A New Year, A New Beginning, Embracing Hope and Renewal

This is the manuscript of the seventh and final sermon in the series that leading to New Year's Day 2025. 

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. (Proverbs 3:5-6 NLT)

A new year often brings with it a sense of anticipation, a fresh start, a chance to wipe the slate clean and begin anew. But how do we truly embrace this opportunity for renewal? How do we navigate the challenges that inevitably lie ahead while cultivating hope and finding strength in our journey?

In a world that often tempts us to rely on our own understanding, to navigate life solely based on our own limited perspectives, this message from the Lord through Solomon offers a profound truth. When we surrender our plans, our worries, and our anxieties to God, we open ourselves to His wisdom and guidance. He knows the path ahead, even when we cannot see it clearly. When we surrender our plans, worries, and anxieties to God, we're essentially acknowledging our dependence on Him and trusting in His divine guidance.

Surrendering our burdens to God doesn't mean we become passive or neglectful of our responsibilities. It means we acknowledge that God is ultimately in control and that His plans are always better than our own. This act of faith can bring a profound sense of peace and inner tranquility.

As we embark on this new year, let us remember that we are not alone. We have a God who is always with us, always for us, and always working everything out for our good. May we walk into this new year with hope, with joy, and with confidence in God's promises. May we walk hand-in-hand with God, trusting in His guidance and embracing the opportunities that lie ahead. 

Isaiah 43:14-20 NLT [14] This is what the Lord says—your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: “For your sakes I will send an army against Babylon, forcing the Babylonians to flee in those ships they are so proud of. [15] I am the Lord, your Holy One, Israel’s Creator and King. [16] I am the Lord, who opened a way through the waters, making a dry path through the sea. [17] I called forth the mighty army of Egypt with all its chariots and horses. I drew them beneath the waves, and they drowned, their lives snuffed out like a smoldering candlewick. [18] “But forget all that— it is nothing compared to what I am going to do. [19] For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland. [20] The wild animals in the fields will thank me, the jackals and owls, too, for giving them water in the desert. Yes, I will make rivers in the dry wasteland so my chosen people can be refreshed.

Introduction:

This coming Wednesday is January 1st the first day in the year of 2025.  A new year often brings with it a sense of anticipation, a fresh start, a chance to wipe the slate clean and begin anew. But how do we truly embrace this opportunity for renewal? How do we navigate the challenges that inevitably lie ahead while cultivating hope and finding strength in our journey?

The Power of Trust:

Proverbs 3:5-6, which is our text for today, reminds us of the importance of trusting in the Lord with all our hearts.

Proverbs 3:5-6 NLT [5] Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. [6] Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.

In a world that often tempts us to rely on our own understanding, to navigate life solely based on our own limited perspectives, this reminder from the Lord through Solomon for us to trust Him  offers a profound truth. When we surrender our plans, our worries, and our anxieties to God, we open ourselves to His wisdom and guidance. He knows the path ahead, even when we cannot see it clearly.

When we surrender our plans, worries, and anxieties to God, we're essentially acknowledging our dependence on Him and trusting in His divine guidance.

Surrendering our burdens to God doesn't mean we become passive or neglectful of our responsibilities. It means we acknowledge that God is ultimately in control and that His plans are always better than our own. This act of faith can bring a profound sense of peace and inner tranquility.

Philippians 4:6-7 says [6] Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. [7] Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.

And 1 Peter 5:6-7 NLT say[6] So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. [7] Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.

Again this is not about passively waiting for things to happen. It's about actively entrusting your anxieties, fears, and concerns to God. 

When you entrust your anxieties, fears, worries and concerns to God it relieves you of carrying the weight of constant worry.  Realizing that God cares for us can bring a sense of peace and tranquility.   As it says in Philippians 4:7 “ His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”

Surrendering your burdens to God deepens your relationship with Him and allows you to experience His love and care more fully. God may not always remove your challenges, but He can guide you through them and give you the strength to overcome them.  

Again from Philippians 4 this time verses 12-13

Philippians 4:12-13 NLT [12] I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. [13] For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. 

