God With Us

I only check the news to stay relevant on large local and national issues. But when I scroll through the news articles, I see COVID, terrorism, abortions, racial discrimination, gender roles, hatred toward law enforcement, natural disasters, cyber-attacks, riots, mass killings, economic worries, and rumors of war. Did any of these words make your blood pressure rise? I’m sure you have a lot of feelings and opinions about all these issues. If you are like me, checking the news can be sometimes overwhelming and depressing. There is so much evil, violence, and hatred in the world we live in.

Sometimes we forget that when Jesus Christ was born Herod “the Great” was in power. He was a cruel ruler, jealous, suspicious, and desired power. He would stop at nothing to ensure all threats to the throne were crushed. In Matthew 2 we learn that he cruelly slaughtered “all the male children in Bethlehem and in all that region who were two years old or under” because he was told that the King of the Jews was born.

Living during this time would be frightening. It would be difficult to persevere in faith, knowing that all things are in God’s hands because the world seems so chaotic. But little did they know that God had already provided the perfect gift and sacrifice. Jesus Christ, Immanuel (God with us), was born. The Savior of the world was there. God literally sent peace to earth. There is nothing greater than peace with the King of kings and the Lord of lords.

Although the chaos of this world may get you down, remember that God is with us. We can have peace with God through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. There really is no greater gift on earth. Instead of fear, we can have comfort. Instead of sadness, we can have joy. Don’t focus on the waves crashing around you this season but keep your focus on the One who has the power to calm the waves.

Merry Christmas!
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-Pastor Brent ​