The Gift of Presence - Christmas Eve

Introduction

What was the best gift you’ve ever received? Why was it the best?

It’s what you asked for

It lasted long

It was the most expensive

It’s what you needed

John 3:16 (ESV)

16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

Of all the things God could have given us, he gave us His Son. Why?

He didn’t give us religion - a way to work toward him

He didn’t give us a pardon (in God’s economy it would not be possible)

He didn’t give us pleasure (just enjoy the short-lived time you have)

He gave us His Son. God knew this would be the best thing to give us.

Why was giving us Jesus the best gift?

The presence of Jesus is the best gift!

Jesus’ presence reveals God.

John 1:18 (ESV)

18 No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Father’s side, he has made him known.

Reveals God to us - like Father like Son.

How do you view God the Father?

How do you view the God of the Old Testament? Different than how you view Jesus? Why? They are the same.

Presents tell us about the giver.

The gift itself is a picture of the giver.

Jesus’ presence saves us!

John 3:16–17 (ESV)

16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.

God didn’t give us rules to follow; he gave us his son.

God didn’t send a religion or rules; He didn’t send a promise or proxy - He sent his SON.

Jesus’ presence is an example for us.

1 Peter 2:21 (ESV)

21 For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps.

ILLUST - the Chicken Dance:

1. Join a group of other dancers:

As the song starts, head to the dance floor and join the circle of other dancers. You might find yourself in a line or grouped with fellow dancers. The dance is done in repetitions of three, followed by a clap at the end of each section.

2. Hand formations:

Extend your arms before you, pressing your fingers and thumb together. Distend your thumb away from your other four fingers.Repeat this movement four times in sync with the music.

3. Arm undulations:

Tuck your thumbs into your armpits and lift and lower your elbows repeatedly. Y Repeat this motion four times.

4. Hip shakes:

With your hands at your hips, move your hips left and right as you lower yourself toward the ground. There’s no strict rule on how low you should go during this hip-shaking phase.

5. Stand Tall and Clap:

As the grand finale, stand up straight and clap four times with the music. Prepare for two more rounds of repeating these dance moves.

or, I could just show you:

Jesus came as an example of how we should live and love.

This is why Jesus called for his disciples to “follow” him and not simply obey him. He set the example.

He lived in a way that displays God’s love to the world to show that we can do the same.

Jesus’ presence is forever.

ILLUST - mom’s git of a Leatherman is an everyday carry.

Jesus came to stay. Jesus took on human flesh and remains in human (glorified) flesh.

Hebrews 13:5 (ESV)

5 Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

The presence of God is Jesus - the greatest gift.