So when you face challenges in 2025, and believe me you will face some, remember God’s love for you and His plans and desires for you.  

One of our favorite passages of scripture is Jeremiah 29:11 NLT which says "For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” 

Although this was a message that God gave to Jeremiah for the people of Judah while they were in captivity, in Babylon,  it is a powerful reminder of God's unwavering love and His desire for His people to flourish. He has plans for us, plans to prosper us and not to harm us. These plans are not about material possessions or worldly success, but about a life of purpose, joy, and fulfillment. They are plans that offer hope, a future filled with possibilities and blessings.

At the time of our new birth our spiritual birth we received not only salvation but we received the gift of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

John 14:15-17 NLT[15]  “If you love me, obey my commandments. [16] And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. [17] He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive him, because it isn’t looking for him and doesn’t recognize him. But you know him, because he lives with you now and later will be in you. 

1 Corinthians 3:16-17 NLT[16] Don’t you realize that all of you together are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God lives in you? [17] God will destroy anyone who destroys this temple. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.

With our new spiritual birth the old has gone, and the new is here! 

2 Corinthians 5:16-17 NLT [16] So we have stopped evaluating others from a human point of view. At one time we thought of Christ merely from a human point of view. How differently we know him now! [17] This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!

The Holy Spirit gives us the power to live a life pleasing to God, overcoming sin and cultivating the fruit of the Spirit.

 Galatians 5:22-23 NLT[22] But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, [23] gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!

This incredible power is available to us through our faith in Christ. In 2025 we may face trials, obstacles, and setbacks, but with Christ by our side, we have the strength to overcome any challenge. He empowers us to persevere, to rise above adversity, and to live a life of purpose and significance.

Philippians 4:13 NLT [13] For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. 

This is really a call to action for 2025.  As we embark on this new year, let us:

• Surrender our anxieties and uncertainties to God, knowing that He is in control.

• Seek His guidance and direction in all that we do, trusting that His plans are for our good.

• Draw upon His power to overcome challenges and live a life of purpose and significance.

This new year is not just about making resolutions or setting new goals. It's about renewing our faith, deepening our relationship with God, and living a life that reflects His love and grace. Let us embrace this opportunity for growth, for transformation, and for a life filled with hope and joy.

Paul, in his letter to the church in Philippi wrote

Philippians 3:12-14 NLT [12] I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. [13] No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, [14] I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.

Paul, despite his many accomplishments and spiritual gifts, acknowledges that he hasn't yet reached perfection. He emphasizes the ongoing nature of the Christian life – it's a continuous pursuit of becoming more like Christ.

Paul further emphasizes his own imperfection and encourages us to do the same. It's about not dwelling on the past, whether good or bad, but focusing on moving forward. The "prize" refers to the ultimate reward of eternal life with God. Which is the calling and purpose God has placed on each believer's life. 

It's important to honestly acknowledge our shortcomings and areas for growth. This self-reflection is not about self-condemnation, but about recognizing areas where we can improve and become better versions of ourselves.  The Christian life requires consistent effort and a commitment to pursuing holiness.  So let’s leave behind the regrets and disappointments of the past and focus on the exciting possibilities that lie before us.  

We can look back on this year which is almost over and take time to reflect on the blessings we have received, and express gratitude for the joys, the challenges, and the lessons learned.

Conclusion

As we look forward to the new year, we are reminded that God's love and mercy are new every morning. His faithfulness is great, and His promises are sure.

Jeremiah the prophet who wrote about God’s plans for His people being for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” also wrote this 

Lamentations 3:22-23 NLT[22] The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. [23] Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning.

As we bid farewell to the old and welcome the new, let us remember that our hope and trust are not in the changing calendar, but in the unchanging God.

Hebrews 13:8 NLT Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. 

God is eternal and unchanging. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.  We have the assurance of God’s love despite our failures.

Romans 8:38-39 NLT [38] And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. [39] No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.

God's love for us is not contingent on our performance, success, or failures. It is a steadfast and unwavering love. No force, circumstance, or even our own shortcomings can sever the bond of God's love.  We have the assurance that even in the face of life's challenges and our own imperfections, God's love remains constant and unchanging.

