Lift Installation
The lift is now fully installed. There are still a few trim details and final adjustments to complete before it’s ready for public use, but its completion is imminent. Flooring installation in the upstairs and downstairs elevator hallways is expected to begin in the coming weeks.

Nursery Addition
Significant progress continues in the new nursery space. The ceiling grid is installed, and light fixtures are currently being set. The exterior HVAC unit is being placed, with ceiling registers scheduled for installation next week.

In the next couple of weeks, we plan to pour the sidewalk along the back of the building addition. Following Easter, we’ll begin demolition to connect the existing nursery to the new addition.

Learn more about the Roots project and how you can give here.

Our elevator installation is making progress, with the goal to be operational Q1 2026. More equipment has been installed and the lift has undergone test operation, but work remains on the shaftway before it can be operational.

The children's addition is dried in and its hvac unit is installed. The framers will be finishing up next week.

New playground equipment is complete thanks to a great assembly crew.

New room signage for the south building has been ordered and will be installed in the coming weeks.

Thanks to the generosity of our church and God's provision, we have surpassed 1/3 of our funding goal for Phase 1 of the Root project, with over $50,000 of the $150,000 raised.

Learn more about the Roots project and how you can give here.

The concrete slab for the children's classroom extension has been poured. Steel has been delivered and a crew will be on site the week of November 17 to start putting up the steel frame.

Our contractor has completed the demotion and build back for the lift area and is making plans to proceed with construction in the upstairs area in preparation of installing the mast.

Please continue to exercise caution when walking near areas of active construction. 

Learn more about the Roots project and how you can give here.

The awning on the west side of the north building will be removed this week so that dirt work can be completed on the children's addition. Preparations for the concrete slab to be poured are expected by the end of next week. 

Demolition work has begun in the south building for the new lift's future location, and concrete work for lift is in progress (photo below). 

Straw and seed have been spread on the newly leveled green space on the south lawn. 

Please continue to exercise caution when walking near areas of active construction. 

Learn more about the Roots project and how you can give here.

Dirt work for the nursery addition has begun. Once complete, a concrete slab will be poured for the nursery addition as part of Phase 1 (currently expected to take place early September).

Please exercise caution when walking near areas of active construction.

Learn more about the Roots project and how you can give here.

Preparations for nursery/kids area expansion to the North Building are expected to begin this week.

As part of this, two HVAC condenser units will be relocated to the west side of the existing nursery (North Building).

Dirt work for the nursery addition will start the week of 8/25/25. Once complete, a concrete slab will be poured for the nursery addition as part of Phase 1 (currently expected to take place early September).

Please exercise caution when walking near areas of active construction.

Updates on the lift/elevator portion of Phase 1 are coming soon.

Learn more about the Roots project and how you can give here.

Dirt work has begun on the south end of the property to level previously unused greenspace and create a retention pond for proper drainage. Once complete, we will be able to make use of the entire field area for fellowship events such as our annual Fall Festival, Easter Egg Hunt, and more events that draw the community to our church.

Learn more about the Roots project here.

Trusting in the Promises of God 
—
On Easter Sunday, we often hear the joyful proclamation, "He is not here! He is risen!" – a reference from the first half of Matthew 28:6. This incredible truth has been the cornerstone of our faith for centuries.

This year, we invite you to ponder a slightly different but equally profound aspect of the resurrection found in the latter half of that same verse: "He is risen, just as He said."

Before His crucifixion, Jesus foretold His death and resurrection to His disciples. In Matthew 16:21, He shared that He "must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things" and that He must be "killed and on the third day be raised to life." Despite their doubts and confusion, Jesus' followers witnessed the ultimate fulfillment of this promise on Easter morning.

This theme highlights a crucial aspect of our relationship with God—His faithfulness to His promises. Scripture is filled with God's assurances to His people, and the resurrection of Jesus is the most powerful testament to His unwavering fidelity. When the stone was rolled away, it wasn't just a miracle; it was a divine declaration that God does not falter in His word.

In our daily lives, we often face situations that test our faith. We may pray for healing, guidance, or strength, and sometimes it feels like God's promises are slow to manifest. During these times, we can look to the resurrection as a reminder that God’s timing and methods are perfect, even when they do not align with our expectations.

