There’s More to the Christmas Story

We have an ongoing debate in our house regarding which point in the year it becomes acceptable to begin playing Christmas music. Some in our family have no issues with listening to Christmas music year-round—and they do. There are others of us (the sane ones) who prefer not to hear Christmas music until after Thanksgiving. Since we surpassed that point this very week, I expect to hear Christmas music in most places for the next several weeks.

Hearing those familiar holiday songs, among other things, is a sign that we have officially entered the Christmas season. Another indication is the appearance of nativity scenes in homes and churches all over the world. Most of these sets have similar contents—some animals, a handful of shepherds and wise men, probably an angel or two, and, of course, Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus.

We know from the Scriptures, however, that there is more to the Christmas story than the average nativity set portrays. This is one of the main reasons why I love the season of Advent. As we worship together these next few weeks, we will explore many of the key Advent Scriptures from the ancient promises of the Old Testament to their beautiful fulfillment in Jesus during our series Awaiting Advent: The Promises before the Manger. To make the most out of our Advent teaching times, I hope you will participate in our reading plan, which is available online or in bookmark form.

We’ll also be lighting our Advent candles to remind us of the great gifts we’ve received through Christ’s birth—HOPE, LOVE, JOY, PEACE, and CHRIST Himself.

I’m looking forward to a uniquely special Advent season with our church family this year as we point others to our true Savior and King!