Christmas is a celebration of the first coming of Christ. Christians look back to what God did many years ago, sending his Son as a baby boy, come to save us from our sins. But we don’t only look back to see what God has done—we also look forward to what God will do. Christ has come to save us from our sins and he will come again to make all things new and to live with us forever in perfect peace and joy.

This Christmas Eve we took a look at a familiar passage of scripture, Luke 2:1-7. From there we looked deeper into the character of Ceasar Augustus and how his attitude and way of doing things was in distinct contrast to that of Jesus.

While it is easy to get hung up in the details of the visit of the wise men, it can cause us to miss the point of the story. These men travelled many miles over many months so that they could kneel before this child in worship.There was no question in their minds of who he was and there was no question in their mind what their response should be. What about in your mind?

Kids and grown-ups aren't that much different. At times, we both feel afraid and alone. But knowing Jesus as our Good Shepherd settles our hearts as we go through the dark times in life and gives us a passion to go after those who need his love. To see the kids portion of the sermon, click here: vimeo.com/379636271

Sometimes we forget the obvious that Jesus is the most important character in the Christmas story. There's a glory and transcendent beauty about him. More than a baby in a manger, he is the eternal Son of God who took on flesh to save us from our sins. And He's still shining his light in the darkness. So, how will you respond to Jesus this Christmas?

God has visited us. That's essentially what Christmas is all about. Christ has come to this earth to redeem us. Just like a sunrise, he breaks through the darkness to save us. And one day he will return to make all things right.