DISCOVER 2010 Oct 29-31

Wonder –

So much wonder and awe filled this season centuries ago. The wonder of Zechariah, Mary, Joseph, the Shepherds, those in Bethlehem, Magi, those in the Temple, Simeon and I bet there are other unrecorded instances of awe and amazement that surrounded the birth of our Lord. How about today? What are we wondering about during a season that was meant to be in awe of the birth of our Savior?

Sacrifice –

Is Christmas more about giving or sacrifice? What a sacrifice it must have been for Jesus to leave the indescribable beauties of heaven and become one who could identify with our weaknesses.

Humility –

Is Christmas about us or Him? Is it Memas or Christmas?

Charity –

I find it quite touching that Jesus reminds us that when we give, we give to him. His first night on earth was hosted by the charitable act of an innkeeper.

Creativity –

Nothing about the first Christmas seemed to follow traditional expectations of the arrival of a dignitary. God has, is, and will do amazingly creative deeds to bless our lives. I have been truly blessed by those who have sought to honor God with their own creativity.

Simplicity –

Stop the nightmarish traps of the modern revolving door Christmas that hinders us from embracing such a marvelous time of the year. “This year, slow down, look up, breathe deeply, spend less – and simplify, simplify! The way of a calmed Christmas – simplicity!” (David Jeremiah pg.65)

Affection –

There is little doubt that our affection can be challenged this time of the year by a variety of once a year situations. However, scripture is clear about a call for affection towards church members, family, unbelievers, and those in need. What type of affection are we exhibiting and not exhibiting towards those God has placed in our lives?

Reflection –

Luke 2:19 – Luke 2:19 (NIV) “¹⁹ But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” Some of the most fantastic moments of Christmas come from being still and reflecting on the blessings of Christmas. Psalms 4:4 (NIV) ^“4 … when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent. Selah”

Giving –

Jesus was the first Christmas gift and the introduction to our hope. This gift has given us the right to become the ‘children of God”(John1:12)

Music –

I find it interesting that older generations of Christians thought their hymnals were just about as valuable to them as their Bibles. Music helps the truths of Christmas sink into our souls.

Children –

Matthew 7:9-11 (NIV)
⁹ “Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone?
¹⁰ Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake?
¹¹ If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!

Kids don’t worry about the threats of Coal in your stocking! Just read to your parents Matthew 7:9-11. Wait! Maybe it might be better to leave the verse lying around the house.

Tradition –

May our traditions and imagination games remind us of the Glory of God. Pastor Nicholas’ 4th century good deeds were meant to give the glory to God. How can we develop and introduce traditions that will bless our families long after we are gone?

Don’t miss our Sunday Morning Class at 9:30 a.m. based on 12 Biblical Virtues that should fill our holiday season. The class curriculum is based off of David Jeremiah’s book, “The 12 Ways of Christmas”.