12.18.2016 - A Christmas Carol - The Ghosts of our Future (Chip Pendleton)

The Advent sermon series "A Christmas Carol" continues. Our feelings about the future are often tied to the ghosts of our past and present (Matthew 2:1-8). The Magi anticipated the birth of the Messiah with great excitement. Herod is DISTURBED by what the future might hold (2:3-8). Our view of the future will affect our actions in the present (2:9-18). The Magi were filled with JOY, gave gifts, and worshipped (2:9-12) while Herod is filled with FEAR, paranoia, and evil. (2:16-18). We can face the future with confidence if we are facing it with God (2:13-15, 19-23). We need to realize the world can be a scary place, but God is always with us. We need to trust and FOLLOW God's direction.