In the third message of our series called Even Though, Pastor Mel preaches a Christmas Eve sermon centered on the biblical meaning of hope as a joyful anticipation of good that is future-oriented and rooted externally in God's unfailing promises, distinct from mere wishing and closely tied to faith in the person of Jesus. Drawing from Isaiah 54:10, Mel emphasizes God's unbreakable covenant of peace (beriyth shalom)—an alliance of completeness, welfare, and well-being—that remains steadfast even if mountains shake or hills are removed, assuring God's compassionate, unfailing love for His people despite Israel's exile and judgment. This covenant promise finds its ultimate fulfillment in the birth of Jesus, as announced in Luke 2:10-14, where the angels proclaim good news of great joy, a Savior born in Bethlehem, and peace on earth among those with whom God is pleased—echoing the hope that, because of Christ's coming, believers can confidently anticipate God's goodwill and covenant faithfulness.
