Moving from 2024 to 2025 – Embracing New Beginnings in Christ

12/28/2024

Moving from 2024 to 2025 – Embracing New Beginnings in Christ

Reading: Isaiah 43:16-21

¹⁶ This is what the Lord says—he who made a way through the sea, a path through the mighty waters,¹⁷ who drew out the chariots and horses, the army and reinforcements together, and they lay there, never to rise again, extinguished, snuffed out like a wick: ¹⁸ “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.
¹⁹ See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?
I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.
²⁰ The wild animals honor me, the jackals and the owls, because I provide water in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland, to give drink to my people, my chosen,²¹ the people I formed for myself that they may proclaim my praise.

Introduction:

Bull’s Eye: Charlie Brown and Lucy went out a target shooting with a bow and arrows. Charlie Brown would the arrow first and once the arrow landed on the wall, he would run out there and draw a circle around it. Lucy was furious, "Charlie Brown, what are you doing?" Charlie said, this way I will never missed the Bulls eye.   

As we stand on the threshold of a new year, moving from 2024 to 2025, we are given an opportunity to reflect on what has passed and to look forward to what God is preparing for us. The transition from one year to the next often stirs feelings of hope, anticipation, and even apprehension. We think about our personal goals, our spiritual journey, and the challenges we've faced.

-       What are some of the challenges that we faced this year 2024?

-       What is our victorious plan?

But, more importantly, it’s a moment to hear the voice of God, who is continually at work making "all things new."

The prophet Isaiah speaks to the Israelites, reminding them that God is doing something new—something better, something beyond what they have known before. As we move from one year to the next, we too are invited to step into that newness, trusting that God is already at work in our lives and our world.

-       We are encountering something that we have never encountered before—2025

-       2025 is new and lets make that a threshold for new things in our lives

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1. Forgetting the Former Things – Embracing a New Mindset (Isaiah 43:18)

"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past."

The first instruction God gives us as we move into 2025 is to forget the former things. This doesn’t mean we erase the past from our memory, but it means

-       we do not allow the past to dictate our present or future.

-       We often carry baggage from 2024—whether it's mistakes, regrets, disappointments, or even successes that have caused us to become complacent.

-       We do not let our past make the decision for our future

-       Let NOT your past limit the choice of our future

-       Our past is static while our future is dynamic

o   We can not do anything about our past while our future is dynamic, and we can live it dynamically

-       Moving on to new things is embracing growth

-       Live NOT in your past but learn from it  

o   Where are we today is because of our past BUT we can take those experiences as lessons and make our future better by allowing God to work in our lives.

-       Isaiah 43:18-19, the Israelites were reminded not to dwell on their past failures or even their past victories, because God was about to do something new.

Paul drives home the similar idea on moving forward:

Philippians 3:13-14, Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, ¹⁴ I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

In 2024, maybe you faced challenges that left you discouraged. Perhaps you encountered failure, sickness, or loss. Or maybe the year was marked by achievements that now make you feel like you've reached a plateau. God’s Word today calls us to let go of both the weight of the past and the false security of past accomplishments. We must shift our focus from what was to what is to come.

Application:

• What are the "former things" in your life that you need to forget?
• Are there past mistakes or regrets that are hindering your progress in Christ?
• Do you find yourself holding on to past victories, making you complacent in your faith?

God is calling you to move forward. It’s time to release the things that have held you back and open your heart to what He is doing in this new season.

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2. God is Doing a New Thing – Embracing New Opportunities (Isaiah 43:19)

"See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?"

God is not only asking us to forget the past; He is also actively doing something new. This is a promise that stretches beyond our present understanding. He is constantly at work, shaping and reshaping our lives, our church, and the world. In 2025, there will be new opportunities for growth, new challenges to overcome, and new ways God will reveal His glory.

The new thing that God is doing might look different than we expect. Sometimes, we wait for something dramatic and obvious, but often, God's new work starts in quiet, unseen ways. He might be calling you to step into a new ministry, to forgive a long-standing hurt, to take a step of faith you’ve been hesitant to take, or to see your circumstances through a new lens of hope and possibility.

