The Christmas Gift
December 15, 2024 • Barney Garwood • Romans 8:18, Luke 1:26–38, Matthew 1:18–25
This Christmas season, we're invited to look beyond the cozy nativity scenes and delve into the challenging journey of Mary and Joseph. The story of Jesus' birth, as recounted in Luke 2 and Matthew 1, reveals a profound truth: God's plans often disrupt our comfort, leading us into unexpected adventures. Mary and Joseph faced social stigma, doubt, and isolation, yet their faithfulness paved the way for humanity's salvation. This narrative reminds us that following God's call may lead us through difficult paths, but as Romans 8:18 assures us, our present sufferings pale in comparison to the glory that awaits. As we reflect on their story, we're challenged to consider how we respond to God's disruptive yet transformative plans in our own lives.