Experiencing God's Presence: A Christmas Eve Reflection

Introduction

In a world filled with distractions and uncertainties, finding moments of divine connection can be challenging. This Christmas Eve, we explore the profound significance of God's presence in our lives, drawing from the timeless story of Jesus' birth. This reflection aims to help you understand and experience the presence of God more deeply, not just during the holiday season but throughout your life.

The Christmas Story

The story of Jesus' birth is a cornerstone of Christian faith. Listening to this story can evoke a sense of wonder and reverence. The birth of Jesus marked the beginning of God's renewed interaction with humanity after a long period of silence. This event was heralded by angels and witnessed by humble shepherds, symbolizing the accessibility of God's presence to all.

Seeking God's Presence - Moments of Divine Silence

Many of us have experienced times when it feels like God is silent or distant. These moments can be challenging, but they also remind us of the importance of seeking God's presence actively. Just as the shepherds on the hillside experienced a divine encounter, we too can find moments of glory in our lives.

The Promise of God's Presence

God's greatest gift to us is not material blessings but His presence. Jesus, called Emmanuel, meaning "God with us," signifies that God desires to be with us, to walk with us, and to understand our human experiences. This divine presence is accessible to us consistently, even when it feels distant.

The True Joy of Heaven - What Do We Want from Heaven?

Heaven is often described in terms of its promises—streets of gold, no more tears, eternal joy. However, the true essence of heaven is the presence of God. Earthly desires and needs will fade, but the deep spiritual connection with our Creator will fulfill us in ways beyond our current understanding.

The Reflection of God's Presence

Our current experience of God's presence is like seeing a reflection in a mirror—partial and imperfect. However, there will come a day when we will see God face to face, fully and completely. This anticipation should inspire us to seek and cherish God's presence now.

Life Application - Embracing God's Presence Daily

To experience God's presence more fully, we must intentionally seek Him in our daily lives. This can be through prayer, reading the Bible, worship, and fellowship with other believers. These practices help us tune into God's voice and recognize His presence in our lives.

Questions for Reflection

1. How often do I take time to listen to God's word rather than just read it?

2. In what ways have I experienced moments of divine silence, and how did I respond?

3. What do I truly desire from my relationship with God—His gifts or His presence?

4. How can I cultivate a deeper awareness of God's presence in my daily life?

A Challenge for the Week

This week, challenge yourself to set aside specific times to seek God's presence intentionally. Whether it's through listening to an audio Bible, spending quiet moments in prayer, or joining a small group, make a conscious effort to connect with God. Reflect on the ways He reveals Himself to you and share these experiences with others to encourage and uplift one another.

Conclusion

The presence of God is a gift that surpasses all earthly desires. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, let us remember that God's greatest gift to us is Himself. By seeking His presence daily, we can experience the true joy and peace that come from knowing and being known by our Creator. May this Christmas season be a time of renewed connection with God and a deeper understanding of His love for us. Merry Christmas!

Presents or Presence: Week 4

Finding True Happiness in God's Presence:

As we approach the Christmas season, it's a time filled with joy, anticipation, and reflection. This week's sermon delved into the essence of true happiness and where it can be found. Are we seeking happiness in the gifts and material things of this world, or are we finding it in the presence of God? Let's explore the key points from Ecclesiastes and Psalms to understand how we can find lasting joy and satisfaction.

Disappointment in Material Gifts:

We've all experienced the disappointment of receiving a gift that didn't meet our expectations. Whether it was socks or something less exciting, these moments remind us that material things often fall short of bringing true happiness.

The Joy of Anticipation:

Conversely, the joy of receiving something we've longed for is unparalleled. This joy, however, is fleeting and often leaves us wanting more. The sermon highlighted that true happiness is not found in the getting but in being in God's presence.

The Wisdom of Solomon: Ecclesiastes 3:12-14

Solomon, known for his wisdom, explored the purpose of life and where true satisfaction lies. He tested wealth, pleasure, success, and found them all meaningless. However, he discovered that happiness is a gift from God, found in our daily lives when we do good, eat, drink, and find satisfaction in our work.

The Burden of Eternity

Solomon also noted that God has set eternity in our hearts, yet we cannot fathom His plans. This understanding can either be maddening or comforting, depending on our faith. Trusting that God makes everything beautiful in its time allows us to live in the moment and find joy in our daily lives.

