Redeeming Christmas
Using our Traditions to Point to Jesus
Redeemed for a Purpose
January 1, 2023 • Alec Amosson • Philippians 4:4–13, Isaiah 9:2–7
On this first day of the new year, Alec Amosson looks at the opportunity we have to set our priorities and purpose fresh this year. If we believe God has redeemed us through the work of Jesus - we should be living differently with a purpose. How would your year look different if you truly believed that and lived into that purpose?
Christmas Surprise
December 25, 2022 • Rev. Tom Shinkle • Luke 1:26–38
Have you ever been given a surprise gift for Christmas? How did that make you feel? Think of the surprise that was found in the birth of Jesus. Not what they were expecting, not in the way they were expecting - the birth of Jesus was a prophesied event, but nevertheless it was a surprise. This Christmas, how has Jesus' birth changed anything for you? How can this Christmas be different and give you hope for the new year?
Into the Light of Redemption
December 24, 2022 • Rev. Tom Shinkle • Luke 2:1–20, Luke 1:78–79, John 1:1–14
On this most special night of the year, we look at the importance of light in the Christian story. Jesus came into the world to be light in the midst of the darkness that was all around. That was true then, and it is true for us now. What darkness do you need Jesus to shine light into for you this year? And, how can you better know and live into God's love for you this season?
Redeeming the Christmas Tree
December 18, 2022 • Rev. Tom Shinkle • Galatians 3:10–14, Matthew 1:17–25
In week 4 of our advent sermon series, "Redeeming Christmas," Rev. Tom looks at the history of the Christmas tree. How does the Christmas Tree represent the different trees that you hear of in the Bible? How has God used trees to help redeem you? And, in this season, how can you help other people hear and know the story of God's redemption in their life?
Redeeming Christmas Presents
December 11, 2022 • Rev. Tom Shinkle • Titus 2:11–15, Luke 1:67–79
Following up from last week's sermon on "Redeeming Santa," Rev. Tom this week looks at our history of gift giving for Christmas. Giving gifts to one another is not a bad tradition - but it is worth taking time to look at what we give and why we give. What could you give to someone in your life this year to help them grow in their connection with God and the Christian Community?
Redeeming Santa
December 4, 2022 • Rev. Tom Shinkle • Romans 3:20–26, John 1:10–14
In week 2 of "Redeeming Christmas" Rev. Tom looks at the history and importance of Santa (aka St. Nicholas). The true story of the man Saint Nicholas helps us understand how we can redeem the importance of Santa. This Christmas/Advent season, how can you start to ask "What can I give to others?" more than asking "What am I getting from others?"
Redeeming Christmas
November 27, 2022 • Rev. Tom Shinkle • Galatians 3:26—4:7, Matthew 1:18–25
Rev. Tom kicks off Grand View's Advent sermon series, "Redeeming Christmas" by giving the background that got us to how we celebrate the holiday today. And, in the midst of all that the world does to celebrate Christmas, how can we as Christians use even secular themes to point us to the birth of Jesus? Some say, "culture takes the Christ out of Christmas" - but, is that true for you? Only you can help keep the reason for the celebrations focused on Jesus.