Our series takes a detour to consider how we can have joy this Christmas in the wake of tragedy and suffering. From the shepherds' point of view, we can learn that God is attentive to the hurting, and that Christ is the source of eternal joy.

Mary and Joseph were not impressive by the world's standards, so why did God choose them to raise His Son? The reason can be found in humility and faithfulness. (Quotes from the film the Christmas Experience).

The Christmas story didn't begin with Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem, but before the beginning of time. Throughout history, God was orchestrating all the details so that Jesus would be born at just the right time. (Quotations from the film "The Christmas Experience")

Will Jesus save somebody because of YOUR faith? At face value, it seems like the answer is "no". But a study of several passages in the gospel of Mark clearly shows that Jesus heals people others BRING them to Jesus. (Quotations from Perry Noble).

In Matthew 25, Jesus tells a parable contrasting those whose faith leads them to manage the Master's resources, and one who was not faithful. We discover that faith puts God's resources to work.

We typically define faith as belief or trust, but there is also a tangible aspect to faith. Faith is something to be shared and handed down to others and future generations. Just as our freedoms have been preserved by our veterans, so the gospel must be defended and shared.

Acts 20:22-24. Sometimes you just want to know the cold, hard truth. And as Christ-followers, that means doing the right thing, even when you don't want to; knowing some things, but not know everything; and sharing the good news no matter what!

Acts 13:41-52. Potential energy becomes kinetic energy when a force is exerted to make it move. The church is kinetic, as the Holy Spirit unleashed the potential in us. (Quotations from Francis Chan).

Acts 10. The Holy Spirit led the early church to tear down every barrier that separated God from people of every nation, including the Gentiles. Diversity is still God's desire for his church today, dealing with our prejudices and global vision. (Thanks to Daryl Reed for several insights).

Acts 6:1-7. Faced with a complaint that threatened the unity of the church, the apostles mobilized servants to address the need. We learn that Christian service is Spirit-led, organized, and mission-focused.