New Year's Message

Every year about this time, I have a moment—a moment where my heart rediscovers the true meaning of Christmas. It’s not found in the rush of holiday preparations or the giving of gifts, but in hearing something fresh and profound from the Lord as I study the Scriptures surrounding His birth. It’s as if I pause in the middle of the holiday chaos and say, "Oh, there You are, Lord." This experience is both humbling and awe-inspiring. It reminds me that amidst the busyness of the season, I can so easily lose sight of Him. But He never hides from me; I just need to refocus my heart, quiet my spirit, and listen again. The Search for the Savior The Christmas story itself is a tale of searching. Mary and Joseph searched for a place for Jesus to be born. The shepherds searched for the baby in the manger. The wise men traveled great distances, following a star, searching for the King of Kings. Matthew 2:10-11 (NKJV) says: “When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” Their search culminated in worship, and that’s where my heart always ends up when I rediscover Him during this season. It’s a reminder that even if I’ve been distracted or overwhelmed, Jesus is always ready to reveal Himself when I seek Him. Rediscovering His Presence One of the most comforting truths about our faith is that God is never far from us. Jeremiah 29:13 (NKJV) promises: “And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.” The beauty of Christmas is that it reminds us of Emmanuel, "God with us" (Matthew 1:23). Even when life feels chaotic, He is near. Rediscovering the true meaning of Christmas isn’t about finding something new; it’s about realizing He has been there all along, waiting for us to turn our hearts toward Him. Hearing Something New Every year, in my studies of the Scriptures and the story of Jesus’ birth, I hear something new from the Lord. It’s not that the story changes; it’s that my understanding deepens. Hebrews 4:12 (NKJV) reminds us: "For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." The Word is alive, and God continually uses it to reveal His heart to us. One year, it may be the humility of Jesus’ birth that strikes me. Another year, it might be the faith of Mary or the obedience of Joseph. Each discovery brings a fresh sense of wonder and gratitude. Refocusing in the Busyness The holiday season is busy, often overwhelmingly so. But it’s in the midst of that busyness that I’m reminded of the need to stop, breathe, and refocus on Him. Psalm 46:10 (NKJV) says: "Be still, and know that I am God." Stillness is hard to find during Christmas, but it’s essential for hearing His voice. When I take even a few moments to quiet my heart and focus on Him, I find the clarity and peace that the world’s distractions can never offer. The Wonder of Finding Him Again Charles Spurgeon once said: “Nothing teaches us about the preciousness of the Creator as much as when we learn the emptiness of everything else.” This is what I experience every year when I rediscover the true meaning of Christmas. The lights, the gifts, the celebrations—they are beautiful, but they are empty without Him. The moment I find Him again, I am reminded of the joy, peace, and love that only He can bring. C.S. Lewis also captures this beautifully: "Look for yourself, and you will find in the long run only hatred, loneliness, despair, rage, ruin, and decay. But look for Christ and you will find Him, and with Him everything else thrown in." A Call to Rediscover Him If you’ve felt distracted or overwhelmed this season, know that it’s never too late to refocus. Seek Him in His Word, in prayer, and in moments of stillness. Reflect on the incredible truth of His birth: the Creator of the universe stepped into our broken world to save us. That is the true meaning of Christmas. Let this be the year that you, too, have that moment where your heart says, "Oh, there You are, Lord." And let that discovery lead you to worship, just as it did for the shepherds, the wise men, and countless others who have encountered Him. Closing Reflection Christmas is a season of discovery. Whether you’re hearing something new in Scripture, feeling a fresh sense of His presence, or rediscovering the wonder of His birth, every moment spent seeking Him is a gift. Take time this year to quiet your heart, search for Him, and let Him reveal Himself to you anew. When you find Him, you will know the joy of saying, "Oh, there You are, Lord." Quotes Referenced: Charles Spurgeon C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity

This evening, as I walked into the sanctuary to close up, I was met with a breathtaking sight—a brilliant beam of light streaming through the stained-glass window, illuminating the sanctuary in a soft, holy glow. The light seemed to radiate from the wreath on the window, as if it were declaring, “The Light of the World has come!” In that quiet, sacred moment, I was reminded of the prophecy from Isaiah: “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone.” – Isaiah 9:2 (ESV) This scripture speaks to the heart of the Christmas message. It reminds us that Christ entered a dark and weary world to bring hope, salvation, and life. The world before Jesus was much like that dim sanctuary before the sun hit the window—quiet, waiting, and longing for the arrival of something divine. Light That Breaks the Darkness Isaiah’s words were fulfilled in the birth of Jesus, the Messiah. The Gospel of John echoes this truth: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5). Christ’s light isn’t just a flicker or a