 

Application:

• Are you open to the "new thing" God is doing in your life, even if it doesn’t look like you imagined?
• Are you willing to step out in faith, even if you don’t yet see the full picture?
• How can you embrace God's new opportunities for growth in your relationships, career, or ministry?

The new thing God is doing might require you to take risks, to step out of your comfort zone, or to trust in His timing and provision. But the promise is clear: He is making a way where there seems to be no way.

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3. God is Making a Way – Trusting His Guidance (Isaiah 43:19)

"I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland."

God is not only doing a new thing, but He is also making a way. The Israelites were about to enter a new season, one that would require them to trust God in the wilderness and in difficult circumstances. Similarly, as we move from 2024 to 2025, we will face obstacles, challenges, and wilderness experiences. But the promise here is that God is already making a way for us.

Whether you’re facing financial difficulties, relational struggles, health challenges, or uncertainty about the future, the good news is that God is making a way for you. He is creating pathways in places where you see no way forward. He is providing streams of refreshment in barren places. God’s guidance is constant, and His provision is sufficient.

Application:

• Are you trusting God to make a way for you in your current situation?
• Do you believe that even in the wilderness of life, God is already at work, preparing your path?
• How can you actively seek His guidance in the coming year, trusting that He is making a way where there seems to be none?

As we transition into 2025, we must remember that God’s faithfulness has never failed. He will continue to lead us, guide us, and provide for us in ways that we cannot fully comprehend. Our role is to trust and follow Him, knowing that He is already preparing the path.

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4. Moving Forward with Faith – A Call to Action

As we look ahead to 2025, we are not just passive observers of God’s work; we are active participants. God is inviting us to move forward with faith, to trust that He will accomplish His purposes in us and through us. This new year presents an opportunity for spiritual growth, for deepening our relationship with Christ, and for making an impact in the world around us.

Here are some practical commitment steps for moving forward into 2025:

• Commit to Daily continuous Prayer and Scripture Reading: Start each day by centering your heart on God’s Word and seeking His direction from the scripture for the day ahead.
• Set Spiritual Goals: Reflect on your spiritual journey in 2024 and set goals for growing in Christ in 2025.
• Growing in holiness (Christ like)
• serving others,
• expanding your knowledge of the Bible,
• take intentional steps to do good
• Embrace Community: God has called us to live out our faith in community. Join with fellow believers in worship, fellowship, and service in the coming year.
• Accountability
• Step Out in Faith: Identify areas where God is calling you to take a step of faith
• whether that’s taking on a new job,
• a new relationship,
• a new challenge.
• Who has a “Why” in their lives has the ability to bear all the “what”
• When you pursue what is meaningful, you will encounter purpose
• Concentrate NOT on being right but on learning – being transformative
• Intentional in setting your goal and going after it  

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Conclusion:

Elephant tied to a chair

Young man was at the Circus, and he just happen to pass by where they kept the Elephants; he noticed that the elephant is tied with a rope onto a chair. The rope is about a ¼ inch diameter. This is a 1200 LBS elephant that is tied onto a chair. He thought, this is very dangerous as the elephant, with no effort, can easily pull on the rope and get away and it could be very dangerous to the crowd. As he was wondering this, one of the trainers pass by, so the young man asked, “trainer, isn’t it dangerous to just ties the elephant with a skinny rope to a simple chair? He can easily get away?” The trainer explained: see young man, when this elephant was just a baby, he was tied with the same rope to the same chair. Back then, he could not get away. So the elephants have been mentally trained and conditioned that they could not get away.  

Oftentimes we are tied to a certain condition and mentally enslaved to those things. Jesus has liberated us from the chains of our past. "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland."

As we move from 2024 to 2025, let’s embrace God’s invitation to forget the former things and step into the new things He is doing. Let us trust that He is making a way where there seems to be none, and let us move forward with faith, knowing that God’s purposes are always greater than our own. The year ahead holds infinite possibilities for those who trust in the God who makes all things new.