As we journey towards Easter this Sunday, let us reflect on the promises God has made to us personally and collectively. Meditate in prayer on His promises of hope, peace, and eternal life. Trust that, just as Jesus overcame death, God's promises will come to fruition in His perfect way and time.

This Easter, rejoice not only in the resurrection itself, but in the assurance that God does exactly what He promises. God's word is true and His faithfulness endures forever. Let this truth anchor your soul as you navigate trials, seasons of life, and your faith journey. He is faithful, and He will never forsake you.

He is risen, just as He said.

The Inspiration for Worship

What inspires you to worship? It's a simple question, yet one that demands deep introspection. Is it the mere existence of God? His creation? His acts of healing and help? Or perhaps it's the realization that unlike other deities, our God came to us, making a way when we couldn't.

The heart of true worship springs from gratitude - gratitude for who God is and what He's done for us. It's a profound realization that the Creator of the universe, who has no obligation to us, chose to love and save us. This truth should shake us to our core, compelling us to fall on our knees in praise.

Psalm 25 offers us a beautiful glimpse into the heart of worship. It begins with a powerful declaration: "Oh Lord, I give my life to you. I trust in you, my God." These words set the tone for a psalm that is both a cry for help and a song of praise.

As we delve deeper into the psalm, we encounter a plea that resonates with many of us: "Show me the right path, O Lord. Point out the road for me to follow." How often do we find ourselves at crossroads, unsure of which way to turn? This prayer acknowledges our need for divine guidance, recognizing that true wisdom comes from God alone.

The psalmist goes on to say, "Remember, Oh Lord, your compassion and unfailing love, which you have shown from long ages past. Do not remember the rebellious sins of my youth." Here we see a beautiful juxtaposition - a reminder of God's eternal goodness and a plea for forgiveness. It's a testament to the fact that God's love and our need for grace go hand in hand.

This brings us to a crucial point: God forgives. When we confess our sins and turn from them, seeking God wholeheartedly, He is faithful to forgive. As Romans 2:4 reminds us, it is God's kindness that leads us to repentance. His compassion and goodness are not just abstract concepts, but transformative forces in our lives.

The psalm continues to unfold, revealing more about God's character: "The Lord is good and does what is right. He shows the proper path to those who go astray." Not only does God forgive, but He also teaches and guides us. This is one of the most loving aspects of His nature - He doesn't just save us and leave us to figure things out on our own. Instead, He leads us, showing us the right way to live.

Why does He do this? Because of His goodness and righteousness. The Lord is good and does only what is right. Therefore, He is the only one who can show us, who have gone astray, the right way back.

But here's where we need to pause and reflect. Do we truly want God to teach us? It's easy to nod our heads in agreement, but our actions often tell a different story. If we're not seeking Him through His Word, through prayer, through discipleship - are we really open to His teaching?

The psalmist prays, "Give me an undivided mind to fear your name." This is a crucial prayer for us today. In a world full of distractions, where we often compartmentalize our faith, we need to seek an undivided heart that fears the Lord above all else. When our hearts are divided, sincere worship becomes challenging.

The psalm concludes with a beautiful promise: "The Lord is a friend to those who fear him. He teaches them his covenant." God doesn't just guide us; He befriends us. He invites us into a covenant relationship with Him. This is the ultimate reward - having the God of the universe as our friend, confidant, and savior.

So, what inspires worship? It's the realization that God forgives us when we ask, teaches us if we let Him, and guides us if we want Him to. It's understanding that the Creator of the cosmos desires a personal relationship with us. It's recognizing His holiness and our need for His grace and mercy.

True worship isn't dependent on the right music, the perfect atmosphere, or how good we've been this week. It springs from a heart that understands its desperate need for God and His overwhelming love for us.

If you find yourself struggling to worship, perhaps it's time to refocus. Maybe you need to fall on your knees, raise your hands high, and cry out, "Abba Father, I need you." Perhaps you need to confess those things that are keeping you from wholehearted worship. Or maybe, just maybe, you need to accept His forgiveness and grace for the first time.

Remember, worship isn't about perfection - it's about connection. It's about approaching God with honesty, like David did in this psalm. It's about acknowledging our need for Him and His sufficiency in meeting that need.

