12 Days of Healthy ChristmasSample

“Christmas for the Outcasts”

The most significant event in history had occurred; Peace had come. The peace that Jesus brought was not necessarily the absence of war, but a much broader and deeper sense of assurance.

However, the peace Jesus brings is not for all people, but rather is available to all. When we receive God’s gift of life, offered in Christ, we then receive peace. In the angels’ own description, Jesus is referred to as our rescuer, the anointed one, and God; the bringer of peace to the lives of His people.

But the awesomeness of this moment is not just the message of peace that is in itself awesome, but also to whom the message is delivered first: the shepherds. In first century Palestine, these shepherds were the outcasts and the despised of society. Their integrity was so greatly questioned that they were not allowed to serve as witnesses in court.

From the very first moment the Savior was born, the outcasts were accepted.

How many of us have felt like an outcast at one time or another? You know what I mean. We all, at one time or another, have felt like we were not one of the cool kids.

As an obese, 455 lb. man, I very much felt like an outcast. I felt that at my size, my “testimony” before the world was tainted because my shortcomings were so evident to the rest of the world. What I didn’t realize is that many feel the same and their weight may or may not even play a part. Being an outsider and outcast describes many of us, and often is one of the main instigators for using alcohol, drugs, and food inappropriately.

The peace Jesus offers is the peace that comforts through the storms, hardships, and battles in this life. The peace Jesus offers assures us through turmoil so we can make healthy choices even during Christmas. Celebrate Christmas and experience peace.

Health Tip: Smaller pieces bring greater peace to unhealthy lives.