# Embracing Life's Twists: Finding God's Purpose in Unexpected Change
The journey of faith is often marked by unexpected twists and turns. The Christmas story, especially the experiences of Mary and Joseph, provides profound insights into how to navigate these changes with trust and faith in God's plan.
### The Unexpected Announcement and Its Challenges
Imagine Mary and Joseph's shock and confusion when they learned of the impending birth of Jesus. They were faced with a situation far beyond their understanding and control, yet their response was one of faith and obedience. This teaches us that when God interrupts our plans, it's an invitation to participate in something greater than ourselves.
### Understanding God's Unpredictable Ways
The way God unfolded the Christmas story challenges our notions of how divine intervention should look. From a virgin birth to the birth of the King of Kings in a humble manger, each element defies human logic. It reminds us that God's ways are not only different but often unpredictable, inviting us to trust in His higher wisdom.
### The Shepherds' Experience: A Model of Faithful Response
The shepherds in the Christmas narrative exemplify a faithful response to God's unexpected call. When they received the angelic announcement, they responded with immediate action, seeking out the newborn Messiah. Their story encourages us to respond to God's call with promptness and eagerness, regardless of how unexpected the direction might be.
### Facing the Unexpected with Grace and Courage
Mary's journey, in particular, is a testament to facing unexpected changes with grace and courage. Her contemplative and accepting attitude towards the prophecies and events surrounding Jesus' birth and life exemplifies how we should approach our own life's unforeseen turns.
### The Role of Prophecy in Embracing Change
Prophecies played a significant role in the Christmas story, offering guidance and assurance amidst uncertainty. Similarly, we can find comfort and direction in God's promises and prophecies in the Bible, using them as anchors when navigating the unknown waters of life.
### The Ultimate Purpose in Life's Twists
The Christmas story culminates in the beautiful truth that God's ultimate purpose in our life's unexpected turns is to bring about redemption and salvation. Jesus' birth, life, and sacrifice were all part of a divine plan far greater than what Mary, Joseph, or the shepherds could have imagined.
The Great Adventure of faith is not a straight path but a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns. Like Mary and Joseph, we are called to embrace these changes, trusting that God is weaving a greater story of redemption and hope through our lives. This Christmas, let's remember that every unexpected turn is an opportunity to witness the unfolding of God's magnificent plan.
The Great Adventure: Week 3
December 17, 2023
Love: The Cornerstone of Our Great Adventure
In the tapestry of faith, love holds a central place, weaving through our worship and relationships. The Great Adventure of faith is incomplete without understanding and embracing the true essence of love as demonstrated by God through Jesus Christ.
### Understanding the Depth of Agape Love
Agape love, often described as unconditional love, is a pivotal concept in Christianity. This form of love is beautifully exemplified in Romans 5:8, "But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." This verse reveals the depth of God's unconditional love — a love that does not depend on our merit or worthiness.
### The Challenge of Loving Unconditionally
Loving unconditionally, especially in the face of adversity or towards those who may seem undeserving, is a profound challenge. Yet, this is the kind of love we are called to embody as believers. Loving our enemies and praying for those who persecute us, as instructed in Matthew 5:44, is a radical departure from human tendencies, pushing us to embrace a divine standard of love.
### Phileo Love: Fostering Brotherhood and Affection
Alongside agape, phileo love — a brotherly affection — plays a crucial role in Christian relationships. This love encourages a deep, familial bond among believers, fostering a sense of community and mutual support. It echoes Jesus' teaching that our love for Him should surpass even the deepest of earthly attachments (Matthew 10:37).
### Love in Action: Worship and Relationships
True love is not just a feeling; it's an action. It's seen in how we worship God and in how we relate to others. Worship stemming from a place of love is genuine and heartfelt, transcending mere ritualistic practices. Similarly, our relationships should be a reflection of God’s love — patient, kind, and devoid of envy or pride, as described in 1 Corinthians 13.
### The Transformative Power of Love
When we begin to view love as a transformative force rather than just an emotion, we start to understand its true power. Love can change hearts, mend relationships, and break down barriers. It can turn enemies into friends and despair into hope. In a world often clouded by hatred and division, love shines as a beacon of God’s presence.
### Embracing Love in Our Great Adventure
As you journey through your great adventure with Christ, remember that love is your most powerful tool. It’s what connects you to God and to others. It's what fuels your faith and gives purpose to your path. Love is not just part of the Christian experience; it is the essence of it.
The Great Adventure of faith is a journey marked by love — a love that sacrifices, forgives, heals, and unites. As you walk this path, let love be your guide, your motive, and your goal. Embrace the challenges that come with loving unconditionally and rejoice in the beauty of phileo love among your fellow believers. Remember, in this adventure, love is not just a destination; it's the way.
The Great Adventure: Week 1
December 3, 2023 • Pastor Ron Hoffman
The Fulfillment of Promises: The Great Adventure of Faith
In your journey of faith, have you ever marveled at the precision with which God's promises are fulfilled? The story of Jesus Christ, from prophecy to reality, is a testament to the unfailing nature of God's word, showcasing the grand adventure of faith we are all part of.
### The Astounding Prophecies of Jesus
Long before Jesus' birth, prophecies foretold His coming. Genesis 3:15 speaks of a future Messiah who would crush the serpent's head, setting the stage for redemption. Through Abraham, God promised a nation through which all families of the earth would be blessed (Genesis 12:1-3). This promise pointed towards Jesus, the descendant of Abraham, who would bring salvation to all.
### The Lineage of Jesus: A Promise Kept
Matthew 1 meticulously traces Jesus' genealogy, confirming the fulfillment of God's promises. He was not only born of the line of David but also a descendant of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The prophecy in Isaiah 7:14 of a virgin birth was remarkably fulfilled in Jesus, emphasizing God's sovereignty and the miraculous nature of His plan.
### The Probability of Prophecy Fulfillment
Have you ever considered the statistical improbability of these prophecies being fulfilled in one person? Dr. Peter Stoner, in his work "Science Speaks," calculated the odds of Jesus fulfilling just eight of these prophecies. The probability was likened to covering the state of Texas two feet deep in quarters, marking one, and then finding it on the first try. Yet, Jesus fulfilled not just eight but over 300 prophecies, defying astronomical odds and affirming His identity as the Messiah.
### The Continuation of the Great Adventure
Your life is part of this great adventure. Just as prophecies were fulfilled in Jesus, God's promises for you are just as reliable and true. Scriptures like Hebrews 13:5 remind us that God will never leave or forsake us, and John 14:1-3 assures us of Christ's return and the eternal home He prepares for us.
### Embracing the Promises in Your Adventure
As you journey through life, remember the promises God has for you. They are not just historical facts but living truths that should guide your daily walk. Embrace the adventure of faith, knowing that the God who kept His promises throughout history is the same God who walks with you today.
### Conclusion
The story of Jesus is the greatest adventure ever told, marked by fulfilled promises and prophecies that confirm the reliability of God's word. As you reflect on this incredible truth, let it strengthen your faith and encourage you in your personal journey. Remember, you are part of this great adventure, a story of redemption and hope, anchored in the promises of God.
