Last week was Christmas eve.

During Sunday service we sang a ton of Jesus-friendly songs and it was lovely. I wish I had written down the songs because it wasn’t your typical holiday music. The worship team did an excellent job. After much singing, we lit candles and prayed.

The pastor shared a short, but meaning-filled message. He started by stating that the church started with a mission for passion, purpose, people and family.

He then shared a Bible verse that I think can be found in Matthew, but I missed it. However, there were two points he wanted to make.

1. When Joseph found his wife was pregnant, the child wasn’t his, and he thought the best solution was to divorce his wife in private.
   In modern times, this type of scandal would have made the news, his reaction to the situation probably wouldn’t be frown upon, and his reaction would maybe even be expected.

• Even though it doesn’t make sense, the situation, or your situation, have the mindset that you are still going to go through it. Say to yourself, “I’m going to go through it because God called me to it.”

• As a righteous man he was also a just man; not just a man. Are you righteous in your actions or just a man?

• God calls people into our lives for us to learn from them. Take the good, the bad, the in-between, and see the lesson from it.

• You have to be challenged. If you accept the fact that each season is a lesson, then won’t the journey be just as challenging, but more purpose-filled?

The second point.

1. Prophet out of Egypt, called him my son, then what?

• Matthew 2:6 & 2:17

"'But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people to Israel.'"
Then what was said through the prophet Jeremiah was fulfilled.

• Through his research, the pastor uncovered two facts about the city where our church is currently located. He uncovered most family values are not in place and most of the people are atheist in our area.

• Confirming our presence here is still needed. That this area needs passion, purpose, people, and family stands true.

• It was a divine plan for us to be here. We believe that the spirit of doubt, of hopelessness, and of division is among these people. Therefore, if you feel discouraged, know that the Lord, his story, your time here will bring you hope. It will encourage you and will be the foundation in which you consistently stand on.

• From his death to his birth. There needed to be lesson learned. His story is the truth we stand on. Be encouraged, brothers and sister.

Merry Christmas!