Trusting and Obeying God: Psalms 37:3-6

David, Solomon's father, emphasized the importance of trusting in the Lord and doing good. When we commit our ways to God and take delight in Him, He gives us the desires of our hearts. This trust and obedience lead to true happiness, as God knows what will bring us the most joy.

The Fear of the Lord

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. This fear is not about being afraid but having a deep respect and understanding of God's authority and love. Recognizing that being apart from God is what we should truly fear helps us stay close to Him and find happiness in His presence.

Life Application: Trust in God's Timing

Understanding that God makes everything beautiful in its time helps us trust Him with our past, present, and future. This week, focus on living in the moment and finding joy in your daily activities.

Obey God's Commands

True happiness comes from trusting and obeying God. Reflect on areas in your life where you may need to align more closely with His will. Are there steps of obedience you need to take?

Reflect on Your Heart's Desires

Ask yourself:

- What do I need to be truly happy?

- Where have I set my heart?

- Am I seeking happiness in material things or in God's presence?

Challenge for the Week

This week, challenge yourself to:

1. Trust God with your daily life and find joy in the present moment.

2. Take a step of obedience in an area where you feel God is leading you.

3. Reflect on your heart's desires and realign them with God's will.

Conclusion

True happiness is a gift from God, found not in the material things of this world but in His presence. By trusting and obeying Him, we can find lasting joy and satisfaction. As we celebrate this Christmas season, let's remember that the greatest gift we can receive is God's presence in our lives.

Presents or Presence: Week 3 - God Given Gifts

Discovering Your Unique Gifts in God's Presence!

Today, we dive into the profound topic of understanding our unique gifts and how they are fully realized in the presence of God. The message is not just about recognizing the talents and abilities that make us special, but also about understanding the deeper purpose behind these gifts. Let's explore how our gifts are meant to be enjoyed and used in God's presence, leading us to a more fulfilling and purposeful life.

What Makes You Unique?Understanding Your Gifts

Have you ever wondered what makes you unique? What sets you apart from everyone else? These questions are crucial because they can determine much about your life, including your career path, relationships, and self-worth. God has promised to give us good gifts, making us special and unique. But it's essential to recognize that these gifts are not just for our benefit; they are meant to be used in His presence.

The Story of Jeff and the Drums

Pastor Jeff shared a personal story about discovering his gift for drumming. Initially, he wanted to play the saxophone but found it challenging. However, when he tried the snare drum, something clicked. This moment of realization was like a divine revelation, showing him that his gift was meant to be enjoyed and used in God's presence. This story serves as a reminder that our gifts are often discovered through trial and error, and they are best realized when we seek God's presence.

God's Masterful Creation: Psalm 139:13-16

David beautifully describes how God created us with intentionality and purpose in Psalm 139:13-16. He portrays God as an artist who carefully knits us together in our mother's womb. This imagery reminds us that we are not mistakes; we are masterpieces created by a loving God. When you look at yourself, do you see this kind of artistry on display? Do you believe that you are fearfully and wonderfully made? In Ephesians 2:10 Paul says that we are God’s workmanship, some versions saying “Masterpiece” and we were created with a purpose in mind. 

Reconciling Self-Worth with God's Creation

How you view yourself often reflects how you view your Creator. If you struggle with self-worth, it's essential to reconcile your identity with God's intentional creation. Recognize that your strengths, quirks, and even weaknesses are part of God's design. Embrace the fact that you are unique and special because God made you that way.

The Purpose of Our Gifts: 1 Corinthians 12:4-7

Paul explains in 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 that the Spirit gives different gifts to each of us for the common good. These gifts are meant to bless the church and help it fulfill its mission. Whether it's cooking, teaching, or any other talent, your gift has a purpose in God's kingdom. The key is to use these gifts in His presence, allowing them to be fully realized and effective.

Living Out Your Gifting

Our church recently witnessed this during the Damascus Way Christmas party. Volunteers used their unique gifts to serve and bless others, creating a beautiful example of living out their gifting in God's presence. When you use your gifts for God's glory, you find fulfillment and joy that goes beyond personal satisfaction. God gifted each of us differently! If you’re not sure what your gifts might be, a great way to figure it out is to try serving in different areas and seeing which area seems more naturally. If you’d love to know more about your area’s of giftedness, we’d love to connect with you. 