          Remember these:

-         David would not be King David without Goliath

o   There’s a purpose for our struggle

-         Those that cup their hands always hold more water thank those who clinch their fists  

o   Let’s be ready

o   Let’s fix our hearts on new desires, desiring only those of Christ

o   Let’s develop new habits to be Christlike characters

Let’s commit to walking into this new year with a renewed sense of hope, purpose, and joy, trusting that God is already ahead of us, preparing the way. He is doing a new thing, and we are invited to be a part of it.

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Prayer:

Father, we thank You for the gift of a new year. We thank You that You are the God who makes all things new. As we move from 2024 to 2025, we let go of the past, trusting that You have great things in store for us. We open our hearts to the new opportunities You are bringing our way, and we trust that You are already making a way where there seems to be no way. Strengthen our faith, guide our steps, and help us to live with purpose in the year ahead. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Introduction and Background to the Book of Romans

Author:

The Book of Romans is a letter written by the Apostle Paul. Paul, originally known as Saul of Tarsus, was a Pharisee who vigorously persecuted early Christians until his dramatic conversion experience on the road to Damascus (Acts 9). After his conversion, Paul became one of the most influential apostles of the early church, traveling extensively to preach the gospel and plant churches. His writings are among the earliest Christian documents and form a substantial portion of the New Testament.

Paul wrote Romans around AD 57, likely from the city of Corinth during his third missionary journey, just before he was planning to go to Jerusalem. He wrote this letter to the Christian community in Rome, the capital of the Roman Empire, to address various theological issues and to introduce himself to the church there.

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Recipient:
The letter is addressed to the Christians in Rome, who were primarily Gentiles, but also included Jewish believers. Rome, the heart of the Roman Empire, was a bustling, diverse metropolis with a rich history. By the time Paul wrote Romans, there was already a significant Christian presence in the city, though the church was not founded by Paul himself (Romans 1:10-13). It is likely that the church was started by Jews who had converted to Christianity during the Feast of Pentecost in Jerusalem (Acts 2:10-11) and then returned to Rome, bringing the gospel with them.

The church in Rome was experiencing internal tensions between Jewish Christians and Gentile Christians, particularly regarding the observance of the Mosaic Law, dietary restrictions, and circumcision. These tensions formed a key backdrop to the letter, and Paul’s epistle addresses these issues, aiming to promote unity and correct misunderstandings about the gospel.

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Purpose:
Paul wrote Romans to fulfill several purposes:

1. To Present a Comprehensive Explanation of the Gospel:
   Romans contains a systematic exposition of the gospel and its implications for both Jews and Gentiles. Paul addresses the nature of salvation, righteousness, justification by faith, and the role of the law, providing the most detailed treatment of Christian doctrine in all of Paul’s letters. Romans establishes that salvation is available to all people, regardless of ethnic background, through faith in Jesus Christ (Romans 1:16-17).

2. To Strengthen and Encourage the Roman Church:
   Paul had heard of the faith of the Roman believers (Romans 1:8), and he wrote to encourage them, deepen their understanding of the gospel, and strengthen their faith. His desire was to visit them (Romans 1:10-15), not only to impart spiritual gifts and encourage them, but also to unify them in their mission to spread the gospel.

3. To Address Division Between Jewish and Gentile Christians:
   The church in Rome was likely experiencing friction between Jewish and Gentile believers over issues related to the Mosaic Law. Paul uses Romans to address these tensions, teaching that all people—Jews and Gentiles alike—are justified by faith and that no one can boast in their obedience to the law. He emphasizes that salvation is by grace through faith alone, not by works of the law (Romans 3:28-30).

4. To Prepare for His Visit to Rome:
   Paul’s ultimate goal was to visit Rome on his way to Spain (Romans 15:24). In his letter, Paul shares his vision for the future of the gospel and his plans for ministry in Spain. He wanted the Roman church to understand his theological views and to partner with him in spreading the gospel to unreached areas.

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Key Themes:

1. Justification by Faith:
   One of the central themes of Romans is the doctrine of justification by faith. Paul argues that a person is declared righteous before God not by observing the law, but through faith in Jesus Christ (Romans 3:28). This is a foundational principle of the Christian faith, teaching that salvation is a gift from God, not earned by human effort.