As we go through our days, let's carry this attitude of worship with us. Let's allow the truth of who God is and what He's done to permeate every aspect of our lives. May we be people who, like the psalmist, can say, "My eyes are always on the Lord, for he rescues me from the traps of my enemies."

In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, we have a God who forgives, teaches, and guides. A God who is worthy of our wholehearted worship. May we never lose sight of this truth, and may it inspire us to live lives of continual praise and adoration.

The Focus of Worship

In a world filled with distractions and countless things vying for our attention, it's easy to lose sight of what truly matters. We often find ourselves worshipping the wrong things - our favorite sports teams, celebrities, politicians, or even our own accomplishments. But what does it mean to truly worship the one and only God?

Isaiah 40 presents us with a powerful reminder of God's incomparable nature and the futility of putting our trust in anything else. The passage begins with a striking question: "Haven't you heard? Don't you understand? Are you deaf to the words of God?" It's a wake-up call for those who have forgotten the awesome power and majesty of the Creator.

The imagery used in this chapter is breathtaking. We're told that God "sits above the circle of the earth" and that people below seem like grasshoppers to Him. He spreads out the heavens like a curtain and brings out the stars "like an army, one after another, calling each by its name." This vivid description serves to highlight the vast difference between our limited human perspective and God's infinite wisdom and power.

But why is this important? Because understanding who God is shapes how we live our lives and where we place our trust. When we truly grasp the magnitude of God's power and love, it changes everything.

The passage goes on to address a common human struggle - the feeling that God has forgotten us or doesn't see our troubles. How often do we find ourselves in spiritual exile, feeling alone and separated from God? The Israelites, exiled from their homeland, felt this keenly. They began to think that God had forgotten them, that He was unaware of their pain and fear.

But the truth is far from this. God sees us. He knows us. He cares about us. Isaiah reminds us that the Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the earth. He never grows weak or weary, and no one can measure the depths of His understanding. This truth should bring immense comfort to our weary souls.

So how do we respond to this revelation of God's character? Isaiah provides us with a beautiful promise:

"He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion. But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint."

This verse is often quoted, but its depth is easily overlooked. It's not just about receiving a temporary boost of energy. It's about a fundamental shift in how we live our lives. When we put our trust fully in God, we tap into a source of strength that is inexhaustible.

The Hebrew word often translated as "wait" in this passage actually means "to put your hope in" or "to trust in." It's an active posture of faith, not a passive sitting around. When we actively place our hope and trust in God, He renews our strength in ways we could never imagine.

This renewal manifests in three ways:

1. We will soar on wings like eagles - This speaks to moments of exhilaration and triumph, where we're lifted above our circumstances.

2. We will run and not grow weary - This refers to times of intense activity and challenge, where God gives us the endurance to keep going.

3. We will walk and not faint - This is about the day-to-day journey of life, where God provides the steady strength we need to keep moving forward.

But how do we cultivate this kind of trust in our daily lives? Here are five practical steps we can take:

1. Submit to God: Ask Him to reveal areas in our lives that need change.
2. Release our will: Be willing to let go of control and allow God to work in our lives.
3. Seek His wisdom: Turn to God for guidance in every decision we make.
4. Worship Him alone: Examine our lives for anything we might be putting before God.
5. Surrender all: Recognize that true satisfaction and hope can only be found in God.

This process of submission and surrender is not easy. It goes against our natural inclination to be in control. But it's in this place of surrender that we find true freedom and strength.

As we reflect on these truths, we're challenged to examine our own lives. What are we truly worshipping? Where are we placing our trust? Are we trying to navigate life's challenges in our own strength, or are we tapping into the inexhaustible power of God?

Remember, nothing in this world can truly satisfy or sustain us like the Lord our God. When we worship Him alone and put our full trust in Him, we open ourselves up to experience His power in transformative ways.

This doesn't mean life will suddenly become easy. We'll still face challenges and hardships. But with God as our source of strength, we'll be able to face these difficulties with a new perspective and endurance.

As we go about our daily lives, let's keep our eyes fixed on the One who created the stars, who knows us intimately, and who promises to renew our strength when we put our trust in Him. Let's worship the one true God - not just with our words, but with our whole lives.

May we continually seek to align our hearts with His, surrendering our will to His perfect plan. As we do, we'll find ourselves soaring on eagles' wings, running without growing weary, and walking without fainting. This is the life of true worship - a life lived in the strength and power of our awesome God.

