This sermon calls us to rediscover the wonder of Jesus by returning to John 1, one of the clearest declarations of who He truly is. While the world holds many opinions about Jesus—teacher, prophet, historical figure—Scripture presses the ultimate question: “Who do you say that I am?” John answers by revealing Jesus as the eternal Word of God, fully God and fully man, existing with the Father before creation. Through Him all things were made, and He is the source of both life and light for humanity. The eternal Word became flesh so we could know God personally, be rescued from sin and spiritual darkness, and receive true, abundant life. Christmas invites us to respond with faith, awe, and worship.

This message invites us to rediscover the wonder of Christmas by recovering a sense of awe—letting ourselves feel small before the greatness of God. When we lose wonder, we grow self-important, but Christmas calls us to kneel near the manger and marvel at the God who became flesh. Studying biblical prophecy restores that wonder. Prophecy shows that God is in complete control, sovereign over time, nations, and history. It builds our confidence that He always fulfills His promises and stirs awe as we see centuries-old predictions fulfilled with flawless precision. The prophecies of Christ’s virgin birth, His star, His birthplace in Bethlehem, the sorrow in Judah, and the promise of His eternal reign all point to Jesus—God with us, our promised King.

The story of the Pilgrims is a story of God’s providence. Fleeing persecution in England, these Separatists crossed the Atlantic with a deep desire to worship freely and advance the gospel. Aboard the storm-tossed Mayflower, God preserved them—saving John Howland from the sea, strengthening the ship with a jackscrew, and guiding them away from deadly shoals. Their first winter was devastating, yet the Lord sustained a handful who nursed the sick with sacrificial love. In spring, God sent help through Samoset and Squanto, whose remarkable story shows God’s unseen preparation. By harvest, God turned scarcity into abundance, leading to the first Thanksgiving. As Psalm 107 declares, “Give thanks to the Lord… for He is good; His steadfast love endures forever.” [Various selections from "Bradford's History of Plymouth Plantation"] Intentional thanksgiving shapes our spiritual growth by strengthening faith, deepening contentment, and increasing love for God. Gratitude strengthens faith by acknowledging God’s continual provision—both in answered prayers and in trusting Him for what is yet to come. Thanksgiving also nurtures contentment, a learned attitude that finds joy in what God provides rather than in material excess. Paul’s example in Philippians shows that true contentment is possible in any circumstance through Christ’s strength. Gratitude helps believers resist materialism, greed, and coveting by focusing on God’s wise and sufficient provision. Finally, thanksgiving fuels love for God as we recognize His goodness, salvation, gifts, and care. As we thank Him purposefully, our perspective shifts, and worship becomes our natural response.

Intentional thanksgiving shapes our spiritual growth by strengthening faith, deepening contentment, and increasing love for God. Gratitude strengthens faith by acknowledging God’s continual provision—both in answered prayers and in trusting Him for what is yet to come. Thanksgiving also nurtures contentment, a learned attitude that finds joy in what God provides rather than in material excess. Paul’s example in Philippians shows that true contentment is possible in any circumstance through Christ’s strength. Gratitude helps believers resist materialism, greed, and coveting by focusing on God’s wise and sufficient provision. Finally, thanksgiving fuels love for God as we recognize His goodness, salvation, gifts, and care. As we thank Him purposefully, our perspective shifts, and worship becomes our natural response.

True thanksgiving begins with knowing who God is and recognizing what He has done. Psalm 136 calls us to give thanks for both the person and works of God, whose steadfast love endures forever. God reveals Himself through His names—Yahweh, the faithful covenant-keeper; Elohim, the powerful Creator; Adonai, the sovereign Lord; and El Shamayim, the God of heaven. Because God is good, everything He allows in our lives works for ultimate good. His loyal love—hesed—never fails or ends. Genuine gratitude flows from this deep understanding of His character, not just His blessings. Like the Pilgrims who thanked God despite hardship, believers are called to live with continual, visible thanksgiving, trusting His presence, power, and eternal faithfulness.

This sermon challenges believers to recognize both the need and responsibility of sharing the gospel. From Romans 10:1–13, we learn that unbelievers must believe in Jesus alone for salvation—only through faith in Him can they be made right with God. For believers, Romans 9:14–15 emphasizes our calling to share this message: people cannot believe unless someone tells them. Every Christian has been sent with the good news, and sharing it is a beautiful act of obedience. We are called to meet people where they are, engage with genuine care, and take Spirit-led initiative. The gospel is simple yet powerful: all have sinned, Christ died for us, and through faith we receive eternal life.

This sermon calls believers to live intentionally on mission for Christ. We experience success through three keys: prayer, conduct, and words. We are to pray continually for open doors to share the gospel, live wisely by making the most of every opportunity, and speak with grace—offering truth firmly but kindly. The message emphasizes that God places each of us sovereignly in specific spheres of influence—our families, workplaces, and communities—for gospel impact. Like Jesus, Paul, and Philip, we must see divine appointments as opportunities to share the good news: that all have sinned, Christ died for us, and through faith we receive eternal life.