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December is here and it’s the time of year when we get caught up in traditions, shopping, making and checking off our list, and become focused on loved ones no longer here. While none of that is bad we need to also remember why December is significant and the WHY and WHO we celebrate. In today’s episode, Jodi challenges us to change the channel of our minds and tune into seven ways we can prepare our hearts for Christmas day.

Below is the list along with some scripture references:

1.) Sit at the feet of Jesus and listen to His word.

“She (Martha) had a sister called Mary, who was seated at the Lord’s feet, listening to His word.” (Luke 10:39, NASB)

2.) Praise God for His Son’s Birth!

Consider when the multitude of angels appeared before the shepherds praising God and proclaiming:

 “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.” (Luke 2:14, NASB) 

This hymn of praise is also known as the “Gloria in Excelsis Deo”.

3.) Be open and honest with God allowing Him to search your heart so there are no hindrances of Him hearing your prayers.

 “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalm 139:23-24, NIV)

4.) Pray for those that do not know about God’s only begotten Son, Jesus Christ.

 “For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save the lost.” (Luke 19:10, CSB)

“First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone. This is good, and it pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” (1 Timothy 2:1-4, CSB)

5.) Ask God to reveal to you how to be a blessing to others.

Speak a blessing over someone such as Numbers 6:24-25, NASB:

“The Lord bless you, and keep you; the Lord make His face shine on you, and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up His countenance on you, and give you peace.”

6.) Read Luke Chapter 2 in its entirety to embrace the beautiful truths of why Christ Jesus was born.

7.) Read a chapter of Luke each day leading up to Christmas day.

A Pastor had posted this on Facebook and I thought it was a terrific way of wrapping up the 7 ways to prepare your heart for Christmas.

There are 24 chapters in Luke. I know this episode is published 5 days into December but it’s simple to catch up and oh so worth it!

Why? Because the book of Luke gives you an entire account of Jesus’ life and you’ll wake up on Christmas morning knowing WHO and WHY you celebrate Christmas!

I pray that your heart will be prepared for Christmas Day to celebrate the true reason for this season.

Be intentional!