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The Power of Family

The Heart of Christmas

December 22, 2024 • Bruce Humphrey • Luke 2:16–20, Colossians 3:12–14

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Experience the heart of Christmas by reflecting on the humble arrival of Jesus over 2,000 years ago. Born in a simple manger in Bethlehem, His birth shows us that God’s love often comes in the simplest ways. The shepherds’ joy and awe remind us to slow down, treasure the moment, and celebrate the miracle of Christ.

This Christmas, let’s live out love through compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. From practicing patience and showing kindness to forgiving quickly and being fully present, we can make this season truly meaningful. Let’s celebrate Jesus and create lasting memories that reflect the true spirit of Christmas!

Overcoming Disappointment: Joy in God’s Presence

December 18, 2024 • Bruce Humphrey • Luke 2:6–7, Psalm 16:11

Life is tough, isn’t it? Bills, deadlines, relationships—it all piles up. And let’s be real, joy often feels like the first thing to disappear. But here’s the good news: joy doesn’t come from perfection; it comes from God’s presence. Take Mary and Joseph, for example. No fancy birthing plan, no perfect setting—just a stable and God’s presence, literally, in the form of Jesus. Luke 2:6-7 reminds us that God can bring greatness and joy even in challenging, imperfect circumstances. Main takeaway? Joy isn’t about perfect places but about the perfect presence of God. Psalm 16:11 says, “You will fill me with joy in your presence.” Struggling today? Take 10 minutes to sit with God—pray, read Scripture, or be still. Let Him remind you that He’s with you, no matter how heavy life feels. Remember, joy isn’t about life being perfect—it’s about trusting the perfect God who never leaves you.

Overcoming Disappointment: Finding Joy in Unmet Expectations

December 15, 2024 • Bruce Humphrey • Luke 2:6–7

Unmet expectations can frustrate us, but they never mess up God's plan. Even in the letdowns, He's working for something bigger than we can imagine. In Luke 2:6-7, we see Mary and Joseph expecting a warm welcome in Bethlehem, but instead, they end up in a humble stable. It wasn’t what they planned, but God was at work at that moment, writing the greatest story ever. We all face moments when reality doesn’t match our expectations—whether it's a job that didn’t pan out, a relationship that ended, or plans that fell through. But here's the truth: unmet expectations don't derail God's plan.

The Challenges of Waiting

December 8, 2024 • Jacob Ward • Philippians 4:7, Isaiah 40:29–31, Psalm 62:5, Galatians 4:4–5, James 5:7–11

In this Christmas season, we reflect on the themes of waiting and anticipation. Just as Ralphie in "A Christmas Story" eagerly awaited his Red Ryder BB gun, we also experience seasons of waiting in our lives. This message explores the concept of waiting through the lens of Ralphie's story and the biblical narrative, offering insights on how to find peace and purpose during these times.