In our first two messages this month, we explored the Christmas story deeper and found faith and hope in abundance. So far, we witnessed Mary’s deep faith as she accepted the words of the angel. Then we watched the shepherds as they showed hope as they left their sheep to find the newborn king on that holy night. Now, this week, we will continue to look in depth at the Christmas story to see the love on display.
Christmas Lesson of Love
For the first sign of Christmas love, we will look at one of the most well-known verses of the Bible, John 3:16. “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” This verse shows us how the light of love from that first Christmas appeared as a babe in a lowly manger in a stable surrounded by farm animals. God loved us so much that He sent His son to redeem us from the darkness of sin and evil. Never in history has the world experienced such sacrificial love. And God’s love gave all for us, only wanting our hearts in return.
Sacrificial Love
Also, we see love come to earth as a newborn baby. Jesus also surrendered everything for us. He left His heavenly home and His place at the right hand of His Father to come to a created world. Christ suffered and died for us. Jesus gave up His divine perfection to endure illness, pain, betrayal, and loss. The Bible says this in Philippians 2:6: “Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage.” Jesus gave us another powerful example of unconditional love that gives above everything else.
Sharing the Lessons
During this Christmas season, let each of us ponder these lessons of faith, hope, and love. Christmas faith takes on a journey we never expected, but one that transforms our lives. Then the hope of Christmas leads us to a manger and a newborn baby that offers us salvation from our sins. And, finally, the love of the season teaches us to give unconditionally and with a full heart. When we meditate on these lessons and put them into practice each Christmas, we reflect the light of that first star and shine into those around us so they can know Christ is the reason for the season.
A Gift for You
May Christ fill our Christmas with Faith, Hope, and Love this year. Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, fill our hearts with your love for all of mankind. Help us be mindful of the surrounding needs. Let our lives reflect Christmas love all year long. Thank you for the gifts of this season. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Grace and Peace to you,
Yvonne M. Morgan is a Christian #author, #blogger, and #speaker. #BibleGatewayPartner
Matthew 28:19 “Therefore, GO and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.”
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