Good morning:
Sometimes the greatest gifts come in ordinary, unassuming packages. A diamond engagement ring may be hidden in a box of chocolates or be discovered in the box of a thousand-piece puzzle. A gift card to the most expensive restaurant in town might be tucked into a plain white envelope. The packaging doesn’t detract from the gift. In fact, the stark contrast between the gift and where it is placed only adds to the surprise and joy of it being found.
There is no greater contrast in all of human history between a gift and where it is found than with God’s gift to the world of His Son Jesus. “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (Jn. 1:14). The holy God himself was found in the most ordinary of places—a stable where He was laid in a manger. The Child who is the Creator of the universe, who possesses all power and glory, came to live among the most ordinary of people. The Holy One did not hesitate to live for and even die for all sinners, including you and me. He calls us his people and has prepared a heavenly home for us.
No matter how many Christmases you have experienced, isn’t it still a breathtaking surprise to hear again, “Unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Lk. 2:11)? What a wonder to meditate upon, especially this Christmas weekend! Spend some time today in the Word to prepare your heart to welcome the Lord Jesus in our services tomorrow. “Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!” (2 Cor. 9:15).
Yours in Christ,
Pastor
Our Sunday service begins at 9:00 a.m. Following the service, the children will rehearse for the evening service. The adult Bible class will meet in the activity room. We will discuss Bible passages which are particularly fitting for Christmas cards, emails, texts, etc. We will also look at the history between Malachi, the last book of the Old Testament, and Jesus’ birth. Everyone is welcome.
Our Christmas Eve service will be held at 6:00 p.m. tomorrow.
The Christmas Day song service is at 10:30 a.m.
