A New Hope

Christmas CAN be a sad time of year if we let it be. When bad things happen they can easily put a damper on our traditional holiday celebrations. Unless, of course, we are prepared for them and have this amazing weapon in our belt.

No, it's not a light saber. Luke Skywalker's "force" can hold a candle against the power that was born in Bethlehem 2,000+ years ago.

Look, bad things happen year 'round, not just at Christmas. There are some who struggle everyday with chronic pain or depression. Others experience sudden lows via a recently diagnosed illness or through the breakup of a relationship. These things are all too real. And when they happen at Christmas time they can really leave a mark.

Jesus made many promises, but here's one that we wish wasn't true.

"In this world you will have trouble." - John 16:33

Gee, thanks. What kind of "encouragement" is that!?! Well, it is kind of depressing. But we need to keep reading. The next part of the verse is where he find the encouragement. It is where we find "a new hope."

"But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

That's great news! But what does that have to do with us? How does that help the current situation we are in? Let go backwards through this verse and start asking some questions.

1. How did Jesus "overcome the world"? He rose from the dead! The world has no hold on OUR King! It has no hold on us either, when we place our faith in Him.
2. Why did Jesus die? The Old Testament law demanded a perfect sacrifice for sin - a spotless lamb. Jesus was that lamb and died for OUR sins.
3. Where do we find hope? Jesus was born to live a sinless life and then to receive the punishment for OUR sins. Jesus was born to die.

There is great hope to be found at Christmas time. Hope in Christ! This world holds nothing for us. It is a time to celebrate because our sins have all been paid for - past, present and future. That alone should give us hope!

"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice." - Philippians 4:4

"For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." - Isaiah 9:6

For Unto Us A Child Is Born - Westminster Cathedral Choir