It's Not a String!

While many of us struggle to recall the details of Jesus’ birth, even more of us do not know why Jesus came in the first place! As Simon Sinek famously preaches, “start with why,” this week we dive into the question, what does kindness have to do with the purpose of Jesus’ birth? And even more, what does a vertically challenged tax collector have to do with Christmas?

Jesus entered a famous town from the Old Testament…JERICHO. Why Jericho? Turns out…Jesus had unfinished business there. Jericho was the "first fruits" city dedicated to the Lord, after Israel marched around it 7 days in a row and took the city simply by shouting! God had done a miracle. God still does miracles…TO FULFILL HIS PURPOSE.

So why did Jesus go to Jericho? Why did God become human? Why did God leave Heaven, come to Earth, be born in a manger, to a teenage mom and generous and kind dad? Turns out…Jericho and Christmas have a lot in common.

TALK ABOUT IT - Questions to GROW through with family, friends, & myself. 

1. Can i tell the story of Jesus’ birth accurately? Can i explain WHY Jesus was born?

2. How did Jesus show kindness to Zacchaeus? How did this kindness impact Zacchaeus?

3. According to Romans 2:4, how is God's kindness intended to impact our lives? What’s the purpose?

4. What practical steps resonate with me for restoring my relationship with God or someone else?

5. PRAYER: “Father, help us to turn away from our selfishness and follow Jesus!”