December 24th, 2025
by Pastor Gary Moritz
by Pastor Gary Moritz
Have you ever felt like you've given your all, only to find it wasn't enough? In a world where we often feel like we're falling short, the message of Christmas offers a profound reminder of a love that is always enough. This love, embodied in Jesus Christ, is the heart of the Christmas story—a love that showed up, came down, and gave all.
The Love That Showed Up
Imagine a love so powerful that it refuses to stay distant. This is the love of Jesus, who showed up in our world, not just in words, but in presence. In Matthew 1:23, we read, "The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Emmanuel," which means "God with us." Jesus' arrival was not a mere event; it was a divine intervention. He came to be with us in our mess, our struggles, and our joys. Just as a loving family member shows up for the big moments, Jesus shows up for us, offering a love that is tangible and real.
The Love That Came Down
Jesus' love didn't just show up; it came down from the perfection of heaven to the brokenness of earth. He was born in a humble manger, surrounded by the lowly and overlooked. This act of coming down is a powerful symbol of God's willingness to meet us where we are. Jesus understands our struggles, our pain, and our loneliness because He lived it. He knows what it's like to be tired, misunderstood, and rejected. His love bridges the gap between heaven and earth, offering us a way to experience true connection and belonging.
The Love That Gave All
The ultimate expression of Jesus' love is that it gave all. John 3:16 tells us, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." Jesus' life, death, and resurrection are the greatest gifts we could ever receive. He offers us truth in a world full of lies, abundant life instead of mere existence, and forgiveness for every mistake. His love is complete, requiring nothing from us but acceptance.
Reflect and Respond
As we celebrate Christmas, let's pause to reflect on this incredible love. When was the last time you truly felt seen and loved? Jesus offers that to each of us, no matter where we are in life. His love is enough for the parent feeling overwhelmed, the student feeling invisible, and the individual feeling lost.
Practical Steps to Embrace Jesus' Love:
A Prayer for Christmas
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus, whose love showed up, came down, and gave all. Help us to embrace this love fully and share it with those around us. May we find comfort in Your presence and strength in Your promises. In Jesus' name, Amen.
This Christmas, may you experience the depth of Jesus' love and let it transform your life. Whether you're a long-time believer or exploring faith for the first time, know that His love is for you. Embrace it, share it, and let it guide you into a new year filled with hope and joy.
The Love That Showed Up
Imagine a love so powerful that it refuses to stay distant. This is the love of Jesus, who showed up in our world, not just in words, but in presence. In Matthew 1:23, we read, "The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Emmanuel," which means "God with us." Jesus' arrival was not a mere event; it was a divine intervention. He came to be with us in our mess, our struggles, and our joys. Just as a loving family member shows up for the big moments, Jesus shows up for us, offering a love that is tangible and real.
The Love That Came Down
Jesus' love didn't just show up; it came down from the perfection of heaven to the brokenness of earth. He was born in a humble manger, surrounded by the lowly and overlooked. This act of coming down is a powerful symbol of God's willingness to meet us where we are. Jesus understands our struggles, our pain, and our loneliness because He lived it. He knows what it's like to be tired, misunderstood, and rejected. His love bridges the gap between heaven and earth, offering us a way to experience true connection and belonging.
The Love That Gave All
The ultimate expression of Jesus' love is that it gave all. John 3:16 tells us, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." Jesus' life, death, and resurrection are the greatest gifts we could ever receive. He offers us truth in a world full of lies, abundant life instead of mere existence, and forgiveness for every mistake. His love is complete, requiring nothing from us but acceptance.
Reflect and Respond
As we celebrate Christmas, let's pause to reflect on this incredible love. When was the last time you truly felt seen and loved? Jesus offers that to each of us, no matter where we are in life. His love is enough for the parent feeling overwhelmed, the student feeling invisible, and the individual feeling lost.
Practical Steps to Embrace Jesus' Love:
- Pause and Reflect: Take a moment each day to acknowledge Jesus' presence in your life. Whether through prayer, meditation, or reading scripture, invite His love to fill your heart.
- Reach Out: Just as Jesus showed up for us, consider how you can show up for others. A simple act of kindness or a listening ear can make a world of difference.
- Accept Forgiveness: Let go of past mistakes and embrace the forgiveness Jesus offers. Allow His love to transform your heart and relationships.
A Prayer for Christmas
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus, whose love showed up, came down, and gave all. Help us to embrace this love fully and share it with those around us. May we find comfort in Your presence and strength in Your promises. In Jesus' name, Amen.
This Christmas, may you experience the depth of Jesus' love and let it transform your life. Whether you're a long-time believer or exploring faith for the first time, know that His love is for you. Embrace it, share it, and let it guide you into a new year filled with hope and joy.
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