The Perfect Gift
Unwrapping Christmas: The Gift We Didn't Know We Needed
Welcome to our Christmas series, "Unwrapping Christmas." As we dive into the holiday season, we reflect on the true meaning of Christmas and the incredible gift that God gave us through His son, Jesus Christ. This series is designed to help us understand the depth of God's love and the significance of Jesus' birth. Let's explore the message of hope, salvation, and joy that Christmas brings.
What Do We Really Need?
The Expectations of a Messiah
In the time of Jesus, the people of Israel were under Roman rule and longed for a deliverer. They expected a Messiah who would overthrow their oppressors and restore their nation to its former glory. They wanted someone to alleviate their immediate struggles—financial burdens, political oppression, and social injustices.
God's Perfect Gift
However, God's plan was different. He knew what they truly needed—a Savior who would save them from their sins. This is the essence of the Christmas story. God sent His son, Jesus, not just to address temporary issues but to offer eternal salvation. Matthew 1:21 says, "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."
The Birth of Jesus: An Unexpected Gift
The Story of Mary and Joseph
The birth of Jesus was an unexpected and unplanned event for Mary and Joseph. Mary was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit before she and Joseph came together. Joseph, a righteous man, planned to divorce her quietly to avoid public disgrace. But an angel appeared to him in a dream, explaining that the child was conceived by the Holy Spirit and that he should take Mary as his wife.
The Name Jesus
The name Jesus means "Yahweh saves" or "Yahweh is salvation." This name signifies that Jesus is not just another baby but God in the flesh, sent to save humanity from sin. This was a revolutionary concept, as many people at the time did not realize their need for salvation from sin.
Jesus: The Savior We All Need
Saving Us from the Power of Sin
Sin is a destructive force that seeks to devour our lives. John 10:10 states, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." Jesus came to save us from the power of sin, offering us a life of abundance and freedom.
The Parable of the Lost Sheep
In Luke 15:1-7, Jesus tells the parable of the lost sheep to illustrate His mission. He describes a shepherd who leaves ninety-nine sheep to find the one that is lost. This parable shows that Jesus earnestly seeks and saves those who are lost, carrying them back to safety with joy.
Saving Us from the Payment of Sin
Romans 6:23 says, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." We all deserve the penalty for our sins, but Jesus came to pay that penalty on our behalf. His death and resurrection offer us the free gift of eternal life.
Life Application
Embracing the Gift of Salvation
This Christmas season, let's embrace the true gift of salvation that Jesus offers. Reflect on the significance of His birth and the eternal life He provides. If you haven't accepted this gift, consider doing so today. If you have, let the joy of your salvation fill your heart and guide your actions.
Questions to Reflect On
- Do I recognize my need for a Savior?
- How can I embrace the gift of salvation in my daily life?
- In what ways can I share the message of Jesus' birth and salvation with others this Christmas season?
A Challenge for the Week
This week, take time to reflect on the areas of your life where you need Jesus' saving power. Whether it's a struggle with sin, a difficult relationship, or a financial burden, invite Jesus into those areas. Trust that He knows what you truly need and is ready to provide it.
Conclusion
As we continue to unwrap the true meaning of Christmas, let's remember that Jesus is the perfect gift we didn't even know we needed. His birth, life, death, and resurrection offer us salvation and eternal life. May this truth fill our hearts with joy and gratitude this Christmas season and beyond.
Thank you for joining us in this series. We hope it has been an encouragement to you. Merry Christmas!
Thank you for joining us in this series. We hope it has been an encouragement to you. Merry Christmas!
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Posted in gifts, christmas, birth of jesus, unwrapping christmas, church in richmond tx, church in sugar land, sugar land tx, richmond tx, katy tx, fulshear tx, fort bend, non-denominational church
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