2. The Righteousness of God:
   The letter emphasizes that God’s righteousness has been revealed in the gospel (Romans 1:17), and this righteousness is available to all who believe, regardless of their background. Paul explains that God’s righteousness is demonstrated through the atoning work of Jesus Christ and is applied to believers through faith.

3. Sin and the Need for Salvation:
   Romans underscores the universality of sin. Paul argues that both Gentiles and Jews are under sin and in need of salvation. No one can be justified by their own works (Romans 3:23), but all can receive God’s grace through faith in Jesus Christ (Romans 3:24-26).

4. Sanctification and Christian Living:
   In later chapters, Paul discusses how believers should live in light of their justification. The Christian life is a process of sanctification, or growing in holiness, as believers are conformed to the image of Christ (Romans 6-8). Paul emphasizes the importance of living by the Spirit, presenting our bodies as living sacrifices, and pursuing love and unity within the body of Christ.

5. God’s Sovereignty and Israel’s Role:
   Paul addresses the mystery of God’s plan for Israel. Although the majority of Israel has rejected the gospel, God has not abandoned His people. He discusses God's sovereignty in choosing who will be saved, and the ultimate restoration of Israel in God's redemptive plan (Romans 9-11).

6. Living in Community:
   Romans encourages the believers to live in harmony with one another, regardless of their differences, particularly the divide between Jewish and Gentile Christians. Paul stresses love, humility, and mutual respect as essential for the unity of the church (Romans 12-15).

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Structure of Romans:

1. Introduction and Greeting (Romans 1:1-17): Paul introduces himself, his gospel message, and his desire to visit the Romans.
2. The Universality of Sin (Romans 1:18-3:20): Paul explains that all people—Jews and Gentiles—are under sin and in need of salvation.
3. Justification by Faith (Romans 3:21-5:21): Paul teaches that salvation is a gift from God, received through faith in Jesus Christ.
4. Sanctification and Christian Living (Romans 6-8): Paul explains how believers should live out their new identity in Christ, emphasizing the role of the Holy Spirit.
5. God’s Sovereignty and Israel’s Future (Romans 9-11): Paul addresses the relationship between Israel and the Gentiles in God’s plan of salvation.
6. Practical Christian Living (Romans 12-15): Paul provides practical instructions for Christian living, emphasizing love, humility, and unity.
7. Closing Remarks and Greetings (Romans 16): Paul concludes the letter with personal greetings, final exhortations, and a doxology.

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Significance of the Book of Romans: Romans is widely regarded as one of the most theologically rich books in the New Testament. It has been foundational in shaping Christian doctrine, particularly regarding salvation by grace through faith. Key Reformers such as Martin Luther were deeply influenced by Romans, especially its teaching on justification by faith, which led to the Protestant Reformation. The book continues to be a vital resource for understanding the nature of the gospel, the righteousness of God, and how believers are to live in light of God’s mercy.

Application Today: Romans remains a timeless book that speaks to the heart of the Christian faith. It challenges believers to grasp the depth of God’s grace and to live transformed lives in response to that grace. It calls us to unity in the body of Christ, to live by faith, and to trust in God’s sovereign plan for salvation. For both new believers and mature Christians, Romans offers a deep well of theological insight and practical guidance for everyday life.

Bible Study on Romans 1

Union Gospel 12/28

Introduction to Romans 1: Romans is one of the most significant letters in the New Testament, written by the Apostle Paul to the Christian church in Rome. In this letter, Paul systematically presents the gospel, explains the righteousness of God, and addresses the relationship between Jews and Gentiles in God’s redemptive plan. Romans 1 begins with an introduction to Paul’s apostleship, the nature of salvation, and then shifts into a discussion of human sinfulness and God’s judgment. This chapter sets the stage for the deeper theological themes Paul will develop throughout the letter.

1. Paul's Introduction (Romans 1:1-7)

Verses 1-7: Paul’s Greeting and Purpose Paul opens the letter by identifying himself as a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle. His role is to proclaim the gospel—the good news of Jesus Christ, which Paul explains as being rooted in the promises of God revealed through the prophets in the Old Testament. This gospel is about Jesus, the Son of God, who was resurrected from the dead.