The Greatest Gift: Love: 1 Corinthians 13:1-3

Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 that our gifts are meaningless without love. Our primary purpose is to love and be loved by God. This love is the foundation of our identity and the ultimate reason for our creation. When we use our gifts in love, we fulfill our true purpose and experience the fullness of God's presence.

Embracing God's Love

God's love is the greatest gift we can receive and give. As we embrace this love, we find our true selves and our ultimate purpose. Jesus exemplified this love by coming to earth, living among us, and sacrificing Himself for our sins. By following His example, we can fully realize our gifts and live out our purpose in God's presence.

Life Application

This week, take time to reflect on your unique gifts and how you can use them in God's presence. Consider the following questions:

1. What are the gifts and talents that make you unique?

2. How can you use these gifts to bless others and glorify God?

3. Are you seeking God's presence in your daily life and using your gifts in His presence?

Challenge for the Week

Identify one way you can use your gifts to serve others this week. Whether it's volunteering, helping a neighbor, or simply being a source of encouragement, use your gifts in love and in God's presence. As you do, you'll find greater fulfillment and purpose in your life.

Conclusion

Understanding and using our unique gifts in God's presence leads to a more fulfilling and purposeful life. By recognizing that our gifts are meant to be enjoyed and used in His presence, we can fully realize their potential. Embrace the love of God, seek His presence, and use your gifts to bless others. In doing so, you'll discover the true joy and purpose that God has for you.

Presents or Presence: Week 2 - Security

Finding True Security in God's Presence

As we navigate the holiday season, with all its joys and challenges, it's essential to remember the promise Jesus made to us: He came to give us life, and life abundantly. This abundant life is full of both good and tough times, twists, and turns. Today, continuing in our theme of “Presents or Presence” we explore how we can find true security in God's presence, especially during uncertain times.

The Desire for Security

We all have an innate desire to feel secure about our future. This longing becomes even more pronounced during challenging times. Reflecting on personal experiences highlights our deep need to know that everything will be okay. This desire for security is a fundamental part of our human experience. 

God's Promises to Us

Jeremiah 29:11 - A Promise of Hope

One of the most cherished promises in the Bible is found in 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 a hope and a future." These words offer immense comfort for many, assuring us that God has good plans for us, even when we face difficulties. 

The Full Blessing of Jeremiah 29:11-14

However, the true blessing of this promise is found when we read beyond verse 11. Verses 12-14 reveal that our security is found in seeking God's presence: "Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you, declares the Lord." Our true security lies in our relationship with God and His presence in our lives. Pastor Jeff reminded us of the context in which the promise of verse 11 was given. 

Heroes of Faith and Their Security in God

David's Trust in God's Presence

David, despite being pursued and facing numerous challenges, found his security in God's presence. In Psalm 16:11, he says, "You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand." David's trust in God as his refuge and fortress is evident throughout the Psalms.

Isaiah's Steadfast Mind

Isaiah, who prophesied during a time of impending doom, found peace in trusting God. Isaiah 26:3-4 states, "You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal." Isaiah's security came from his unwavering trust in God.

Jeremiah's Hope in God's Faithfulness

Jeremiah, known as the weeping prophet, witnessed the destruction and exile of his people. Yet, in Lamentations 3:22-26, he declares, "Because of the Lord's great love, we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, 'The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.' The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him." Jeremiah's hope and security were rooted in God's faithfulness.

Modern-Day Idols and False Security

In today's world, we often seek security in temporary things like money, relationships, or entertainment. These modern-day idols can never provide the true security that only God can offer. Isaiah 41:22-23 mocks the idols, highlighting their inability to predict the future or provide real security.

The Futility of Wealth

Psalm 49:12-19 reminds us that wealth is temporary and cannot provide lasting security. True security comes from trusting in God, who will redeem us and take us to Himself.

Life Application

Seeking God's Presence

To find true security, we must seek God's presence with all our hearts. This involves a committed prayer life, regular Bible study, and fellowship with other believers. When we prioritize our relationship with God, we experience the peace and security that only His presence can provide.

