Simply Christmas, Part 3: The Birth of Hope

 (Luke 2:8-14)  And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.  An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.  But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.  Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.  This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”  Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.”    Title of message is:  The Birth of Hope.   What can you hold onto during the days of darkness?   (Job 17:13)  “Where then is my hope?  Who can see any hope for me?”   (1 Timothy 6:17)  “Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.”   (Romans 15:13) (GWT)  “May God, the source of hope, fill you with joy and peace through your faith in Him. Then you’ll overflow with hope…”   Where does this hope come from?    Hope comes from:   1. His Presence.   (Psalm 62:5)  “Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him.”   (Isaiah 40:31)  “…those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.  They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.”   2.       His process.   (Romans 5:2-4)  “And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.  Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”   (Romans 8:28)  “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”   3.  His purpose.   (Jeremiah 29:11)  “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”   4.  His place.   (John 14:1-2)  “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me.  In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you.”   Is what I’m worrying about going to matter in 50 years?    (1 Peter 1:4-6) (LB)  “God has reserved for His children the priceless gift of eternal life; it is kept in heaven for you…And God, in His mighty power, will make sure that you get there safely to receive it because you are trusting Him…So be truly glad!  There is wonderful joy ahead, even though the going is rough for a while down here.”