UNPACK This...Focusing on the One Who Came to Bring Us VictoryChikamu

Christmas, Lakers, And A Trade

In 2019, when trade rumors began circulating that the Los Angeles Lakers were attempting to trade for superstar Anthony Davis, such a move required Los Angeles to give up a lot of assets.

Ultimately, the Lakers were willing to sacrifice Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram, and Josh Hart (plus three first-round draft picks) to get the deal done.

The move demonstrated how much the Lakers loved Davis and how badly they wanted him on their team. They were willing to do whatever it took to bridge the gap between the two teams during the trade talks.

Though the price was costly, it was all worth it for the Lakers, who ended up winning the NBA Championship in 2020.

As we look back at this league-altering move, it can be a vivid reminder of the trade that took place on our behalf.

God is a perfect and Holy God, and allowing us to join His "franchise" required a major sacrifice.

Thankfully, God was willing to send His only Son to be that ultimate sacrifice. He loved us so much that He sent Jesus to bridge the gap between our sinful nature and His holiness so that we could experience true victory.

Philippians 2:7-8 says, "Jesus…emptied Himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross."

Jesus gave up His heavenly position to come to earth, be born in a manger, and take our place on the cross, where He traded His life for ours.

Romans 5:8 tells us, "...but God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us."

This Christmas season, let's celebrate the sacrifices Jesus made by coming to earth and dying on the cross. Let's demonstrate our love for Him with our worship and praise!

I'm Bryce Johnson, and you can UNPACK that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank You for loving me enough to send Jesus to be the sacrifice on my behalf. Thank you for allowing me to unite with You through Jesus. I thank You for Your grace and Your mercy. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen.