The Cast of Christmas
Today we start a new series called “The Cast of Christmas”. During this series we’ll experience:
- the anticipation of the prophets
- the joyful proclamation by the angels
- the journey of the shepherds and wise men to honor him
…all as we prepare and celebrate Christmas.
Advent is the four weeks before Christmas, set aside as a time of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of Jesus’ birth. The term advent is a Latin word that means “coming.”
But Advent is not just an extension of Christmas, it is a season that links the past, present and future. Advent offers us the opportunity to share in the ancient longing for the coming of the Messiah, to celebrate His birth, and to be alert for His second coming.
So no matter what the department stores try to tell us, Christmas has not yet arrived. There is value as well as excitement in patient, expectant waiting.
The Cast of Christmas – The Arrival and Invitation
Christmas isn’t about this church or even a religion. It’s about relationship with God. It’s about love, life, and a real freedom.
The Cast of Christmas: Magi – Adoration and Worship
Worship or Tradtion: What is the true spirit of Christmas? For King Harod, the birth of the Messiah produced a spirit of self interest and a desire to protect the tradition of his power. The wise men, on the other hand, meet Christ’s birth with the spirit of worship. As Christmas nears, let’s seek God and give Him the worship and praise He rightly deserves as wise men.
The Cast of Christmas: Shepherds – Hope and Joy
Life can be hard, but we know the truth the shepherds held. The Savoir has come! In Him, we are saved. In Him, we win. The amazing thing is, no matter what happens, that can never be taken away from us. So don’t settle for anything less.
The Cast of Christmas – Angels: Proclaiming Peace
It’s difficult to share the message of God’s peace, when we’re stressed, overwhelmed, and exhausted. Our proclamation must first begin with us accepting and embracing the peace we have in God.
The Cast of Christmas – Prophets: Preparation and Expectation
All the prophets of the Old Testament looked and longed for the coming of Jesus. Prophets were chosen people who God spoke to and sent to His people in order to prepare the people to turn back to God. Advent is the perfect time for us to wait and prepare. As the prophets waited for Jesus’ arrival, we wait and prepare for His Second Coming.