Introduction

If you have been to the malls recently, you will notice many people, even children, walking around. They all seem to be very happy and excited to be there. As we hear more and more about the number of cases going down, many of us are looking forward to doing the normal things that we used to do prior to the pandemic. Naturally, we are all very happy. Finally. But something tells us this may not be over yet. The threat of variants and mutations is still hanging over us. So, how do we celebrate Christmas now?

Three Ways

1. Remember *God’s Faithfulness*. (Luke 1:11-17) – The true meaning of Christmas is that God remains faithful in spite of all our failures and sins. This is the message of the angel to Zechariah and Elizabeth. This is what they understood. This is also the reason for their real joy. When we understand the true meaning of the Good News and believe, we will also experience real joy, regardless of our circumstances, and in spite of all our failures and sins.
   [bctt tweet=”The true meaning of Christmas is that God remains faithful in spite of all our failures and sins.” username=”rlccphil”]
2. Trust in *God’s Promises*. (Luke 1:39-45) – Mary believed God’s word to her even though what the angel told her may seem unbelievable, naturally speaking. But she understood that with God, nothing is impossible. In the same way, when we choose to believe God’s promises, we also experience real joy. His word is true, even though we may not see it immediately. What He says, He will definitely fulfill, according to His promises.
   [bctt tweet=”When we choose to believe God’s promises, we also experience real joy.” username=”rlccphil”]
3. Look forward to *God’s Purposes*. (Luke 2:8-20) – The shepherds were told about the Good News that a Savior was born. His birth would be God’s grace personified. They were excited about that. They wanted to understand better, so they went and looked for the baby Jesus lying in a manger. Even Mary had to ponder on this matter deeply in her heart. God’s purpose for sending Jesus is to save us. Once we understand that and believe, we will experience real joy.
   [bctt tweet=”God’s purpose for sending Jesus is to save us. Once we understand that and believe, we will experience real joy.” username=”rlccphil”]

Conclusion

1. Christmas brings real joy if you *understand* and *believe*.
2. Don’t rely on superficial and external sources of joy.
3. This Christmas, gather your families to understand and believe the Good News!
   [bctt tweet=”Christmas brings real joy if you understand and believe.” username=”rlccphil”]

Discussion

1. Why do we tend to focus only on blessings, exciting things, and success to be happy?
2. Why is it important to ponder on the Good News during this time?
3. How will you apply this sermon as a family?