Sunday, December 27, 2020
Did you know the word “Nativity” simply means place of birth? This month, we could think of no greater topic to dive into other than the Nativity of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! In this series, we’re going to talk about that place and the lives of those who were present and allow it all to be a message that will build an appreciation in your heart toward this very merry holiday we’re so honored to celebrate and cherish every year.
TODAY’S FOCUS: THE PARENTS.
After the manger, when everyone else left (the wise men went back to Persia, the Shepherds went back to the fields, the Angels returned to heaven) –> Joseph & Mary were still daily committed to Jesus.
1 SAMUEL 26:23 NIV
“The LORD rewards everyone for their righteousness
and for their faithfulness.”
To Christ followers, Christmas isn’t an annually celebrated event, it’s a daily one.
Faithfulness by definition is FIDELITY.
We don’t celebrate a religion for God, we live in a relationship with God.
FAITHFULNESS is what FAITH is all about.
But faithfulness has its challenges…
LUKE 2:28-32 NIV
Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: 29 “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss[d] your servant in peace. 30 For my eyes have seen your salvation, 31 which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: 32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.”
LUKE 2:33 NIV
The child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him.
The word “marveled” (in the verse above) is the greek word ‘thau-mazo’ which literally means to BE TAKEN OVER with SURPRISE and admiration.
Why would Mary & Joseph be surprised with what Simeon told them?
Could it be they allowed the humanity around their relationship with Jesus to affect their view and commitment to the divinity of Jesus? Could it be they allowed His diapers to stand in the way of His divinity?
We are still called to commit even when the newness of our relationship with God wears off!
Through Simeon - Mary & Joseph were able to renew their view on who Jesus was.
In the same manner, the Holy Spirit offers us the daily opportunity to renew our view on who Jesus is in our life!
Don’t allow the humanity that surrounds your relationship with God to impact your daily relationship with His divinity ready and available to minister to your life every minute of every day.
Lamentations 3:22-23 ESV
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; 23 they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
Closing thought…
Be encouraged to use today’s message as an invitation to pursue a life that lives out the message you just received! There’s incredible blessing in making what you just heard HABIT and immeasurable reward waiting on the other side of it. In the busyness of this holiday season, ensure that you’re taking time to spend time with Jesus, the true reason for the season. Make sure to pause the chaos of your calendar at times and simply appreciate all the Lord has done to arrive into your life. We sincerely pray today’s talk becomes your experienced reality!
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