Noah Herrin preaches from Luke 2 (the nativity) to contrast ordinary gifts with the gift of Jesus. He argues that most gifts come with a catch: they must be earned, can be taken back, and ultimately fail to satisfy because we were made for God. Using everyday illustrations (free trials, marriage, paychecks, birthday presents) and Genesis' creation pattern, he shows that people need the presence of God, not more things. The Christmas message is that God became flesh - "God with us" - and gave himself freely so that we only need to receive, not earn, the gift of salvation whose work is finished on the cross.
“God With Us means that God put on flesh and moved into the neighborhood.” · Noah Herrin
Take it with you
Recognize that created things and accomplishments won't ultimately satisfy - you're made for God's presence. Stop trying to earn God's favor; Christmas announces that God gave himself freely in Christ. Receive Jesus by faith and rest in the finished work of the cross rather than perform to be chosen.
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