The visit of the magi honors the newborn king and invites us to see Jesus as a different model of a king, who uses his authority with humility, grace and love.

The story of Christmas is a transcendent moment of simple beauty and joy. In the birth of Jesus, the hopes and realities of the world are held together within the peace and redemptive love of God.

Mary's song sets the stage for Christmas and foreshadows the mission and heart of Jesus, extending hope to the lowly.

In the season of Advent, Jesus teaches us to hold reality and hope together, even when our present reality makes the future seem uncertain.

Jesus used his voice and position as Son of God and king to serve, especially those overlooked and excluded. We are called to be God's heart, hands and voice and to share the truth of his love and grace today with our neighbors.

In Christian community we have the gift of centering ourselves in the truth and love of Jesus. From God's timeless wisdom, we are called to extend our hands to neighbor and stranger to foster justice.

As people of faith, we are God's presence in our relationships and the world. We are invited to be God's heart, hands and voice.

At the heart of the Reformation was a delightful discovery—that while we are broken individuals, we are loved by God completely. That truth brought freedom—freedom not simply from responsibilities and obligations but freedom for serving the neighbor. Jesus still welcomes us into his love and freedom and invites us to share that with every neighbor.

The life of faith is about serving. And when we have the responsibility and position of authority, we use it to serve with humility rather than revel in greatness.

Following Jesus isn't just a nice, interesting idea. It's a call to life transformation. It's a call to participate in the redemption of the world–restoring the life of our real neighbors. Jesus invites you to follow.