Gabriel: God's Quiet Glory

A Nativity Story part 1

December 7, 2025  Pastor Sam Goins 

Jesus doesn't need a spotlight. He only needs a manger.

1. The God Who Still Thunders  

8 Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. 10 Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. 11 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: 14 “Glory to God in the highest, 
And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”    Luke 2:8-14 

2. The God Who Whispers 

11 “Go out and stand before me on the mountain,” the Lord told him. And as Elijah stood there, the Lord passed by, and a mighty windstorm hit the mountain. It was such a terrible blast that the rocks were torn loose, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. 12 And after the earthquake there was a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire there was the sound of a gentle whisper.   1 Kings 19:11-12

Challenge:  Build stillness into your day.

3. The God Who Waits  

9 The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent.    2 Peter 3:9

4. The God Who Dwells  

14 So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son.    John 1:14

Challenge:  Invite Jesus into your Monday mornings, not just Sunday services.

Closing Question  

Are you so busy looking for the spotlight that you're missing the manger?  

Big Truth: God is Emmanuel — God WITH us, whether He thunders or whispers.