Christmas Eve Special 2025-12-24: The Cross in View | Worship, Isaiah 53, and the Call to Surrender

This Christmas Eve we gathered for a special service marked by an extended time of worship, celebrating the birth of Christ with beloved Christmas hymns and carols that declare His arrival, His majesty, and His worthiness. Through songs such as “Joy to the World,” “O Holy Night,” “Mary, Did You Know,” and “Come All Ye Faithful,” we lifted our voices in praise to the One who is both Emmanuel and the Lamb who was slain. Following worship, we turned to Isaiah 53 and Isaiah 11, reflecting on the truth that the Christmas story always carries the cross in view. The incarnation is not simply a sentimental moment—it is God stooping to our level, entering the dirt of humanity to rescue us. Jesus came in humility, not to attract us by beauty or status, but to bear our griefs, carry our sorrows, and suffer for our sins so that we may be reconciled to God. We were reminded that: Christmas reveals the fullness of God’s rescue—from the cradle to the cross to the empty tomb. Surrender, not self-reliance, is the way into God’s family; heaven is not earned by righteousness but entered by laying down our rights. Jesus is a man of sorrows who understands our grief, yet through His suffering brings us peace and healing. The joy of the eternal kingdom is coming, when the sorrow of this life will give way to everlasting gladness under the reign of the risen King. Join us for worship, Scripture, and a powerful call to remember that Christmas is about God with us—and God for us—through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Key Scriptures: Isaiah 53:1–12; Isaiah 11:1–10; Philippians 2:5–11; John 1:14 Worship Highlights: Joy to the World; Angels We Have Heard on High; O Come All Ye Faithful; Mary, Did You Know; Noel; Silent Night