Abundant Life!
John 10:10 (HCSB) A thief comes only to steal and to kill and to destroy. I have come that they may have life and have it in abundance.
Life. Abundant life. The sweet smell of success!
When Jesus was a bit older he was visited by the “wise men form the east.” They came bearing gifts to the newborn king. Gold for a king; frankincense for a priest; and myrrh for one who would see an untimely death.
The gift for them was the gift of salvation. The gift of an abundant life.
Francinsense and Myrrh were sweet smelling spices.
Imagine the scent that emanated from the house where the child Jesus stayed.
This brings us back to where we started this advent season…
2 Corinthians 2:14-16 (HCSB) 14 But thanks be to God, who always puts us on display in Christ, and spreads through us in every place the scent of knowing Him. 15 For to God we are the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing. 16 To some we are a scent of death leading to death, but to others, a scent of life leading to life.
Let’s be the scent of life to those who are perishing!
Questions for Discussion
What makes an “abundant”life?
Prayer
Thank you God for the abundant life in Jesus!
Song
“We Three Kings”
Monday, December 22, 2008
December 24, 2008
He Loves Us So!
John 3:16 (HCSB) “For God loved the world in this way: He gave His One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.
One of the most famous verses in all the New Testament, John 3:16 has been called “the gospel in a verse.” Truly, Jesus was the gift of God. God provided eternal life for all who would come to Him through Jesus!
Questions for Discussion
Could you use this verse to help someone know God? How?
Have you made the decision to follow Jesus? If not, do it today!
Prayer
Dear God, help me help someone know the truth of John 3:16.
Song
“The First Noel”
John 3:16 (HCSB) “For God loved the world in this way: He gave His One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.
One of the most famous verses in all the New Testament, John 3:16 has been called “the gospel in a verse.” Truly, Jesus was the gift of God. God provided eternal life for all who would come to Him through Jesus!
Questions for Discussion
Could you use this verse to help someone know God? How?
Have you made the decision to follow Jesus? If not, do it today!
Prayer
Dear God, help me help someone know the truth of John 3:16.
Song
“The First Noel”
December 23, 2008
What He Did
1 Corinthians 15:3-4, 57 (HCSB) 3 For I passed on to you as most important what I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 that He was buried, that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures,… thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!
Victory in Jesus! Jesus died for our sins and rose again! Thanks be to God.
Again we get to the point of Christmas!
Without Christmas, there would be no Cross and no Resurrection. Jesus came to provide a way for us to get to God. He did that by living a sinless life; dying for sins He did not commit; and being raised from the dead.
Thank God this Christmas for the way provided to you by Jesus.
Questions for Discussion
What did Jesus do to save you?
What should our response be to Him?
Prayer
Dear God, Thank you again for coming and dying to save me. Amen.
Song
“O Holy Night”
1 Corinthians 15:3-4, 57 (HCSB) 3 For I passed on to you as most important what I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 that He was buried, that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures,… thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!
Victory in Jesus! Jesus died for our sins and rose again! Thanks be to God.
Again we get to the point of Christmas!
Without Christmas, there would be no Cross and no Resurrection. Jesus came to provide a way for us to get to God. He did that by living a sinless life; dying for sins He did not commit; and being raised from the dead.
Thank God this Christmas for the way provided to you by Jesus.
Questions for Discussion
What did Jesus do to save you?
What should our response be to Him?
Prayer
Dear God, Thank you again for coming and dying to save me. Amen.
Song
“O Holy Night”
December 22, 2008
Why He Came
Romans 3:23 (HCSB) For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.
Sin. Yuck. Who wants to talk about that.
Sin is all that we do that falls short of God’s glory.
All the wrong things we do.
All the right things we do NOT do.
Our sin is why He came.
Jesus came to pay for our sins. To provide forgiveness. To make right the relationship between man and God.
Cool.
Questions for Discussion
Not only do you need to ask God for forgiveness of your sins, you should make sure you forgive and ask forgiveness of people you offend as well.
Are you completely right with God and people?
Prayer
Dear God, thanks for fixing things. Amen.
Song
“Hark! The Herald Angels Sing”
Romans 3:23 (HCSB) For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.
Sin. Yuck. Who wants to talk about that.
Sin is all that we do that falls short of God’s glory.
All the wrong things we do.
All the right things we do NOT do.
Our sin is why He came.
Jesus came to pay for our sins. To provide forgiveness. To make right the relationship between man and God.
Cool.
Questions for Discussion
Not only do you need to ask God for forgiveness of your sins, you should make sure you forgive and ask forgiveness of people you offend as well.
Are you completely right with God and people?
Prayer
Dear God, thanks for fixing things. Amen.
