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Good morning Church family

I greet all our family in Texas, Florida. South Carolina and throughout the world.

 "For unto us is born this day ...JESUS!!!" What a gift.

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I saw a sign the other day that said---"So this is Christmas". I was not sure what message they wanted to express, what it got me thinking, so what is Christmas? 

Now, I really believe I know what Christmas is to most non-believers. But the truth is that's a given. Time off from work, school, relaxing, a lot of eating, football games, parties, giving and receiving gifts, bringing gifts back and maybe a little fruitcake. A lot of that is great in itself and we enjoy it. Nothing wrong with it.

But for the believer in Jesus, it is a set aside day of the birth of Jesus. We know his purpose for coming. It wasn't a happy occasion. Knowing that you would die on a cross for the sins of a cruel world that despises you. Put yourself in that position. Not very pleasant. Yet, Jesus went to  the cross for each of us. He was sent from above as a gift to each of us, so he would be the substitute for our sins. Now, sin was dealt with properly and we would spend eternity with Him in heaven.

That's what the purpose of Jesus was. Not to make a name for himself, or establish a kingdom here on earth, or gain riches. Behind what he did for those 33 years was a picture of YOU and ME. He had us on his mind all the time. There was not one day during those 33 years that it was about him. He could have returned back to glory with His Father, but He chose not to. BUT WHY? Could it be that he kept thinking of you and me? That's what Christmas is about. 

The festivities come and go. Everyone will go back to work, school, college and so forth. These few days will fade away in a week or so. But what Jesus came to do some 2,000 years ago will last for eternity.  SO, THAT IS WHAT CHRISTMAS IS ABOUT!!!

The world may never understand it or want to, but for you and me, we will treasure God's love for us forever. We understand Christmas, because He lives within us not just Christmas day but everyday.

Maybe the foundation of the Bible is found in John 3:16--- read it slowly:

"For God so loved the world that we gave His only begotton Son, so that whoever believes in Him, would not perish but would have eternal life.

NOW---That is Christmas.

On behalf of my wife, Caroline and myself--We wish you and yours a blessed Glorious day this Christmas and all the days following.

Much love,

Pastor G

Read the Christmas story for tomorrow's message.