In our church, we have been investigating the life of Jesus. As Christians we believe that he is the most important person who has ever lived because he is God and he chose to come to us and save us from our sin. And we also believe that Jesus has set an example for us to imitate as we join him in his mission.

I have noticed a couple of things particularly as we head into this Christmas season. Jesus is no respecter of persons. He views people equally. He embraces all who trust in him – including synagogue officials, blue-collar fishermen, tax-collectors, outcasts, and those suffering diseases. Even as Jesus spent a great deal of time healing people of illnesses and deformities, he is always seeking a ‘transaction’ at a deeper level. As important as meeting these needs for people in his compassion, it is his desire that they embrace who he is and surrender their lives to him.

During this season, it is appropriate that we expend ourselves in meeting the needs of those who lack. We often give of our time and money providing shelter, food, and clothes to many. And as we do so, it is my hope and my prayer that there are also transactions at a deeper level. I pray that people would not only see their need for physical things but of the spiritual need for Jesus Christ who loves us and came to die for us. Please feel free to come and join us on our pursuit of this Jesus!

Pastor Jonathan Sine
Squamish Baptist Church