Has a decision you made “today” ever marred your “tomorrow”? Ever said “yes” to something you should have said “no” to, and it negatively impacted your life? Or have you said “no” to something that you should have said “yes” to, and are living with significant regret?
On a human plane, and in the most extreme situations, abuse and infidelity destroy future family dynamics, and gossip and slander tear down future friendships. And, with God the situation is even more serious: our sin today carries a wage of death (Romans 6:23). With the consequences so significant, is there any hope?
YES. An emphatic YES. There. Is. Hope. While we make decisions that lead to disaster, God is able to return delight. We, who are in sorrow, need to meet our Savior, Jesus Christ.
In Micah 5:2, the nation of Judah had made a set of decisions they would soon regret. The nation’s prospects (personified in their future King, a sinful man named Zedekiah) were getting ready to be blinded and their legacy and reputation arrested. In the face of this impending disaster, God speaks through the prophet Micah and promises another future Ruler who will deliver a much brighter tomorrow to all who trust in Him. Out of Bethlehem, One from ancient days will come. Of course, this is a reference to the birth of Jesus Christ.
This Sunday, as we begin the Christmas season together at Wildwood Community Church, we will start a new sermon series called “Home for Christmas.” In this series we will reflect on some of the homes of the Christmas story, beginning this week with the “little town of Bethlehem,” by looking at Micah 5:2. Hope you plan to be with us for “part 1” of this series, on December 1 at 8:30, 9:45, or 11:00. We will celebrate communion together as we remember the good news of great joy together.
See you Sunday … and bring friends.
P.S. I have written a 25 day Advent devotional this year themed around our Christmas sermon series. You can access this study in a variety of forms by clicking here.