The Christmas story is often polished and cleaned up, but the original scene was desperate and filthy, with Joseph and Mary delivering their firstborn in a stone cutout in a hillside. The innkeeper's words to Joseph and Mary were not recorded, and the stable where Jesus was born was likely a hollowed-out cave in a Bethlehem hillside. The story of Christmas is a powerful metaphor for the human heart, and the question remains, is there room for Jesus Christ in our hearts today? [... more]

Pastor Greg Laurie highlights Mary's betrothed husband, Joseph, and how his integrity fits into the Christmas story. He explores the genealogy of Jesus, revealing a list of men and women with questionable pasts, yet redeemed by God's grace. The focus is on Jesus and not on His family, demonstrating that God's plan is not limited to the perfect, but can redeem even the most imperfect lives. [... more]

The innkeeper's story reveals the true meaning of Christmas, as he reflects on the events that took place in his inn, where Mary and Joseph sought refuge. The innkeeper's dream and encounter with angels foreshadow the birth of Jesus, the Messiah, and the inn becomes a symbol of the heart's readiness to receive God's gift of salvation. [... more]

The true meaning of Christmas is often lost amidst the busyness of life, as people miss the significance of Jesus Christ's birth. Examples from history, such as the innkeeper, Herod, and the religious leaders, demonstrate how self-righteousness, idolatry, and over-familiarity can lead to unbelief and a missed opportunity to experience the reality of Christmas. [... more]