“. . . I bring you good news of great joy for all the people.” Luke 2:10
I have two dear friends who are High School football coaches in Texas. God has used them powerfully to bless students, athletes, and families for many years; their faith in Christ represents the standard of their leadership and influence. One of the themes they have used in coaching their teams is, “keep it simple,” meaning, “do not forget what matters most. And I must say, this has served them well in coaching and leadership. In fact, this standard works in all of life. Give it a try!
So many times, simplicity is confused with superficiality. This is not the case. Simplicity represents clarity and preciseness. Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary explains simplicity as that which is uncomplicated, free from pretense, and direct in expression. Therefore, how should we apply the “keep it simple” principle to our faith, and more specifically to this Christmas season?
In 2 Corinthians 1:12, God’s Word describes Paul and his missionary team as those who conducted themselves in holiness and sincerity. The idea of sincerity in this verse describes something that is judged by the sun (in full light), thus bringing clarity to the substance. This is why some translations like the English Standard Version and the New King James Version use the term “simplicity” for sincerity.
“For our boast is this, the testimony of our conscience, that we behaved in the world with simplicityand Godly sincerity, not by earthly wisdom but by the grace of God, and supremely so toward you.”
In this way, the Bible encourages us to keep it simple by conducting ourselves according to Jesus. He makes our daily steps clear; there should be no confusion.
I Corinthians 14:33 reminds us that “God is not a God of confusion, but of peace.” Because simplicity expresses clarity, confusion is dismissed when by faith we keep things simple. Although I Corinthians 14 speaks against any type of chaos in public worship, the edification for our total life of faith is clear: simplicity holds one to a clear focus upon the truth of God and Jesus. So, “keeping it simple” is to keep it all about Jesus.
This Christmas season, I urge you to go to great efforts to keep all things about Jesus. Read the Holy Scriptures about the birth of Christ often during this season. Find ways to give to others more than receiving from others. Discover new ways to randomly serve others while giving Jesus full credit for your motivation.
When the shepherd heard the message, “good news of great joy for all people,” the three-fold response was rather simple (clear):
- 1. they heard the truth
- 2. they met Jesus
- 3. their lives were changed.
So today, let’s make all things this Christmas season about Jesus. You have heard the truth. You have met Him. He has changed your life. Now, simply go and live in response to the truth.
What a great game plan for life. Thanks coaches!
Keep it simple.
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Today, read Luke 2:8-14 and remember that this is the simple (clear and precise) story of Christmas.