Key themes:

• Apostleship and Calling: Paul emphasizes that his role is not of his own choosing, but by God’s calling.
• The Gospel's Foundation: The message of Jesus is rooted in the Scriptures, fulfilling God’s promises to Israel.
• Jesus Christ’s Identity: He is both human (descended from David) and divine (Son of God).

Application:

• We, like Paul, are called to proclaim the gospel. Every believer has a responsibility to share the good news with others.
• The gospel is not a new idea but the fulfillment of God’s promises, showing the continuity of God’s plan of salvation.

2. Paul's Longing to Visit Rome (Romans 1:8-15)

Verses 8-15: Paul's Desire to Visit Rome Paul expresses his gratitude for the faith of the Roman believers, which is being proclaimed throughout the world. He then shares his desire to visit them, not just to fellowship with them, but to impart spiritual gifts and encourage their faith.

Key themes:

• Mutual Encouragement: Paul looks forward to encouraging the Romans and being encouraged by them in their shared faith.
• Apostolic Mission: Paul is eager to spread the gospel, even among those who are already believers, to deepen their faith.

Application:

• The church is a place for mutual encouragement. We are called not only to share the gospel with others but to strengthen one another in our faith.
• Our relationships with fellow believers should be centered around mutual support and growth in Christ.

3. The Righteousness of God Revealed (Romans 1:16-17)

Verses 16-17: The Power of the Gospel Paul states that he is not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. In this gospel, the righteousness of God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith, from first to last.

Key themes:

• Power of the Gospel: The gospel is not merely a message; it is the power of God to transform lives.
• The Righteousness of God: God's righteousness is revealed through the gospel, and it is received by faith.
• Faith as the Basis of Salvation: Salvation comes by faith, not by works or human effort.

Application:

• Never be ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God to save and transform lives.
• Our salvation is a gift, accessed only by faith in Jesus Christ, not by our own achievements.

4. The Rejection of God and Its Consequences (Romans 1:18-32)

Verses 18-20: God's Wrath Against Sin Paul begins a section on human sinfulness, stating that God's wrath is revealed against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness. God's existence and divine nature are clearly evident in creation, but humanity has chosen to reject this knowledge.

Key themes:

• God’s Wrath: God’s judgment is not arbitrary but is a response to humanity’s deliberate rejection of His truth.
• Revelation through Creation: The evidence of God’s power and nature is seen in the created world.

Application:

• God's revelation through creation calls us to acknowledge Him and live in a way that honors His power and authority.
• Rejecting God leads to consequences, both in the present life and in eternity.

Verses 21-23: The Futility of Idolatry Paul describes how, despite knowing God, humanity exchanged the truth of God for lies and worshiped created things rather than the Creator. This is the root of idolatry.

Key themes:

• Idolatry: Idolatry is not just the worship of physical idols but the substitution of the Creator with created things.
• Futile Thinking: When people reject God, their thinking becomes futile and their hearts darkened.

Application:

• We are called to worship the Creator and not allow anything in our lives to take His place.
• Idolatry doesn’t always mean bowing to statues—it can be placing anything above God in our hearts.

Verses 24-27: God Gives People Over to Sin Because of humanity’s rejection of God, God "gave them over" to sinful desires. This includes sexual impurity, same-sex relations, and other immoral behaviors. The rejection of God leads to a breakdown in human relationships and ethical behavior.

Key themes:

• God’s Judgment as Giving People Over: God’s wrath is sometimes expressed by allowing people to follow their sinful desires, leading to further degradation.
• The Breakdown of Moral Order: When humanity turns from God, moral order disintegrates.

Application:

• God’s judgment on sin is a reality. He doesn’t always stop people from following sinful desires but allows them to experience the consequences of their choices.
• We must guard against turning from God, as it leads to deeper bondage to sin.

Verses 28-32: A List of Further Sins Paul continues by describing further consequences of humanity’s rejection of God: greed, envy, murder, strife, deceit, and more. People not only practice these things but approve of others who do them.