10 Real Resolutions for a Transformed Life

As we step into a new year, many of us find ourselves making resolutions - promises to ourselves about how we'll improve our lives in the coming months. But how often do these resolutions stick? What if, instead of surface-level changes, we committed to real, lasting transformation?

Let's explore 10 powerful resolutions that can truly change our lives and deepen our faith:

1. Laugh More

"A joyful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit dries up the bones." (Proverbs 17:22)

In a world that often feels heavy, laughter can be a balm for our souls. It's not about ignoring life's challenges, but finding joy even in the midst of them. When we learn to laugh at ourselves and find humor in everyday moments, we open ourselves up to a lighter, more joyful existence.

2. Start a Hobby

Life isn't meant to be all work and no play. Hobbies give us a chance to breathe, to be creative, and to connect with ourselves and others in new ways. Whether it's woodworking, hiking, painting, or learning a new language, find something that brings you joy and helps you unwind.

3. Make Memories with Your Family

In our fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the day-to-day and forget to create lasting memories with our loved ones. Remember, it's not about perfection or elaborate plans - sometimes the simplest moments become the most cherished memories. A backyard campout, a spontaneous road trip, or even a game night can become treasured experiences that bind families together.

4. Be a Good Friend

We all need people in our lives who will stand by us through thick and thin. But to have good friends, we must be good friends. This means being faithful, supportive, and willing to speak the truth in love. It's about being present, noticing when someone is struggling, and reaching out with encouragement and care.

5. Exercise

Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, and taking care of them is an act of stewardship. Exercise isn't just about physical health - it can improve our mood, reduce stress, and even enhance our creativity. Whether it's a daily walk, a fitness class, or a home workout routine, find a way to move your body regularly.

6. Plug into a Local Church

Church isn't just a place to go - it's meant to be who we are as the body of Christ. When we truly plug into a local church, we find opportunities to serve, to be challenged, and to grow in our faith. It's about moving beyond surface-level attendance to deep, meaningful engagement with other believers.

7. Serve Others

Jesus said, "The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many" (Mark 10:45). When we shift our focus from ourselves to serving others, we often find that our own problems seem smaller. Serving isn't just about what we do for others - it's about allowing God to work through us and transform us in the process.

8. Begin an Active Prayer Life

Prayer is one of our most powerful tools, yet it's often underutilized. Colossians 4:2 encourages us to "devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful." This year, commit to developing a consistent prayer life. Set aside specific times and places for prayer, use Scripture as a guide, and don't forget to listen - sometimes the most powerful moments in prayer come when we're silent before God.

9. Spend Time in the Word

"For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart" (Hebrews 4:12).

The Bible isn't just a book - it's living and active, with the power to transform our lives. Make a commitment to regular Bible reading this year. Even if you don't always feel like you're getting something out of it, trust that God's word never returns void. It may be working in ways you don't even realize.

10. Go All-In on Following Jesus

This is the ultimate resolution - to surrender everything to Jesus. It's about loving God with all our heart, soul, and mind, as Jesus commanded in Matthew 22:37. Going all in means allowing God to have control over every aspect of our lives - our finances, our relationships, our decisions, everything.

As we consider these resolutions, it's important to remember that transformation doesn't happen overnight. It's a process, often filled with two steps forward and one step back. The key is to keep moving forward, relying not on our own strength, but on God's power working within us.

Perhaps the most important thing to remember is that we don't have to tackle all of these at once. In fact, trying to do so might set us up for failure. Instead, prayerfully consider which one or two areas God is calling you to focus on right now. Ask Him to show you where you need to grow, where you need to surrender, where you need to step out in faith.

Remember the words of the Psalmist in Psalm 73. After struggling with feelings of envy and frustration, he enters God's sanctuary and gains a new perspective. He realizes that even when life seems unfair or difficult, there is hope in God. "But as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign Lord my refuge" (Psalm 73:28).

As we embark on this new year, let's commit to drawing near to God. Let's resolve to live lives that are fully surrendered to Him, trusting that He is working all things for our good and His glory. May we be people who laugh more, love deeper, serve wholeheartedly, and follow Jesus with everything we have.

