The Hope of Christmas
Advent '25
Summary
This sermon centers on the profound hope found in the incarnation of Jesus Christ, emphasizing that true hope is not rooted in earthly circumstances but in the sovereign, holy, and loving nature of God. Drawing from Luke 1:26–38, it highlights Mary's encounter with Gabriel as a pivotal moment in redemptive history, where divine preparation and divine sovereignty converge. The passage underscores that Jesus' virgin birth fulfills Old Testament prophecy, affirming His divine identity as the Son of God and the eternal King, while Mary's humble response—'Behold, I am the servant of the Lord'—exemplifies the posture of faith required for genuine hope: surrender, humility, and trust in God's plan. The sermon connects this truth to the believer's life, affirming that while suffering and disappointment remain part of the Christian journey, God's love and faithfulness, demonstrated through Christ's birth, death, and resurrection, provide an unshakable hope that does not disappoint. Ultimately, the message calls the audience to fix their eyes on Jesus, the fulfillment of God's promise, and to live in the joy and security of a relationship with the One who is the only true source of lasting hope.