Sermon: December 21, 2025
Reading: Matthew 1:18-25
The true meaning of Christmas is not found in society’s expectations, but in what God has done for us, and in how we share that love with the rest of humanity. When we nurture our relationship with God and extend kindness, compassion, and understanding to others, we become bearers of hope and healing.
Matthew’s gospel gives us a beautiful example of doing just that through Joseph. When Joseph discovered that Mary was pregnant, he was well within his rights, according to Jewish tradition and law, to break off the engagement and have her stoned, or at the very least, have her banished from the community. But just because it’s tradition or a law doesn’t make it the right thing to do.
Instead, Joseph opened his heart, listened to God’s voice, and chose mercy over judgment, compassion over condemnation, and faith over fear, ultimately becoming part of the unfolding story of salvation. His response invites us to also listen for God’s voice and to respond in the same way with open hearts and compassion, becoming co-creators of God’s kingdom here on earth and participants in the continuing story of salvation by reflecting God’s love to the world.
What if, rather than trying to live up to society’s image of a perfect Christmas, we embraced God’s vision of a perfect Christmas, which looks more like serving in a soup kitchen for those without a home, or being a part of Meals on Wheels delivering hot meals to those in need. It looks like people making room and welcoming immigrants and refugees in a country that has plenty. It looks like extending an invitation to someone who is alone to share a meal. God’s vision of the perfect Christmas looks like us embodying the righteousness of Joseph and the compassion and love of Jesus Christ.
As Advent draws us closer to Christmas, may we be ready to welcome God’s presence, not only in our celebrations, but in our struggles, our hopes, and our fears. May gratitude fill our hearts for the perfect gift of Jesus, for the promise of Emmanuel, and for the assurance that God is truly with us, now and always.
