“She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” — Matthew 1:21
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Athletes sweat profusely on a regular basis and are drained and weary after games and workouts. Therefore, they often need something to refresh them, like a cold bottle of water. Likewise, we all need to hear happy talk to be refreshed in a world full of trouble and sadness.
To overcome sorrow, the Savior steps in to tell us the best story ever told, and it’s totally true from beginning to end. During this time of year, we celebrate God’s love for us in giving us the best gift ever! Jesus is the gift that keeps on giving for a lifetime and forever.
Before Jesus was born, Mary and Joseph lived ordinary lives. Suddenly, everything changed when an angel announced good news to them. The angel surprised Mary. She was afraid, but she believed every word of God’s message about the upcoming birth of Jesus. “Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, ‘Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus'” (Luke 1:29-31).
The angel also shocked Joseph by bursting forth into his sight. Joseph did not understand what was happening, but he trusted God to work out His plan. “But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins'” (Matthew 1:20-21).
Just like Mary and Joseph came out of their comfort zones to provide a place for Jesus to grow up and fulfill His mission, believers are called to put aside our conveniences, make room for Jesus and share the Good News about the birth of Christ. The wonder of Christmas is wrapped up in the wonderful message of salvation. Baby Jesus grew up to die on the cross and rise again for us.
That’s good, refreshing news for our drained and weary souls.
— Bill Kent, Pastor of Memorial Baptist Church, Sylvania, Georgia
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