Matthew 2:1-12 — Shalom Realized: The Savior is Here

Matthew 2:1-12 — Shalom Realized: The Savior is Here

This post brings our Advent message series to a conclusion. On Sunday, I will be showing from Matthew 2:1-12, that, just like the Magi, the appropriate response to the coming of the savior is worship. The Magi worshiped Jesus by giving Him Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh. The symbolism in these gifts paints a picture for us of how to worship our Lord.

As we celebrate Christ's birth this Monday, I wanted to wish you a joyous Christmas Day.
Oftentimes, the preparations and activities of the season keep us from comprehending the incredible significance of that first Christmas 2023 year ago. Because Jesus was born into our world that evening, so was hope for each one of us. He came into our world, ". . . not to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him." (John 3:17).

The amazing part about that first Christmas is that before Jesus was even born, the innkeepers in Bethlehem were already declaring that they had no room for Him. Sadly enough, amid the business of our festivities, many Christians fail to make room for Jesus. May that not be said of any of us. As I will explain on Sunday, the appropriate response to Christ's birth is to worship. Before you open the gifts this Christmas, would you take time to pray with your family to thank the Lord for His gift of salvation? What an opportunity for us to say, "Thank you Lord for the gift of Your Son."

I wish you all the joy and peace that Christ came into this world to bring. Whether this Christmas finds you gathered around the ones you love, or whether circumstances require you to spend Christmas differently than you desired, may the reality of His birth fill your heart with His love, peace, and joy!