The unfolding drama of the Christmas story is more than just a historical account—it’s a revelation of God’s immense love for humanity. The angel Gabriel’s message to Mary serves as a pivotal moment in this divine narrative, demonstrating the connection between God’s love and His choice. “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.”
Luke 1:30
An Advent Journey through Psalm 23: Have you ever wondered, “Why shepherds?” What’s the shepherds’ role in the Christmas narrative? Why did God choose these humble caretakers to witness the birth of the Messiah? In seeking out answers, we’ll find them today in an ancient, potentially unlikely source. We’ll explore the timeless wisdom found in Psalm 23, written by the shepherd David. From that text, we’ll widen our focus to discover the peace offered by our Good Shepherd, Jesus.
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The placement of presents under the tree adds a distinct layer. As each gift is wrapped and placed, Christmas draws closer, building anticipation, and creating a visual countdown for Christmas morning. Although the Christmas tree has no origins in the original Christmas story; a tradition that was taken over by Christianity years ago, it can still serve as a pointer. How so? Bear with me.
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Every Christmas Eve we’re invited to the manger. The manger is the centre-piece of every nativity set. And the manger central to the account of the very first Christmas. Have you ever asked why?
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Our Fourth Advent If I told you that “I love you” would you believe me? Depending on the relationship we have, you may or may
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I’m talking about that giddy, uncontrollable joy, where you want to run and jump and shout for joy?
Some of you may feel like this is an unfair question. That this year, 2020, has not been very joyful at all. However, there is one moment of giddy, uncontrollable joy that happened hundreds, if not thousands of times throughout 2020. And that’s when parents find out a baby’s on the way!
Specifically, for those first-time parents! We’ve all seen those videos on social, where a mom plans a pregnancy reveal to her husband on camera. And what does he do? He goes crazy; crying or laughing, sometimes both at the same time. He is overwhelmed with joy!
Then, an even better video-clip is when the couple tells the first-time grandparents. I especially love watching grandmas! She starts dancing around the kitchen or living room like a crazy lady! You can’t help but smile or laugh.
Now imagine for a moment, receiving that baby announcement after 400 years of waiting.
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When do you start preparing for Christmas? Do you start the day after Thanksgiving, or maybe even before that?
Do you start playing Christmas music after the first snowfall? Then immediately move to decorating, wrapping gifts, and Christmas baking?
What if I told you preparations were a matter of the heart? That preparing for Christmas has little to do with what we do, and more to do with why we do it? (Our heart condition leading up to Christmas can make all the difference!)
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Our First Advent: This week, as we enter our first Advent, we’ll discover how much names really do matter. Before we focus on Mary and Joseph, and the Christ-Child. We must first, focus on Elizabeth and Zechariah, and their child, John.
John, who would become a Prophet, and the forerunner of Our Coming Saviour, Jesus.
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The Comparison Game. In Western culture, Christmas has become a season of comparisons. Sometimes we like to brag about having the perfect Christmas. We buy
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It’s Time To Get Ready. Think about a good friend that you haven’t seen in years. Now imagine that friend is coming for Christmas dinner. Or
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Waiting Is Difficult. At Christmas, there’s always that one family member who takes forever to open their gifts. They delicately untie each ribbon. They strategically
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8 Study Questions On Joy. “Good news of great joy!” For your small group ministry studying each theme as Christmas approaches; here’s this week’s advent addition,
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