The Humble Shepherd (Luke 2:1-21)

The shepherds gather round the messiah to see this thing that has happened. It is magnificent that such a thing has happened. However, we can grow so familiar with the Christmas story that we lose the humanness behind this story. Please join us as we look at this familiar story once again on Christmas Eve.

Children of Peace or Problems: The Shepherds (Luke 2:1-20)

Isaiah predicts and raises children that are not necessarily encouraging for Ahaz.  In fact, these children upset the status quo that Ahaz desires to maintain.  This is not just a problem for Ahaz, but we find that the same thing is happing under the watch of Caesar Augustus who is credited with establishing world peace.   Christ’s entrance into history that does not seem to be that well received.  Is this really the Emmanuel child?  Can the Lord really establish His kingdom through such humble beginnings? 

Don’t Worry He’s Sovereign: Betrayal (Mark 14:27-52)

This is a narrative that is not that encouraging read.  The disciples are told that they will abandon Christ, Christ collapses, Judas betrays Christ, and his disciples fall asleep instead of praying after claiming to be heroes of the faith.  So, what do we do with this discouragement?  How can we see the sovereign hand of God in the midst of all that transpires in this story?

Everlasting Nourishment (Mark 6:30-44)

We might wonder from time to time why Jesus does all these miracles and theatrics.  Why not just tell us the point?  Why not just live, die, and be raised?  Why these miracles for a time?  What is the purpose behind these miracles?  Why does Jesus feed 5000 people with 5 loaves and two fish?