How Will You Protect the Life of Jesus This Year?

The Christmas season may have come to an end, but the message it carries continues to resonate. As we reflect on the chaotic yet miraculous birth of Jesus, the real question for us in the new year is: How will we protect the life of Jesus in our lives?

A Messy Beginning
The Christmas story is anything but picture-perfect. Mary and Joseph, teenagers entrusted with the Savior of the world, faced confusion, fear, and isolation. Mary’s encounter with the Holy Spirit was unprecedented, and Joseph initially struggled to trust her until he, too, experienced divine revelation. Their journey to Bethlehem was marked by rejection—no room at the inn—and the birth of Jesus happened in the humblest of circumstances, surrounded not by family, but by shepherds and their flocks. This was not the calm, serene nativity scene we often imagine. It was messy, earthy, and chaotic.
Yet, in the midst of this chaos, God’s plan unfolded perfectly. He sent strangers when family wasn’t present, and He provided resources through the gifts of the wise men, preparing Mary and Joseph for challenges they didn’t even see coming. The mess of humanity needed Christ, and God’s timing and provision were flawless.

The Challenge for Us
This story reminds us that life’s chaos often mirrors the environment into which Jesus was born. We, too, face struggles in our families, marriages, and personal lives. We may feel unprepared or unequipped for the tasks God places before us. But just as God used Mary, Joseph, and even the shepherds, He calls us to step into His plans and protect the life of Jesus within us.
So, how do we do that? Let’s consider three classifications of spiritual growth: infants, teenagers, and adults.

1. Spiritual Infants
Infants are known for their messes, their hunger, and their need for connection. Similarly, spiritual infants are messy and hungry for God’s word but need guidance and support from others.
Application:

1. Get consistent. Show up to church, small groups, and gatherings.
2. Surround yourself with other believers who will love and encourage you.
3. Let others feed you spiritually as you grow.

2. Spiritual Teenagers
Teenagers are full of excitement but often lack direction. They are heavily influenced by their friends and mentors.
Application:

1. Choose your community wisely. Surround yourself with people who encourage your spiritual growth.
2. Get involved in a small group, but not just to receive—be ready to contribute and serve.
3. Focus your energy. Set realistic goals, like reading the New Testament, to build discipline.

3. Spiritual Adults
Spiritual adults bring awareness and experience to the table, but their growth focuses on serving others.
Application:

1. Find your team and purpose within the church.
2. Commit to making a difference in your community and in the lives of others.
3. Stay attuned to the shifts God may bring to your calling as seasons change.

Following Jesus Makes Life Better
If there’s one truth that stands out, it’s this: following Jesus makes life better and makes you better at life. Whether you’re just beginning your spiritual journey or are further along the path, God’s plan for you is unique and purposeful. He’s not asking for perfection; He’s asking for availability.

This year, take the time to evaluate where you are in your walk with God. Are you a spiritual infant, teenager, or adult? How can you step into God’s calling to protect the life of Jesus in your spirit, your relationships, and your purpose?

A Final Invitation
For those who have yet to begin their journey with Jesus, there is good news: it’s never too late. Jesus offers perfect love and complete acceptance. Starting a relationship with Him doesn’t require perfection, only a willingness to say, “Yes.”
This new year, let’s commit to protecting the life of Jesus within us. Let’s grow in faith, connect with others, and live with purpose, knowing that God’s plans are always good, even in the midst of life’s chaos. Amen.