As we approach the most wonderful time of the year, we find ourselves caught up in the hustle and bustle of shopping and traveling to be with our families. The checkout lines stretch along Blanding Blvd, and as families gather, a question lingers in the air: Do you feel welcome? We delve into the intricacies of family dynamics, exploring the telltale signs of love – from the choice between a King Size bed or a Futon in the garage to the humorous advice of bringing your own blow-up mattress or bounce house.

Amidst the holiday chaos, we take a moment to reflect on the gifts that God has bestowed upon us. Beyond the material presents and the warmth of family, we recognize that Christmas is fundamentally about God sending His son. In a moment of prayer, we acknowledge that it is Jesus' birthday, and He desires not just our attention but our hearts, inviting us to make our hearts His home.

DID YOU KNOW that the Christmas Story was predicted 700 years before it unfolded? The prophecies in Isaiah, Micah, and other scriptures foretold the birth of a child in Bethlehem, a virgin conceiving, and the Messiah's arrival. We explore the fulfillment of these prophecies in the accounts of Matthew 1:18-23 and Luke 2:1-12, marveling at the divine plan that unfolded with the birth of Jesus Christ.

Turning our attention to the responses to this miraculous event, we encounter the first reaction – Herod's indignation. Troubled by the news of a newborn King, Herod's ruthless pursuit to eliminate any threat to his power culminated in a horrific attempt to kill Jesus, mirroring the hostility we observe in anti-theists today.

Next, we examine the indifference of the priests and scribes, who, despite knowing the scriptures and prophecies, failed to recognize the significance of the moment. In their familiarity with religious routines, they remained distant from the true essence of Christ's birth, prompting reflection on our own moments of spiritual detachment.

The third response brings us to the wise men, who approached the birth of Jesus in awe. They brought gifts, worshiped, yet their subsequent absence in the narrative prompt's contemplation on how many Christians today, while revering Jesus, may fail to carry the message beyond the church walls.

Finally, we encounter the shepherds, responding to the news with love. Overflowing with joy and admiration, they couldn't help but spread the news of the Savior's birth, reminding us that when we truly love someone, we are compelled to share that love with others.

As we place ourselves in the Christmas story, we ponder how we would respond – with indignation, indifference, awe, or love. The message resonates, urging us to examine our hearts and align our responses with the profound significance of Christ's birth.

We invite you to join us at Calvary Chapel West Jacksonville, where Pastor Allen Victor guides us in exploring the depths of God's Word.  May this Christmas season be a time of reflection, transformation, and a renewed commitment to live out the love that Jesus extends to each of us.

#ChristmasReflection #JesusIsTheReason #LoveBeyondMeasure