Good morning and Welcome to the Encinitas Church of Christ

The spirit of Christmas Luke 2:1-20

It’s a spirit of Joy But the joy of Christmas is more than that! Christmas is a time of great joy Seeing and hearing from old friends Spending time with family Sharing presents . . . But the joy of Christmas is more than that!

It’s a spirit of Joy It’s rejoicing in our Savior – Luke 2:8-12 Christmas reminds us of the birth of Christ Things will soon return to normal, and the presents will all lose their luster, but our salvation is a joy we’ll experience forever! – I Peter 1:3-9

It’s a spirit of Appreciation Christmas is a time to be grateful We’re grateful for a lot of things . . . And we’re grateful to a lot of people . . . But Christmas gratitude goes beyond just the physical

It’s a spirit of Appreciation It’s giving thanks and praise to God - Luke 2:13-14a For His great love in sending His Son – John 3:16 For His grace and mercy – Ephesians 1:3-14 Cook book recall – missing ingredient

Lasting peace is founded in our relationship with God It’s a spirit of Peace Christmas is a time of peace We set aside our grudges and bad feelings We strive to be a little nicer to everyone Peanuts Comic – Lucy and Charlie Brown Lasting peace is founded in our relationship with God

It’s a spirit of Peace It’s celebrating peace with God – Luke 2:14b Peace made possible by Jesus! – Colossians 1:19-22; Romans 5:1 A peace that passes all understanding – Philippians 4:4-7

It’s a spirit of Good will Christmas is a time of good will It inspires us to have compassion It moves us to do good to others, to be unselfish and giving And most of all . . .

It’s a spirit of Good will It’s reveling in God’s good will toward us Luke 2:14c God has truly been good to all of us! – Psalm 103:1-5

Get in the Christmas spirit and enjoy the holidays!!!