Key themes:

• Moral Decay: Rejecting God leads to increasing sinfulness and moral decay in society.
• Approval of Sin: Not only do people engage in sin, but they also encourage and approve of others doing the same.

Application:

• Sin has a corrupting influence, not only on individuals but also on society. We must be vigilant in resisting sin and calling others to righteousness.
• We must not approve of sinful behavior but call others to repentance and faith in Christ.

Conclusion

Romans 1 sets the foundation for Paul’s message about the gospel, sin, and salvation. It reveals the tragic consequences of humanity’s rejection of God and emphasizes the need for God’s righteousness, which is made available to all through faith in Jesus Christ. It also highlights the importance of sharing the gospel, living in mutual encouragement within the church, and the urgent need to recognize and respond to God’s revelation in creation.

Key Takeaways:

1. The gospel is the power of God for salvation, available to all who believe.
2. Human sin is the rejection of God’s truth, which results in a breakdown of moral order and judgment.
3. We are called to live by faith and to proclaim the gospel to others.
4. God’s wrath is revealed against sin, but His righteousness is available to those who trust in Jesus.

Reflection Questions:

1. How can I be more bold in sharing the gospel with others?
2. What areas of my life might I be tempted to place above God, and how can I address them?
3. How does the truth of God’s righteousness and salvation impact my daily living?

Let this study remind us of both the seriousness of sin and the glorious gift of salvation available to us through faith in Jesus Christ.

Luke 2:1-20 – "The Glory of the Incarnation"

Luke 2:1-20 – "The Glory of the Incarnation"

Introduction: Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, we gather today to reflect on one of the most well-known passages of Scripture, especially during the Christmas season—Luke 2:1-20. This is the story of the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, who came to the world not in glory or majesty, but in humility and simplicity. Through these verses, God invites us to see that the extraordinary lies hidden within the ordinary and that His greatest gift came in the most unexpected way.

Let us read the passage together:

Luke 2:1-20 (NIV): 1 In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to their own town to register. 4 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.

8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." 13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,

14 "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests."

15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about." 16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

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1. The Setting of the Incarnation (Luke 2:1-7)

The birth of Jesus took place during a time of great political power and oppression. Caesar Augustus, the ruler of the Roman Empire, decreed that a census should be taken, compelling people to travel to their ancestral towns for registration. For Joseph and Mary, this meant a difficult journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem, a journey that, at first glance, seemed dictated by worldly politics.

But in the divine plan, this census was no accident. The prophet Micah had foretold that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2). God used even the decree of a foreign emperor to fulfill His promise. God’s sovereignty extends over every circumstance, even those that appear mundane or forced.

As Mary and Joseph arrived in Bethlehem, they found no room in the inn. The circumstances of Jesus’ birth were humble—no grand procession, no royal treatment. The Savior of the world was born not in a palace, but in a stable, and laid in a manger—a feeding trough for animals. This stark humility teaches us that God’s kingdom is not like the kingdoms of this world. It is not about power, wealth, or prestige, but about humility, service, and love.

Application:
In our own lives, we often seek recognition, status, or comfort. Yet, the God of the universe chose to enter the world in the most humble of circumstances. This speaks to the way God works in our lives—not through the powerful and the impressive, but through the meek and the lowly. How can we make room for Christ in our hearts this season? How can we embrace the humility of the Incarnation in our own attitudes and actions?

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2. The Announcement to the Shepherds (Luke 2:8-14)

In the fields outside Bethlehem, shepherds were watching over their flocks by night. Suddenly, an angel appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them. This moment was filled with both fear and awe, but the angel’s message was one of hope: “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” The Savior had been born, and the sign to find Him was a baby lying in a manger.

The message of Christ's birth was first entrusted to shepherds, among the lowest in society at the time. Shepherds were often seen as unclean and despised, yet it was to them that God revealed the greatest news in human history. This tells us something profound about the heart of God: He does not show partiality. The message of salvation is for all people, regardless of social status, wealth, or position. God’s kingdom is open to all, and the good news is for everyone—especially those who feel excluded or forgotten.

