Finish Strong Hebrews 13:8

Unbelievable Witness - The Heavenly Hosts Sing

December 8, 2024 • Pastor Sergio Acedo • Luke 2:1–14

As we reflect on the Christmas story, we're reminded of the unbelievable witness of the angels to the glory of God. The heavenly hosts' proclamation in Luke 2 parallels the awe-inspiring vision in Isaiah 6, showing us that true worship stems from experiencing God's glory. This glory isn't confined to religious spaces or rituals; it's meant to become the center of our lives, giving us purpose and reason to live. The angels' song wasn't just a beautiful melody, but a declaration that heaven's glory had entered earth through Jesus. As we celebrate Christmas, let's allow it to spark genuine worship in our hearts, recognizing that Jesus' birth was more than a historical event—it was the fulfillment of God's promises and the beginning of a new era of reconciliation between heaven and earth. How can we, like the angels, not contain our worship and allow it to overflow into every aspect of our lives?

Unbelievable Gift - Death that Gives Life

December 15, 2024 • Pastor Sergio Acedo • Luke 2:1–14

As we approach Christmas, we're reminded that true celebration comes through surrender. The message takes us on a journey through Galatians 4:4-7, emphasizing God's perfect timing in sending His Son. But before we can fully embrace the joy of Christmas, we must die to ourselves. Just as a Christmas tree is cut down to serve a new purpose, we too must let go of our old ways to become new creations in Christ. This powerful parallel challenges us to reflect on what needs to die in our lives - fear, pride, or sinful habits - so that Christ can truly live in us. The cross, once a symbol of death, becomes our source of life when we surrender. As we contemplate the decorations and festivities, let them remind us of the deeper spiritual truths: our adoption into God's family and the hope that sustains us through life's challenges. This Christmas, let's not just celebrate outwardly, but inwardly transform through complete submission to God's will.

Unbelievable Good News - The Savior is Born

December 1, 2024 • Pastor Sergio Acedo • Luke 2:1–14

This Christmas season, we're invited to explore the unbelievable nature of God's love and promises. The birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, as foretold by prophets like Isaiah and Micah centuries earlier, reminds us that God fulfills His word in extraordinary ways. Just as the shepherds - considered lowly and unimportant - were chosen to receive the angelic announcement, we too are seen and valued by God regardless of our status. This powerful message challenges us to look beyond the commercialization of Christmas and focus on the Prince of Peace who brings true joy and reconciliation between God and humanity. As we reflect on this, let's consider how we can respond like the shepherds did - by eagerly seeking Jesus, worshipping Him, and sharing the good news with others. This season calls us not just to celebrate, but to act as messengers of hope in a world that desperately needs it.

The Word Church - CA