NOMADS CHRISTMAS 2022

Amir is walking with his friend and coworker, Adeel, in the mall and they walk by a big Christmas tree fully lit up.  The lights are brilliant, the garland is perfectly placed and beautiful ornaments reflect dancing colored lights.  "Merry Christmas!" says Adeel, smiling at the sight of the magnificent 50ft Christmas tree.  Amir laughs. It's only the third of December after all, but he replies, "Merry Christmas Adeel.  Christmas is my favorite time of the year!  Do you know why we celebrate Christmas?"  Amir is a Christian and he knows his friend Adeel is a Muslim from a small village, he even said Amir is his first Christian friend he's ever had.  Adeel's eyes light up, "Yes!  Christmas is about this beautiful tree, I have seen them in all of the malls recently and they are all just as lovely.  Honestly though, I don't understand why you celebrate the trees."

Amir realized this was his moment.  In his story group this week they had talked about sharing the love of Jesus with someone who had never heard the gospel before at an upcoming Christmas party.  Even though he had only accepted Jesus in his heart a few months back, he knew he wanted his friend to experience the same love and peace he had in Jesus.  Amir took a deep breath and said, "Actually, I used to think that too, but Christmas isn't about the trees.  Christmas is when we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.  I accepted Jesus into my heart a few months ago and He has completely changed my heart.  Before, I was always worried about money and I was so depressed missing my family.  Now, I have peace in Jesus and I have a family of believers who love me and care for me just like my family back home!  Next week, my Christian family here is having a Christmas party to celebrate the birth of Jesus.  Would you like to come with me?  I would love for you to meet them!"