The Arkansas Traveler

DON'T MISS CHRISTMAS!

Matthew 1:18-2:12 (Luke 2:6-7)

INTRO: All of you have probably heard the story of the man who got locked in his safe and spent Christmas there, and no one missed him. In the account of Jesus' birth, there are different groups of people who missed the significance of His birth. At this Christmas, let's be careful that we not make the same mistake.

THESE MISSED THE FIRST CHRISTMAS

   The innkeeper missed the event in the rush of his business.

   Herod missed it because of his jealous fears of an opponent.

         Herod equated king and Messiah.

   The priests missed Jesus

      Even though they knew the scriptures about his birth,

         They did not go looking for Him!

HOW ABOUT US TODAY?

   Are we like the innkeeper?  

            Do we sometimes miss the real meaning in the hassle?

   Are we like Herod?  

            We sometimes fear the cost of recognizing Him?

   Are we like the priests?

            We know all the facts, but still miss the real essence.

WHAT SHOULD THE TIME BE?

   A time of celebration:

            The Savior (Jesus) has been born. (1:21)

   A time of redemption:

            The Christ (Messiah) has been born. (2:4)

   A time of joy:

            The shepherd-ruler has come! (2:2 & 6)

DON'T MISS CHRISTMAS! Take time to reflect on the real event we celebrate. There is something to celebrate. If not, it is just another day! Remember, the Shepherd Savior Deliverer!

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Sermon delivered at Greenville (CA) Southern Baptist Church, Dec. 6, 2009