CHRISTMAS REFLECTIONS
Hope
Isaiah 9:2
Why Did Jesus Come?
He came to a manger, but He didn’t stay there.
He came to a cross, but He didn’t stay there.
He came so He could return.
Revelation 5:12 Philippians 2:9-11 Psalm 98
This Changes Everything
Hope is a choice.
CHRISTMAS REFLECTIONS
Joy
Luke 2:8-20
SHEPHERDS
They were told about Jesus.
They came to Jesus.
They told others about Jesus.
JOY
Psalm 98 James 1:2 Hebrews 12:1-4 Psalm 16:11
US
We were told about Jesus.
We came to Jesus.
We tell others about Jesus.
CHRISTMAS REFLECTIONS
Sacrifice
Matthew 1:18-25
JOSEPH: NOT YOUR AVERAGE JOE
Luke 2:1-7 Matthew 1:18-25 & 2:13-23 Luke 9:23 & 14:27
US: LEARNING FROM JOSEPH’S JOURNEY
– If God has a plan for my life that differs from my plan, then someone has to change plans.
– God speaks clearer today than He did then.
– Tomorrow’s guidance starts with today’s obediance.
CHRISTMAS REFLECTIONS
Trust
Luke 1:26-38
MARY: WHY IS SHE A HERO?
– She trusted God with the details.
Luke 1:26-38 Isaiah 7:14
– She trusted God with the immediate results.
John 8:41
– She trusted God with the ultimate results.
Hebrews 11:1
US: WHAT DOES GOD REQUIRE?
– To become more like Christ.
Micah 6:8 Hebrews 11:6
– Demonstrate trust in God.
James 2:14-19
– If you stopped living by faith– how would your life be different?
Romans 15:13
CHRISTMAS REFLECTIONS
Answered Prayers
Luke 1:5-15
“ FEAR NOT…..YOUR PRAYER HAS BEEN HEARD.”
– Answer delayed is not answer denied.
Luke 1:13
– Answered prayer may have multiple ramifications.
Luke 1:59-80
– Answered prayer may have unforeseen consequences.
Luke 1:80 Matthew 3:1-4