Missing Christmas
Matthew 2:1-12
1st We miss Christmas when we are self-centered
Matthew 2:1-3 (NIV)
After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him.” When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him.
2nd We miss Christmas when we are spiritually lethargic
Matthew 2:4-5 (NIV)
When he had called together all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Christ was to be born.”In Bethlehem in Judea,” they replied, “for this is what the prophet has written:
Matthew 2:6 (NIV)
“‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will be the shepherd of my people Israel.’ “
3rd We miss Christmas when we are focused on the wrong things
Matthew 2:2 (NIV)
“Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him.”
Luke 2:8-9a (ESV)
And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them…
Matthew 2:7-8 (ESV)
Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.”
Matthew 2:9-10 (ESV)
After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.
