Christmas 2022
The Faces Around the Manger
The Coming of Love
December 24, 2022 • Steve Lyford • 1 John 4:7–12
On this final week of Advent, we light the candle of Love. Love is at the forefront of all the Bible. From Genesis all the way to Revelation, we can see the story of God's love made manifest within His Son, Jesus. God's story has always been about Love; our story should reflect the same. This Christmas season, remind yourself to show love, God's Love, to all those that you see.
The Face of Tragedy and Triumph
December 18, 2022 • Jimmy Martin • Matthew 2:1–12, Matthew 2:16–17
Our response to Christ’s coming reveal our character. Tragically, Herod was disturbed and dishonest with the news Jesus' birth. In the end, trying to defeat his rival king, he only destroys himself. Triumphantly, the Magi searched for this long expected king. They came, saw, and worshiped this newborn Lord of all.
The Coming of Joy
December 17, 2022 • Romans 15:13
On this third week of Advent, we light the candle of Joy. When we hear things like "rejoice always," it can be hard to follow because how are we supposed to stay happy all the time? But Joy is not the same as happiness is it? God promises to BE our Joy. With this knowledge, we can always rely on Him to be faithful to bring us joy and peace no matter our circumstances. The birth of Jesus marks the coming of Joy for all the world.
The Face of Honor
December 11, 2022 • Beaux Pace • Matthew 1:18–25
Today we look at another face around the manger, the Face of Honor. This title belongs to Joseph, Mary's husband. Not a lot is said about Joseph but what is said is powerful. In the short time we see Joseph, he makes a lasting impact that sets an example for us to follow by letting his faith be more than his fear. Join us as we look at Joseph, the Face of Honor.
The Coming of Peace
December 10, 2022 • Michael Hansen • John 14:27
On this second week of Advent, we light the candle of Peace. In a world full of turmoil, Christ offers a peace that overcomes. In the midst of pain, in the midst of sorrow, Christ's coming into the world symbolizes the coming a peace that surpasses all understanding; a peace that remains and holds steadfast no matter what may come.
The Coming of Hope
December 3, 2022 • Jimmy Martin • Romans 15:13
As we enter into the Christmas season, we begin the weeks of Advent. The first week of Advent, we light the candle of Hope. This "hope" is the hope that we have in Christ. We remember that with the coming of Christ, so comes the hope of the world. Christ is the living hope for all who call upon Him.
The Face of Hope
November 27, 2022 • Jimmy Martin • Isaiah 7:14, Matthew 1:22–23
Today we celebrate the beginning of Advent. Each week we will light a candle that marks the coming of Christ on Christmas. This week we light the candle of Hope. The hope of the prophet was a coming Messiah. Our hope is the Messiah who came. Christ is our hope and the hope of the world.