As we embark on this new year, let us remember that we are not alone. We have a God who is always with us, always for us, and always working everything out for our good. 

May we walk into this new year with hope, with joy, and with confidence in God's promises.

Romans 8:28-30 NLT [28] And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. [29] For God knew his people in advance, and he chose them to become like his Son, so that his Son would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. [30] And having chosen them, he called them to come to him. And having called them, he gave them right standing with himself. And having given them right standing, he gave them his glory. 

May we walk hand-in-hand with God, trusting in His guidance and embracing the opportunities that lie ahead. 

Closing Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father, as we look forward to 2025,  we come to You with grateful hearts. Thank You for the gift of life, for the promise of new beginnings, and for the hope that is set before us. Help us to trust in Your goodness, to rely on Your faithfulness, and to rest in Your love. May we live out this new year for Your glory, and may we shine Your light in a world that needs it. Lord, as we enter 2025 we humbly place ourselves in Your hands. Guide our steps, strengthen our faith, and fill our hearts with hope. May we live lives that reflect Your love and grace, and may we bring glory to Your name. Amen.

The Glowing Light of the Lord’s Presence

 

This is the manuscript of the sixth in a sermon series that will continue through the New Year's Day 2025. 

Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, (Luke 2:9 NLT)

On the night of our Lord’s birth, the shekinah glory of the Lord appeared, and the shepherds were made aware of the presence of the eternal God in a unique and unprecedented manner.

We may be surprised to discover that in the world today we can be messengers of the Lord announcing, not only the birth, but the life, death, resurrection, and living presence of Jesus Christ. It is possible for us to be the radiant light of the Lord’s presence by which others can come to know God today.

There are angels singing of Jesus’ birth today. If you have not let him come into your life, then listen to these songs and learn from them. Let Jesus Christ come into your heart and home.

There are shepherds in the world today still telling the good news. There are wisemen and women who have already given him their hearts and treasures; and instead of becoming poor, they have become enriched beyond words by trusting him and giving themselves to him. You would be wise to give yourself to this Christ.

Scripture

Matthew 5:14-16 NLT [14]  “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. [15] No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. [16] In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father. 

Luke 2:8-14 NLT [8] That night there were shepherds ctrl bstaying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. [9] Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory. surrounded them. They were terrified, [10] but the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. [11] The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! [12] And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.” [13] Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others—the armies of heaven—praising God and saying, [14] “Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.”

Introduction

On the night of our Lord’s birth, the shekinah glory of the Lord appeared, and the shepherds were made aware of the presence of the eternal God in a unique and unprecedented manner.   

Text 

Luke 2:9 NLT Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, 

If the shepherds were familiar with the Old Testament Scriptures, they would have recognized that this light that shone around them was a visible symbol of the presence of the invisible God. Which would have caused them to respond with fear and awe. 

 A little background;             

 I. The radiant light of the Lord’s presence.

When the Israelites left Egypt and were in the wilderness God manifested himself to them as a radiant light: 

Exodus 13:20-22 NLT [20] The Israelites left Succoth and camped at Etham on the edge of the wilderness. [21] The Lord went ahead of them. He guided them during the day with a pillar of cloud, and he provided light at night with a pillar of fire. This allowed them to travel by day or by night. [22] And the Lord did not remove the pillar of cloud or pillar of fire from its place in front of the people.

This entire group of people is estimated to be about 600,000 men plus women and children.  This gigantic group was able to travel even at night by the glory of the Lord that shone about them as a radiant light. The children of Israel made their way through the wilderness by means of this radiant light of the Lord’s presence.  Remember there was no electricity, no lighthouse with enough light to guide over one million people.  During this time this was unprecedented.

The glory of the Lord also filled the tabernacle when it was dedicated also while they were in the wilderness.

Exodus 40:34-35 NLT [34] Then the cloud covered the Tabernacle, and thse glory of the Lord filled the Tabernacle. [35] Moses could no longer enter the Tabernacle because the cloud had settled down over it, and the glory of the Lord filled the Tabernacle.

