The King Brings Forgiveness
The True Meaning of Christmas: A Reflection on Grace and Redemption
As we approach this Christmas season, I find myself reflecting deeply on the incredible gift that Jesus represents—not just to us, but to the world. This year, I had the privilege of celebrating the life of Grandma Ruth, who is spending her first Christmas with Jesus. Can you imagine that? What a beautiful thought! It reminds us of the joy and hope that this season brings, especially as we gather with family and friends to celebrate the birth of our Savior.
In my recent sermon, I shared a story from the genealogy of Jesus found in the Gospel of Matthew. It’s a part of the Bible that many might overlook, often skipping over the names and the “begat” sections. But I believe there’s so much more to uncover there. Matthew intentionally included some rather unexpected characters in Jesus's lineage—people with complicated pasts, like Judah. This is significant because it highlights a powerful truth: sinners are not just part of the Christmas story; they are the point of it. [33:43]
Judah, one of the twelve brothers of Joseph, is a prime example. He made some terrible choices, including selling his brother into slavery. Yet, God chose him to be part of the lineage that would lead to Jesus. Why? Because God’s grace is available to everyone, no matter how far we’ve strayed. This is the essence of the gospel: it’s not about our righteousness but about Christ’s. [34:59]
As I shared, Judah’s story is a reminder that we all have secrets and struggles. We might think we can hide our past, but God sees it all. And just like Judah, we often find ourselves in a position of self-righteousness, pointing fingers at others while ignoring our own faults. But the beauty of Christmas is that it offers us mercy and redemption. [47:59]
When Tamar, Judah’s daughter-in-law, faced judgment for her actions, it was Judah who had to confront his own hypocrisy. He was quick to condemn her, yet he was the one who had wronged her. This moment of revelation is crucial; it teaches us that we are all in need of grace. [49:58]
As we gather this Christmas, let’s remember that Jesus came for us—sinners in need of a Savior. He offers us forgiveness and a chance to start anew. Just as Judah’s story didn’t end in shame, neither does ours. We are invited to receive the grace that Jesus extends to us. [56:22]
So, as you prepare for the holidays, I encourage you to reflect on what this season truly means. It’s not about the gifts or the decorations; it’s about the love and mercy that God has for each of us. Let’s open our hearts to Him and allow His grace to transform our lives.
Merry Christmas to you all! May you experience the peace and joy that comes from knowing Jesus, the one who came to save us all. [01:01:24]
As we approach this Christmas season, I find myself reflecting deeply on the incredible gift that Jesus represents—not just to us, but to the world. This year, I had the privilege of celebrating the life of Grandma Ruth, who is spending her first Christmas with Jesus. Can you imagine that? What a beautiful thought! It reminds us of the joy and hope that this season brings, especially as we gather with family and friends to celebrate the birth of our Savior.
In my recent sermon, I shared a story from the genealogy of Jesus found in the Gospel of Matthew. It’s a part of the Bible that many might overlook, often skipping over the names and the “begat” sections. But I believe there’s so much more to uncover there. Matthew intentionally included some rather unexpected characters in Jesus's lineage—people with complicated pasts, like Judah. This is significant because it highlights a powerful truth: sinners are not just part of the Christmas story; they are the point of it. [33:43]
Judah, one of the twelve brothers of Joseph, is a prime example. He made some terrible choices, including selling his brother into slavery. Yet, God chose him to be part of the lineage that would lead to Jesus. Why? Because God’s grace is available to everyone, no matter how far we’ve strayed. This is the essence of the gospel: it’s not about our righteousness but about Christ’s. [34:59]
As I shared, Judah’s story is a reminder that we all have secrets and struggles. We might think we can hide our past, but God sees it all. And just like Judah, we often find ourselves in a position of self-righteousness, pointing fingers at others while ignoring our own faults. But the beauty of Christmas is that it offers us mercy and redemption. [47:59]
When Tamar, Judah’s daughter-in-law, faced judgment for her actions, it was Judah who had to confront his own hypocrisy. He was quick to condemn her, yet he was the one who had wronged her. This moment of revelation is crucial; it teaches us that we are all in need of grace. [49:58]
As we gather this Christmas, let’s remember that Jesus came for us—sinners in need of a Savior. He offers us forgiveness and a chance to start anew. Just as Judah’s story didn’t end in shame, neither does ours. We are invited to receive the grace that Jesus extends to us. [56:22]
So, as you prepare for the holidays, I encourage you to reflect on what this season truly means. It’s not about the gifts or the decorations; it’s about the love and mercy that God has for each of us. Let’s open our hearts to Him and allow His grace to transform our lives.
Merry Christmas to you all! May you experience the peace and joy that comes from knowing Jesus, the one who came to save us all. [01:01:24]
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