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Introduction

We are so thankful for you joining us today. On behalf of my entire family, Merry Christmas. We hope this season is one of reflection and anticipation.

Scripture

Luke 2:1–7 ESV

1 In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3 And all went to be registered, each to his own town. 4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, 5 to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. 6 And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. 7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

Luke 2:1-7

Prayer

Lord, we are thankful for the greatest gift any of us could ever receive. Today we honor you. We invite your Spirit to fill this place. Open our eyes, ears and hearts. In the name of Jesus, Amen!

Illustration

We live in some interesting times. We have so many ways to stay connected and they all can pretty much converge in the palm of your hand. I can pay bills, check out the latest scores, get updated on news, and play a game to pass time almost without any balls being dropped.

I suppose that is why one of my pet peeves is the lack of responsiveness. It’s not illogical. I know we all have busy lives. However, when you consider how we keep our phones in close proximity, I view the lack of responding as a choice to ignore or not viewing the conversation as important enough to reply. I am sure there are moments when ask, did they get the message? No one likes feeling ignored.

Transition

I think if we are honest, there have been moments when we have felt like God has given us the silent treatment. We pray, we try to get understanding only to feel like we aren’t getting the answers. It’s a valid question but I do want to propose that maybe we are the ones that aren’t getting the message. I would like to submit that God has been speaking but maybe it is us that haven’t been responding? Maybe we’ve ignored it, maybe we’ve missed it, it’s even possible that we didn’t view

Background

When we look at the Christmas story I wonder if we are getting the message. We are so quick to

Points

Thanksgiving (Mary)

Patience (Joseph)

Humility (Shepherds)

Joy (Wise Men)

Closing