I love this time of year as we celebrate Christ coming into the world. Christmas invites us to pause and remember that God stepped into our world at a moment when humanity was weary, troubled, and longing for hope. The heart of the Christmas story is not simply a warm tradition; it is God’s declaration that His light has entered our darkness, and nothing can overcome it.

The prophet Isaiah described a people “walking in darkness” who suddenly saw a great light. He was speaking to a nation facing uncertainty and struggle, yet God promised that light was on the way. We can understand this picture well. Our communities wrestle with fear, loneliness, and the weight of everyday burdens. Many face seasons of confusion or brokenness. Into such a world, God sent His promise in the form of a child.

Isaiah continued by announcing, “For unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given.” Jesus’ arrival was not grand in the world’s eyes—no royal palace, no earthly power on display. He came quietly, as a newborn in a manger. Yet in that humble beginning was the fullness of God’s salvation. His names reveal His character toward us: the One who guides us with wisdom, strengthens us with power, comforts us with everlasting love, and brings peace to troubled hearts.

When the angels appeared to the shepherds, they proclaimed news of “great joy… for all people.” The good news was not reserved for the privileged or the powerful. It was given first to ordinary shepherds, reminding us that Christ came for everyone. This truth still shapes our mission as churches and individuals. The message of Jesus is meant to be carried to our neighbors, our communities, and to the nations. Christmas strengthens our resolve to share Him faithfully.

In the Gospel of John, we are told that “the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” The world may feel heavy at times, but the power of Christ’s light remains unchanged. It shines through the witness of believers, through churches serving their communities, through generosity, compassion, and the daily faithfulness of God’s people. In all of these ways, Emmanuel—God with us—continues His work today.

As we celebrate this season, may our hearts be filled with renewed worship, deeper gratitude, and a fresh commitment to carry the light of Christ into the world around us. The child born in Bethlehem is still King, still Savior, and still the light that drives out darkness.

May we go forward with hope, confident in the promise that our Light has come.

Merry Christmas!

Bro. Gary

Click the appropriate icon above to access the events page featuring upcoming Georgia Baptist Mission Board and the Southern Baptist Convention events.

November 30, 2025 - December 7, 2025

TOGETHER we take the gospel to those who've never heard.

Your gift to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering supports missionaries, not overhead.

The only solution to lostness is the gospel.

Together, Southern Baptist send and support missionaries who share the gospel and make disciples among the nations. IMB missionaries steadfastly present the gospel to people and places where Jesus is not named or known.

59% of the world today has no meaningful access to the gospel.

Click here to access each day’s missionary story and prayer needs.

Capitol Christmas Prayer Tours 2025

December 10, 11 & 16, 2025

Dates: Wednesday, Dec 10, 10:00 AM; Thursday, Dec 11, 10 AM; Tuesday, Dec 16, 10 AM

Location: Georgia State Capitol

Address: 206 Washington St SW, Atlanta, GA 30334

(Dec. 10 Prayer Tour is for ONLY DEAF MINISTRY participants)

Times: 10 AM-12 PM (Lunch 12-1 PM, in Sloppy Floyd cafeteria, Dutch Treat)

Limited to 25 people per tour.

Our prayer tour is designed to give participants the opportunity to be informed about what happens at the capitol and to pray for those who are making public policy decisions. As we tour the capitol, we will stop at various places to pray for God’s leadership over those responsible for governing our state.

Please contact Mike Griffin at mgriffin@gabaptist.org if you have any questions.

Please click this link for more information.