faint glimmer; it is a powerful, life-changing force that transforms hearts and circumstances. When I saw that light streaming through the sanctuary window, I thought about how God’s light finds its way into the dark corners of our lives. It reminded me that no matter how heavy the burdens we carry, the light of Christ is enough to break through. His light offers comfort, clarity, and warmth to the weary soul. A Light for Every Season For many of us, the Christmas season is filled with joy and celebration. But for others, it can be a time of reflection, grief, or longing. The beauty of God’s light is that it meets us where we are, whether in joy or sorrow. Just as the light coming through the stained-glass window filled the empty sanctuary with beauty, God’s presence fills the empty spaces in our hearts. This display of light reminded me that God’s light is not confined to Christmas; it is constant and eternal. Even in the quiet, still moments, like a morning in an empty sanctuary, His presence is there, shining through and reminding us of His faithfulness. Be Carriers of the Light As followers of Christ, we are called not only to bask in His light but to carry it to others. Jesus said, “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden” (Matthew 5:14). Just as the sun illuminated the sanctuary window, reflecting the beauty of the wreath, we are called to reflect Christ’s love to a world still walking in darkness. This Christmas season, let us be mindful of the ways we can share His light—through a kind word, a selfless act, or a prayer offered for someone in need. The great light that Isaiah spoke of is still shining today, and we are privileged to share it with others. A Moment of Reflection As I stood in the sanctuary, looking at that radiant light, I felt a deep sense of awe and gratitude. It was a reminder that God’s light is always with us, even in the most unexpected moments. The sanctuary, though still and empty, became a holy place filled with His glory. This Christmas, may we turn our eyes to the Light that has come, and may we allow that Light to shine through us. The people who walked in darkness have indeed seen a great light, and that light is Jesus Christ.

We often look for God in the big moments—the miracles, the breakthroughs, the moments of unmistakable clarity. But the reality is, God is just as present and active in the ordinary, the unnoticed, and the seemingly small moments of life. While we tend to expect burning bushes and parting seas, God reveals Himself just as powerfully in a quiet morning, a kind word, or an unremarkable day. A Whisper, Not a Shout The prophet Elijah experienced this truth firsthand. In 1 Kings 19, Elijah was worn out and overwhelmed, fleeing for his life and desperate for God to show up. And God did—just not in the way Elijah expected. 1 Kings 19:11-12 (NKJV) tells us: “Then He said, ‘Go out, and stand on the mountain before the Lord.’ And behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind tore into the mountains and broke the rocks in pieces before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake; and after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire; and after the fire a still small voice.” The Lord chose a whisper—a quiet voice. How often do we miss Him because we’re looking for the extraordinary when He’s speaking in the calm? God in the Everyday Moments Jesus Himself taught the power of seeing God in the ordinary. His parables weren’t filled with grand spectacles but with stories about seeds, shepherds, fish, bread, and vineyards—things that were common, everyday parts of life. Through these examples, He revealed eternal truths. Consider these ordinary moments where God still works: In Daily Work: Whether you’re changing diapers, working a job you don’t love, or leading a team, God is present. Colossians 3:23 (NKJV) reminds us: “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.” When we view our daily work as worship, even the mundane becomes meaningful. In Conversations: God works through relationships and conversations. A listening ear or an encouraging word can be a reflection of God’s love. Proverbs 16:24 (NIV) says: “Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” In Silence: Sometimes we fill our lives with noise because silence feels uncomfortable. But it’s often in the quiet moments—when the distractions are gone—that God speaks most clearly. Learning to Notice God So, how do we recognize God in the ordinary? It begins with intentionality. We must train ourselves to slow down, pay attention, and look for Him in the small things. Here are a few practices to help: Practice Gratitude: Keep a list of the small blessings you notice each day—a beautiful sunrise, a conversation with a friend, or a quiet moment of peace. Be Present: Put away distractions and be fully engaged in the moment, whether you’re at home, at work, or in prayer. Ask for Eyes to See: Pray for God to reveal Himself in the ordinary. Matthew 7:7 (NKJV) promises: “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” Celebrate Small Obedience: Recognize that obedience in the little things—a small act of kindness, a prayer for someone, a step of faith—is just as significant as obedience in the big moments. Small Moments Can Change Everything Think about the feeding of the five thousand. It started with an ordinary lunch: five loaves and two fish. Yet when offered to Jesus, He multiplied it to bless thousands (John 6:9-11). God takes what seems small and insignificant and uses it for His glory when we place it in His