2025-12-14 GOD WITH US BRINGS JOY

Discovering Joy in Unexpected Places: Embracing God's Presence Amidst Life's Chaos

Ever Feel Stuck in Life's Waiting Room?

Imagine being stuck in an airport on Christmas Eve, surrounded by blinding lights, overpriced snacks, and the smell of warm cheese. Your plans are falling apart, and tempers are rising. Sound familiar? This scenario, though humorous, mirrors our own lives when we wait for joy to arrive through a change in circumstances. But what if joy isn't about everything going right? What if it's about someone coming near?

The Shepherds' Night of Joy

Let's travel back to a hillside near Bethlehem, where shepherds were keeping watch over their flocks. It was an ordinary night until an angel appeared, proclaiming the greatest news ever: "I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people" (Luke 2:10). The arrival of Jesus brought joy not because life suddenly became perfect, but because God came near.

The shepherds, often overlooked and undervalued, were the first to hear this joyful news. This reminds us that God's joy is for everyone, especially the weary and broken. It's not about perfect conditions but about the presence of Jesus in every circumstance.

Why Joy Isn't Situational

In our quest for joy, we often wait for life to calm down. But joy doesn't wait for the calm; it thrives in chaos. Jesus, born in a stable, not a palace, shows us that joy can come in the most unexpected places. It's not situational; it's relational. Our joy flows from Jesus, who is Emmanuel—God with us.

Jesus' presence brings joy to every circumstance. He is the Savior, the Messiah, the Lord. His birth fulfilled over 300 prophecies, proving that God keeps His promises. This joy isn't fragile; it's complete and overflowing, anchored in a relationship with Him.

Practical Steps to Embrace Joy

1. Abide in Jesus: Joy grows as we remain in Him. Spend time in His Word and prayer, drawing near to Him daily.

2. Shift Your Focus: Instead of waiting for circumstances to change, focus on the presence of Jesus in your life. He is with you in every situation.

3. Celebrate the Savior: Remember that joy is a fruit of salvation. Reflect on the gift of Jesus and the joy He brings.

A Call to Experience True Joy

Are you longing for this kind of joy? It begins with knowing Jesus personally. If you haven't yet experienced the joy of salvation, turn to Him today. Trust in Jesus as your Savior, and let His presence fill your life with lasting joy.

For those who know Jesus but feel joy has dimmed, return to Him. Lay your burdens at His feet and ask Him to renew the joy of your salvation. Joy doesn't come from perfect circumstances but from a perfect Savior who is always near.

A Prayer for Joy

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Jesus, who brings joy to our lives. Help us to abide in Him and experience the fullness of joy that only He can provide. Renew our hearts and fill us with Your presence, so that we may overflow with joy in every circumstance. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Whether you're stuck in life's waiting room or navigating chaos, remember that true joy is found in the presence of Jesus. Embrace Him today and discover the joy that transforms every moment.

2025-12-07 BUT WHO DO YOU SAY THAT I AM?

Discovering Jesus: The Question That Defines Your Faith

Have you ever paused amidst the Christmas hustle to ponder the deeper questions of life? As the world buzzes with holiday cheer, there's a question that echoes through the ages, one that Jesus Himself posed to His disciples: "But who do you say that I am?" (Matthew 16:15). This question isn't just for the Twelve; it's for each of us, and our answer shapes our eternity, our worship, and our hope.

The Image of the Invisible God

Imagine looking into the manger on that first Christmas night. What the shepherds saw was more than a newborn; they were gazing at the image of the invisible God. Colossians 1:15 tells us that Jesus is the visible representation of the invisible God. In Him, we see God's compassion, holiness, mercy, and truth. Christmas is not merely about celebrating a baby; it's about celebrating God made visible.

The Creator Steps Into Creation

Consider this: the hands that Mary held were the same hands that flung galaxies into existence. Colossians 1:16 reminds us that everything was created by Him and for Him. Christmas is not just God visiting His creation; it's the Creator stepping into His own creation. Jesus, the firstborn of all creation, holds the highest authority and honor, standing supreme over everything.

Sustainer and Savior

Jesus is not only the starting point of the universe; He is the One who holds it all together (Colossians 1:17). Every breath we take, every moment of history, is sustained by His power. This means our lives, our families, and our futures are not held together by our strength but by His. Moreover, Jesus is the head of the Church, guiding, protecting, and sanctifying His people (Colossians 1:18).

The cradle points to the cross, and the cross to the empty tomb. Jesus came not just to live but to die and rise again, offering resurrection hope to all who trust in Him. He is preeminent, first in rank and glory, and He calls us to recognize His supremacy in our lives.

Practical Steps to Embrace Jesus

1. Reflect on His Identity: Take time this Christmas to reflect on who Jesus is. Read Colossians 1 and meditate on His divine nature and role in creation.

2. Acknowledge His Lordship: Consider areas of your life where Jesus needs to take first place. Is He merely a figure in a story, or is He your Creator and Sustainer?

3. Embrace His Reconciliation: Remember that Jesus came to reconcile us to God through His sacrifice. Accept His peace, which comes not through sentiment but through the blood of His cross (Colossians 1:20).

A Prayer for Christmas

Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus, the image of the invisible God, to dwell among us. Help us to see Him as our Creator, Sustainer, and Savior. May we recognize His preeminence in our lives and embrace the peace He offers through His sacrifice. This Christmas, let our hearts be open to the question, "Who do you say that I am?" and may our answer be a confession of faith: "Jesus, You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." Amen.

As you celebrate this season, may you find joy in the truth of who Jesus is and the hope He brings. Let this Christmas be a time of reflection and renewal, as you answer the question that defines your faith.