Embracing Change
Through the Birth of Christ
The Christmas season, though filled with joy, family events, and celebration, also serves as a powerful reminder of transformation. The story of Christ's birth is a beautiful testimony to how God's plan brings new beginnings—sometimes unexpected, sometimes challenging, yet always purposeful.
Consider the lives of Mary and Joseph. Mary, a young woman engaged to Joseph, was visited by an angel who delivered life-changing news: “You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus” (Luke 1:31). In a moment, her life transformed. This birth would change everything—for her, for Joseph, and for the world.
Mary’s response to this monumental change reflects faith and surrender: “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled” (Luke 1:38). Her willingness to embrace this unexpected path not only brings forth our Savior, but speaks to us today as we face life changes of our own: a death in the family, the birth of a child, a new relationship, or a career change in the coming year. Change, even when uncertain or difficult, can bring about God’s greater purpose in our lives.
The prophet Isaiah delivers a powerful message of hope and transformation:
“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” (Isaiah 43:18-19)
This much utilized and beloved passage reminds us that God is constantly at work, creating new paths even in seasons of challenge or loss. Just as Christ’s birth marked the beginning of a new covenant and a path for salvation, so too does God invite us to trust Him in moments of personal change. He makes a way where we see none—turning wilderness into pathways and barren places into streams of renewal.
If you’ve experienced loss this year, remember that Christ’s birth signifies hope and eternal life, and He is near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18). Whether it's the birth of a child, the realization of a dream, or the emergence of a new opportunity, give thanks for fresh beginnings, as God is the author of life and renewal. Like Mary and Joseph, relationships have the power to change us deeply, and in those moments of transformation, we must seek God’s wisdom and blessing as we move forward. As you step into a new chapter, trust that God is directing your steps and will guide you along the way (Proverbs 3:5-6).
I offer a prayer to Gateway Pastors, Lay leaders and congregants on this , my last Christmas devotional as Superintendent:
Father, as we celebrate the birth of Your Son, Jesus Christ, help us to embrace the changes You are bringing into our lives. Whether we face joy or uncertainty, help us trust in Your purpose. Give us courage like Mary, who said, ‘May Your word to me be fulfilled.’ Guide us in this season of transformation and fill our hearts with hope for what You are making new. May the Gateway Conference churches continue to announce “Christ saves and restores!” in all their locales. May the Pastor and congregation never weaken or fatigue in sharing such good news! And may all live adventurously, filled with the Spirit of God, displaying the fruit of the Spirit daily. -Amen.
Supt. Ben
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