Matthew 1:18-21–The Christmas season offers a time when many people around the world think about Jesus’ birth. While his birth most likely took place in the Spring and the date of his birth possesses no sacramental value, as a family of people committed to following Jesus, we want people to think about him. So, last Sunday, we began a three-lesson series taking advantage of the attention given to Jesus in December. Last week, we considered the announcement that Jesus’ birth revealed his royal identity and how his rule differed from the world’s kingdoms, and the expectation of those awaiting his arrival. This lesson continues the series by exploring the announcement that Jesus’ birth would bring salvation to his people, a salvation that also differed from the expectations surrounding it. Today we will explore how…
Jesus’ birth is “good news of great joy” because, as God’s promised king, he grants freedom.