John Wesley Work, Jr. originally published “Go Tell It on the Mountain”, but it is not known whether he wrote the African-American spiritual or if it came down to him through oral tradition. One thing is clear: the Lord certainly intended the birth of his Son to be known since He announced it with a chorus of angels to shepherds who “made known the saying that had been told them concerning” the child Jesus (see Luke 2:17).

As Christians, this “news of great joy for all people” is now our responsibility to tell, and Christmas is a great opportunity to share this good news with others. As our society becomes increasingly secular, more and more people think the season is about exchanging gifts, having parties, and getting together with family and friends. The true reason for the season is lost in the materialistic hubbub that surrounds us.

My Christmas wish and challenge to you this year is to make up your mind to share Jesus with at least one person. I was really convicted about this and asked the Lord to give me an opportunity to witness to someone--within four hours it happened! I believe he’ll do the same for you! The important thing is to be ready when that door opens.

One suggestion is to explain what “Merry Christmas” means to you by sharing your own testimony. It’s okay if someone doesn’t approve or reacts negatively since Jesus said we should expect as much. Remember, being obedient is more important than being liked. You might also start with a simple act of service, helping another person in need. People better understand God’s love for them when that love takes on flesh and blood through you.

Another suggestion would be to take some Christmas goodies to a neighbor or co-worker and use the opportunity to share the true meaning of Christmas: it’s about God taking on human flesh in order to die on the cross for our sins. Tell them that receiving Jesus is the only way a person can be forgiven and receive the gift of eternal life (Romans 6:23).

Finally, be sure to tell them the whole story. While Christmas is a celebration of Jesus’ birth, we must not leave the story there. People need to hear the gospel and that means repentance from sin and trusting in Jesus for salvation. Trusting in Jesus means believing all that he is revealed to be in Scripture and committing your life to him.

I hope you’ll take the challenge and purpose in your heart to share the good news this Christmas. Regardless of how people respond let’s be faithful to spread the good news. Strictly speaking, evangelism isn’t about producing converts, it’s proclaiming Christ. Sharing the good news is our job, it’s God’s work to save souls.