We have Christmas because We are Sinners.

This Sunday's lesson is God promises to send a Messiah from Genesis 3:15; 12:1-3 and 49:10.

Pastor Duke's statement from last week is very relevant to this week's lesson:

Christmas is not a testament to the goodness of mankind but rather a commentary on our human condition.

Why do we have Christmas?

-  Because we are sinners in desperate need of a savior.

-  Because God is  loving and merciful and provided that Savior for us in Jesus.

This Sunday's memory verses are Romans 15:13a (2yr - kindergarten) and 15:12 (1st - 5th grade)
These are not the Fighter Verses.  These were selected to connect with Christmas.

Romans 15:13a  "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing"
Real joy and peace  don't come from Christmas time.  They come from and through Christ.

Romans 15:12  "The root of Jesse will come, even he who arises to rule the Gentiles; in him will the Gentiles hope."
Jesus is the promised Messiah.  He was promised to Adam and Even and He was promised to David.

This month's ministry emphasis is our Senior Saints and Shut-ins.
You may want to use one of your craft times during the next three week's to make Christmas cards for the kids.