Show notes
Sermon Notes – "In Our Father’s House: Finding Christ and Growing in Faith"
Rev. Dr. Brad Hinton
Date: 12-29-2024
Scripture Reference:
Luke 2:41-52 – Jesus in the Temple at 12 Years Old
Key Points to Reflect On:
The Christmas Season Transition
The Christmas season begins with the celebration of Christ's birth.
As we move from preparation to celebration, we remember how Christ changed the world.
The 12 days of Christmas invite us to celebrate Jesus' life and growth.
Jesus’ Growing Up
In today’s scripture, Jesus is no longer a newborn; He is a 12-year-old boy.
Jesus goes to the festival of Passover with His parents, but stays behind in the temple without informing them.
Mary and Joseph’s frantic search for Jesus mirrors the anxiety we may feel when we lose something or someone dear to us.
The Parallels to “Home Alone”
Just as in Home Alone, where a child is accidentally left behind, Mary and Joseph face a similar panic when they can’t find Jesus.
The emotional weight of losing a child is felt in both stories, highlighting the bond between parents and children.
Jesus’ Response to His Parents’ Worry
When Mary and Joseph find Jesus after three days, He is calm and explains: “Did you not know I must be in my Father’s house?”
Jesus is focused on His mission and relationship with God, even at a young age.
This moment invites us to reflect on our relationship with God and where we “find” God in our own lives.
Living Out Our Faith in the Father’s House
Jesus teaches us that being in God’s presence (the Father’s house) is where we grow, ask questions, and encounter the divine.
At Davidson UMC, we respond to our faith through actions like volunteering, supporting community efforts, and caring for one another.
Reflection Question: How are you actively seeking God in your life? How are you growing deeper in faith?
The Ongoing Work of God in Our Lives
As we close out 2024, we are called to reflect on how we’ve grown in faith and where God is still working in us.
Sanctification is the ongoing process of growing closer to God and becoming more like Christ.
Reflection Question: Are you further along in your faith this year than last? What steps can you take in the coming year to deepen your faith?
Action Steps:
Reflect on where you encounter God in your life—whether it’s through worship, service, or relationships.
Find ways to live out your faith in tangible ways at Davidson UMC or in your community.
Commit to growing deeper in your relationship with God, asking questions, and seeking understanding.
Prayer for the Week:
God, thank You for the gift of Christ, who calls us to grow in faith and to seek Your presence in our lives. Help us to find You in all that we do and to continue to grow closer to You. Guide us in our service to others and help us reflect Christ in all we say and do. In Jesus' name, Amen.
We invite you to continue this journey with us at Davidson UMC.
Stay connected, grow in faith, and be a light to the world.
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