During the Christmas season I like to watch my favorite movies that center around the holiday, movies like “Boyfriend for Christmas”, Raymond Brigg’s “The Snowman”, “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year”, and “It’s a Wonderful Life.
I recently watched one I especially like—“A Christmas Carol” starring Patrick Stuart. I love the line near the end where Scrooge expresses his gratitude for being given a second chance and declares, ““I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.” He goes on to say he will not forget the lessons his experience has taught him.
Scrooge’s words got me thinking and reminded me that, as Christians, we are given a second chance--the chance to be delivered from the penalty of sin. Out of our gratitude to Jesus for this wonderful gift, we should honor Christ in our hearts every day and remember the lessons He taught. Honoring Christ means living in a way that reflects His own goodness, love, and faithfulness. The Bible says we can honor and glorify God by serving others (Matthew 5:16), by doing everything as though we are working for the Lord (Colossians 3:23), by living obediently (John 14:15), by overcoming evil with good (Romans 12:21), by using our bodies for His purposes (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), and by showing love to others. (John 15:12)
God desires genuine honor—honor that comes from our hearts and isn’t just for show. 1 Samuel 16:7 says that while people look at outward appearances, God looks at the heart. When we delight in the Lord (Psalm 37:4), seek Him in everything we do (Isaiah 55:6), and make choices that reflect the place He has in our hearts (Joshua 24:15), we bring Him the greatest honor.
Scrooge just wanted to honor Christmas, but I am throwing out a challenge. In 2026, let’s honor Jesus both in our hearts and outwardly.
Hey! That sounds like a great New Year’s Resolution! May God bless us—every one!
Be encouraged!