Song
“Hark! The Herald Angels Sing”
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
The Fourth Sunday of Advent December 21, 2008
The Proclamation
Luke 2:10-14 (HCSB) 10 But the angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid, for look, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people: 11 today a Savior, who is Messiah the Lord, was born for you in the city of David. 12 This will be the sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped snugly in cloth and lying in a feeding trough.” 13 Suddenly there was a multitude of the heavenly host with the angel, praising God and saying: 14 Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to people He favors!
Angels! They are all over the Christmas story! They bring the proclamation to the world of the good news! This is as they say “good news of great joy that will be for all the people: today a Savior…was born…”
This is what Christmas is all about!
With all the hustle and bustle of Christmas we almost forget what it is about.
Let me use some dialog from “A Charlie Brown Christmas” to make the point.
Thanks, Linus, we all needed that.
Questions for Discussion
Do you ever forget the message of the angel, and forget what Christmas is about?
Have you been frustrated with the hustle and bustle this Christmas?
How can you worship Jesus on His birthday this year?
Prayer
Dear God, please don’t let me forget what Christmas is all about.
Song
“In Excelsis Gloria”
Luke 2:10-14 (HCSB) 10 But the angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid, for look, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people: 11 today a Savior, who is Messiah the Lord, was born for you in the city of David. 12 This will be the sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped snugly in cloth and lying in a feeding trough.” 13 Suddenly there was a multitude of the heavenly host with the angel, praising God and saying: 14 Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to people He favors!
Angels! They are all over the Christmas story! They bring the proclamation to the world of the good news! This is as they say “good news of great joy that will be for all the people: today a Savior…was born…”
This is what Christmas is all about!
With all the hustle and bustle of Christmas we almost forget what it is about.
Let me use some dialog from “A Charlie Brown Christmas” to make the point.
Charlie Brown: I guess you were right, Linus. I shouldn't have picked this
little tree. Everything I do turns into a disaster. I guess I really don't know
what Christmas is all about.[shouting in desperation]Charlie Brown: Isn't there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?
Linus: Sure, Charlie Brown, I can tell you what Christmas is all about.[moves toward the center of the stage]
Linus:Lights, please.[a spotlight shines on Linus]
Linus:"And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, 'Fear not: for behold, I bring unto you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the City of David a
Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.' And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God, and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.'"[Linus picks up his blanket and walks back towards Charlie Brown]Linus:That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.
Thanks, Linus, we all needed that.
Questions for Discussion
Do you ever forget the message of the angel, and forget what Christmas is about?
Have you been frustrated with the hustle and bustle this Christmas?
How can you worship Jesus on His birthday this year?
Prayer
Dear God, please don’t let me forget what Christmas is all about.
Song
“In Excelsis Gloria”
December 20, 2008
The Cross
1 Corinthians 1:18 (HCSB) For to those who are perishing the message of the cross is foolishness, but to us who are being saved it is God’s power.
The Cross.
Crucifixion (from Latin crucifixio) is an ancient method of execution, whereby the condemned person is tied or nailed to a large wooden cross (of various shapes) and left to hang until dead.
It was in use particularly among the Persians, Seleucids, Carthaginians, and Romans from about the 6th century BC to the 4th century AD, when in the year 337 Emperor Constantine I abolished it in his empire, out of veneration for Jesus Christ, the most famous victim of crucifixion.
Crucifixion was usually to provide a death that was particularly painful (hence the term excruciating, literally "out of crucifying"), gruesome (hence dissuading against the crimes punishable by it) and public, using whatever means were most expedient for that goal.
Jesus, “the most famous victim of crucifixion,” died on a cross. The message of the cross is God’s power.
The message of the cross is that Jesus died for our sins.
1 Peter 3:18 (HCSB) For Christ also suffered for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, that He might bring you to God, after being put to death in the fleshly realm but made alive in the spiritual realm.
Questions for Discussion
How will you remember the real reason Jesus came this Christmas season?
Prayer
Dear God, words are not adequate to thank and praise you for the death of Jesus for my sins. Amen.
Song
“Jesus Loves Me”
1 Corinthians 1:18 (HCSB) For to those who are perishing the message of the cross is foolishness, but to us who are being saved it is God’s power.
The Cross.
Crucifixion (from Latin crucifixio) is an ancient method of execution, whereby the condemned person is tied or nailed to a large wooden cross (of various shapes) and left to hang until dead.
It was in use particularly among the Persians, Seleucids, Carthaginians, and Romans from about the 6th century BC to the 4th century AD, when in the year 337 Emperor Constantine I abolished it in his empire, out of veneration for Jesus Christ, the most famous victim of crucifixion.
