“The Christmas story”

December 25                             

 “And it came to pass in those days….

Oh Lord you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name for in perfect faithfulness you have done marvelous things; things planned long ago, *Isaiah 25:1

There went out a decree from Caesar Augustus….

The Lord does not delight in the power of a man; the Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.  Psalm 147:10-11

So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee…

But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.  Micah 5:1

To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child…

Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son.  Isaiah 6:5

And she brought forth her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger…

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given and the government will be on his shoulders and He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.  Isaiah 9:6

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

Hear the word of the LORD, O nations; proclaim it in distant coastlands: He who scattered Israel will gather them and will watch over his flock like a shepherd.  Jeremiah 31:10

Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance?  You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy.  You will again have compassion on us: You will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea.  Micah 7:18-19

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men!

Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has see any God besides you who acts on behalf of those who wait for him.  Isaiah 64:4

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men!