The Christmas Story...

Sam and Ginger are taking the time to read the Christmas Story (Luke 2). They want to make sure that we don't forget the real reason for Christmas. It's all about God's love for us and the amazing gift of a Savior that came to us as a little baby born in a manger. So with all the hustle and bustle of the season, with all the fun of Elves and magic of Santa, please be sure to keep Christ in Christmas this year and share Him with those you meet...that's a true gift that everyone needs.

The Christmas story is the story of God's becoming a human being in the Person of Jesus Christ. Why did God do such a thing? John 3:16-17 says, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him." Because He loves us! Why was Christmas necessary? Because we needed a Savior! Why does God love us so much? Because He is love itself (1 John 4:8). Why do we celebrate Christmas each year? Out of gratitude for what God did for us. The true meaning of Christmas is love. God loves us and has provided a way—the only Way—for us to spend eternity with Him. He gave His only Son to take our punishment for our sins. He paid the price in full, and we are free from condemnation when we accept that free gift of love. "But God demonstrated His own love for us in this: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8).

Merry Christmas everyone!