Rediscovering the Book of Luke - a message of hope for 2021
Advertiser Content for Lighthouse Christian Fellowship.
"Merry Christmas!" It's something we say a lot at this time of year. But how often do we stop and think about what it really means?
We know it's what we say before participating in the ritualistic gift giving that has become such an important part of our culture.
We say it before sitting down with our families and loved ones and stuffing ourselves silly on the type of feast that can only come once a year.
We say it as a genuine offering of goodwill to our fellow travellers, often complete strangers, and they friendlily return the favour - even if they don't share our faith - in the hope of making our day a little brighter.
But how often when uttering this hallowed phrase do we stop to give thought to the "Christ" of whom it refers?
How often do we ponder the question: Why do we still celebrate His coming more than 2000 years later? What is it about Him and His message that still resonates today?
Why have His teachings inspired so much of humanity - in a constantly changing and developing world - to live a better life? To find hope and solace and meaning?
This is why we would like to share with you the story of Luke over the next few weeks. We believe it answers these questions.
The Book Of Luke explains the story of Jesus Christ. It describes events that happened in the Middle East over 2000 years ago, but which are still relevant to us today.
It is a timeless story that explains God's plan for us all. It explains how we can relate to each other and how we can relate to God. It shows us how we can have the best life, both in this life and the next.
The Book Of Luke shows us that God is a God of love, and a giver of gifts. But His gifts are not earned by our good behaviour. It reminds us that the most important gift He gives us is the gift of His son Jesus Christ.
The message of Christmas is not that if we live good lives and do good things, God will reward us. We cannot earn God's love and acceptance with our own efforts. We can't govern ourselves. We need God's help.
Rather, the message of Christmas is that God's love and forgiveness is freely given to us through Jesus Christ. Regardless of how good or how bad we have been, we can always receive this gift. We can always open this Christmas present.
And finally, the Book Of Luke teaches us about the Holy Spirit. This is God's power on earth that was given to Jesus and enabled him to do the wonderful things he did. God gives the Holy Spirit to us as well.
By sharing this story with you, we hope you too will find in these timeless chapters and verses, the same encouragement, hope, and joyful living that they have brought us and so many across the ages.
So, enjoy. God bless. And of course, "Merry Christmas!"
Advertiser Content for Lighthouse Christian Fellowship.
