Advent 2024

Christmas Eve Service Message

December 24, 2024 • Aaron Chivington • John 1:1–2, Matthew 1, Luke 2:1–8

The most important question we can ask every year on December 24th is, "Why is there Christmas?" If the Bible story is true, there was a desperate crisis that only God could solve. God left heaven and became a baby to save us from sin. What a beautifully strange way to save the world.

Christmas Eve Service

December 24, 2024

Shepherds and the Inclusion and Exclusion of the Christmas Story

December 15, 2024 • Aaron Chivington • Luke 2:1–18

In Biblical times, Shepherds were the outcasts of society. They were poor, smelly, dirty, and often thought of as unholy. The first announcement of Jesus' birth is made to those outside social norms because the gospel is "good news, of great joy, for all people." If you have ever felt left out or uncared for... The message from the angels to the shepherds is for you.

The Who and What of Jesus

December 16, 2024 • Aaron Chivington • Matthew 1:18–23

Who we are and what we do are essential to our identity and our interactions with others. In Jesus' case, his purpose and identity were made clear in Matthew 1. Jesus will save people from their sins. Saving people from sin is what Jesus will do. He is Emmanuel, God with us. Emmanuel is who Jesus is. He is fully God, the second person of the trinity, with us.

The Christmas story of Joseph, the call to sacrifice

December 8, 2024 • Aaron Chivington • Matthew 1:18–25

Have you ever thought of Christmas as a calling to a great adventure? You should. From the very first appearance of the angel Gabriel to Mary the earthly parents of Jesus are thrust into an unforgettable adventure. Unsurprisingly, the first two individuals to receive the gift of Jesus' incarnation are called to sacrifice so much. The calling to give up the whole world for the glory of God's grace is still true for anyone who will follow Jesus.

Does God have permission to change your life this Christmas?

December 1, 2024 • Aaron Chivington • Luke 1:26–37

The story of Mary accepting her role in the redemption of humanity is fascinating. A young Jewish girl who probably had her entire life mapped out allows God to use her for the glory of His Kingdom. This Christmas does God have permission to change your life?

Why does Luke introduce Jesus with John the baptist

December 2, 2024 • Aaron Chivington • Luke 3:1–6

Why does Luke introduce Jesus with John the Baptist? Luke is writing to the Gentiles. The answer is discovered in Luke 3. John the Baptist is the Herald for Jesus.