The mystery of Christmas is a profound testament to God’s unfathomable love for humanity. At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we celebrate this mystery as we strive to “Be the change as Jesus has changed us,” through “Just 3” – Study, Share, Serve. The incarnation of Christ, God becoming man, is a mystery that invites us to explore the depths of God’s love and His incredible plan for our salvation.
Study: Unveiling the Mystery Through Scripture
The incarnation of Christ is a mystery that invites us to delve deeper into the scriptures to understand God’s plan for salvation.
- The Word Became Flesh: John 1:14 states, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” This verse encapsulates the mystery of God becoming man, a concept that challenges our understanding and invites us to study and reflect. The idea that the Creator of the universe would humble Himself to become a human being is beyond our comprehension, yet it is the foundation of our faith.
- God’s Plan Revealed: Explore passages such as Philippians 2:6-8, which describe Jesus’ humility and obedience, highlighting the depth of God’s love and the mystery of His plan for redemption. These scriptures reveal the heart of God, who was willing to sacrifice His own Son to save us from our sins. As we study these passages, we gain a greater appreciation for the lengths God went to in order to bring us back into relationship with Him.
Share: Communicating the Mystery of God’s Love
Sharing the mystery of Christmas is an opportunity to communicate the depth of God’s love to others.
- Advent Reflections: Encourage the sharing of Advent reflections that focus on themes of hope, peace, joy, and love, helping others to grasp the significance of the season. These reflections can be shared through church services, social media, or personal conversations, providing opportunities for others to encounter the mystery of Christmas.
- Community Outreach: Organize events that share the message of Christmas with the community, inviting others to experience the mystery and love of God. This could include Christmas concerts, nativity plays, or outreach programs that provide for those in need. By sharing the message of Christmas, we invite others to experience the transformative power of God’s love.
Serve: Love in Action
Serving others is a practical way to embody the mystery of God’s love.
- Christmas Service Projects: Engage in service projects that meet the needs of the community, reflecting the love and humility of Christ. This could involve partnering with local charities, organizing food drives, or providing gifts for children in need. These acts of service demonstrate the love of Christ in tangible ways.
- Supporting Families: Focus on supporting families during the holiday season, providing resources and assistance to those in need. This could include offering financial support, providing meals, or offering counseling services. By serving families, we reflect the love and care of God, who came to earth to bring hope and healing.
Conclusion: The mystery of Christmas is a reminder of God’s incredible love and the lengths He went to redeem us. As we study, share, and serve, let us be inspired to live out this mystery in our daily lives, embodying the love of Christ in all we do. At Lakeview Christian Church, we are committed to being the change as Jesus has changed us, sharing the mystery of Christmas with our community and beyond. Let us embrace the wonder of the incarnation and allow it to transform our lives and the lives of those around us.
