does this mean for us today?
Advent: The King Has Come and Is Coming Again by Greg Mathias: The good news that God is with us and the King is coming should inspire us to live in hope, peace, joy, and love toward God and neighbor.
From the Directors: 14 Books You Should Read This Christmas: A robust holiday reading list from your directors at the CGCS.
Engaging Singles During the Holidays by Anna Daub: As the population of singles continues to grow, the church must engage these brothers and sisters, especially during the holidays. The question is, how do we do this well?
Southeastern 5K 2020
Did you know that proceeds from the Annual Southeastern 5K go toward supporting global theological education? Well, now you know! The Global Theological Initiative seeks to use the resources at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary to do just this. As you consider ways you’d like to make a difference this upcoming year, will you consider running in our race so others can be equipped to say #iamgoing?
The race is February 29th, 2020 right here in the beautiful town of Wake Forest. Register before the price increases on January 13th and receive a free race shirt! Learn more and register here.
Early-bird Prices:
Adults $35
SEBTS Students: $30
Child (ages 6-16): $25
5 & Under: FREE