Crucifixion was usually to provide a death that was particularly painful (hence the term excruciating, literally "out of crucifying"), gruesome (hence dissuading against the crimes punishable by it) and public, using whatever means were most expedient for that goal.
Jesus, “the most famous victim of crucifixion,” died on a cross. The message of the cross is God’s power.
The message of the cross is that Jesus died for our sins.
1 Peter 3:18 (HCSB) For Christ also suffered for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, that He might bring you to God, after being put to death in the fleshly realm but made alive in the spiritual realm.
Questions for Discussion
How will you remember the real reason Jesus came this Christmas season?
Prayer
Dear God, words are not adequate to thank and praise you for the death of Jesus for my sins. Amen.
Song
“Jesus Loves Me”
December 19, 2008
The Man
Romans 5:15-17 (HCSB) 15 But the gift is not like the trespass. For if by the one man’s trespass the many died, how much more have the grace of God and the gift overflowed to the many by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ. 16 And the gift is not like the one man’s sin, because from one sin came the judgment, resulting in condemnation, but from many trespasses came the gift, resulting in justification. 17 Since by the one man’s trespass, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive the overflow of grace and the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ.
The real baby born in a manger, who grew to be a real child, grew to be a real man. In the above passage, we learn from the apostle Paul why this was important. Paul indicates that “since by the one man’s trespass, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive the overflow of grace and the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ.” Because sin came into the world through the one man, Adam. One man, Jesus would bring righteousness.
Jesus came in order to turn the course of mankind around from where it had been heading since Adam. Jesus brought grace. He brought forgiveness. He brought life to all of us. And he brought it as a gift. The ultimate Christmas gift. The gift of grace, forgiveness and righteousness.
Questions for Discussion
Have you received God’s gift of grace?
Have you shared it with others?
Will you?
Prayer
Dear God, thank you for coming to undo the damage done by Adam ( and all of his descendants including me) and bringing grace, forgiveness and righteousness! Amen.
Song
“Silent Night”
Romans 5:15-17 (HCSB) 15 But the gift is not like the trespass. For if by the one man’s trespass the many died, how much more have the grace of God and the gift overflowed to the many by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ. 16 And the gift is not like the one man’s sin, because from one sin came the judgment, resulting in condemnation, but from many trespasses came the gift, resulting in justification. 17 Since by the one man’s trespass, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive the overflow of grace and the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ.
The real baby born in a manger, who grew to be a real child, grew to be a real man. In the above passage, we learn from the apostle Paul why this was important. Paul indicates that “since by the one man’s trespass, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive the overflow of grace and the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ.” Because sin came into the world through the one man, Adam. One man, Jesus would bring righteousness.
Jesus came in order to turn the course of mankind around from where it had been heading since Adam. Jesus brought grace. He brought forgiveness. He brought life to all of us. And he brought it as a gift. The ultimate Christmas gift. The gift of grace, forgiveness and righteousness.
Questions for Discussion
Have you received God’s gift of grace?
Have you shared it with others?
Will you?
Prayer
Dear God, thank you for coming to undo the damage done by Adam ( and all of his descendants including me) and bringing grace, forgiveness and righteousness! Amen.
Song
“Silent Night”
December 18, 2008
The Child
Luke 2:52 (HCSB) And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and with people.
It is important for us to remember at this time of year, that Jesus did not remain as a baby in the manger, but rather grew up. He grew to be a child, a young man, and a man.
As He grew to be a child, we do not know a lot about his life, but we do know what the above verse tells us… He grew in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and people.
Wisdom - Jesus learned. I know that sounds weird, but He did. He grew in his ability to make wise choices. We also need to grow in wisdom.
Stature – Jesus grew physically. Well, most of us do! I think that this indicates that Jesus took care of himself. He was healthy. We too need to make sure we take care of the body god gives us.
Favor with God – Jesus grew in favor with God. His spiritual life was on track. Now we may be tempted to point to His divinity, but we need to remember that Jesus was fully human and was tempted in every way we are. He had the temptation to let his devotion to God slip. He did not. We need to keep our relationship with God in good standing!
Favor with people – Jesus grew in his relationships with people. He was not a monk who secluded himself from others. He had favor with people. We need to have good relationships with all people.
Questions for Discussion
How are your growing in:
Wisdom?
Stature?
Favor with God?
Favor with people?
Prayer
Dear God, help me to continually grow in wisdom, to take care of my physical growth, to grow closer to God and to grow in my relationships with people. Amen.
Song
“Good Christian Men, Rejoice”
Luke 2:52 (HCSB) And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and with people.
It is important for us to remember at this time of year, that Jesus did not remain as a baby in the manger, but rather grew up. He grew to be a child, a young man, and a man.
