Tis The Season: Pt 2 - Silent Night

This message takes us into the profound reality that God has been speaking since before time began, and He continues to speak into our lives today. Drawing from Luke chapter 1, we explore Mary's encounter with the angel Gabriel—a moment that changed everything. Here was a young woman, probably just a teenager, living in obscurity, yet God had a specific, holy purpose for her life. The beauty of this story is that it mirrors our own journey: God has a specific calling for each of us, one we don't create but discover. Mary's response teaches us something powerful—she didn't fully understand how God's plan would unfold, but she trusted anyway. We're challenged to distinguish between asking honest questions and questioning God's authority. The narrow gate Jesus speaks of isn't exclusive; it's specific. There are precise instructions for living the abundant life Christ promises, and following them leads to a life that is rich and satisfying. As we navigate a world filled with competing voices—including the enemy's counterfeits and artificial substitutes for truth—we must learn to recognize the Shepherd's voice above all others. Like sheep who know their shepherd, we can discern God's voice when we spend time listening. The practical invitation is clear: make prayer a priority, schedule appointments with God, and prepare our hearts to hear. When we surrender our understanding and trust His leading, we position ourselves for the holy, silent nights where God speaks most clearly to our souls.