With every Christmas season comes joyful festivities, yummy treats, family gatherings, etc. I love Christmas and all its holiday cheer, but what I love more is what it points me to—the gospel and the hope of Christ’s return. However, it’s easy to lose sight of Jesus when seasonal festivities divert our attention and our affections away from Christ. The worldly gains and comforts are desirable not only for the pleasure they promise but also for the self-dependence they create. Living in a prosperous nation at a time when the quality of life hasn’t been more comfortable, we can easily grow attached to this lifestyle and its many conveniences. In Luke chapter 10, Jesus is found sending out seventy of His disciples to proclaim the gospel of the kingdom. The primary instruction they receive has to do with contentment and proclamation. Jesus calls His disciples to stay focused on engaging people, depending on God, and faithfully communicating the glorious gospel of Jesus. During this Christmas season, don’t lose sight of why we celebrate and how we celebrate. May the incarnation of Jesus expand your gratefulness for His first coming and excite your anticipation for His second coming. Like the disciples, live in such a way that prioritizes Jesus, even in the gift-giving, caroling, decorating, baking, and gathering. Allow Advent to create a greater dependence on God as we praise Him for the greatest Gift ever given. –Pastor Nate
Sunday at Liberty
9AM: Baptists in America–Southern Baptist Resurgence
10AM: Pastor Rory–A Messiah Who Triumphs–Luke 10:1-42 (sermon notes)
6PM: Christmas Vespers
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