It was a joyous occasion for the Young Adult ministry of Trinity Baptist church, Alor Setar on December 17, as they celebrated their YA Christmas celebration. 72 young adults came, mostly visitors invited by the young adults cell group. Many of the visitors enjoyed their time there. Different types of western food were served, ranging from spicy spaghetti to roast chicken. Ice breaker games got the members and visitors to meet and greet each other. But the main highlight was the message brought by the YA leader Jeffery Lai. His message was regarding the reason behind the Christmas celebration. What is it all about?
Jeffry shared a simple and basic message of what Christmas is about. It was about the birth of Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour that the secular world has forgotten about. It is not about Santa Claus, or presents. Nor is it about the latest trends or Christmas songs.
He began with a story that we as Christians are all too familiar with. Mary being told that she would conceive a child, a virgin conceiving.
And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins. Matthew 1:21
Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. Matthew 1:23
And His name shall be called Jesus.
Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the King, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him. Matthew 2:1-2
As simple as this is, we tend to forget how many of those who do not know Christ, don’t know His story; of how His birth was a miraculous one. Foretold in prophecy, and seen with signs in the heavens above…
“Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the King, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, saying, where is he that is born King of the Jews? For we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.” Matthew 2:1-2, rejoiced by wise men, from distant lands – “When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.” Matthew 2:10
“After coming into the house they saw the Child with Mary His mother; and they fell to the ground and worshiped Him. Then, opening their treasures, they presented to Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” Matthew 2:11 and celebrated by “And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God.” Luke 2:13
But it was first announced to the simple folks – the Shepherds “…the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. Luke 2:10
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. Luke 2:11
And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger. Luke 2:12
Despite Jeffrey’s simple sharing, the message was one that many of the visitors would have heard probably for the first time.
Indeed, as followers of Christ, sometimes we must remember that we should always share the true message of Christmas to all those who do not know the true meaning of Christmas. Not a western celebration that is held to share gifts, reunite with family, go on holidays, see beautiful decorations, or even hope for world peace. It is about the birth of the Prince of Peace. It is about the birth of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, who saved us from our sins. It’s a powerful message indeed for all the 50 plus visitors there.
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Chris Quah
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