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It’s here ... the week you’ve been preparing for. The worship services are set, the slides are finalized and the candles are ready. You can feel the excitement (and maybe a little exhaustion) in the air.

Christmas week in the life of a church is one of the most meaningful times of the year. People walk through your doors with every kind of story. Some with joy, some with weariness, some come with curiosity and some with grief. And through it all, your church has the incredible opportunity to shine the light of Jesus.

When we talk about abiding in mission, we’re not talking about a perfectly executed marketing plan or a big moment on stage. We’re talking about a movement of people who reflect the heart of Jesus together. The whole congregation joining Him in love, generosity and worship.

The light of Christmas doesn’t just shine through the pastor preaching or the musicians leading worship. It shines through the greeter offering a warm smile, the volunteer holding a baby, the student who invited a friend and the family sitting together in awe of the story of Jesus' birth.

At Fishhook, we’ve seen it again and again that when leaders abide in Jesus and lead their congregations with that same heart, the whole church becomes a reflection of His light in the community.

So as you guide your people this week, remember you’re not carrying this light alone. You’re leading people who can make Jesus visible in incredible ways.

Encouragement as you Abide

"In Him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it."
John 1:4-5

"You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden."
Matthew 5:14

Space and Time for Reflection  

Abiding in mission means leading your congregation to shine Jesus’ light. And not just in services ... but in your city, your neighborhoods, your families and your everyday interactions.

This week, as you lead your people, don’t forget to look with wonder at what God is doing through them. Every act of kindness, every invitation, every small gesture of love ... it all reflects Him.

You are part of something much bigger than a Christmas service. You are leading a community of light bearers who carry Jesus’ hope into the world.

Questions for Reflection

• How can you help your congregation see themselves as the light of Christ in your community this Christmas?
• What rhythms can you lead or model that invite people to keep abiding with Jesus after the season ends?

A Prayer for Today

Jesus,

You are the Light of the World. Thank you for shining through your church.

As we lead our congregations this week, help us see your light reflected in every person, every act of service and every word of hope.

Let your church shine brightly in our communities not for our glory, but for yours.

Amen.