Christmas requires more than planning meals and wrapping gifts - it demands spiritual preparation to truly receive Christ. Just as John the Baptist called people to repentance before Jesus's ministry, we need to ready our hearts to meet the grown-up Jesus, not just celebrate the baby in the manger. This preparation involves reading Scripture, developing consistent prayer habits, and actively sharing the Gospel with others. The joy of Christmas becomes complete when we prepare room in our hearts for the King.
God's love and grace extend to all, even those who have strayed far from Him. The parables of the lost sheep, lost coin, and prodigal son illustrate God's relentless pursuit of the lost and His joy when they return. While we may identify with the prodigal son in our need for forgiveness, we must also guard against the self-righteous attitude of the older brother. God's grace is abundant, and He invites us to rejoice with Him when others turn to Him, remembering our own salvation and seeking to share this good news with those around us.