The Weight of Wonder: Love
Matthew 2:1-12

The wise men (magi) from the east (probably Babylon) were a class of priests, scholars, astronomers, astrologers, and advisors to the nobility. Their quest was to seek further knowledge and to express their devotion in worship. Their commitment to mind and heart teaches us to:

The Glory of Celebration: Joy
Luke 2:8-21

Every culture throughout all of time has celebrated special occasions. There are many things worthy to celebrate, expressing and completing our joy. The birth of Jesus is certainly one of the greatest events in history and meant to bring us joy.

The Magnitude of Miracles: Faith
Matthew 1:18-25, Luke 1:26-38

Miracles are not common. We sometimes call wonderful things like the birth of a baby or a splendid sunset a miracle, but they are normal occurrences. Even the reconciliation of a broken relationship is more an act of grace than a miracle. A miracle is something that happens outside of or contrary to the physical laws of nature that could only be attributed to the intervention of God. One of the most glorious miracles in the Bible is the virgin birth of Jesus.

The Magnitude of Miracles: Faith
Matthew 1:18-25, Luke 1:26-38
Miracles are not common. We sometimes call wonderful things like the birth of a baby or a splendid sunset a miracle, but they are normal occurrences. Even the reconciliation of a broken relationship is more an act of grace than a miracle. A miracle is something that happens outside of or contrary to the physical laws of nature that could only be attributed to the intervention of God. One of the most glorious miracles in the Bible is the virgin birth of Jesus.

The Importance of Connection: Hope
Matthew 1:1-17
The Gospel of Matthew begins with Jesus’ genealogy, showing us his humanity and connection to the past. God’s purposes and timing are woven into history and perfectly carried out according to his plan.
But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. (Galatians 4:4-5)
Like Jesus, our connection to the past is important and should be understood in light of God’s plan of redemption.

Calling Jesus Lord: Finances
In Matthew 7:21 Jesus said, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” To call Jesus Lord and do the will of the Father impacts everything we do and are, including our finances. Viewing and using money from God’s perspective (stewardship) liberates us spiritually and also in a very practical manner. When we respond to God’s grace with faithful stewardship, we find it:

Calling Jesus Lord: Daily Peace
Matthew 6:25-34, Philippians 4:4-9

In Matthew 7:21 Jesus said, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” To call Jesus Lord and do the will of the Father means we trust God now and for our future. Fear and anxiety work against trusting in the Lord for our future. When we are confident that God is in control and His will is accomplished now and will be in the future, we can be at peace each day.