The Shekinah Glory of God filled the temple in Jerusalem at its dedication by Solomon.

2 Chronicles 7:1-3 NLT [1] When Solomon finished praying, fire flashed down from heaven and burned up the burnt offerings and sacrifices, and the glorious presence of the Lord filled the Temple. [2] The priests could not enter the Temple of the Lord because the glorious presence of the Lord filled it. [3] When all the people of Israel saw the fire coming down and the glorious presence of the Lord filling the Temple, they fell face down on the ground and worshiped and praised the Lord, saying, “He is good! His faithful love endures forever!”

Let me give you more instances from the Old Testament and you can read them for yourself later.  

Mount Sinai: When God gave the Ten Commandments to Moses on Mount Sinai, His glory filled the mountain, causing it to smoke and tremble.

Exodus 19:18-20 NLT [18] All of Mount Sinai was covered with smoke because the Lord had descended on it in the form of fire. The smoke billowed into the sky like smoke from a brick kiln, and the whole mountain shook violently. [19] As the blast of the ram’s horn grew louder and louder, Moses spoke, and God thundered his reply. [20] The Lord came down on the top of Mount Sinai and called Moses to the top of the mountain. So Moses climbed the mountain.

Theophany at the River Jordan: When Elijah was taken up to heaven, a chariot of fire and horses of fire appeared.

2 Kings 2:11 NLT As they were walking along and talking, suddenly a chariot of fire appeared, drawn by horses of fire. It drove between the two men, separating them, and Elijah was carried by a whirlwind into heaven. 

Theophany to Isaiah: Isaiah had a vision of the Lord seated on a throne, high and lifted up, and the train of His robe filled the temple.

Isaiah 6:1-4 NLT [1] It was in the year King Uzziah died that I saw the Lord. He was sitting on a lofty throne, and the train of his robe filled the Temple. [2] Attending him were mighty seraphim, each having six wings. With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they flew. [3] They were calling out to each other, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of Heaven’s Armies! The whole earth is filled with his glory!” [4] Their voices shook the Temple to its foundations, and the entire building was filled with smoke.

The Burning Bush: When God appeared to Moses in the burning bush, the bush was ablaze but not consumed. This symbolizes God's holy presence.

Exodus 3:1-2 NLT One day Moses was tending the flock of his father-in-law, Jethro, the priest of Midian. He led the flock far into the wilderness and came to Sinai, the mountain of God. [2] There the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a blazing fire from the middle of a bush. Moses stared in amazement. Though the bush was engulfed in flames, it didn’t burn up. 

II. The radiant light of the Lord’s glory was present at the birth of the Christ, as our text says

Luke 2:9 NLT Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, 

The Apostle John said that Jesus Christ was the radiant light of the Lord’s presence in the world.

John 1:1-9 NLT [1] In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. [2] He existed in the beginning with God. [3] God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him. [4] The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. [5] The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it. [6] God sent a man, John the Baptist, [7] to tell about the light so that everyone might believe because of his testimony. [8] John himself was not the light; he was simply a witness to tell about the light. [9] The one who is the true light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world.

                 

B. In the New Testament in addition to the light that appeared with the angel’s announcement of Jesus’ birth the radiant light of the Lord’s presence was manifested in the transfiguration where the deity of Jesus Christ shone through the veil of the flesh of his humanity. 

Luke 9:28-36 NLT [28] About eight days later Jesus took Peter, John, and James up on a mountain to pray. [29] And as he was praying, the appearance of his face was transformed, and his clothes became dazzling white. [30] Suddenly, two men, Moses and Elijah, appeared and began talking with Jesus. [31] They were glorious to see. And they were speaking about his exodus from this world, which was about to be fulfilled in Jerusalem. [32] Peter and the others had fallen asleep. When they woke up, they saw Jesus’ glory and the two men standing with him. [33] As Moses and Elijah were starting to leave, Peter, not even knowing what he was saying, blurted out, “Master, it’s wonderful for us to be here! Let’s make three shelters as memorials—one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” [34] But even as he was saying this, a cloud overshadowed them, and terror gripped them as the cloud covered them. [35] Then a voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son, my Chosen One. Listen to him.” [36] When the voice finished, Jesus was there alone. They didn’t tell anyone at that time what they had seen. 

