Before the Manger: The Bigger Story of Christmas

We tend to start the Christmas story with a manger, some shepherds, and maybe an angel choir. But the story of Christmas actually began much earlier—when brokenness first entered the world.In this first episode of the Christmas series, we zoom out and look at the big picture of Christmas: how sin fractured our relationship with God, how shame entered the story, and how God immediately began a rescue plan that would one day lead to Jesus.We’ll walk through:The moment brokenness entered the story (Genesis 3)Why sin always hurts and breaks relationshipsGod’s “passionate commitment” to His people (Isaiah 9:6–7)The promise of a righteous King who would make us right with God (Jeremiah 23:5–6)What it really means that “the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us” (John 1:14)If you’re walking into this season feeling a little worn out, ashamed, or unsure how your story fits into the “Christmas cheer,” this episode is for you. The Christmas story reminds us that when everything looked broken, God wasn’t finished yet—and He’s not finished with you either.Scriptures: Genesis 3, Isaiah 9:6–7, Jeremiah 23:5–6, John 1:14Stay connected + December devotionals: I’ll be sharing short, 90-second Christmas devotionals throughout the month over on social:Instagram (Sherri): @the_sherri_richardInstagram (Podcast): @everyday_truths_podcastYouTube: @everyday-truths-with-sherriTikTok: @sherrichardIf this episode encouraged you, it would mean so much if you’d share it with a friend or leave a quick rating/review so more people can find hope in their everyday lives.