Last weekend, my family began the Christmas season with a Christmas party, one of several celebrations we will have with family. It was great to be together, to get caught up on life, and enjoy a delicious meal together. This same scene will be repeated all over our country as people welcome family and friends, many who we only see on special occasions.

The same is true in church during the Christmas season. We have a lot of guests, friends, family and even strangers, many that we will only see in church on special occasions. It is a group of people, some who have a Christian background, but don’t attend church regularly, or people who have been invited by a friend or family member. In addition, people who are curious and exploring Christianity may show up at church. I call this very important group of people, CEOs, people who come to church on Christmas & Easter Only.

The events of Christmas changed the history of the world. “That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, 10 but the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David!” Luke 2:7-9. Christmas ushered in good news and joy to all the people of earth and is still good news for all people of earth today.

Christmas provides a unique opportunity for churches; attendance spikes at Christmas, for some churches as much as 50% and many of those attending are CEOs. We have a chance to connect and help them understand the good news that has the power to change their lives. Not only do we have a chance to connect, but to build a bridge of relationship, inviting them into our community to journey with us toward a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Let’s make the most of this Christmas season, time with friends & family and a time to make new friends. Merry Christmas!

By: Rick Dunn