hands. Or think of the woman at the well in John 4. Her day started like any other. She was simply drawing water, unaware she was about to encounter Jesus. That “ordinary” moment turned into the most extraordinary encounter of her life—and through her, many others came to know Jesus. A New Perspective It’s time we stop waiting for God only in the grand and start seeing Him in the simple. Every moment is an opportunity to experience His presence, to glorify Him, and to let Him use us for His purposes. As Oswald Chambers wrote: “We look for visions of heaven, and we never dream that all the time God is in the commonplace things and people around us.” Closing Thought God is working in your life right now—not just in the big moments, but in the ordinary ones. Don’t overlook the still, small voice because you’re waiting for the wind, the earthquake, or the fire. He is just as present in the everyday as He is in the miraculous. Slow down. Notice Him. And offer Him your small, ordinary moments, trusting that He can turn them into something extraordinary. Quote Referenced: Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest

As we gathered this morning for the second Sunday of Advent, we lit the candle of Peace and reflected on Zechariah’s prophetic song in Luke 1:57-80. This powerful passage, often called the Benedictus, reminds us that God’s peace enters our world not through force or human efforts but through His mercy and redemption. Let’s take a deeper look at the truths we uncovered and their relevance for our lives today. God’s Mercy in Unexpected Places The birth of John the Baptist was a miracle, not only because Elizabeth had been barren but because it marked the beginning of God’s fulfillment of His promises to Israel. In a time of political turmoil and societal unrest, this event reminded the people that God’s mercy reaches into the most barren places to bring life and hope. Elizabeth and Zechariah’s story teaches us that God’s peace often starts in the personal spaces of our lives—places of disappointment, waiting, and longing. Their faithfulness in waiting on God opened the door for His mercy to be displayed, not just for their family but for their community and, ultimately, for the world. Reflection: Where in your life do you feel barren or weary? Remember, God’s mercy can transform even the hardest seasons into a testimony of His faithfulness. Redemption Leads to Peace Zechariah’s prophecy is a declaration of praise for God’s work of redemption: “Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for He has visited us and accomplished redemption for His people.” The word “redemption” speaks of liberation—being set free from bondage. For the people of Israel, this evoked memories of the Exodus, but Zechariah points to a deeper liberation: freedom from sin and reconciliation with God. In today’s world, we often seek peace through external means—political solutions, financial stability, or social change. While these pursuits have value, Zechariah reminds us that true peace begins with spiritual redemption. It is only through Christ that we can experience the wholeness and harmony God intends for us. Reflection: Are you looking for peace in the wrong places? Let God’s redemption through Jesus bring peace to your heart and mind. The Path of Peace Zechariah ends his prophecy with these profound words: “To shine on those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.” Jesus, described as the “Sunrise from on high,” brings light to those in darkness and guides us into the way of peace. This peace is not passive but active—a path we must walk as we align ourselves with God’s purposes. In our divided and troubled world, the need for Christ’s peace is more urgent than ever. As followers of Jesus, we are called to reflect His light and guide others into the peace that only He can offer. Reflection: What steps can you take this week to walk in the way of peace? How can you bring light to someone sitting in darkness? Becoming Peacemakers Zechariah’s song doesn’t just celebrate God’s peace; it invites us to participate in it. Jesus calls us to be peacemakers, actively seeking reconciliation and justice in our relationships, communities, and world. Practical Steps to Peace: Reconcile with someone you’ve been estranged from—apologize, forgive, and seek healing. Serve your community—find a way to meet a need or bring hope to someone struggling. Share the Gospel—help others experience the peace of reconciliation with God. Advocate for justice—stand against oppression and work for systems that reflect God’s heart for mercy and fairness. The Call for Today The birth of John the Baptist was the beginning of God’s redemptive work breaking into the world. Through John, the way was prepared for Jesus, the ultimate source of peace. Today, we stand in the same need for God’s peace to break into our personal and collective chaos. As we continue this Advent season, let us remember that peace is not the absence of conflict but the presence of Christ. His light shines in the darkness, guiding us into the way of peace and calling us to reflect that light to others. Prayer: “Lord, thank You for sending Jesus, the Sunrise from on high, to guide us into the way of peace. Help us to reflect Your light and bring hope and healing to those around us. May we walk as peacemakers, pointing others to Your love and mercy. Amen.” We invite you to join us next Sunday as we continue our Advent journey. If you missed today’s message, you can stream it online at MyUnionGrove.com. Let’s walk this path of peace together!

