The Christmas story serves as a powerful reminder that fear and joy can often coexist. Today, lead pastor Josh Scott examines Matthew’s story of the Magi who visited Jesus. He talks about the different ways that both fear and joy show up in the story and encourages us to find joy in the hope of what could be, even when we’re acknowledging the pain and injustice around us.
Episode Recap:
- The purpose of Advent is to bring the past into the present (2:49)
- Who were the Magi, actually? (6:11)
- In his story of the Magi, Matthew is drawing from a rich scripture tradition (11:00)
- Herod saw Jesus as a direct threat to his power (15:31)
- It’s hard to make clear decisions when you’re operating out of fear (19:58)
- Christmas reminds us how fear and joy can coexist (27:58)
- Joy celebrates what could be while still acknowledging what is (32:25)
- The Magi remind us that Jesus has good news for all, not just Christians (38:55)
Resources:
