“The Hope of Christmas”

“The Hope of Christmas”

The Polar Express is a magical animated Christmas film based on the beloved children's book by Chris Van Allsburg. The story follows a young boy who begins to doubt the existence of Santa Claus. On Christmas Eve, as he lies awake in his bed, he hears the rumbling of a train outside his window. The conductor invites him aboard the Polar Express, a train heading to the North Pole.

Throughout the journey, the boy meets other children, including a brave girl, a lonely boy named Billy, and a know-it-all kid. Together, they experience thrilling adventures, from sliding through icy tracks to encountering a mysterious ghostly figure who imparts wisdom. Along the way, the boy learns lessons about friendship, bravery, and belief.

When the train arrives at the North Pole, the children witness Santa preparing for his annual Christmas Eve journey. The boy is chosen to receive the first gift of Christmas, and he asks for a simple silver bell from Santa's sleigh. However, he accidentally loses the bell on the train ride home.

The next morning, he finds the bell under his Christmas tree, left by Santa. The bell has a magical quality—it rings only for those who truly believe. As the boy grows older, the bell continues to ring for him, signifying his enduring faith in the magic of Christmas.

The story is a heartfelt reminder of the power of belief, the wonder of childhood, and the magic of Christmas.

Movie Clip: The Polar Express – The boy begins to believe in the magic of Christmas.

Key Scripture: Isaiah 9:6 – “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given…”

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore.

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Is 9:6–7.

Point 1: Faith is the Starting Point

• Explanation: Faith is essential to understanding and experiencing God’s promises. Just as the boy in The Polar Express had to take a step of faith, we are called to trust in God’s promises.

• Supporting Scripture: Hebrews 11:1 – “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”

• Illustration: The boy couldn’t hear the bell until he believed. Our spiritual journey often begins when we choose to believe in the unseen.

• Application: Reflect on areas where you need to trust God more fully this Christmas season.

Point 2: Hope Sustains Us

• Explanation: The hope of Christ’s coming gives us strength. Just as the boy hoped to understand the mystery of Christmas, we hope in Christ’s return.

• Supporting Scripture: Romans 15:13 – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him.”

• Illustration: Discuss how hope carried the characters in the movie through their challenges.

• Application: Share hope by encouraging someone facing difficulty this season.

Point 3: The Gift of Belief

• Explanation: Belief in Jesus leads to eternal life and joy. Believing in Christmas isn’t just about magic but about the miracle of Christ.

• Supporting Scripture: John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son…”

• Illustration: The boy’s belief led to his transformation, just as belief in Christ transforms our hearts.

• Application: Commit to deepening your belief in Christ this Christmas.