Because of Christmas…Part 2

Looking at the impact of Christmas (Jesus’ mission begins), I’m still reflecting on 2 Corinthians 5. It’s worth reading the whole chapter, but here’s today’s verse and thought:

When Jesus was born in Bethlehem, major change was stirring. When Jesus is born in us, major change is imminent. We are going to change…no doubt about it. And…it’s a change for the better!

What a blessing and privilege it has been to witness over 300 baptisms this year at Community…celebrating new life, new creations!

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! ” (2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV)

Because of Christmas…Part 1

This month I want to focus, not just on the birth of Jesus, but the affect of His arrival on us all. Yes…salvation is the big one, but there’s so much more even to that.

I’ve been reflecting on what the Apostle Paul talks about in 2 Corinthians 5. Here’s my thought for today:

Jesus’ mission was one of love. Love brought Him to us. Love dominated His ministry. Love kept Him on that cross. Love continues to transform each of us. In fact, His love for us compels us to live differently:

“For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.” (2 Corinthians 5:14-15 NIV)

Remembering Nancy Briggs

Tomorrow we will be celebrating the life of my mother-in-law. Some friends and family will gather in Mission Viejo to remember a very special lady. Nancy Briggs was one of the most hospitable people I’ve ever met.

Soon after Michelle and I began dating, I met the whole family at a Thanksgiving dinner. Nancy, from that day on, treated me as one of her own.

If you don’t mind, please take a moment and say a prayer for Michelle, her brothers and the entire family. We know where she is, and we know she’s doing great, but we miss her. We get to grieve WITH HOPE because of her relationship with Jesus.

“Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. ” (1 Thessalonians 4:13 NIV)

Do you want a head start?

I’m seriously excited about sharing the story of Ruth this weekend in our worship services on Thursday and Sunday. It’s a powerful story giving multiple lessons of inspiration to all of us even today.

If you’ve never read the book of Ruth, take a little time and read it before you come to your worship service this weekend. It’s only four chapters, so it won’t take long.

As we get closer to Christmas, we continue to see the significance of the FAMILY TREE of Jesus.

But Ruth replied, “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord deal with me, be it ever so severely, if even death separates you and me.” (Ruth 1:16-17 NIV)

Don’t miss what’s right in front of you!

Welcome to December 2025!

As we head towards Christmas, here are a few things to keep in mind…

1-People’s pain is often magnified during this Season. Whether grieving, lonely, or any number of things, Christmas often magnifies the pain. Be kind.

2-We tend to feel like, because of the busyness of the month, we’re missing out on what’s truly important. Be intentional.

3-Your friend might just say YES if you invite them to one of our Christmas services on Dec. 23 & 24. Start praying for those opportunities NOW.

“Use your heads as you live and work among outsiders. Don’t miss a trick. Make the most of every opportunity. Be gracious in your speech. The goal is to bring out the best in others in a conversation, not put them down, not cut them out.” (Colossians 4:5-6 MSG)