The Christmas story is a beautiful blend of divine intervention and human participation. It’s a powerful reminder that God’s divinity awaits humanity’s “Yes.” He doesn’t force His way in—He invites us to play a role in His plan. This truth is both hope-filling and deeply challenging, because I believe He is still extending these invitations to us today.
The Human “Yes” in God’s Story
Mary said “yes” to carrying Christ. Joseph said “yes” to protecting and guiding the Savior. The shepherds said “yes” to witnessing and sharing the good news. The Magi said “yes” to seeking and worshiping Him. Their willingness wasn’t just significant for them—it has impacted generations and continues to change lives today.
Even regarding the place of Jesus’ birth stands out to me. It wasn’t flash or luxurious, but it was available to host Jesus. See, the people who “didn’t have room” for Mary, Joseph and Jesus didn’t stop the Saviours arrival—they only distanced themselves from the His presence. Jesus arrived where room was given. It wasn’t perfect, but it was available.
And the same is true today: God dwells where He is welcome.
God isn’t looking for our perfection—He’s looking for our hunger. He dwells in lives, homes, workplaces, and churches where He is genuinely invited and desired. That’s good news because none of us have it all together. But if we are willing to genuinely say and show, “God, I want more of You,” we’ll experience His presence, His power, and His transformative work.
As A.W. Tozer put it: “The complacency of Christians is the scandal of Christianity.”
Complacency kills intimacy, growth, and transformation. What God seeks is not our perfection, but our desire to carry Him.
Carrying Christ Changes Us
When Mary said “yes” to carrying Christ, it changed her. It impacted her physically, emotionally, and mentally. You can tell when someone is carrying a child. In other ways, we can tell what other things people carry—whether it’s joy, pain, or purpose.
It is the same when saying “yes” to carrying Christ. That changes us, too. It alters how we think, walk, and live. Carrying Christ transforms not only our beavhiours but our priorities, our values, and our purpose.
Paul captures this beautifully:
“Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong” (Ephesians 3:17).
Imagine inviting someone over for a coffee, only to find them moving your furniture around, fixing cracks, and renovating the space. That’s what Jesus does when He dwells in us. He doesn’t just visit—He transforms. Too many of us ask Jesus in for a visit. A quick chat, pep talk or a little help. But Jesus does not want to just visit, He wants to make HIS home in your heart!
C.S. Lewis describes this beautifully: “You thought you were going to be made into a decent little cottage: but He is building a palace. He intends to come and live in it Himself.”
Saying “yes” to Christ means we carry:
- Peace that surpasses understanding.
- Joy that is unshakable.
- Wisdom for life’s challenges.
- Love that transforms relationships.
- Hope that anchors our souls.
Will You Carry Christ?
The Christmas invitation extends to us today: Will you carry Christ?
This isn’t just about holding a title of “Christian.” It’s about a genuine “yes” that changes everything. Imagine walking into your Christmas gatherings not just with gifts or food but with an awareness that you carry the hope of glory within you. When we say yes to carrying Christ:
- We see situations differently.
- We face challenges with greater confidence.
- We carry His peace, His power, and His presence wherever we go.
The “yes” to carry Christ is the “yes” that changes history. It’s the “yes” that changes families, cities, and generations to come. Will you say yes today? Will you invite God into every part of your life—not just as a visitor, but as the one who makes His home in you?
God’s divinity awaits your yes. What role will you play in His plan?
Will you carry Christ?
Small Group Guide: Hope is Coming – Carrying Christ
Key Takeaways
- God Dwells Where He Is Welcomed
God doesn’t need perfection—He desires willingness. Just as Jesus was born in a manger because there was room, He seeks hearts and lives that invite Him in, no matter how imperfect they are. - Carrying Christ Changes Us
Saying “yes” to carrying Christ transforms every aspect of our lives. It redefines our priorities, reshapes our character, and aligns us with God’s purposes. - God’s Divine Plan Awaits Our Yes
The Christmas story reminds us that God’s redemptive plan often relies on human participation. Mary, Joseph, and others said “yes” to God’s invitation, and their obedience still impacts us today. - We Carry Hope for the World
When we say “yes” to Christ, we carry His hope, peace, love, and joy into a world desperately in need of them. This is our calling—not just to know Christ but to carry Him wherever we go.
Discussion Questions
- Where Have You Made Room for God?
Reflect on the areas of your life where you’ve intentionally invited God to dwell. Are there places where you’re hesitant to make room? - How Has Carrying Christ Changed You?
In what ways has saying “yes” to Christ transformed your priorities, values, or character? How is that transformation visible to others? - What’s Holding You Back from a Full Yes?
Mary and Joseph said “yes” despite fear, uncertainty, and social pressure. What fears or doubts make it difficult for you to fully say “yes” to God’s plans? - Who in Your Life Needs the Hope You Carry?
Identify someone in your circle who could benefit from the hope, love, or peace you carry as a follower of Christ. How can you intentionally share that with them this week?
Closing Prayer
Invite the group to pray, asking God to help them say “yes” to His invitations and carry His presence into their families, workplaces, and communities. Pray for the courage to trust God’s transformative work in their lives and to be a source of hope for others.