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One of the words that best captures the love of Jesus is the word proximity. Jesus warned the religious not to refuse the invitation of living in proximity with Him. As believers, our proximity to God’s heart reflects our proximity to those He loves.

We want God to do great things through us, but He almost always wants to do something in us first. Maybe the best way to be a person of impact is not to say, “God, what do You want to do through me?” but instead, “God, what do You want to do in me?”

Time and again, Jesus went out of His way for one. It might seem impractical or even reckless, but He was willing to go all in for one. Who is the one we need to focus our attention on finding? How impractical and reckless might we become for one?

We were made for God such that He has total claim over every facet of our lives, including what we do with our bodies. We are to run from temptation and continually offer our whole persons—our bodies and our hearts—to God for the glory of His name.

An online only service with a special message from Kyle Idleman.

Within this Christmas story filled with uncertainty, we see God’s providence in how He sent each angel to convey His message of good news. We trust He also will bring just what and who we need to reassure our hearts and accomplish His purposes.

From the time Joseph heard the news of Mary’s pregnancy, through living on the run for three years in Egypt, he was constantly giving. Joseph sacrificed his pride, his livelihood, his plans for the future, and his financial security.

Joseph must have been overwhelmed when told Mary was pregnant through the Holy Spirit. An angel reassured him God was keeping His promises—Joseph just needed to trust the message. Echoed throughout Scripture, this promise is just as true today.

The wise men specifically brought three gifts to Jesus. Whatever their intent, the gifts were likely used in His family’s escape to and provision in Egypt. When we give, we have the privilege of entering into and being a part of God’s great story.

Mary was told that she would bring God in the flesh into this world through the work of the Holy Spirit. With this came uncertainty. Yet, Mary chose to look back and celebrate the broader plan of God that placed her circumstances in perspective.