True peace that passes all understanding is available to each of us when we recognize God’s presence among us. We miss the true peace of Christmas when we become: too engaged, too enthralled, too upset, too nervous, and too busy trying to fix things our own way.
Pastor Alan Stover
Matthew 1:18-25
When we speak of joy at Christmas time, it means different things to different people. Christmas brings glee, nostalgia, and excitement into the hearts of some who would describe this experience as joy. For many others, joy feels hard to reach as the Christmas season triggers reminders of loved ones lost, difficulties meeting obligations, or deep personal feelings of isolation and loneliness. For everyone, there is a light in the darkness and the darkness will not overcome it.
Pastor Alan Stover
Isaiah 12:1-3
Christmas is a season when God reaches into lives with perfect love. While sitting on the stump of despair, a shoot comes up. The love of Jesus is expressed through mercy and grace. The constant love of God restores us with a Living Hope.
Reading Assignment: Isaiah 53 “Do you know God’s love, the Messiah, Jesus?”
Pastor Alan Stover
Isaiah 11:1-10
Our HOPE is for a new age to come. The new age will be characterized by the complete rule of God, Holy angels in our midst, authentic worship, forgiveness realized, mutual support, perfect health, blessing between nature and humankind, and eternal life.
Pastor Alan Stover
Matthew 24:36-44
