Longing for Change
Merry Christmas
From our ministry to you and your family—we hope your season of Advent is one of great longing for change—a change that is filled with the hope of new life in Christ—because a daily walk with Christ holds an ever–deepening understanding of God’s Kingdom, and a greater sensitivity to the brokenness of the world we live in. God saw this brokenness and he acted in great ways! The Apostle John writes of the Son of God “becoming flesh,”
John 1:14 (CSB)
14 The Word became flesh and dwelt among us. We observed his glory, the glory as the one and only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.
The Christmas season celebrates the “event” of God acting in the world to change the course of history. Luke offers a piece of the Christmas story in his Gospel,
Luke 2:11–14 (CSB)
11 Today in the city of David a Savior was born for you, who is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be the sign for you: You will find a baby wrapped tightly in cloth and lying in a manger.” 13 Suddenly there was a multitude of the heavenly host with the angel, praising God and saying: 14 Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to people he favors!
Jeus of Nazareth was born and grew in stature and wisdom (Luke 2:39-40, 51-52) to fill the call to as the Great High Priest (Heb. 4:14-16). The author of Hebrews reminds God’s people of a promise that was made—that by the good news of the divine Son taking flesh faith in him as Savior will provide an entry to rest (Heb. 4:1–3). This rest is offered to the Christian through the intimate relationship the Great High Priest has with the struggles that are part of a broken world.
Hebrews 4:15–16 (CSB)
15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has been tempted in every way as we are, yet without sin. 16 Therefore, let us approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in time of need.
We finished our lesson series this week in CR and Principle 2 remains as powerful as ever—"God has the Power to help me recover.” We hope to see you the next two Mondays in December. Join us for our “Joy to the World” celebration dinner, meeting, and program on December 18th to celebrate the birth of our Great High Priest—and have a blessed and merry Christmas.