This week, we are continuing our series called Jesus Is. We’re looking at the person and divinity of Jesus through the gospel of Luke. If you remember last week, we talked about the most important question: Who is Jesus to you? Because how we answer that question defines how we live our lives. Are we going to be the lord of our own life, or are we going to allow Christ to be the Lord of our life—our Savior who shines His light and love through us?
Today we’re going to look at His birth. And the reality is this: Jesus is so much more than just a Christmas story.
It’s a shame that we keep His birth narrative tucked away for one month a year in December, because the truth of Christ is that He is always making us new. He is always coming into our lives and helping us be born again into this world so that we can be the people God has called us to be.
Scripture Readings
Luke 1:26–38 – The angel Gabriel appears to Mary and proclaims the birth of Jesus.
John 1:1–14 – The Word became flesh and lived among us, full of grace and truth.
Three Truths from These Scriptures
1. Be Not Afraid
Imagine being Mary—just going about her day when suddenly an angel appeared. The first words spoken were: “Do not be afraid.”
Fear is powerful. Whatever we fear, we often end up worshiping, giving it energy and control over our lives. But Scripture is clear—fear only God. Not in the sense of being scared, but with reverence, awe, and respect. When we remember we stand in the presence of the Creator of the universe, we find strength, peace, and boldness. All other fears lose their grip.
Christians don’t have to live in fear—whether it’s bad news, social pressures, or everyday worries—because God is with us.
2. God Will Do Whatever It Takes to Reach His People
If God was willing to come down in human flesh, live like us, and even suffer with us, that means humanity is deeply valuable to Him. He uses imperfect people—like Mary, Joseph, and even you and me—to reveal His presence to the world.
That’s why this story isn’t just for Christmas. The incarnation means God is still with us—every day, in every place. He steps ahead of us, creates opportunities for grace, and empowers us to share His kingdom with others.
Sometimes that’s as simple as handing someone a card that says, “We’re praying for you.” Sometimes it’s sharing our story or being present in someone’s darkest moment. The incarnation proves God will stop at nothing to reach us—and He calls us to do the same for others.
3. God Brings Heaven to Earth
Because Jesus put on flesh, heaven is no longer just a far-off hope. It’s here, breaking into our reality.
Jesus’ first sermon was, “The kingdom of heaven is here. Repent and believe the good news.” That means heaven is something we can experience, not just imagine. We experience it in worship, in moments of prayer, in acts of love and forgiveness, and even on a beach with strangers when the Holy Spirit breaks into a conversation.
Heaven is here—and through Jesus, we get to share it.
More Than a Christmas Story
So, church, let’s not limit Jesus’ birth to a once-a-year holiday story. Let’s live daily in the truth that:
- We do not have to be afraid.
- God will do whatever it takes to reach His people.
- Heaven has come to earth.
The incarnation is ongoing—God with us, still today. And that changes everything.
Closing Prayer
Gracious and holy God,
Thank you for coming to your creation, for the Creator becoming part of creation. Thank you for doing whatever it takes to reach your people—not just with words, but by putting on flesh and living among us. Help us stand in awe of You, live without fear, and boldly show the world that heaven is here. May our lives reflect Jesus Christ, full of grace and truth. Amen.
R Y A N S T R A T T O N 