What resolution is God calling you to make this year? How might your life look different if you truly went all in on following Jesus? Take some time to reflect, to pray, and to listen. Then, with God's help, take that first step towards a transformed life.

Preparing for Christ's Return in 2025 and Beyond

As we step into a new year, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the unexpected twists and turns of the past 12 months. Some events brought joy and excitement, while others left us eager to turn the page. But amidst our personal reflections and resolutions, there's a greater anticipation we should be cultivating – the return of Jesus Christ.

The concept of Christ's second coming isn't new, but its relevance grows with each passing day. In Matthew 24, Jesus provides us with a powerful analogy: "Now learn a lesson from the fig tree. When its branches bud and its leaves begin to sprout, you know that summer is near. In the same way, when you see all these things, you can know his return is very near, right at the door."

This passage invites us to be observant, to recognize the signs of the times. Just as we can discern the changing of seasons by watching nature, we're called to be spiritually attuned to the indicators of Christ's imminent return. But what are these signs?

Jesus outlines several markers:
- False messiahs deceiving many
- Wars and rumors of wars
- Nations rising against nations
- Famines and earthquakes in various places
- Persecution of believers
- Widespread hatred towards Christians

As we look at our world today, it's hard not to see these signs unfolding. From religious charlatans to global conflicts, from natural disasters to the persecution of faith communities, the landscape of our planet eerily mirrors Jesus' prophecy.

However, Jesus is clear that while these signs indicate we're in the season of His return, no one knows the exact day or hour – not even the angels or Jesus Himself. Only the Father knows. This uncertainty isn't meant to frustrate us, but to keep us vigilant and focused on our mission.

The parable of Noah serves as a stark reminder of how easy it is to become complacent. In Noah's time, people were carrying on with their daily lives – enjoying banquets, parties, and weddings – right up until the flood swept them away. They had been warned, but they chose not to listen. How often do we find ourselves in a similar position, hearing but not truly listening to the urgency of Christ's message?

This brings us to a crucial question: Are we ready? Jesus' return will come as a surprise to many, but it doesn't have to catch us off guard. We're called to be prepared, not by trying to predict the date, but by living each day with purpose and spiritual alertness.

Jesus uses the analogy of a homeowner protecting against a burglar. If we knew exactly when a thief was coming, we'd be ready. But since we don't know the timing of Christ's return, we must be ready at all times. This readiness isn't about fear or anxiety, but about living with intention and purpose.

So, what does it mean to be ready? It starts with a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Have we truly repented of our sins and put our faith in Him? Are we living out our faith in tangible ways? Are we sharing the good news of the Gospel with others?

Being ready also means actively participating in God's mission. Jesus tells us that the Gospel will be preached to all nations before the end comes. Every time we share our faith, support missionaries, or contribute to Bible translations, we're not just spreading hope – we're actually participating in the fulfillment of prophecy.

As we consider our readiness, there are three key steps we can take:

1. Regret: We must recognize where we've fallen short. This isn't about wallowing in guilt, but about honestly assessing our spiritual condition. Are there areas of our lives that don't align with God's will?

2. Repent: True change begins with repentance – a change of mind and heart that leads to a change in direction. It's turning away from our old ways and turning towards God.

3. Resolve: Finally, we make a commitment – not just to ourselves, but to God. We resolve to live differently, to prioritize our relationship with Him, and to align our lives with His purposes.

These steps apply not just to our spiritual lives, but to any area where we seek lasting change. However, our relationship with God must be our first priority. All other resolutions and goals should flow from this central commitment.

As we journey through 2025, let's challenge ourselves to live with spiritual urgency. This doesn't mean abandoning our daily responsibilities or living in constant anxiety. Rather, it means infusing our everyday lives with eternal perspective. How would our interactions change if we truly believed Jesus could return at any moment? How would it affect our priorities, our use of time, our treatment of others?

Let's not be like those in Noah's day, carrying on with business as usual while ignoring the signs around us. Instead, let's be spiritually alert, actively engaged in God's mission, and eagerly anticipating the return of our Savior.

Remember, there are only two categories of people: those who are ready and those who are not. Which category do you fall into? If you're not sure, today is the day to get right with God. Don't put it off. The Holy Spirit is faithful to convict us when we're not ready and to assure us when we are.

