The Christmas narrative tells of an angel coming to some shepherds and sharing the Good News of a Savior being born. The shepherds heard the message, went to see the baby, then told everyone about Him. We too must hear the gospel message afresh and renew our astonishment at what Jesus has done. We will see the power of the gospel to miraculously change lives, and we'll be so astounded that we can't help but tell people about it.

The Creator of Heaven and Earth invites us to know Him. Yet in a prosperous society like ours, pursuing God can be a challenge. Busyness and self pursuits can start to take priority over God. Life doesn't always go as we hope though. Tough times are inevitable. It is in these hardships that knowing God will give us the strength and faith that we need. God loves you as much as He loves His Son Jesus. It is His delight to hold your hand and walk with you through difficult circumstances.

Many of us live our Christian life spark to spark. Like Saul, we get momentary touches of God that wane. We enjoy the emotion and passion that is stirred up at conferences or church services, but we are unwilling to let Jesus change our life. Sparks can be good, but they are only meant to be the beginning. God wants to use them to produce a sustained and increasing fire of His presence in our heart.

We are living in a generation when lukewarm, mediocre faith will not do. God is looking for a people he can use to glorify His name. We can't live vicariously through the stories of others. God wants to give us our own story that we can share with others so that they are encouraged and stirred up with faith to believe God for their story. Don't shy away from your weakness. That is where God wants to show himself strong. God wants to turn your bemoaning into boasting—in Him and for His glory.

We all have things for which we hope. Some of those things we can accomplish ourselves, but others require a miraculous move of God. We can hope for things, but that does not mean they are a promise from God. Jesus will initiate and perfect our faith for the things He has promised. Do not be weighed down, slowed down or tripped up. Keep your eyes on Jesus, our champion. He is faithful to fulfill His promises in your life.