There are many ways to say “Merry Christmas” or to give a Christmas greeting in the languages of the world. The greetings above represent “Merry Christmas” in most of the languages served by IBEC consultants. Despite cultural and linguistic differences there is one commonality – the Christ of Christmas!
The continuity of Christ – from beginning to end– gives us a kingdom-minded business perspective on Christmas. We see that Jesus was “in the beginning” and “His kingdom will never end.”
The Great Creation Mandate
In the beginning God took man and put him the garden to work it and take care of it (Genesis 2:15) and he said to him, “…be fruitful and increase in number, fill the earth and subdue it…rule over every living creature…” (Genesis 1:28). Jesus was there.
The Great Commandment
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind…love your neighbor as yourself” (Luke 10:27). Jesus spoke it.
The Great Commission
“…Go and make disciples of all nations…” (Matthew 28:19). Jesus commanded it.
The Great Throne Finale
“…there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language…” (Revelation 7:9). Jesus will be there.
Many times in business planning we are encouraged to ask ourselves what the end might look like. If the beginning started out with God at work and man invited to work also…and if Jesus invited us to love our neighbor and for much of the world that looks like the dignity of a good job…and if the Jesus of Christmas desires all peoples to worship him and follow him…then the end might look like this:
“Who will not fear you, O Lord, and bring glory to your name? All nations will come and worship before you…” (Revelation 15:4).
Larry Sharp, Director of Training, IBEC Ventures
larry.sharp@ibecventures.com