As we step into this new year, let's make our primary resolution to be ready – ready to meet our Savior, ready to give an account of our lives, and ready to enter into the fullness of God's kingdom. May 2025 be a year of spiritual awakening, purposeful living, and joyful anticipation of Christ's return.

Love Has Come: Reflecting on the True Meaning of Christmas

As the festive season envelops us in its warm embrace, it's easy to get caught up in the twinkling lights, the joyful gatherings, and the excitement of gift-giving. But amidst the holiday cheer, we're called to remember something far more profound – the miracle of Emmanuel, God with us.

Christmas isn't just a time for decorations and presents. It's a time to remember that salvation comes from above, not from within. It's a moment to reflect on the fact that God, in His infinite love, chose to enter our world of pain and suffering. The Christmas story isn't just a chapter in Jesus' life; rather, Jesus' entire life gives meaning to the Christmas story.

This year, let the lights remind you of the Light of the World who came into darkness for us. Let the gifts remind you of the greatest gift of all – God's love made manifest in human form. As we celebrate, let's make our hearts like Bethlehem, ready to receive the King.

The Gospel of John beautifully captures the essence of this divine love: "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth" (John 1:14). This verse encapsulates three powerful themes that illuminate the true meaning of Christmas: Glory, Grace, and Gift.

Glory: The incarnation – God taking on human form – is a display of divine glory that's almost beyond our comprehension. The Creator of the universe humbled Himself to be born in a manger, likely a stone trough carved into the side of a hill. This humble beginning foreshadowed the end of Jesus' earthly life, as He was laid in a stone tomb after His crucifixion. From beginning to end, Jesus' life was marked by humility and sacrifice, revealing God's glory in unexpected ways.

Grace: The law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. God's standard of righteousness, as revealed in the law, showed humanity its need for a Savior. Jesus came not to abolish the law, but to fulfill it, offering grace to those who could never meet God's perfect standard on their own. This grace is available to all, but it requires our response – repentance from sin and faith in Christ.

Gift: John 3:16 famously declares, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." This gift of love is the heart of the Christmas message. Just as Moses lifted up the bronze snake in the wilderness to save the Israelites from physical death, Jesus was lifted up on the cross to save us from spiritual death.

It's crucial to understand that Jesus' coming wasn't a "gotcha" moment to catch us in our sin. Rather, it was a "getcha" moment – God coming to rescue and save us. His mission from the very beginning was to change our lives from the inside out.

As we reflect on these truths, we're invited to ask ourselves some important questions:

Do we truly see God's glory revealed in the humble circumstances of Jesus' birth and life?
Have we experienced the transformative power of God's grace in our own lives?
Have we received the gift of eternal life by putting our faith in Christ alone?
The answers to these questions can profoundly impact how we approach not just the Christmas season, but our entire lives.

In the Christian tradition, believers often celebrate communion (also known as the Lord's Supper) to remember Christ's sacrifice. This practice serves as a powerful reminder of God's glory displayed in Christ's broken body, the grace poured out through His shed blood, and the gift of salvation offered to all who believe.

As we approach Christmas, let's take time to pause and reflect on these deep truths. Let's allow the familiar carols and nativity scenes to point us beyond themselves to the astounding reality they represent – that love has come to earth in the person of Jesus Christ.

This Christmas, may we look beyond the manger to see the cross. May we recognize that the baby in the feeding trough is the same one who would later declare, "It is finished" as He gave His life for us. May we understand that there is no grace without the cross, and no cross without the manger.

Let's also remember that Jesus doesn't just want us to recall what He did; He invites us to join Him in what He is doing. As recipients of God's love, we're called to be channels of that love to others. In a world often marked by darkness and despair, we have the privilege of sharing the light and hope of Christ.

So this Christmas, as you gather with loved ones, exchange gifts, and enjoy festive traditions, take a moment to marvel at the greatest gift of all – God's love made manifest in Jesus. Let the true meaning of Christmas fill your heart with wonder and gratitude.

May your celebration be more than just a remembrance of a historical event. May it be a personal encounter with the living Christ who came to earth as a baby, died on a cross for our sins, rose again in victory, and offers eternal life to all who believe in Him.

This Christmas, may your heart, like Bethlehem, receive the King. For truly, love has come, and His name is Jesus.

