Life can be messy, like that big ball of Christmas lights all tangled together. But the Good News is that Jesus enters the mess of our life to bring us peace and joy.
December 5, 2021 – Messy Expectations
Even by ancient standards, Mary didn’t give birth in the way she expected. A last minute journey, no room in the hotel, surrounded by animals; none of this was probably in her plans. We bring a lot of unrealistic expectations to the holidays, which can lead to disappointment and frustration. But from the very beginning Jesus is upending our expectations, and helping us to see a different way.
Luke 2:1-7
The Birth of Jesus
2 In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3 All went to their own towns to be registered. 4 Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. 5 He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. 6 While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. 7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.