Luke 2:10-11 (NIV) “But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.’”   Introduction Christmas is one of the most anticipated times of the year, celebrated with lights, music, gifts, and traditions. Yet, in the midst of the glitter and glamour, we often lose sight of its true meaning. The world presents Christmas as a commercialized holiday—focused on shopping, parties, and endless busyness. But as followers of Christ, we are called to look beyond the commercial version of Christmas and remember the reason for the season: the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.   The Commercial Christmas In the commercial version of Christmas, value is placed on materialism and consumerism. Advertisements urge us to buy the best gifts, decorate the most extravagant tree, and outdo one another in celebration. While these activities are not inherently wrong, they can distract us from the spiritual significance of Christmas.   Scripture: Matthew 6:19-21 (NIV) “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”   Jesus reminds us that material possessions are temporary. When we focus solely on earthly treasures, we miss the eternal treasure found in Him.   The True Meaning of Christmas The true meaning of Christmas is found in God’s gift to humanity—Jesus Christ. Christmas is not about what we give or receive but about what God has already given.   Scripture: John 3:16-17 (NIV) “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.”   The birth of Jesus is the ultimate expression of God’s love. It is a story of hope, redemption, and salvation. The shepherds, the wise men, and even the angels rejoiced not because of decorations or feasts but because the Savior had come into the world.   Living Out the True Meaning of Christmas To honor the true meaning of Christmas, we must follow the example of Jesus, who came to serve and not to be served (Matthew 20:28). Christmas is a time to love, give, and reflect God’s grace to others.   Ways to Give of Yourself      •   Serve Others: Find ways to bless those in need. Whether through acts of kindness, donating to outreach programs, or simply sharing a meal, let your actions reflect the love of Christ.    •   Share the Gospel: Use the season as an opportunity to share the good news of Jesus with family and friends.    •   Worship and Reflect: Spend time in prayer, reading the Word, and worshipping God for His incredible gift of salvation.   Closing Scripture: Isaiah 9:6 (NIV) “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”   Conclusion As we celebrate Christmas, let us not get swept away by the world’s version of the holiday. Instead, let us focus on the true meaning: the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Let us rejoice in His love, share His hope, and live as His light in a world that desperately needs Him.   Closing Prayer Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to remember the true meaning of Christmas and to reflect Your love in all we do. May we honor You not only during this season but every day of our lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

In life, we all face challenges that can shake us to our core. Whether it's financial struggles, health issues, or personal crises, adversity is an unavoidable part of the human experience. However, as believers, we have a powerful source of strength to draw upon—the unwavering love and support of our Heavenly Father. "I can do all things through him who strengthens me." - Philippians 4:13 (ESV) At Off The Grid Ministries, we understand the trials and tribulations that life can throw our way. But we also know that with faith, resilience, and the support of our community, we can rise above any adversity that comes our way. Just as the apostle Paul wrote to the Philippians, we believe that through Christ, we have the strength to overcome any challenge. "And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you." - 1 Peter 5:10 (ESV) Adversity has the power to knock us down, but it doesn't have the power to keep us there. Through our faith, we can find the strength to get back up, dust ourselves off, and keep moving forward. We may stumble along the way, but with God by our side, we can face any challenge with courage and determination. "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness." - James 1:2-3 (ESV) At Off The Grid Ministries, we are committed to helping you navigate life's challenges with faith and resilience. Through our programs, resources, and supportive community, we are here to help you rise above adversity and live the abundant life that God has planned for you. "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." - Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV) No matter what challenges you may be facing today, know that you are not alone. God is with you, and so are we. Together, we can overcome any adversity and emerge stronger, wiser, and more resilient than ever before. "Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you." - Deuteronomy 31:6 (ESV) If you're struggling to rise above adversity, reach out to us at Off The Grid Ministries. We're here to support you, encourage you, and walk alongside you on your journey of faith. With God's help, you can overcome any obstacle and live the life of purpose and fulfillment that you were created for. "I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world, you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world." - John 16:33 (ESV) Remember, no matter how dark the road may seem, there is always hope. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, and He will lead you through even the darkest valleys into the light of His love and grace. Together, we can rise above adversity and experience the abundant life that God has promised us. "For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord." - Romans 8:38-39 (ESV) With faith, hope, and love, we can overcome any adversity and emerge stronger than ever before. Let's rise above together! AMEN!

PASTOR MARY KEARNEY Today I just wanted to share a few words about kindness. Have you thought about the person you just pass on your way by? They may be in trouble and seeking something greater than what exists currently in their lives? I'm here to share that if you just take a moment to share acts of kindness it is contagious. That one moment you took to give someone apart of you for free could help them along their way might change the direction and trajectory of everything else in that person's day positively. So, I challenge you to start with kindness and end with kindness. Amen.

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