Weekly Newsletter Dec. 21

Larry and Patricia had been married for about twenty years. When their daughter convinced Larry to research their ancestry through DNA, Patricia panicked. That night, she confessed that she'd had a long-term affair about fifteen years ago. As a result, Larry learned that he was not their daughter's biological father. The marriage did not survive. Their story illustrates the reality of many families: secrets get found out. Skeletons have a way of slipping out of their closets. 

Jesus' family tree has a few shaky branches in it. In ancient days, women were not supposed to be part of genealogies, but the biblical writers list five women as significant parts of Jesus' ancestry. And they are probably more influential than the men. You might enjoy reading about them: 

Tamar (See Genesis 38)
Rahab (Joshua 2)
Ruth (Ruth 1-4)
Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11)
Mary (Luke 1-2)

Many times we think that God only uses the perfect, mature, faithful, trained, and most blessed persons to accomplish his purposes. But that's totally wrong. The point of Christmas is that God became human in order that we humans can be restored to a right relationship with God. If God can't take what is wounded and heal it, or what is broken and mend it, or what is unjust and transform it into what is just, then God can't do what he says he can. God had to become human in order that we could experience the powerful renewal and hope of everlasting life that Jesus brings. 

We celebrate Jesus' human birth not only because it is a miracle of virgin birth but more importantly because God has come to take on the very life we seek to flee: a life destined to destruction and death. Jesus entered this world through Mary. He grew. He matured. He carried the penalty of our own selfish and hurtful ways to the grave. He left it there and rose to live forever. But that's the rest of the story for another holy day we call Easter. 

You may have tragic events in your past that come from consequences of your own decisions or those of someone else. You may be in a family that hides some history from younger generations. But God knows. And God is merciful to remain with you as you deal with those things. If you need forgiveness, God forgives. God heals. God restores. God gives new life! That's why Jesus came, and that's why we celebrate Christmas. Life need not tear apart your family. 

So enjoy and revel in the festivities of Christmas and constantly give thanks that God does not and will not leave us. Trust in Jesus with your whole heart and follow him. 

Merry Christmas!

We are here to love God and all people so that all people may experience the

life-changing love of Jesus!

LOVE - We meet every weekend to experience God's love for us and show His love for others.

SERVE- We use our abilities, talents, skills, and passions for the good of others.

ENGAGE - We engage with friends to care for one another and to make new friends so they may experience God's kindness too. 

Gracious God, you have knitted us all together not just as individuals but as family. You have placed us together so that we can experience your love and life in intimate friendship with you and others. However, we're not very good at keeping those relationships whole. Forgive us. Show us and strengthen us to live as you want us to live. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. 

- Pastor Roger