Questions for Reflection

1. Where do you currently seek security in your life?

2. How can you prioritize seeking God's presence this week?

3. What steps can you take to deepen your prayer life and Bible study?

Challenge for the Week

This week, challenge yourself to seek God's presence intentionally. Spend time in prayer, read your Bible, and connect with fellow believers. As you do, trust that God will provide the security and peace you need, regardless of your circumstances.

Conclusion

True security is found not in the temporary things of this world but in the eternal presence of God. As we navigate life's challenges, let's remember to seek Him with all our hearts, trusting in His promises and finding peace in His presence. You're going to be okay, Church, because even if your circumstances aren't okay, God's presence ensures that you are. God loves us even in the midst of our messy lives, and wants to share life together! 

Presents or Presence - Week 1

What Do You Truly Want from God? Presence or Presents?

As we transition from Thanksgiving to the Christmas season, it's a perfect time to reflect on what we truly desire from God. This week, we kicked off a new sermon series titled "Presents or Presence," which challenges us to examine whether we seek the gifts God can give us or his very presence.

The Fillet Knife: A Lesson in Value

Pastor Jeff began with a story about a common Rapala fillet knife. While this knife is inexpensive and easily replaceable (you can pick one up at Scheels if you were wondering) the one he owns holds immense sentimental value because it was a gift from his grandfather. The knife represents something much greater. This story serves as a metaphor for our relationship with God. Do we just value the gifts he gives us, or do we cherish his presence in our lives?

The Israelites' Dilemma

In Exodus 33, God offers the Israelites the Promised Land but says he will not go with them due to their repeated disobedience. This was the land of milk and honey, whispered of around campfires for generations, the fulfillment of a divine covenant made with Abraham hundreds of years prior. Yet now they faced a profound choice: Would they accept this long-yearned-for inheritance without God's presence? This scenario challenges us to consider what we truly desire from God. Is it the blessings he can provide, or is it his presence that we seek?

Moses' Response: Choosing Presence Over Presents

Moses' response to God is clear and resolute: "If your presence does not go with us, do not send us from here" (Exodus 33:15). Moses understood that God's presence was more valuable than any earthly blessing. He preferred to stay in the desert with God rather than enter the Promised Land without Him. What about us? Again we consider what we truly desire from God. What would you have said? 

The Tent of Meeting: Knowing God

Exodus 33:7 says “Now Moses used to take a tent and pitch it outside the camp some distance away, calling it the “tent of meeting.” Anyone inquiring of the Lord would go to the tent of meeting outside the camp.” While anyone could go meet with God there, most Israelites stayed at their own tent entrances. There might have been any number of reasons for this hesitation: fear due to their disobedience, feeling unworthy, not seeing dramatic signs like the pillar of cloud, delegating spiritual responsibility to Moses, or being too preoccupied with dreams of future prosperity in Canaan. Any of these excuses sound familar? Maybe hit a little close to home? What keeps us from seeking God's presence today?

The New Covenant: God With Us

We are under a new covenant through Jesus Christ. Matthew 1:23 says Jesus will be called Emmanuel, meaning "God with us." We hear about that often around Christmas time…but think about what it means for us! Unlike the Israelites, we don't need to go to a special tent to be in God's presence. Through Jesus, we have direct access to God anytime, anywhere. This is the greatest gift we can receive—God's presence in our lives.

Application: Embrace God's Presence

As we reflect on this sermon, let's challenge ourselves to seek God's presence above all else. Here are a few questions to ponder this week:

1. **What do I truly desire from God?** Is it His blessings or His presence?

2. **How often do I seek God's presence in my daily life?** Am I content with just attending church, or do I strive to be in His presence continually?

3. **What distractions keep me from experiencing God's presence?** How can I overcome these distractions to deepen my relationship with Him?

Challenge for the Week

This week, make a conscious effort to spend time in God's presence. Whether through prayer, reading the Bible, or simply being still, prioritize your relationship with Him. Remember, the greatest gift God offers is not what He can give us, but Himself.

Conclusion

As we journey through this series, let's remember that God's presence is the ultimate gift. While His blessings are wonderful, they are meaningless without Him. May we, like Moses, choose God's presence over any earthly blessing and find true joy and peace in Him.

Stay tuned for the upcoming sermons in this series as we explore the good gifts God promises and how they are enriched by His presence. Come back and celebrate with us again next week!