Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins...

18. Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. 19. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily. 20. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. 21. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Matthew 1:18-21

For the Christian, the Christ of Christmas is not confined to seasonal songs and sermon series. He is the essence of all we do. He is the eternal and immutable sum and substance of what the church offers a lost world. We dare not offer or even conduct ourselves in such a way as to direct the lost anywhere, but to Jesus. Acts 4:12 says, “Neither is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven, given among men whereby we must be saved.” He is not one way among many ways, He is THE WAY, THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE. The angel of the Lord said of Jesus: “..He shall save his people from their sins.” Because Jesus came, lived a sinless life and died on the cross we can live free—free from the guilt and condemnation of sin—free from addiction---free from the fear of death...FREE because of Jesus! December or July… He is our Redeemer, Refuge and Forever Friend.

Today, on December 23, though we live a world that is ever changing, Jesus remains real and relevant regardless of our status, station or circumstance. “Jesus”- there is something about that name that brings peace in the midst of perplexity and confidence in the midst of chaos. In a few days Christmas will be but a memory. Our attention will quickly turn to a New Year and all that lies ahead of us. May it be our resolve, in the coming year, to look to Him, lean on Him and love Him as never before. “Jesus”…..may He be the subject of our song, the object of our praise, the meat of our message, the topic of our teaching, the motive of our mission and the passion of our purpose. “Jesus”…..may we worship Him and walk with Him. “Jesus”…may we praise Him and preach Him. May we exalt Him and exemplify Him. “Jesus”….may we seek Him and serve Him and stay close to Him.

Sharon and I extend to each of you a very blessed Christmas. May the joy and peace of His presence be on you and your family throughout this sacred season.