2025 Christmas in the Country - Christmas Eve Candlelight Service
On Christmas Eve, we gathered to remember the hope, grace, and mission we have in Jesus. This joint service with Refuge Church - Centralia and New Hope Baptist Church examined how the story of Christmas isn’t just something we look back on - it is good news that shapes our lives today. Below are the three short teachings from our candlelight service. As you watch, take time to reflect, pray, and respond to God’s Word.
The Birth of Christ (Matthew 1:18-25)
Christmas reminds us that Jesus came with purpose. In this short Christmas Eve devotional, Adam walks through Matthew 1:18–25 and shows how the birth of Christ fulfills God’s promises from generations earlier. Born in Bethlehem, descended from David, and miraculously conceived by the Holy Spirit - Jesus alone fits every prophecy of the Messiah. Because He is truly the Son of God, His death truly saves, and His resurrection truly gives life. Christmas is not just a story - it is the assurance that God keeps His promises.
The Cross of Christ (Matthew 27:45-54)
Christmas doesn’t just point us to a manger - it points us to the cross. In this devotional from Matthew 27:45–54, Thomas reminds us that Jesus fulfilled every prophecy of the promised Messiah, even in His death. When the temple curtain is torn from top to bottom, God declares that through Christ the barrier between Himself and His people is gone. The Savior born in Bethlehem is the Savior who died and rose again - so that we may know God personally by His grace.
The Commission of Christ (Matthew 28:18-20)
Standing before the risen Christ, the disciples worship - and some still doubt. Yet Jesus sends them anyway. In this devotional on Matthew 28:18–20, Pastor Jerry reminds us that the mission of the Church rests not on our worthiness, but on Christ’s authority. The Great Commission isn’t meant to crush us. It comforts us - because the Jesus who sends us is the Jesus who goes with us. Always.
Closing Invitation
We’d love to walk with you as you grow in faith. If you’d like prayer, want to talk about following Jesus, or want to learn more about Refuge Church - Centralia, reach out anytime.