40 for 40 Christmas Classics 16x9

Each week of Advent we will have a new focus.  This week’s focus is “God came to a Manger”.  Reading: Isaiah 9.6-7

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.  And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.  Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever.  The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this.

Our lives and circumstances can often feel chaotic, and out of our control, filling us with uncertainty. In these times, we can still find peace in God as He's working all things in place according to His will. 

Not long before the birth of Jesus, Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census be taken throughout the empire, so that he might demonstrate his power over the people of Israel. It was a time of chaos and uncertainty throughout the land. Because of this decree Joseph and Mary were led to Bethlehem in the midst of chaos and tension. The only place they could find to stay was an overcrowded animal stable hidden behind an Inn with no room. And although they likely felt frustrated and confused they were actually fulfilling the prophecy spoken in Micah 5:2, "but you, O Bethlehem, out of you will come for me, one who will rule over Israel, whose origins are from old, from ancient times”.

Circumstances that might seem random are actually the work of God. He is the author of a great plan, working in the natural to bring the supernatural into our lives. Joseph and Mary simply followed what they knew to be right. Surely they had questions and doubts but still they trusted God, and His peace sustained them on the journey. Trusting God in the ordinary allows us to participate in His work that is extraordinary.

God came to a Manger to be with us. Let us profess our praise and trust in Emmanuel - God With Us. For He has come to be with His people, bringing Hope, Peace and Purpose into our daily lives.

Memory Verse: And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1.14