White Elephant Jesus

NOV 27  / Sunday | “Which Jesus?” Message Series – Read Luke 1:26-38 and 46-55 / Matthew 1:18-25

Overview: Jesus is a priceless holy gift like a white elephant, but he is neither a burden/punishment nor a joke.

28 / Mon – Just a fun tradition?  |  Read 1 Peter 2:4 / Matthew 6:21

In a white elephant gift exchange, each participant wraps and brings to the party an unexpected object to gift someone else. It is not purchased but something they already own, usually something they don’t want. The results are pretty interesting. But there are elephants actually born white, a rare occurrence, and they are even worshiped in some cultures. So here’s something to consider. Jesus may be just a minor part of the holiday tradition to some but will his birth be your central focus?

29 / Tue – Not what you wanted to hear   |  Read Luke 1:26-38

One of the last things a young Jewish girl in New Testament times would want to hear is that she would be found pregnant before marriage. When the angel appeared to Mary with this news, what was her honest reaction? What would yours be if an angelic being told you that you would be given a ‘gift’ which would bring misunderstanding and ostracize you from those you love the most? Would you reject it? What kind of character does it take to accept a difficult assignment from God?

30 / Wed – Unexpected response  |  Read Luke 1:46-56

What do you think happened in Mary’s heart between her acceptance in Luke 1:38 and her response to Elizabeth’s greeting that starts in verse 46? Do difficult circumstances take on new meaning if you raise your eyes from what stands in front of you and focus on who God is, His character, His past faithfulness and His present reliability. The future is shrouded in fog. All you have is this present moment. Maybe the answer to Mary’s ability to rejoice is found in v. 45.

01 / Thu – What?!  |  Read Matthew 1:18-19

Are you the person standing outside looking in on a disappointing and even heartbreaking situation? Are you dealing with confusion because you thought you knew how life was going to go, tempted to question God or yourself? If so, then you understand some of what Joseph was feeling. Will you, like Joseph, listen to what God says about your situation? And are you willing to obey as He directs you, even if it seems difficult? God does have a plan.

02 / Fri – Miracles  |  Read Matthew 1:20-25

Jesus’ birth was as rare as the birth of a white elephant. Even more so because it’s the first, last and only time a virgin gave birth to a child. It was, however, only the first of many miracles which led to the resurrection and God’s salvation being offered to anyone, anywhere, at any time – restoration of the relationship lost in Eden. Are you allowing the temporary troubles of this life to steal the hope you have, making you forget the ultimate joy you’ll experience when Jesus comes to get you?

03 / Sat – The most precious name  |  Read Matthew 1:21 & 23

If Jesus had a middle name, it would be Immanuel. Jesus means He saves, which is what he came to do. But Immanuel means God with us. Isn’t that what we desperately need once we have been made right with God? Who can find any peace with the unexpected twists and turns of life except those standing firmly on this truth? God, the God of the universe, of all time and space, is personally with you right now. It’s going to be okay.