The Scripture announces that God so loved the world He GAVE His only begotten Son. Jesus is the greatest of all Christmas gifts. In John 8:12, Jesus declares that He is The Light of the World. As The Light of the World, Jesus overcomes the darkness to bestow gifts of salvation and eternal life to all who believe. His life, death, and resurrection make possible these gifts. As we unwrap the gift of salvation, we discover that it is a multi-faceted gift of mercy, forgiveness, healing, and new life. The gift of eternal life transforms us from within and manifests itself in us as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Amazingly, Jesus proclaims in Matthew 5:14 that “You are the light of the world.” As we experience the Light of Jesus in our lives, we become the conduit through which His Light shines in the world.
So, as we prepare to celebrate and receive the Light of the World on Christmas morning, we must ask how the Light of Christ shines through us. In what ways do we offer Gifts of Hope that shine into the darkness of others so that they might know Jesus? Let me offer two Gifts of Hope for your consideration.
First, would you offer a Gift of Hope to support the work of missionaries? Missionaries live among the peoples of the world to share the Hope of Jesus. Spiritual darkness oppresses and leaves its victims in despair. These neighbors need the Hope of Jesus. Through our denominational partners, we support over 3500 missionaries. A gift to FBC’s World Missions offering supports the Lottie Moon and/or Global Missions Offerings that enable and sustain missionaries as they live among the nations. First Baptist’s 2024 World Missions Offering goal is $31,000. Your gift can be designated, given in worship, brought by the church office, or made online at www.fbcnorman.org.
Second, join the First Baptist Family in bringing a gift for baby Jesus. A package of diapers or baby wipes reminds us that the Son of God entered the world just like the rest of us--as a helpless baby. The gift of formula satisfies the hungry cry of an infant. A warm blanket or coat keeps a mother and child warm on a cold winter’s night. Allow your special gift to be a tangible way to celebrate and give thanks for the birth of Jesus. These Gifts of Hope will be distributed through our Community Ministry, meeting the needs of our youngest and most vulnerable neighbors. Many families struggle to meet the needs of their children. Your gift offers help and HOPE to others. Would you celebrate the birth of Jesus by bringing a Gift of Hope and placing it under the Tree for our Christmas Eve Candlelight service?
Thank you for your generosity!
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