DECEMBER 01
UNDER THREAT
After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”
When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. When he had called together all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born.
Matthew 2:1-4
Herod feared for his throne. He was the king and would not allow another to take that away from him. The status that he held and the luxury it provided were things he was not willing to give up for any man, even if he was God.
We see this clearly when Herod learns from three non-Jewish wise men that they had heard a king of the Jews was to be born. How could they have known? Who would have told these Gentiles about a new king of the Jews, and why would they travel to see him?
It’s because they knew this was no ordinary king. Jesus was a man that deserved to be worshipped. They were ready to give up every part of their culture and adopt whatever ideas this new king brought with him. They were ready to forfeit everything that once characterized their lives and replace it with Jesus.
God calls us to the same. We all feel the threat when Jesus makes demands on our lives. We all feel defensive when this new king confronts our selfish souls. So let this season be one where we lay down everything and worship him. May we seek the Savior for his glory instead of to protect our own. May we love him and others more than we love ourselves.
The Christmas season often brings up a deeper desire for generosity. We all want to make an impact but the countless ways can be overwhelming and some even unhelpful. We have provided two ways for you and the people in your circle to serve together in helpful and impactful ways.
December 3 | 9:00am-12:00pm
Sharing the Blessings Festival is an opportunity for children in foster, adoptive and kinship families to make Christmas gifts for their families at no cost to them. Christ’s Church hosts this annual event for families and children all throughout our community. Here’s how you can be involved: Register to serve and help children create their gifts, or spread the word to families you know who would love to participate.
December 4 | 2:30PM-4:30PM
Bring the whole family and invite your small group to help pack 40,000 meals for Watered Gardens, a local Impact partner that serves the poor and homeless in our community.