The heavenly host joined the angel in praising God, declaring, "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests." This is the essence of the gospel—the glory of God and peace on earth. Jesus, the Prince of Peace, came to reconcile humanity with God and to bring peace where there is conflict, hope where there is despair, and joy where there is sorrow.

Application:
As we receive the good news of Jesus, it is our calling to share it with others. Just as the shepherds went and proclaimed the birth of the Savior, we too are called to share the message of peace and joy with the world. In a time of great division and uncertainty, we are bearers of the peace that Christ offers.

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3. The Response to the Incarnation (Luke 2:15-20)

The shepherds, filled with excitement and awe, hurried to Bethlehem to see the newborn King. After seeing Jesus, they couldn’t keep the news to themselves. They spread the word about what they had heard and seen. Those who heard their story were amazed, and the shepherds themselves returned to their fields, glorifying and praising God.

Meanwhile, Mary treasured these things in her heart, pondering the mystery of the events surrounding her child. Mary’s response is one of quiet reflection. She does not rush to proclaim but takes time to consider the significance of all that had happened. This is a beautiful model for us—a call to slow down and reflect on the wonder of God’s love revealed in Christ.

Application:
What is our response to the Incarnation? Are we like the shepherds, eager to share the good news with others? Or do we, like Mary, take time to reflect on the deep mystery of God’s love and the miraculous gift of His Son? The Incarnation calls us to both action and reflection—to share the joy of Christ’s birth while also pausing to ponder its significance in our lives.

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Conclusion:

As we celebrate the birth of our Savior, let us remember the profound truths embedded in this passage. The birth of Jesus shows us that God works through humble means, that His kingdom is for all people, and that the Incarnation is a mystery to be pondered and proclaimed.

The Savior has come, not with power and might, but with love and humility. Let us receive Him into our hearts, share the good news with others, and give glory to God in the highest. May the peace of Christ reign in our hearts, and may we live as those who have been touched by the joy of His birth.

Let us pray.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who came to us in humility and love. Help us to embrace the wonder of the Incarnation, to reflect on its deep significance, and to share the good news with others. May Your peace fill our hearts, and may we live as bearers of Your light in this world. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Forgiving What You Can't Forget

 

Forgiving What You Can't Forget

Text Psalm 34:15-22

¹⁵ The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
    and his ears are attentive to their cry;
¹⁶ but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil,
    to blot out their name from the earth.

¹⁷ The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them;
    he delivers them from all their troubles.
¹⁸ The Lord is close to the brokenhearted
    and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

¹⁹ The righteous person may have many troubles,
    but the Lord delivers him from them all;
²⁰ he protects all his bones,
    not one of them will be broken.

²¹ Evil will slay the wicked;
    the foes of the righteous will be condemned.
²² The Lord will rescue his servants;
    no one who takes refuge in him will be condemned.

Introduction: Today we will wrap up our forgiveness series, I want to speak on a difficult but incredibly important topic: Forgiving What You Can’t Forget. This is not an easy subject because it speaks to the deepest wounds of our hearts, the deepest hurt of our lives, perhaps the most sacred and darkest corner of our souls—those moments when we’ve been hurt by someone, and the pain lingers long after the event has passed.

-       Physical abused

-       Sexual abused

-       Emotional abused

-       Mental abused

-       Abandoned

-       Broken Relationship

-       etc….

We all have moments that are hidden in our lives where we've been wronged in many ways that are hard to forgive but remember it like yesterday. Although it was during our childhood, but the memory is clear as day.  Perhaps the hurt was so deep, the betrayal so personal, or the loss so significant and life altering that the memory seems almost impossible to let go of. But the question remains: How can we/I forgive what we can’t forget?

1. Acknowledging the Pain: Forgiveness is not about ignoring the pain or pretending it didn’t happen. It's not about sweeping the hurt under the rug or dismissing your feelings. God sees your hurt and He understands it deeply. In fact, He encourages us to bring our pain to Him. Psalm 34:18 reminds us that "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."