There is an account of the transfiguration also at Matthew 17:1-8.                   

C. The radiant light of the Lord’s presence also accompanied the angels who announced the resurrection of Christ.

Matthew 28:2-7 NLT [2] Suddenly there was a great earthquake! For an angel of the Lord came down from heaven, rolled aside the stone, and sat on it. [3] His face shone like lightning, and his clothing was as white as snow. [4] The guards shook with fear when they saw him, and they fell into a dead faint. [5] Then the angel spoke to the women. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I know you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. [6] He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead, just as he said would happen. Come, see where his body was lying. [7] And now, go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and he is going ahead of you to Galilee. You will see him there. Remember what I have told you.”

                  

D. The radiant light of the Lord’s presence was manifested when the gift of the Holy Spirit was bestowed at Pentecost. 

Acts of the Apostles 2:1-4 NLT [1] On the day of Pentecost all the believers were meeting together in one place. [2] Suddenly, there was a sound from heaven like the roaring of a mighty windstorm, and it filled the house where they were sitting. [3] Then, what looked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on each of them. [4] And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages, as the Holy Spirit gave them this ability.

The visible signs of the Spirit's presence, such as the wind and fire, are reminiscent of the Shekinah glory's manifestations in the Old Testament, Jesus’ birth, transfiguration, and His resurrection.   

E. The glory of the Lord as a radiant light served to bring about the conversion of Saul of Tarsus on the road to Damascus.

Acts of the Apostles 9:3-4 NLT [3] As he was approaching Damascus on this mission, a light from heaven suddenly shone down around him. [4] He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul! Saul! Why are you persecuting me?”

When Saul saw this light he may have remembered the glory of the Lord shining on the face of Stephen as he was stoned.

Acts of the Apostles 7:54-58 NLT [54] The Jewish leaders were infuriated by Stephen’s accusation, and they shook their fists at him in rage. [55] But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed steadily into heaven and saw the glory of God, and he saw Jesus standing in the place of honor at God’s right hand. [56] And he told them, “Look, I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing in the place of honor at God’s right hand!” [57] Then they put their hands over their ears and began shouting. They rushed at him [58] and dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. His accusers took off their coats and laid them at the feet of a young man named Saul.

                 

Satan spreads darkness in the world and in the heart to try and prevent this radiant light of the Lord’s presence from shining into the hearts and faces of the unsaved 

2 Corinthians 4:4 NLT [4] Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don’t understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God.

How does this darkness manifest in our world today? It could be in the form of:

• Intolerance and hatred

• Despair and hopelessness 

• Self-doubt and fear 

III. But we the Believers are to be the glowing light of the Lord’s presence in the world today. 

In the Sermon of the Mount Jesus said.

Matthew 5:14-16 NLT [14]  “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. [15] No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. [16] In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father. 

                       

There is something very exciting about the followers of Christ being described as “a city on a hill, glowing for all to see.” This implies that we are to do more than to merely reflect light. We are to let the living Christ, who dwells within us in Spirit, shine forth through our humanity so that an unbelieving world finds the pathway to God illuminated and made clear. 

Matthew 5:14-16 NLT [14]  “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. [15] No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. [16] In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father. 

                  

By means of good works that are helpful to others, we become the glowing light of the Lord’s presence in the world that attracts people to our God.

Ephesians 2:8-10 NLT [8] God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. [9] Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. [10] For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. 

These good things glorify, God. 

2 Corinthians 5:19-21 NLT [19] For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation. [20] So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!” [21] For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ.

Jesus specifically declares that we must not just do good works to glorify ourselves but to glorify God..

Matthew 6:1-4 NLT [1]  “Watch out! Don’t do your good deeds publicly, to be admired by others, for you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven. [2] When you give to someone in need, don’t do as the hypocrites do—blowing trumpets in the synagogues and streets to call attention to their acts of charity! I tell you the truth, they have received all the reward they will ever get. [3] But when you give to someone in need, don’t let your left hand know what your right hand is doing. [4] Give your gifts in private, and your Father, who sees everything, will reward you. 

