Within the context of the apostle Paul’s exhortation to Philippian believers to live in unity, he draws on the fact of the Incarnation (Christmas!) to make his point.
“Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, being made in the likeness of men. Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” ~ Phil. 2:5-8
The whole Gospel story is in these verses, plus the ones that immediately follow.
As the crush of the American “holiday season” threatens to suffocate all of us, and take our eyes off Jesus, remember the why/what/where/how of the Incarnation.
May God truly bless you and your families as you focus sharply on the person and work of Jesus the Messiah/Son of God!
~ tr
P.S. When we return to our Bible study on Monday, January 5th, we will continue with our brief overview of the Old Testament. This should only last a few more weeks. Then we will embark on another in-depth study of a New Testament book, although most likely, one of the shorter books.
Think and pray about someone (friend, business associate, etc.) who would benefit from a weekly in-depth study of God’s Word, within the context of a caring fellowship of men, where dramatic answers to prayer have become the norm. Since we will be meeting in classroom OC-1 (across the hall from the student lounge), there is ample room for growth. Invite someone!
OC Bereans 
Hey fellow Bereans… I wanted to take the opportunity to be the first to post a comment on our Blog.
When I think of these past six or so months, I am very thankful that I have been a part of the group. Being a part of each one of your stories has impacted me in a way that has spurred me on towards growth. I have look forward to each Monday, knowing that I am going to see yet another glimpse of our Savior in your lives.
Thank you so much for the constant prayers and support as I turn the page and begin the next chapter of my Life. I am so glad that you guys have and will continue to be a part of that story.
Have a Merry Christmas.
Nate
By: Rocket3 on December 24, 2008
at 1:45 pm
Thank you, everyone, for your support and fellowship this past year 2008. I value your friendship and enjoy learning and studying God’s Word with each of you.
I look forward to more fellowship in 2009. Have a Wonderful New Year’s and I will see you on the first Monday.
Happy New Year, 2009!
Roc
By: Roc on December 29, 2008
at 11:40 am
So we are called to be “obedient to the point of death”. Wow, I don’t think that can be done by human effort alone. Stumbling constantly, but aware, I feel the almighty one sheperding me every day. What a blessed thing it is to know that the creator really knows and cares about me. Christmas this year was ruled by all of the bad news here on earth, but it was only a backdrop to the real reason for the season to me. What would life be without our savior? And there is no better forum to stay connected than meeting weekly with the ocbereans. With much love and respect.
SteveP
By: SteveP on December 30, 2008
at 5:45 pm