Inviting Saudis to Christmas

“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.“-John 1:14 

Viewpoint: In the West, home of Christmas festivities galore, some things that help Christmas feel special can also distract from the real reason for the season. Even as believers, we can allow the secular parts of Christmas to distract us. Followers of Christ must be very intentional about keeping the season about Christ.    

In Saudi Arabia, public displays or celebrations of Christmas are not allowed, and the true meaning of Christmas is not widely understood. Many Saudis are curious about Christmas, but their knowledge is usually limited to what they see in Western media: trees, lights, Santa Claus, and popular songs. For believers who know Saudis, conversations about Christmas can provide opportunities to go beyond the traditions and even beyond the Nativity story to tell the reason for His coming.  

So, as you plan your Christmas celebrations, we would like to challenge you: Do you know Saudi people or others who may have never heard the Christmas story? Would you consider inviting them to celebrate with you this Christmas and sharing why Christ’s coming is so important? Step out of your comfort zone and share the greatest gift of all! 

Prayer Point: Pray as Christ-followers prepare for Christmas; they will have many opportunities to tell their Saudi friends why Jesus’ birth, life, death, and resurrection are so important. Ask that believers, inside and outside of Saudi Arabia, will invite Saudis into their Christmas celebrations and share God’s love and Truth with them. Pray that Saudis who hear this will receive the message as “good news of great joy.”