We have the privilege of being living, symbols in the world today of the living God’s presence just like the cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night symbolized God’s presence. 

Matthew 5:14-16 NLT [14]  “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. [15] No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. [16] In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.

                

If we do these works and acts of mercy to “the least of these” in the name of Christ, then in a very real sense, we become the “glowing light of the Lord’s presence”  to them.

Matthew 25:37-40 NLT [37]  “Then these righteous ones will reply, ‘Lord, when did we ever see you hungry and feed you? Or thirsty and give you something to drink? [38] Or a stranger and show you hospitality? Or naked and give you clothing? [39] When did we ever see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ [40]  “And the King will say, ‘I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!’

Matthew 5:14-16 NLT [14]  “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. [15] No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. [16] In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.

                  

When we practice genuine caring love for others, we give proof of our relationship to Christ and in a sense become his representatives in the world today.

John 13:31-35 NLT [31] As soon as Judas left the room, Jesus said, “The time has come for the Son of Man to enter into his glory, and God will be glorified because of him. [32] And since God receives glory because of the Son, he will give his own glory to the Son, and he will do so at once. [33] Dear children, I will be with you only a little longer. And as I told the Jewish leaders, you will search for me, but you can’t come where I am going. [34] So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. [35] Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.”

Matthew 5:14-16 NLT [14]  “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. [15] No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. [16] In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.

By practicing forgiveness we can be the glowing light of God’s presence.  When we choose to forgive, we're not only releasing ourselves from bitterness and resentment, but we're also reflecting God's love and mercy to others. It's a powerful act that can transform lives and bring about healing and reconciliation.

Ephesians 4:31-32 NLT [31] Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. [32] Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.

Colossians 3:12-13 NLT [12] Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. [13] Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. 

 

Matthew 5:14-16 NLT [14]  “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. [15] No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. [16] In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.

                  

Conclusion

We may be surprised to discover that in the world today we can be messengers of the Lord announcing, not only the birth, but the life, death, resurrection, and living presence of Jesus Christ. It is possible for us to be the radiant light of the Lord’s presence by which others can come to know God today. 

Heavenly Father, We gather here on this special Sunday, filled with anticipation for the birth of Your Son, Jesus Christ. As we’ve talked about meditated on the glowing light of Your presence, we’ve been overwhelmed with gratitude and wonder.

We thank You for sending Your Son to be the light of the world. May His light shine brightly in our hearts and illuminate the darkness around us.

We pray that we may be vessels of Your light, reflecting Your love and compassion to others. May we share the good news of Your salvation with joy and boldness.

As we prepare to celebrate Christmas, may we keep our focus on the true meaning of this holy season. May we be filled with Your peace, love, and joy.

In Jesus’ precious name, we pray. Amen.                 

There are angels singing of Jesus’ birth today. 

If you have not let him come into your life, then listen to these songs and learn from them. Let Jesus Christ come into your heart and home. 

                  

There are shepherds in the world today still telling the good news. There are wisemen and women who have already given him their hearts and treasures; and instead of becoming poor, they have become enriched beyond words by trusting him and giving themselves to him. 

You would be wise to give yourself to this Christ.

Here’s how you give yourself to Christ and become light to the dark world around you.  That darkness may be depression, it may be addiction, it may be loneliness,  may be guilt. Whatever the darkness God has sent the gift of light in Jesus Christ.   There is no cost, it is a gift.   Here’s  all you need to do to accept this gift.  Remember it’s a gift there is nothing you have to do or can do to earn it.

Romans 10:9-10 NLT [9] If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. [10] For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved. 

If you’re ready to receive this gift, simply pray this prayer from your heart:

‘Dear Lord Jesus, I believe You are the Son of God. I believe You died for my sins and rose again. I turn from my sins and ask You to forgive me. I invite You to come into my heart and be my Lord and Savior. Thank You for saving me.’