calvary updates 12/05

George Winfrey
Dec 5, 2025
3 min read

Updated: Dec 7, 2025

**If Christ made a return visit in 2025, would we welcome Him?**

John 1:11: He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him.

Luke 13:34: O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing!".

It should not surprise us when some of the gifts we give to our children or grandchildren are not well received. We might buy a set of clothing that we think they will like, but the older generation does not always know what the younger generation appreciates. And one child may favor a different clothing style than their sibling. The old saying would certainly apply here, "different strokes for different folks."

That being said, let's get to the real meaning of Christmas. Jesus came to seek and to save the lost according to Luke 19:10. The gift of eternal life is a gift that will never go "out of style." It is a gift that doesn't die when the batteries go dead. It's not made of faulty construction materials that render a toy useless in the first week of enjoyment. It has a guarantee that is backed by something better than a "Good Housekeeping" seal of approval. It is powered by the love, grace and kindness of the God of the universe! Note the power promise in the John 1:11 &12. Catch the full context of John's words. He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name (KJV). He provided the power or the right to become the children of God. He provided the power for us to see our identity forever changed. Instead of being at odds with God because of our sins, we were forgiven and adopted into his family.

The truth is we don't have to wait for Christmas to receive God's gift of salvation, it is offered to us at any time we recognize our need. You can accept God's gift of salvation through Jesus by a simple prayer. Why not take God up on his offer? Reach out to God with this prayer, Lord Jesus, I need you. Thank you for going to cross to pay for my sins. I confess my sins to you. I ask you to forgive me and to come and live inside my heart. Lord, make me the kind of person you want me to be. Amen.

If you prayed that prayer sincerely, God has heard you and forgiven you. To take the next step in your journey of faith, let me know of your decision or reach out to a friend that you know follows Christ.and tell them of your decision. And if you did pray to accept Christ, let me be the first to welcome you to the family of God! Make plans to attend a Bible believing church this Sunday.

WHAT TO EXPECT SUNDAY

Our message is entitled "Calloused Coalition" and we will examine the heart condition of the nation to which Jesus was to minister. From his Christmas birth and beyond Jesus would face obstacles to reach his own nation. Our worship begins at 10:30 am and Sunday School kicks off our morning at 9:15am. Come for a cup of coffee and a donut.

Note: We will be in the fellowship room again this week due to furnace issues.

Here is a song you will hear Sunday, Chris Rice, Welcome to our World,

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QrgwL5r7IcU&list=RDQrgwL5r7IcU&start_radio=1