Christmas Comes to Churches Over 40

What happened in Mary’s womb?

We can’t explain it. Christmas is a season of wonder. Even wise men can only kneel in adoration. But one thing’s as clear as an icicle: Baby Jesus is a wonderful object lesson for those of us passionate about church renewal.

“The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14). God’s truth can’t be contained in a moral code or a set of propositions. Salvation involves more than mental assent to declarations about God. It involves Christ living His life through us. “For this is the secret: Christ lives in you, and this is your assurance that you will share in his glory” (Colossians 1:27). When Jesus Christ lives in the people of your church, there is hope. His presence works wonders. “May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation — those good things that are produced in your life by Jesus Christ—for this will bring much glory and praise to God” (Philippians 1:11).

What happens when Christmas comes to churches over 40? When people in a traditional church receive afresh the living presence of Jesus Christ, these good things are produced.

• Submission. Mary responded to Gabriel’s overwhelming prophecy with these words: “I am the Lord’s servant, and I am willing to accept whatever he wants.” When Christmas comes to churches over 40, God’s will supersedes human druthers and shatters notions of what is possible.

• Joy. A multitude of the heavenly host filled the sky with praises! When Christmas comes to churches over 40, sanctuary rafters ring.

• Seekers find Him. The shepherds went searching for Him, and went away in celebration. When Christmas comes to churches over 40 non-believers meet Jesus Christ.

• Generosity. Wise men brought gifts. When Christmas comes to churches over 40 Jesus prompts spontaneous and considered acts of sacrifice.

Christ abides in faithful Christians who bear His presence into a world starved for love and desperate for hope.

This month we review Cracking Your Congregation’s Code by Southern and Norton and point your browser to a website that will help you grasp what the Incarnation means and why it matters.