What an amazing quotation from Elizabeth Elliot, who by the way is uniquely capable of commenting on where joy comes from as her husband, Jim, was put to death in South America for the sake of the Gospel. Instead of harboring bitterness, she forgave and eventually went back to the very tribe of people who put her husband to death to continue telling them about Jesus. What Elizabeth says, is that we look for happiness by self-assertion. Happiness comes when I get to insert myself into whatever situation I want and I get whatever I want. However, the Christ follower knows that joy is found in self-abandonment. By putting myself last, losing myself, and in doing so I find Jesus and the joy that comes from him alone. May you find joy this Christmas in putting yourself last, and putting Jesus first.

God chose to send His Son, Jesus, to redeem what was already His. We were created in His image, but sin had taken us away. So, what did God do? He bought us back from sin and slavery with the blood of His Son. Jesus paid the price for our redemption. And, when you understand all that God has done for you through Christ, the pull of the world loses its appeal. 

As we return to our daily lives, let us fix our eyes on Jesus, our ultimate champion who conquered sin and death for us. His victory assures us that we can face our fears and obstacles, not by our own might, but by His strength and love. Our story is determined not by our enemies or fears, but by our King, Jesus Christ.

When was the last time you evaluated the return on investment, on the greedy choices you made? What you will find is the ROI is never what you think it will be! Instead of being happier, you are less content. Instead of being pleased with your new gadgets, you want yet another one. Greed always leaves us wanting more! 

Seek to be content this week. Seek to be a blessing to others. Thank God for all He has lavished on you, and yearn to be an active participant in all He wants to do in and through you in the world. 

Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to His own advantage; rather, He made Himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross! Philippians 2:3-8

Thank you for being patient with me. It gives me a sense of connection with you. And how I so appreciate your kindness, particularly when I don’t deserve it. It lavishes me with great joy. You never show envy toward those who have more. Grace is your teacher pushing me to maturity. 

You never exalt yourself through pride and a boastful spirit. This allows me to experience great freedom in your presence. I’m immersed in a harsh world, but your lack of rudeness resurrects my soul. I am forced to take inventory of my own life. 

You avoid self-seeking, but set a higher standard with all humility of mind, by thinking more highly of others than you do yourself. Such virtue affords me great comfort. I have done many foolish and upsetting things, but you never display anger. This encourages me to be myself and learn from your gentle spirit. 

By never keeping a record of wrongs, I feel no judgment and can be at peace, which provides such comfort. You avoid, at all costs, delighting in evil, which ministers to my soul and lifts my spirit daily. You always protect me from myself and the harmful influences that surround me. How uplifting this is when I feel dejected and alone. 

You are so trusting by providing a safe haven in which to lay my burdens, deepest thoughts, and secrets at your feet. Thank you for giving me such hope, so as to maintain an eternal perspective. Your perseverance keeps me focused on that which is important. To lLove sSupremely. Thank you for loving me unconditionally, for that is The Love of Jesus.

But, unfortunately, it's more common not to follow through on a resolution than it is for one to complete it. Why is that?

Well, one reason could be that we are creating too lofty of goals. Another could be the way in which we view our "resolution." So, we propose a shift in how you think about your goals this new year.

First, start with one single step of how you want to grow in your faith this new year. It could be joining a group, being in God's Word daily, praying consistently, or something else. Choose just one thing to focus on.

Secondly, rather than calling it a "resolution," shift to calling it a "commitment." Committing to something means that you are making a decision to do (or not do) something. Tell a friend or accountability partner what your commitment is, and ask them to follow up with you. 

Friend, pray over and consider what God is calling you to grow in this new year. With His help, you can make a commitment and grow in 2024.

We all know it. Everyone feels it. There is even a song (thank you, Andy Williams) that declares it. It really is “the most wonderful time of the year.” Everything, since the beginning of time, has pointed to the birth of Jesus. And since the birth of Jesus, everything has counted its time and place in history from His miraculous birth. 

At Rolling Hills, we love celebrating the birth of Jesus. We also love celebrating the rebirth of a believer who discovers Jesus, or a person who dedicates their life to pursuing Him. Christmas will soon be over. The decorations will return to the attics, and the kids will return to school. We will welcome a New Year, and it’s one that I know can truly be wonderful when Christ is at the center. 

Have you placed your faith in Christ? If not, experience the true joy and wonder of Christmas, and every day by asking for His forgiveness for your sin and for His presence in your life. If you want to make a note on this connection card and place it in the offering basket today, we will gladly follow up. 

Do you already know and recognize Jesus as Savior and Lord? If so, what is your next step for this next year to seek Jesus, share Jesus, serve Jesus, and make much of Jesus in your life? That is the core of what we sing and say every single Sunday. Make church a priority for you and your family in 2024. Join a group. Find a place to serve. Be present and invite everyone you know to join you. 

I love you, church family. Even if you’re here for the first time, I love that you’re here and can’t wait to get to know you next year. Thanks for spending Christmas Eve with us today. Merry, Merry Christmas!

Jason Hale

Nolensville Campus Pastor