Finding True Joy This Christmas Season

As the holiday season approaches, many of us find ourselves caught up in the whirlwind of decorations, gift-giving, and festive gatherings. But amidst the twinkling lights and cheerful carols, it's easy to lose sight of the true source of joy. This Christmas, let's take a moment to reflect on where real, lasting joy comes from and how we can embrace it fully.

The pursuit of joy often leads us down paths of comparison and materialism. We look at our neighbors' elaborately decorated homes, scroll through social media feeds filled with picture-perfect family gatherings, or dream of exotic holiday getaways. We might even fall for the commercialized notion that joy comes wrapped in a bow atop a brand-new luxury car. But as Theodore Roosevelt wisely noted, "Comparison is the thief of joy."

True joy doesn't come from external circumstances or possessions. It emanates from within, rooted in something far more profound and eternal. The birth of Jesus Christ, which we celebrate at Christmas, is the ultimate source of this joy.

The prophet Isaiah foretold this momentous event: "Look, the virgin will conceive a child. She will give birth to a son, and we'll call him Emmanuel, which means 'God is with us.'" (Isaiah 7:14) This prophecy came to fruition in the humble town of Bethlehem, as recounted in Luke 2:1-14.

Picture the scene: A young couple, Mary and Joseph, forced to travel for a census while Mary was heavily pregnant. Unable to find proper lodging, they settle in a stable where Mary gives birth to Jesus, laying him in a manger – a feeding trough for animals. It's hardly the setting one would expect for the arrival of the Savior of the world.

Yet, it's in this humble beginning that we find a profound truth. The King of Kings chose to enter our world not in a palace, but in the lowliest of circumstances. This speaks volumes about the nature of God and His love for humanity. He came not to be served, but to serve, setting aside His divine privileges to connect with us on the most basic human level.

As the story unfolds, we see God revealing this world-changing news not to the powerful or privileged, but to a group of shepherds tending their flocks. In that era, shepherds were often looked down upon, considered unclean and untrustworthy. Yet, these were the ones chosen to receive the angelic announcement:

"Don't be afraid!" the angel said. "I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David!"

This proclamation of "great joy for all people" is the heart of the Christmas message. It's not a joy reserved for the wealthy, the influential, or the seemingly righteous. It's a joy freely offered to everyone, regardless of their status or past. The birth of Jesus marks the fulfillment of God's promise to provide a way for all people to experience peace with Him.

As the angelic host appeared, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased," we're reminded of the far-reaching implications of Christ's birth. This event wasn't just a historical footnote; it was the pivotal moment in God's plan to reconcile humanity to Himself.

The peace proclaimed by the angels isn't merely the absence of conflict. It's a deep, abiding peace that comes from being in right relationship with God. This peace, as the Apostle Paul later wrote, "surpasses all understanding" and has the power to guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

But how do we access this joy and peace? The key lies in understanding that we can never earn it through our own efforts. Our human nature, prone to sin and selfishness, makes it impossible for us to please God on our own. The beauty of the Christmas story is that God took the initiative. He sent His Son to live the perfect life we couldn't live and die the death we deserved, so that through faith in Him, we could be reconciled to God.

This Christmas, as we celebrate the birth of Jesus, let's remember that He is the true source of joy. Here are three practical steps we can take to experience and share this joy:

1. Take the step to experience real joy: If you've never trusted Jesus as your Savior, consider taking that step of faith. Recognize your need for Him and invite Him into your life. This is where lasting joy begins.

2. Take note of God's goodness: Pause to count your blessings. Even in difficult times, there are always reasons to be thankful. Cultivating gratitude can open our eyes to the joy that surrounds us.

3. Take time to pray and see: Look around you with compassionate eyes. Who in your life might be struggling to find joy this season? Pray for opportunities to share the hope and peace you've found in Christ with others.

As we navigate the holiday season, let's not get caught up in the trappings of a commercialized Christmas. Instead, let's focus on the humble manger, the shepherds in the field, and the good news of great joy that still echoes through the centuries. For in Christ, we find a joy that transcends circumstances, a peace that defies understanding, and a love that transforms lives.

This Christmas, may we each experience anew the wonder of Emmanuel – God with us – and may that reality fill our hearts with inexpressible joy.