Shortly after launching the MinTools.com site in 1999, I decided to provide a few holiday resources links. Site statistics revealed a real interest in finding help over the holidays. What started as one page with holiday resources, turned into many. Go To: Ministry Resources for Holidays, Seasons, and Other Life Events
Since God’s Word does encourage us to “make the most of every opportunity” (Eph. 5:15-16; Col. 4:5), I knew this was a way to further equip believers in their ministries.
Ways Holidays are Used for Ministry
Typically we find ourselves planning special programs, activities, and events for the holidays with emphasis on:
outreach
family time
expressions of appreciation
They can also provide opportunities for sermons and teachings with targeted messages that people may be more receptive to because they’re already thinking about the topic due to the holiday. Check out this tool you can use: Holiday Reflections Discipleship Guides
How to Make the Most of the Holidays for Ministry
When reading the Bible verses about making the most of every opportunity, let’s be sure to note how both of the key passages exhorting us to do so also reference our need for wisdom. Ephesians 5:15-16 begins, “Be very careful, then, how you live – not as unwise but as wise …” Colossians 4:5 says, “Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.”
Here are just four issues for which we need wisdom at holidays:
- We must be discerning in the type of decorations and activities we use related to the holidays so as not to send mixed messages about Truth. Do they accurately represent God and His Word?
- We must be sensitive of those in our midst who find particular holidays difficult or hurtful. How can we keep the good of all in mind by the way we celebrate, the words we say, and the emphasis we put in certain aspects of it?
- We must consider the best way to use church communications not only to announce programs but also to engage people about how to keep God central during the holiday. How can we utilize various means to reach people, not just the big events?
- We must guard against letting members think that bringing people to big holiday events excuse them from personally witnessing, giving benevolently, spiritually nurturing their own children, etc.. What can we do to equip people to make the most of opportunities in their own spheres of influence over the holiday seasons as well as year round?
Acknowledging the need to be wise during these times, we should consider training ministry workers to at least be aware of the above points. (Example of helping Bible teachers: Holidays & Seasonal Teacher Training Resources)
And, these points certainly suggest our need to pray about the way to make the best use of these holiday opportunities. God promises to give us the wisdom we need if we ask (James 1:5).