Behold
Flatirons Christmas
December 21, 2025 | By Jim Burgen
What if the one thing keeping you from quitting is knowing you're not alone?
This Christmas message from Pastor Jim Burgen hits deep. After major spinal surgery left him broken, weak, and full of doubt, he returns with a message for anyone who's tired, worn out, or thinking about giving up. With personal stories, ancient promises, and raw honesty, Jim shares what it means to hold on when you can’t stand up on your own—how the hope of “God With Us” changes everything. This isn’t a polished sermon. It’s a battle cry for the weary.
In the journey from hospital bed to walking stick, from pain to purpose, Jim realized the power of Immanuel—God not above us, but with us. Just like Shannon, a survivor of trafficking, and Joseph, a scared new dad of the Son of God, we don’t need perfect faith to move forward. We need presence. This Christmas reminds us that freedom, healing, and hope don’t come from trying harder, but from walking with the One who never leaves. The Light has come—and He’s walking with you.
Set List
"Oh Come All Ye Faithful" by John Francis Wade and Frederick Oakeley
"His Name Shall Be" by Matt Redman, written by Jonas Myrin and Matt Redman
"Joy To The World" by Thrive Worship
"O Holy Night" by John Sullivan Dwight, Placide Cappeau, Dylan Thomas, and Michael Guy Chislett
"Silent Night" by Joseph Mohr
"Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" by Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane
Message Discussion Questions
Merry Christmas
Jim Burgen
Dec 21st, 2025
// Bible References: Gal 5:1; Matt 1:20-23; Isaiah 7:2,9,11-14, Acts 17
// Community Question: What is your favorite Christmas Carol and why?
// Discussion Questions
- How does Shannon's story of finding freedom from human trafficking demonstrate “Be Free” and God's presence in our darkest moments? When have you experienced God's presence in what felt like an impossible situation?
- Jim shared his personal journey through back surgery and recovery. How does his experience illustrate the concept of 'God with us' (Immanuel)? How might viewing God as walking alongside you rather than just watching from above change how you approach difficulties?
- The sermon emphasizes that Christmas is about God coming to us when we couldn't get to Him. Why is this concept central to understanding both Christmas and our daily struggles?
- Going Deeper: Read Isaiah 7:9. Isaiah says, 'If you are not firm in faith, you will not be firm at all.' How does this apply to facing seemingly impossible challenges in our lives? What current situation in your life requires you to stand firm in faith even when you can't see the way forward?
// Challenge: What is your “I don’t know if I can do it anymore” situation? How can this group specifically pray for you this week so you can know and feel that God is with you?