Hope sustains us through trials, strengthens us in uncertainty, and propels us toward God’s promises. Pastor Kyle Rodgers reminds us of a hope that isn’t tied to circumstances but to a Savior— Jesus Christ. This Christmas season, let’s not settle for shallow hope that fades with the season. Let’s hold on to the unshakable hope rooted in Jesus Christ. Because when Jesus shows up, it changes everything!
Notes 📓✏️:
We rejoice because Jesus was willing to show up and rescue us while we were lost!
Why were the Jews so weary?
• Social and Political Tension
• Economic Burdens
• Roman Government’s use of Brutality and Fear
Hope shows up in unlikely places.
Luke 2:8-9 (NLT) — “That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified,”
Hope conquers fear.
Luke 2:9-10 (NLT) — “Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people.”
Hope has a Name
Luke 2:11-12 (NLT) — “The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! And you will recognize Him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.”
Notice the three key titles given to Jesus in this passage:
• Savior — The Rescuer from Sin, Death, and Brokenness.
• Christ — He is the promised Messiah, the “Chosen One”
• Lord — He is sovereign over all, with power and authority to reign.
“Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.” – Corrie Ten Boom
Hope will move you to take action
Luke 2:15-16 (NLT) — “When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go to Bethlehem! Let’s see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” They hurried to the village and found Mary and Joseph. And there was the baby, lying in the manger.”
I’d rather face problems with God by my side than have a life with no problems at all.
Hope is a message that must be shared
Luke 2:17-18 (NLT) — “After seeing Him, the shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child. All who heard the shepherds’ story were astonished.”
I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in Him. Then, you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit. [Romans 15:13]
Discussion Questions 📝❓:
- Why did Pastor Kyle describes hope as one of the most powerful forces in our lives?
- Why do you think the shepherds were chosen to receive the message of Jesus’ birth, and what does this tell us about God’s character?”
- How does the idea that “hope shows up in unlikely places” change your perspective on challenging situations?
- If hope is active and not passive, what’s one step you need to take in response to the hope God is stirring in you?