When I tell people the name of our church, People often look at me with a blank stare. That stare says: “Why in the world would you choose Mars Hill for the name of your church?” Scripture says:
A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold. Proverbs 22:1 (NIV)
Out of all the Names Available, Why did we Choose “Mars Hill?”
Monday’s post challenged readers to ponder, “When Was Jesus Born?” Tuesday’s and Wednesday’s posts explained why God chose Mary and Joseph as part of His divine plan.
Many responded how they enjoyed reading and learning the truth surrounding Jesus’ birth. Many agreed that it really doesn’t matter “WHEN” Jesus was born…we all agree that it’s important “THAT” He was born.
The reality of Christmas is not about Santa Claus, Elves, Rudolph The Red-nosed Reindeer, or shopping. The reality of Christmas is Jesus Christ and that He came to model what an abundant life consists of.
Here’s the reality of Christmas:
Are you enjoying the journey as we investigate the circumstances surrounding Christmas? Personally, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed our journey together. We already know God chooses ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things. He chose a teenage girl to give birth to our Savior - Jesus. Today, I invite you to look at Joseph, Mary’s husband. Like her, he was a part of God’s divine plan.
Allow me to cut across the yard and say: Joseph was OBEDIENT.
But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. Matthew 1:20
This week we’re investigating the truth regarding Christmas. While we navigate through massive malls, peruse exquisite boutiques, my goal is that the real meaning of Christmas IS NOT lost. Additionally, I want to show you how God uses EVERYDAY people to do amazing things. Scripture is replete with examples of these people.
Was God arbitrary when He chose Mary? The Bible says, “God is looking for people to use.” If you’ll just get useable, God will wear you out! You have not really lived until you experience being used by God to bless somebody else. Some of you are saying, “God could never use me.” Please allow me to sum up that thought with two words: You’re wrong!
The Christmas season is here and in full effect!
Although Christmas has been commercialized & secularized, many haven’t forgot that the reason for the season is Jesus Christ! Although we traditionally celebrate Christ’s birth on December 25th, I can assure you it’s highly unlikely Christ was born on December 25th. Intrigued? Please hold your judgments and read on.
Throughout history, calendars have been dated according to important historical events. Our calendar is dated in relation to the birth of Jesus. “B.C.” = ‘Before Christ’. “A.D.” = “Anno Domini’ = ‘in the year of our Lord.’ How did they come up with this date? Is this 2010 years after the birth of Jesus?