We need to first acknowledge the pain we feel. Whether it's betrayal by a friend, the wounds of a broken relationship, or the scars from a past injustice, Psalm 34:15, “The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are attentive to their cry;” pretending it doesn’t hurt will not bring healing. Denying the wound keeps us trapped in a cycle of hurt and bitterness. But the beauty of the gospel is that we serve a God who can handle our emotions, our pain, and our struggles. We can bring all of our questions, all of our tears, and all of our anger to Him. Psalm 34:17, “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles.”

2. The Call to Forgive: Jesus calls us to forgive—whether the offense is big or small. In Matthew 18:21-22, Peter asks Jesus, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?" Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times."

At first glance, this may seem impossible. Seventy-seven times? That’s a lot of forgiveness! But Jesus is not saying we should forgive in a formulaic way, keeping track of every offense. Rather, He is teaching us that forgiveness should be a continual practice, not a one-time event. It’s about choosing, over and over again, to release the anger, resentment, and desire for vengeance.

Forgiveness doesn't mean the offense didn't matter or that we condone what was done to us. It means we are letting go of the right to get even and trusting that God will handle justice in His time. In Romans 12:19, Paul tells us, “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord."

3. The Role of God's Grace in Forgiveness: When we struggle to forgive, it's helpful to remember how much we've been forgiven. Ephesians 4:32 says, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

It’s easy to forget how much God has forgiven us. But when we reflect on the depth of His grace toward us, it can inspire us to extend that same grace to others. Jesus’ forgiveness of our sins, at great cost to Himself, sets the standard for our forgiveness. In light of what He has done for us, forgiving others becomes not only possible, but necessary.

It’s important to remember that forgiveness is an act of grace. It’s not based on the other person’s deserving it, but on God's work in us. Forgiveness is a decision we make, empowered by God's love, to release someone from the debt they owe us.

4. Forgiveness Does Not Mean Forgetting: Here is the key point: Forgiving is not the same as forgetting. Often, when we think about forgiveness, we imagine that in order to truly forgive, we must completely forget the wrong that was done to us. But that is not what the Bible teaches.

Forgetting the hurt is often impossible, especially when it has deeply wounded our hearts. But forgiveness is about choosing not to allow the memory of the offense to control us or to keep us in bondage. Forgiveness is a way of saying, "Though I may never forget what you did, I choose to no longer hold it against you."

In Isaiah 43:25, God says, “I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions, for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more.” This doesn’t mean God has a selective memory. It means that He chooses to no longer hold our sins against us. In the same way, when we forgive, we choose to let go of the anger and bitterness tied to that memory.

Forgiveness is not erasing the memory, but choosing to release its power over us. We may still remember the pain, but by God’s grace, it no longer defines us or controls our actions.

5. The Healing Power of Forgiveness: Finally, forgiveness is not just for the one who wronged us—it’s for us as well. Holding onto unforgiveness is like carrying around a heavy burden. It weighs us down, poisons our hearts, and keeps us stuck in the past. But when we choose to forgive, we are set free. Psalm 34:22, “The Lord will rescue his servants; no one who takes refuge in him will be condemned.”

Jesus said, “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32). The truth is that we have been forgiven by a loving God, and when we forgive others, we experience His freedom and peace. It's in the act of forgiveness that we find healing—not just for the one who has wronged us, but for our own hearts.

Conclusion: So, how do we forgive what we can’t forget?

-       We begin by acknowledging the pain.

-       We trust God’s call to forgive, remembering the grace He has extended to us.

-       We choose to release the other person from the debt they owe us, knowing that forgiveness doesn’t mean forgetting, but choosing to no longer hold the offense against them.

-       And, most importantly, we allow God’s healing power to transform our hearts and minds as we walk in forgiveness.

Let us pray.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we come before You today with our pain and our hurt. You know the depths of our wounds, and You understand the struggle of forgiving those who have wronged us. Lord, help us to release the bitterness and anger in our hearts. Teach us to forgive as You have forgiven us, and help us to find healing in the process. We trust You to bring justice where it is needed, and we ask for Your strength to live in the freedom of forgiveness. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

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Call to Action: If you are holding onto unforgiveness today, I invite you to bring it before God. It may take time, and it may be difficult, but know that God’s grace is sufficient for you. Choose to forgive, not for the other person’s sake, but for your own peace and healing.