Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned." (Romans 5:12)

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Do you ever watch the evening news? I avoid it like the plague! It is such a vivid reminder of all the hate, violence, deprivation, and sadness in the world. As Christians, we know this is all a result of sin.

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But did you know there was once a time without sin? Yep! Genesis 1:31 tells us that God finished creating His perfect world and declared it "very good." Picture it - a life without discomfort or pain, without fighting or broken relationships, without shame and guilt, without death, and one where man and woman enjoyed a perfectly unhindered relationship with God. It was amazing! But it did not last long because Adam and Eve decided it was "better" to have their own way and get possession of what they wanted instead of being obedient to God. With that decision came sin and the ultimate disruption of what God intended. The result was pain, heartache, suffering, and broken relationships with others and God. Death became the finale for all people. What a sad change from the world God originally created!

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If the story ended there, it would be a tragedy of epic proportions! But thankfully God's love for us meant that He would make a way to enjoy, once again, an unhindered relationship with His people, and He accomplished that through His Son, Jesus. 2 Corinthians 5:17 tells us that if we trust Jesus as our Lord and Savior, our old sin nature is nailed with Him on the cross, and we are also raised with Him to experience a new life. With this comes a promise of eternal life in His presence! What an amazing gift!

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This Christmas season, celebrate Jesus' birth, but remember that through His death, we are forgiven of our sins and able to once again have the relationship with Him that He intended "in the beginning."

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Questions to Ponder: In a world plagued by suffering, am I placing my trust in Jesus or in the things of this world? Does my life reflect my old sin nature or a life that has been redeemed through Christ and gives ultimate glory to Him? This Christmas season, am I focusing on what truly matters? Am I truly celebrating the gift of Jesus and sharing with others how that has impacted my life?

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Prayer: Dear God, Thank You for Your unwavering love! You, in all Your grace, created a way through Your Son Jesus, to have an unhindered relationship with me despite all of the ways I fail You! Please forgive me for my sin and draw me closer to You. I desire to live a life that glorifies You. During this season, help me remember the importance of Jesus' birth, perfect life, and death. Help me to remember that this is the reason I celebrate, and may I lead my family accordingly. It is in His name that I pray and believe these things, Amen.