Focal Point

Pastor Mike Fabarez

Donate

Gratitude: The Gift for the One Who Has Everything

December 25, 2012
00:00
Download Download Share Share Podcast Podcast
On Christmas Day, we finally get to open the presents that have been tucked beneath the Christmas tree. As we tear off the wrapping paper, open the boxes, and enjoy the presents we’ve received, it’s the perfect time to offer God a special gift. On this edition of Focal Point, Mike Fabarez reminds us that we’ve been given the greatest gift of all — eternal life in Christ Jesus! The question is, what can we offer God in return?
References: Psalms 50

Featured Offer

Does the Lord Seem Far Off?
The Psalms speak to the human heart drawing us to worship and thankfulness in times of plenty and comforting us in times of trouble and distress. But what if you could uncover even more richness from God's songbook by understanding the context and intent of the psalmist? Now you can. Be sure to request the book Psalms: Everyday Bible Commentary by Robert L. Alden with your generous donation this month.
Request Yours More resources

Archives

The Messianic Titles of Isaiah 9:6Whether we’re shopping at the mall or listening to the radio it’s not usual during this time of year to hear familiar carols that proclaim the newborn king. Silent Night…Joy to World…Away in A Manger…these songs tell the story of a child who was born in Bethlehem so many years ago. On this edition of Focal Point, we’re answering a question asked by another familiar carol…What Child Is This?
December 24, 2012
Play
Download
There’s nothing like the welcoming twinkle of lights on our home as we pull into the driveway on a cold December evening. In our neighborhoods and all over town, these colorful lights are a beautiful symbol of the Christmas season. On this edition of Focal Point, Mike Fabarez helps us understand the background of this yuletide tradition with a careful study of another December holiday known as the festival of lights.
December 21, 2012
Play
Download
Christmas isn’t the only holiday that people are celebrating this month! It’s likely you’ve seen the blue and silver wrapping paper, candlesticks and dradles displayed in many stores. But what does the Jewish holiday Hanukkah have to do with the coming of Jesus? On this edition of Focal Point, Mike Fabarez explores a traditional celebration that Jesus would have celebrated every December. It’s a fascinating look at the way Jesus used key moments to reveal the truth about Himself.
December 20, 2012
Play
Download
Two thousand years ago, strangers from the East traveled to a foreign land, determined to find the child who was written about in the ancient prophecies. They left behind everything familiar to seek the one who was king of the Jews, bow before Him and offer generous gifts. On this edition of Focal Point, Mike Fabarez continues a special Christmas study on the wise men. Explore the historical background and powerful lessons we can learn from these great men.
December 19, 2012
Play
Download
If you’re familiar with the Christmas story, you might take it for granted that the wise men are included in the cast of characters. But it’s possible we haven’t given these figures the attention they deserve. Who were the wise men? Where were they from? And how did they even know about the Jewish Messiah? On this edition of Focal Point, we’ll explore those questions and gain a more accurate, historical picture of these men from the East.
December 18, 2012
Play
Download
If you set up a nativity scene in your home, it’s likely you display each figure with care--Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, the angels, the baby Jesus! And most scenes wouldn’t be complete without a few wise men in bright colored robes with beautiful gifts in hand. On this edition of Focal Point, Mike Fabarez talks about these mysterious men from the East, and provides the historical context for how they fit into the Christmas story.
December 17, 2012
Play
Download
The Truth About ChristmasFor followers of Jesus, the person of Santa Claus is a perplexing figure. Based on history, but embellished by fiction, the myth of jolly ol’ St. Nick is seen by many as a distraction from the true meaning of Christmas. On this edition of Focal Point, Mike Fabarez cuts through the cultural trappings that surround this hero of the faith to reveal a model of love and generosity worth following.
December 14, 2012
Play
Download
The Truth About ChristmasTwo figures have dominated our modern Christmas celebration. One is the historical Jesus--the Son of God, who came to redeem mankind. The other personality is an amalgamation of myths--a jolly old elf who wears red, hands out gifts and lives in an extreme northern region. On this edition of Focal Point, Mike Fabarez separates fact from fiction with a historic look back at the man we know as Santa Claus. It’s a biography of a saint, who truly honored Christ.
December 13, 2012
Play
Download
Genuine Joy & Peace Regardless of December ChallengesIn many ways, the first Christmas didn’t appear so merry. There was the burden of looming taxes, a pregnant teen, a long and dangerous journey to an unknown town, and no vacancy in the inn. But in spite of these situations, the very first Christmas was filled with joy! On this edition of Focal Point, Mike Fabarez shares that no matter how bad our circumstances this year, we can still know peace and joy this holiday season.
December 12, 2012
Play
Download
Genuine Joy & Peace Regardless of December ChallengesChristmas is a seasonal reminder that there is joy, peace, love, and hope in our world. But for many people, the family problems, the financial worries or the busyness of the holidays push away all the peace and goodwill. And what’s left is anything but a “Merry” Christmas! On this edition of Focal Point, Mike Fabarez draws timely encouragement from God’s Word to assure us that joy is possible this season. In fact, we have every reason to be glad!
December 11, 2012
Play
Download
See More Episodes
Loading...
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
R
S
T
U
W
Y
Loading...
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
J
L
M
N
O
P
R
S
T
W
Listen to Focal Point on
Amazon Echo
Learn How
Learn How

Featured Offer

Does the Lord Seem Far Off?
The Psalms speak to the human heart drawing us to worship and thankfulness in times of plenty and comforting us in times of trouble and distress. But what if you could uncover even more richness from God's songbook by understanding the context and intent of the psalmist? Now you can. Be sure to request the book Psalms: Everyday Bible Commentary by Robert L. Alden with your generous donation this month.
Request Yours More resources

About Focal Point

Focal Point is the Bible teaching ministry of author and pastor Mike Fabarez. Focal Point explores and proclaims the depths of Scripture on its daily radio broadcast and is dedicated to clearly explaining the truth of God’s Word.

About Pastor Mike Fabarez

Mike Fabarez is the founding pastor of Compass Bible Church in South Orange County, California and has been in pastoral ministry for more than 30 years. He is committed to clearly communicating God’s word verse-by-verse and encourages his listeners to apply what they have learned to their daily lives.

Pastor Mike is a graduate of Moody Bible Institute, Talbot School of Theology (M.A.) and Westminster Theological Seminary in California (D.Min.).

Mike is heard on hundreds of radio programs across the country on the Focal Point radio program and has authored several books, including Raising Men Not Boys, Lifelines for Tough Times, Preaching That Changes Lives, Getting It Right, Praying for Sunday, and Why the Bible?

Mike and his wife, Carlynn, reside in Laguna Hills, California and they have three children, Matthew, John and Stephanie.

Contact Focal Point with Pastor Mike Fabarez

Mailing Address
Focal Point
P.O. Box 2850 
Laguna Hills, CA 92654
 
Telephone
1-888-320-5885