John 1:11-12

“He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. 12Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—”

It’s that time again! Christmas is here! All around us are the sights, sounds and symbols of Christmas.

THE STAR: GUIDING US TO JESUS: Matthew 2:1-2

“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 in the east and have come to worship him.’”

1. The star reminds us of God’s light in a world of darkness. John 8:12

“When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’”

2. The star reminds us of God’s joy in the midst of deep depression. Matthew 2:10-11

“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise” -Psalm 111:10.

THE ANGELS: GIVING US A MESSAGE OF HOPE: Luke 1:13

“But the angel said to him: ‘Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to give him the name John.’”

1. Angels communicate for God. Matthew 1:20

2. Angels are messengers of salvation. Luke 2:10-11

3. Angels protect God’s children. Psalm 34:7

THE SHEPHERDS: REMINDING US OF GOD’S FAITHFULNESS: Luke 2:8

“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.”

1. The shepherds shared the good news. Luke 2:17

“When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child,”

2. The shepherds worshiped God for what He had done. Luke 2:20

“The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.”

THE MANGER: SHARING THE GREATEST GIFT OF ALL: Luke 2:12

“This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

1. The manger symbolizes the humility of Christ.

2. The manger symbolizes the helplessness of humanity.

“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” -Philippians 4:7.

THE VIRGIN MARY: POINTING US TO THE SINLESS SON OF GOD: Luke 1:28

“The angel went to her and said, ‘Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.’”

1. Mary’s faith in God was authentic. Luke 1:38

“‘I am the Lord’s servant,’ Mary answered. ‘May it be to me as you have said.’ Then the angel left her.”

2. Mary’s response was a song of praise. Luke 1:46-55

3. Because of her purity she was chosen to deliver the Son of God in human flesh. John 1:14

“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.”