This sermon series, "Christmas Presents," begins by exploring Jesus's presence as the ultimate gift that guides and gives rest. The speaker shares a personal story about receiving a blue tick hound puppy named Rosco as a gift. The message then shifts to God's presence with us as the greatest gift, focusing on Exodus 33.
The speaker provides background on Exodus, from God appearing to Moses in a burning bush in Exodus 3, to Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt, through the Red Sea, and to Mount Sinai where God made a covenant and instructed them to build a tabernacle in Exodus 25:8. The narrative then covers the golden calf incident in Exodus 32, leading into Exodus 33:1-6 where God tells Moses He will send an angel but will not go with the people due to their stiff-necked nature.
The sermon highlights Moses's intercession in Exodus 33:12-23, where he pleads for God's presence, stating that God's presence is what distinguishes His people. The speaker traces the theme of God dwelling with His people throughout scripture: from Eden in Genesis, through the tabernacle and temple, to Jesus as "God with us" (Matthew 1:25, quoting Isaiah 7), and finally to the Holy Spirit dwelling within believers, making them the temple of the Holy Spirit (Corinthians). The speaker emphasizes that God's presence is better than anything the world offers, drawing a contrast between Moses's initial reluctance in Exodus 3 and his later insistence on God's presence in Exodus 33. The transformation in Moses came from intentionally living in God's presence, as seen in the tent of meeting (Exodus 33:7-11). The sermon concludes by encouraging listeners to seek God's guidance and rest by intentionally spending time in His presence, using tangible reminders, engaging with His word, and participating in communion.
