Scripture: Ephesians 5:1-5:21, James 5:16-5:16

What does it mean to be a Christian and live as a child of God? Today we'll learn that our new life in Christ is not lived in isolation but in the family of God. As we grow in the understanding of our new family relations we are called to walk as beloved children of God who are responsible for one another.

The path that Jesus has for His followers (disciples) is exciting, yet narrow and filled with challenges. To stay on this path (the "Christian walk") demands support and accountability - because we cannot do it alone. It was never intended that we walk it alone. We need the help of others in "the household of faith" - the church.

Scripture: Colossians 3:12-3:17

Family is the most common analogy that the Bible uses to speak about the church. But just like our physical families the church can sometimes be a confusing and difficult place and so what is needed is a clear understanding of what the church should look like. The church is to be a gathering of believers defined by love for one another and thankfulness to God.

Scripture: Colossians 3:11-3:17, Galatians 6:10-6:10, Ephesians 2:19-2:19, 1 Timothy 3:15-3:15

The church is not a religious service-provider but is instead the beloved multi-ethnic family of God that is called to embrace and model a new humanity that is marked by love, peace, truth and thanksgiving.

Scripture: Matthew 2:19-23

Most of us have wondered what our lives would look like if we had taken different decisions than the ones we took in the past. If I had taken that job offer in Calgary, or what if I had studied that other career, maybe I should've got a dog instead of that proud arrogant cat no one can pat... things like that that propel our imagination into parallel outcomes, unreached dreams, or even nostalgic regrets. Today as we read the final verses on chapter 2 of Matthew and the story of Christmas, we'll learn from Scriptures of God's patience, protection, guidance, comfort, and grace, and we'll learn how Jesus rewrites our story.

Scripture: Matthew 2:19-23

Following God's leading can be uncomfortable at times, and at other times downright nerve-wracking! Matthew 2:19-23 and its context assures us that God cares for us deeply and desires to guide us carefully in His ways. Following God's way won't always be easy, but as we faithfully follow, He will work out his great plans in and through us.

Scripture: John 1:1-14

John's gospel (and the rest of the Bible!) repeatedly tells us that Jesus is "the light of the world" who brings life. This Christmas, as people all around the world hold "celebrations of light", we have the greatest reason to celebrate: The life that Jesus came to bring.

With all the anxiety, depression, and fear that's plaguing our world, it's natural to assume that if there's a God He doesn't care. But, in fact, He loves us so much that He came to deal decisively with everything that plagues our lives and world. Christmas reminds us that God is not absent, He dwells among us; He is not distant, He came near.

Scripture: Matthew 2:13-18

The Christmas story is so familiar that we can recite it from memory. One part of the story that Matthew records includes what appears to be obscure references to Old Testament prophets. Matthew's account helps us to recognize that while Christmas is a time of peace and joy, it also marks the start of a cosmic battle wherein Jesus wages war against Satan for our souls and in the process offers us freedom and forgiveness from sin.

Scripture: Matthew 2:13-18

The whole Bible is either preparing us for the coming of Jesus or explaining to us what Jesus did. Even the greatest moments of God's salvation throughout history were meant to point to a greater salvation that would be accomplished in Jesus. At Christmas we celebrate the fulfillment of God's promises!