Why Christmas? Discover the answer to that question in Waxer's Christmas Eve message. Reading from Isaiah 7:14, this message explores the profound promise given to the world: Immanuel, God with us.

Spoken nearly 700 years before Jesus' birth, Isaiah's prophecy reveals that God's answer to fear was not strategy or strength, but His presence. Through the miracle of the virgin birth, God stepped directly into human history, declaring that salvation would come not by human effort, but by divine intervention.

Through Mary's faith and obedience, we are reminded that God's promises often come before understanding, and that blessing flows from belief in His promises. Before Jesus preached or performed miracles, His very presence proclaimed the gospel—God is not distant, but near, present, and faithful.

Christmas is the assurance that God keeps His promises, that He is with us in every season, and that Jesus came not merely to improve our lives, but to make it possible for us to be with Him now and forever.

In Luke 2, the birth of Jesus unfolds against the backdrop of empire, power, and divine promise. As Caesar Augustus issues a decree meant to display his authority, God sovereignly fulfills His own—bringing the true King into the world through humility, obedience, and grace.

This sermon traces the contrast between earthly power and heavenly kingship, showing how God orchestrates history to keep every promise He has made. From Joseph's righteousness and Mary's quiet faith, to a Savior laid in a manger and announced first to shepherds, we see that God's purposes are not hindered by obscurity or suffering.

Jesus is revealed as the true Son of God, the greater Savior, and the Prince of Peace—bringing peace not through dominance, but through the giving of His own life. The good news announced to the shepherds is still good news for us today: God is faithful, His promises are sure, and this Savior in the humble manger has been born for you.

As we journey through Advent, Luke 1:26–55 invites us to wait with hope for our faithful God. Through the angel's announcement to Mary and her humble response, we are reminded that God keeps His promises and enters our brokenness with both power and mercy. Mary's response and heart of worship points us to a Savior who sees the lowly, lifts the humble, and brings hope to the weary. In a season that can hold both joy and sorrow, Maiola's message calls us to trust God's character, believe His Word, and to fix our hearts on Jesus—the promised King who has come and will come for us again.