Anytime you receive a guest into your house, there is nearly always a couple of panicked hours of sweeping, cleaning dishes and generally preparing for their arrival. Their level of cleaning can sometimes indicate the importance of the guest. For my mother? A thorough cleaning and white glove treatment. My best mate? Dirty laundry off the floor is sufficient.

Christmas is a time that we associate with peace, love and acceptance – but also some stress and worry. This is true even for pastors and the all-important Christmas Eve service. At first glance, there is an entire history of possible topics to elucidate from the pulpit, but this isn’t just another sermon. As we said, it’s the beginning of an entire history that has changed countless lives.

The birth of Christ, arguably the most important event in all of Christendom, is a story that nearly all of us are aware of – even if we aren’t Christian. So, when Christmas comes around, the retelling of the story of the Nativity, although important, isn’t always one that catches the attention of the congregation. Thankfully, the Lord filled the bible with a wealth of ideas that can be used around the holiday season.

Did Jesus ever need to prepare for a sermon when he was here on earth? Did he ever stare at his reflection in a lake and practice the words? Jesus may never have had these troubles, but we certainly can from time to time. Speaking in front of a group is, as you already know, the number one fear of most people. Orating your first sermon can be a scary event, but it can also be exciting and awe inspiring. These tips can help you make it a grand experience to remember.