We all know the pleasure of getting a gift, and we understand the joy in giving a gift. But the gift of Jesus is something that our human perception of gifts cannot hold a candle to.

Jesus is not just a distant God. He is Immanuel, God with us, and he can therefore fully understand all that we face.

We are absolutely dependent upon God for everything, therefore giving thanks to him in all circumstances is a necessary component of our faith.

Tyler Velin gives four points to help frame our mind for mission.

Listen to author Hugh Whelchel's message on reframing our view of work and calling.

In the end, God will accomplish all of his purposes. King Jesus will be with his people in the new heaven and the new earth, and our joy will be complete.

We are still living in the midst of the biblical story. During this period between Jesus' first and second comings, Jesus gives us the Holy Spirit and builds his church around the world.

As soon as Jesus steps onto the scene, God makes it clear that he is the promised King. All of God's plans and purposes come together in Jesus, and he fulfills them in the most beautiful and unexpected way.

By the end of the Old Testament, it is clear that the story isn't over yet. The King and Savior that God has promised has not yet come.

After the Fall the Lord begins his mission by giving us his promises of what he will do.