Portraits with Purpose

13. Where Love Leads Our hearts stir to carols, candle lights, nativities…as w e try to imagine what it must have been like that night when Jesus came to earth. After 2000 years, we’re still celebrating!  “How Great Our Joy” Let earth receive her king! Prophets had said, “Behold, a virgin shall conceive and shall bring forth a son.” Now this was about to become reality to a young, engaged Jewish couple whose hearts prepared Him room.  “God’s Love Will Show Us the Way” Mary & Joseph knew the 85 mile trip from their Nazareth home would not end with a welcome in Bethlehem. They began a dangerous journey that required them to depend completely on The Father’s care.  “Until the Journey’s End” Mary and Joseph ascended that last, dusty hill into Bethlehem to greet crowded streets, a filled inn, and an innkeeper who would turn away the King of Kings.  “If Only” Only Mary and Joseph waited and prepared. The stable wasn’t their plan, but they had learne d that when you trust God, you may witness some amazing surprises.  “Expecting A Miracle” The Long wait was over. In the skies overhead, a choir of angels announced the Savior’s birth with a concert of praise, a royal declaration of hope for man.  “Birthday of A king” The Good news of Messiah’s birth went first to local shepherds. Then a star proclaimed it to scholars in a distant land. Both came to Jesus to worship.  “Keep the Promise” Perhaps, like Mary and Joseph, you anticipate the wonder of C hrist’s birth. Maybe you come to find the holiness of His presence or searched for a long time. God’s love has led you here today.  “Love Calls You Home” Love called from the manger. Years later it spoke from a cross when Jesus gave His life, a gift beyond what we could imagine or deserve. His resurrection was love’s greatest victory. And , soon this conquering Savior will return to call believers home forever.

ist as Lord of all and receiving Him as your personal Savior: our forgiveness and accept your gift of eternal life through Christ.”