The Story - Pt. 1: We Beheld His Glory
This week, Jake explains that the Christmas story is really the story of God’s redemption that began long before Bethlehem. John teaches that Jesus, the Word, has always existed and is both fully God and the Creator of all things. He is the source of life, and His light continues to shine in the darkness. John the Baptist appears as the God-sent messenger whose purpose was to prepare people for the coming of Jesus, fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy. Even though Jesus entered the world He made and came to His own people, many still did not receive Him. Yet those who do believe in Him are given the privilege of becoming children of God, born not through human effort but through the Spirit. In the end, the Word became flesh and lived among us, allowing us to see His glory, full of grace and truth, which is the heart of the true Christmas story.
The Story - Pt. 2: Receiving Good News
In Luke chapter 1, we have the story of the angelic visitor Gabriel, delivering the news of the coming births of both John the Baptist and Jesus. This good news brings with it some very real challenges. Can Zechariah and Elizabeth hold on to hope after years of disappointment? Can Mary receive both the blessing and the incredible sacrifice that comes with the gift of being the mother of the Messiah? As we remember the good news of Jesus this season, may we be able to find fresh hope as we walk in the blessings of God, even in the midst of the great sacrifices that often accompany them.
The Story - Pt. 3: Unto Us
As we come to the story of the birth of Jesus, we see a beautiful collision of faith and joy right alongside the difficulties that come with radical obedience. May the Lord renew and strengthen our faith in Him, as we embrace the precious things He entrusts into our hands as well.
