1. “The Present of His Presence!” Matthew 1:18-25

2. 46.3% say they have been phubbed 22.6% say its an “issue” in their relationship

3. Being “Present” Means … Fully attentive; not distracted * Listening with ears to hear the heart … Reading eyes, facials, body language Processing what is being said, considering what it means, and conclusions to be drawn.

4. Christmas celebrates… Jesus is with us … in all things “…and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us…. (camped out, came to stay) – John 1:14 “Where two or more are gathered in My name…” (Matthew 18:20).

5. Jesus invades an evil world of darkness… “and the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness cannot comprehend it…” (John 1:5). Isaiah’s prophecy: “The people who walk in darkness Will see a great light; Those who live in a dark land, The light will shine on them” (Isaiah 9:2) Key: Jesus went where darkness resided!

6. And When Jesus Shows Up, So Does Holiness! “But who can endure the day of His coming? And who can stand when He appears? For He is like a refiner's fire and like fullers' soap. "He will sit as a smelter and purifier of silver, and He will purify the sons of Levi and refine them like gold and silver, so that they may present to the LORD offerings in righteousness” (Malachi 3:2-3) Zaccheus, Saul/Paul, + you!!! (Matt. 1:21).

7. What It Means For Us… Or, “Paying It Forward” Living… 2 arenas for legitimate Christian * on campus + OFF campus Why? 2 Corinthians 2:14-15 – “a fragrant aroma… among the perishing…” RISK!!!

8. 2016 GA Baptist Mission Projects Construction / Baptist Builders Community penetration GA Children’s Home Urgent – Columbus, Covington, Atlanta, and Augusta Disaster relief (Stuart Lang) www.missiongeorgia.org

9. 2016 – Developing Partnerships Good Samaritan / Food ministries My Sister’s Place (homeless women/children) Jon Huebner – Multi-housing church plants Helping Hands / Sew and So clothing CBA New Works Foundation (new churches) Good News @ Noon (homeless men) Choices Pregnancy Care Center WGTJ Radio outreach Nursing homes / assisted living / kids + pets

10. Creative Opportunities to Serve… NEGA Humane Society = Amy’s class!

11. How Can We Organize to Be Present? Step #1 – Commit! Joshua 24:15 - “As for me and my house…” ** realign time, money, and effort in ’16 Adopt a ministry … once a month / quarter Sunday School classes Ministry groups: Choirs / TLP / Youth / AWANA