Christmas is a season of hope, but not just any hope—a hope that thrills the soul and transforms the heart. In Isaiah 9:1-7, we find a prophetic promise that pierces through the gloom of a weary world. The birth of a child, both fully human and fully divine, brings light to those walking in darkness and ushers in a kingdom of endless peace and justice. This child, Jesus Christ, is the Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, and Prince of Peace. He is the hope of humanity, born to redeem us from sin and establish a reign of righteousness that will never end. Today, as we reflect on this timeless truth, we celebrate the thrill of hope that Christ's birth brings, both to our lives and to the world.
Rejoice! Zephaniah 3:14-20
December 15, 2024 • Stephen Rollins • Zephaniah 3:14–20
Imagine a nation weighed down by the shadow of judgment, its people burdened by the consequences of idolatry and rebellion. This was Judah in the days of Zephaniah, a prophet called to warn of the coming Day of the Lord—a day of reckoning for sin and rebellion. Yet, Zephaniah’s message did not end in despair. Amidst the pronouncements of judgment, he extended a call to rejoice, declaring the promise of divine deliverance, delight, and restoration. In Zephaniah 3:14-20, we see a beautiful shift from doom to hope, from wrath to grace, as God invites His people to sing and celebrate. Why? Because the King of Israel, the Lord Himself, is in their midst. This ancient call to rejoice finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ, whose birth, life, and promised return bring the assurance of God’s presence and salvation. As we approach Christmas, we are reminded that even in the darkest times, there is every reason to rejoice, for God is near, and His promises are sure.
Timeless: Christmas in the Old Testament (Isaiah 7)
December 1, 2024 • Kyle Caudell
Christmas is not just a New Testament story—it is the fulfillment of God’s eternal promises revealed even in the Old Testament. In Isaiah 7, we see the Lord speaking through the prophet Isaiah to King Ahaz, offering assurance, calling for faith, and displaying extraordinary patience despite Ahaz’s rebellion. This passage introduces the powerful promise of *Immanuel—God with us,* a sign of hope that transcends time and circumstances. As we begin this Advent season, we are reminded that faith in God’s promises, even when all we have to cling to is His Word, is always enough. Through this timeless prophecy, we learn to trust God rather than our own strength and find comfort in the assurance that His plans will prevail.
Timeless: Christmas In The Old Testament (Isaiah 7)
December 1, 2024 • Kyle Caudell • Isaiah 7
Christmas is not just a New Testament story—it is the fulfillment of God’s eternal promises revealed even in the Old Testament. In Isaiah 7, we see the Lord speaking through the prophet Isaiah to King Ahaz, offering assurance, calling for faith, and displaying extraordinary patience despite Ahaz’s rebellion. This passage introduces the powerful promise of *Immanuel—God with us,* a sign of hope that transcends time and circumstances. As we begin this Advent season, we are reminded that faith in God’s promises, even when all we have to cling to is His Word, is always enough. Through this timeless prophecy, we learn to trust God rather than our own strength and find comfort in the assurance that His plans will prevail.
