We are in a series called, “The Night that Changed Everything.”  We’re looking at the significance of Christmas, a night that changed much more than most of us imagine.  We’ll see its impact on five segments of society:

  1. The Night That Changed the Religious
  2. The Night That Changed the Powerful
  3. The Night That Changed the Poor
  4. The Night That Changed You
  5. The Night That Changed the Wise

This is our final week, when we look at how Jesus’ birth changed the wise.  As you might have guessed, we’ll look at the story of the Magi or wise men who visited Jesus. They are unexpected worshippers of Jesus.  We already explored how the shepherds were unusual, but at least they were local.  The Magi travelled a long way, and they were highly educated astrologers.

They are the last people you’d expect to be worshipping a baby, but here they are.  They are important for us to consider, because even today there are those who say they are too smart to believe in Jesus, or any religion.  We’ll explore that this week.

Question: Describe a wise person.  How do you recognize one?

Reminder: We are reading the Bible in sync as one community – so check out today’s reading here.

Reminder: The best way to grow spiritually this year is to join our Christianity 101 in the Cafe Course in Pickering starting January 22nd. Register for you and a friend today!

Read the Bible in Sync Today

Ryan Sim - April 22, 2013

Monday - A New Idea - Generosity

This week, we take an honest look at our motivations for giving and helping others. Charities know people like to be honoured and recognized for the good, generous people they are. More likely to give, if they know they’ll be honoured. A Dutch study of church offerings of cash for outside charities. Baskets & Bags. When using baskets, attendees can see the contribution made by their direct neighbours as well as the total amount already gathered. Givings Increased 10% when baskets are used. Not just money. Owners of the environmentally friendly Toyota Prius were polled about why they drive a Prius. #1 answer was this it makes a statement about me. Higher fuel economy and lower emissions in third and fifth place! Our concern for what others think can clearly motivate us to give and do good...a fact many charities use to their advantage to raise money! Question: How have you benefited from giving to others in the past? Think about both tangible and intangible ones, intentional or not. How do you feel about receiving these?

Discuss the Daily Challenge

More Messages Associated With "Generosity"...

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