Introduction
In the opening of the message, the account of the wise men from the East is read from Matthew Chapter 2, which tells of their journey to find the newly born King of the Jews. They arrive in Jerusalem seeking to worship Him, having seen His star. This prompts King Herod to gather the chief priests and scribes to inquire about the rightful king's birthplace, which is confirmed to be Bethlehem. The story highlights how Christmas, often celebrated as a one-day event, is a significant moment in history that should not be rushed.
Main Points
As We Delve Deeper Into The
As we delve deeper into the Christmas narrative, it’s essential to recognize the joy that fills the hearts of the wise men upon seeing the star. This revelation represents the fulfillment of prophecy and the arrival of long-awaited hope.
- When they find Jesus, they don't merely acknowledge Him; they worship Him and present gifts, gold, frankincense, and myrrh, signifying His royal status and divine mission.
- This act of worship stands as a model for us today, inviting us to respond to Christ's presence with joy and reverence.
- This joyous encounter also beckons us to continuously rejoice in our spiritual journey, recognizing Christ’s presence each day as a source of lasting peace.
- The narrative takes a darker turn as we consider King Herod's reaction to Jesus’ birth.
His Disturbance Represents A Significant Theme
His disturbance represents a significant theme: the inherent conflict between the old kingdom of self and the new kingdom of Christ. Herod, a ruler steeped in control and fear, illustrates how the presence of a new king threatens existing power structures.
- In our lives, we may face similar struggles as the ruler of our own hearts.
- Like Herod, we often resist the reign of Christ, clinging instead to our desires and ambitions.
- Yet, acknowledging this internal struggle is vital as it leads us to confront what it means for Christ to be the ultimate King in our lives.
- Each of us has a “King Herod” or “King Saul” within us, reflecting our tendencies to maintain control over our lives, those desires that rebel against Christ's sovereignty.
The Truth Is All Have Gone
The truth is, all have gone astray and succumbed to managing our lives according to our own standards rather than God’s. This self-worship, as highlighted in a quote from David Foster Wallace, fuels a society driven by fear and the craving for personal power. Understanding our nature helps us realize the necessity of inviting Jesus into our hearts as the true King, one who brings order out of our chaos. We cannot establish His kingdom while clinging to the old ways that only lead to spiritual decay. To confront this internal battle, we must learn to dwell in the refuge of God. Psalm 91 reminds us that those who reside in the secret place of the Almighty will find safety and protection.
As We Navigate Life S Challenges
As we navigate life's challenges, it becomes imperative to seek refuge in God through prayer, studying Scripture, and cultivating a personal relationship with Him. In doing so, we embrace the transformative power of His spirit, allowing Him to renew and revive us. Establishing this refuge is not merely for our benefit; it becomes a source of strength for our community as we support one another in our pursuit of Christ’s kingship. Ultimately, the God we serve reigns sovereign even when worldly kingdoms rise and fall. The account of Mary and Joseph fleeing to Egypt serves as a reminder that God is always orchestrating events for the good of His people. In situations where we feel threatened or overwhelmed, we can find comfort in knowing that God will protect His own.
His Timing Is Perfect As Illustrated
His timing is perfect, as illustrated when the angel instructed Joseph to return after Herod’s death. It signifies that the defeat of the old ways allows for the restoration of life and purpose. When we let go of what no longer serves us, we create space for God's newness to manifest in our lives. As the New Year approaches, it prompts us to reflect on our own lives with the conviction that we need to shed the old to step into the new that God calls us to. Each of us should ask ourselves where the competing kings reside in our hearts, and like the wise men, we must choose to worship Jesus above all else. In practical terms, this means identifying and rejecting those things that distract us from God’s glory, embracing His renewed spirit, and committing to live under His reign.
This Applies To Our Personal Lives
This applies to our personal lives as well as our community as a church.
Conclusion
As we reflect on the Christmas message and its implications for our lives, we recognize that the arrival of Jesus is not merely a seasonal celebration, but a continuous invitation to embrace Him as the King who transforms everything. In a world that often promotes competing kings, we are called to worship the one true King, allowing Him to dismantle the old ways and usher in renewal. Let us emerge as a people committed to seeking refuge in Him, resting in His sovereignty, and proclaiming His reign in every aspect of our lives.