Christmas is more than a time of giving and gathering; it’s an invitation to worship the One who came to redeem us. In the hustle of the holiday season, it’s easy to lose sight of the true purpose of Christmas. But the call to “O come, let us adore Him” is a reminder to center our celebrations on worshiping Jesus Christ, the King of Kings.
Let’s rediscover how to keep worship at the heart of Christmas and experience the deeper joy it brings.
The Call to Worship
The phrase “O come, let us adore Him” originates from the timeless Christmas hymn “O Come, All Ye Faithful.” Its words echo the response of the shepherds and wise men who, upon hearing the news of Jesus’ birth, set aside everything to worship Him.
In Luke 2:15-16, we see the shepherds’ immediate response: “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” Similarly, the wise men traveled great distances to present gifts and bow in reverence before the newborn King (Matthew 2:11).
Their actions remind us that Christmas is not just a time to celebrate—it’s a time to worship.
Worship in the Everyday
Worship isn’t confined to singing carols or attending church services; it’s a posture of the heart. When we pause to reflect on the miracle of Jesus’ birth, acknowledge His lordship, and give Him glory, we are worshiping.
Here are ways to keep worship at the heart of your Christmas:
1. Start with Scripture
Reading the story of Jesus’ birth (Luke 2:1-20, Matthew 1:18-25) is a powerful way to focus your heart on His arrival. Reflect on the humility of His birth and the greatness of His mission.
2. Sing with Intention
Christmas carols like “O Holy Night” and “Joy to the World” are rich in theology and worship. Don’t just sing them—meditate on the words and let them draw your heart to God.
3. Pray with Gratitude
Take time to thank God for His indescribable gift. A simple prayer of gratitude for Jesus’ birth and the salvation He offers can shift your focus from material things to eternal truths.
4. Serve as an Act of Worship
Worship isn’t limited to words. When we serve others—whether through acts of kindness, giving to those in need, or offering encouragement—we reflect the heart of Christ and honor Him.
Why Worship Matters
Worship is more than a response; it’s a recognition of who Jesus is. The angels’ proclamation in Luke 2:14—“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”—reveals that Jesus’ birth was not just a moment in history but a cosmic event worthy of eternal praise.
When we worship, we align our hearts with heaven. We set aside distractions and remember that Christmas is not about us—it’s about Him. Worship lifts our eyes above the temporary and fills us with the eternal joy of His presence.
Overcoming Distractions
The holiday season often brings stress, busyness, and distractions that pull us away from worship. Here are practical ways to refocus:
- Simplify Your Celebrations: Don’t let materialism overshadow the spiritual meaning of Christmas. Prioritize what matters most—time with God and loved ones.
- Set Aside Quiet Moments: Amid the noise, create space for reflection and prayer. Even five minutes can make a difference.
- Involve the Family: Read the Christmas story together or sing carols as a family. Worship is a powerful way to unite hearts in faith.
A Life of Adoration
While Christmas highlights the call to worship, adoration shouldn’t end when the decorations come down. Jesus is worthy of our praise every day. As we move beyond the season, let’s carry the spirit of worship into our daily lives, letting His presence guide and sustain us.
As Psalm 95:6 beautifully declares: “Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!”
Conclusion
This Christmas, let’s answer the call to “O come, let us adore Him.” Let worship be the heart of our celebrations, not just an afterthought. By keeping our focus on Jesus, we’ll discover a joy and peace that surpasses the temporary pleasures of the season.
Come, let us adore Him—not just as a baby in a manger, but as the Savior of the world, the King of Kings, and the Lord of Lords.
See Also: Unwrapping the Gospel: Sharing the Good News This Season