Christmas is a season overflowing with celebration, joy, and generosity. We fill our days with gift-giving, family gatherings, festive meals, and treasured traditions. But amid all the lights and carols, it’s easy to forget the central reason for it all: Jesus. The One who came to earth to bring us eternal life deserves not just our attention but our very best gifts. This Christmas, don’t let the busyness of the season keep you from honoring Him. Let’s refocus our hearts, ensuring that we give Jesus the best of our time, resources, and love\u2014not just during the holidays but throughout the year. Remembering the Greatest Gift At the heart of Christmas is the greatest gift ever given: Jesus Christ. God’s gift to humanity wasn’t wrapped in ribbons or bows but in the form of a baby born in a humble manger. John 3:16 (NKJV) captures this beautifully: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” God didn’t hold back. He gave us His very best. Christmas is an invitation to reflect on that extraordinary generosity and respond by offering our best back to Him. It’s a reminder that Jesus isn’t just worthy of a place on our holiday schedules\u2014He deserves first place in our hearts. Giving Like the Wise Men The wise men’s journey to Jesus serves as a model for how we can bring our best gifts to Him. Matthew 2:11 (NKJV) describes their offering: “And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” These gifts were not random. Gold symbolized Jesus’ kingship, frankincense His divinity, and myrrh His sacrifice. The wise men’s offerings reflected the value they placed on Jesus and their understanding of who He was. What about us? Are we bringing our best to Jesus, or are we letting the pressures of the season distract us? Giving our best doesn’t always mean material offerings. It means bringing Him our undivided worship, our time, our obedience, and our hearts. The Danger of Seasonal Generosity Christmas often brings out the best in people. Acts of kindness abound, and generosity flows. But there’s a danger in allowing this spirit of giving to fade once the decorations are packed away. Our relationship with Jesus and our commitment to bless others should not be seasonal. Proverbs 3:9 (NKJV) reminds us: “Honor the Lord with your possessions, and with the firstfruits of all your increase.” This verse challenges us to consistently give God our first and best, not just during Christmas but all year long. That includes continuing to tithe, supporting ministries, and investing in the work of the Kingdom. Blessing Others as We Have Been Blessed God’s generosity toward us inspires us to be generous with others. Christmas is an opportunity to reflect His love by meeting needs, showing kindness, and being a light to those around us. Acts 20:35 (NKJV) says: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” How can we bless others this season and beyond? Meet Tangible Needs: Provide food, clothing, or financial help to those struggling. Offer Encouragement: Reach out to someone who is lonely or grieving during the holidays. Be Present: Spend quality time with loved ones, sharing the love of Christ in word and action. Support the Church: Continue to give faithfully to your local church and ministries that spread the Gospel. By blessing others, we reflect the heart of Jesus, who came to serve and give His life for us (Matthew 20:28). Year-Round Devotion to Jesus Luke 9:23 (NKJV) reminds us that following Jesus is not a seasonal commitment: “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” Our giving, serving, and worshiping should extend beyond Christmas. They should become a way of life, a daily response to the grace we have received. Jesus gave everything for us. How can we not give our best to Him in return? Don’t Let Christmas Distract You It’s easy to let the demands of the holiday season overshadow our focus on Jesus. But we must guard against this. Christmas should deepen our relationship with Him, not distract us from it. As we shop for gifts, let’s also ask: What gifts are we bringing to Jesus? Are we offering Him our time in prayer and worship? Are we giving Him our resources and tithes? Are we blessing others in His name? Final Reflection As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, let’s not let Christmas keep us from giving Him our best gifts. Let’s honor Him with our worship, our obedience, and our love. And let’s extend His generosity by blessing those around us, not just during the holidays but all year long. When we give our best to Jesus, we’re not just celebrating His birth\u2014we’re living out His mission, glorifying Him in every season of life.

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