As He grew to be a child, we do not know a lot about his life, but we do know what the above verse tells us… He grew in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and people.
Wisdom - Jesus learned. I know that sounds weird, but He did. He grew in his ability to make wise choices. We also need to grow in wisdom.
Stature – Jesus grew physically. Well, most of us do! I think that this indicates that Jesus took care of himself. He was healthy. We too need to make sure we take care of the body god gives us.
Favor with God – Jesus grew in favor with God. His spiritual life was on track. Now we may be tempted to point to His divinity, but we need to remember that Jesus was fully human and was tempted in every way we are. He had the temptation to let his devotion to God slip. He did not. We need to keep our relationship with God in good standing!
Favor with people – Jesus grew in his relationships with people. He was not a monk who secluded himself from others. He had favor with people. We need to have good relationships with all people.
Questions for Discussion
How are your growing in:
Wisdom?
Stature?
Favor with God?
Favor with people?
Prayer
Dear God, help me to continually grow in wisdom, to take care of my physical growth, to grow closer to God and to grow in my relationships with people. Amen.
Song
“Good Christian Men, Rejoice”
December 17, 2008
Old Woman Waiting
Luke 2:36-38 (HCSB) 36 There was also a prophetess, Anna, a daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was well along in years, having lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, 37 and was a widow for 84 years. She did not leave the temple complex, serving God night and day with fastings and prayers. 38 At that very moment, she came up and began to thank God and to speak about Him to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.
Anna spent time seeking God. I mean she spent a lot of time seeking God. She did what most of us cannot. She devoted her life to it. She was serving God night and day. When she saw what was happening with Simeon and Jesus, she knew God was there. When God revealed Himself in the form of Jesus, she recognized Him. We need to be so close to God that when he reveals His plan and His ways we will recognize them immediately.
Questions for Discussion
Here’s some questions to think about regarding Anna and us:
- How old do you think she was?
- How long are you willing to wait for God to answer your prayers?
- Are we ready for His answer when it comes?
- What would we sacrifice to serve Him? (Anna did not leave the temple complex for a long time!)
Prayer
Dear God, help me to be aware of how you are working around me every day! Amen.
Song
“Joy to the World”
Luke 2:36-38 (HCSB) 36 There was also a prophetess, Anna, a daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was well along in years, having lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, 37 and was a widow for 84 years. She did not leave the temple complex, serving God night and day with fastings and prayers. 38 At that very moment, she came up and began to thank God and to speak about Him to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.
Anna spent time seeking God. I mean she spent a lot of time seeking God. She did what most of us cannot. She devoted her life to it. She was serving God night and day. When she saw what was happening with Simeon and Jesus, she knew God was there. When God revealed Himself in the form of Jesus, she recognized Him. We need to be so close to God that when he reveals His plan and His ways we will recognize them immediately.
Questions for Discussion
Here’s some questions to think about regarding Anna and us:
- How old do you think she was?
- How long are you willing to wait for God to answer your prayers?
- Are we ready for His answer when it comes?
- What would we sacrifice to serve Him? (Anna did not leave the temple complex for a long time!)
Prayer
Dear God, help me to be aware of how you are working around me every day! Amen.
Song
“Joy to the World”
December 16, 2008
Old Man Waiting
Luke 2:25-35 (HCSB) 25 There was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, looking forward to Israel’s consolation, and the Holy Spirit was on him. 26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he saw the Lord’s Messiah. 27 Guided by the Spirit, he entered the temple complex. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to perform for Him what was customary under the law, 28 Simeon took Him up in his arms, praised God, and said: 29 Now, Master, You can dismiss Your slave in peace, according to Your word. 30 For my eyes have seen Your salvation. 31 You have prepared [it] in the presence of all peoples— 32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles and glory to Your people Israel. 33 His father and mother were amazed at what was being said about Him. 34 Then Simeon blessed them and told His mother Mary: “Indeed, this child is destined to cause the fall and rise of many in Israel and to be a sign that will be opposed— 35 and a sword will pierce your own soul—that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
Confirmation. It’s one thing to hear from an angel. It’s another thing to have the message confirmed by flesh and blood. When Mary and Joseph reached Jerusalem, a man they did not know confirmed what they already knew. Jesus was the Messiah.
Sometimes God allows us to get a bigger picture of his plan. Sometimes he provides those in our lives to share with us and encourage us on the path that he has already laid out for us. And sometimes… we get information we wish we did not have to know. Such was the case with Simeon. Simeon revealed to the young couple that there would be the cause of sorrow as well as joy.
However, the encouragement that they were not crazy and that God was up to something must have been a great relief!
Questions for Discussion
Have you ever felt God leading you to something, and then been encouraged by someone to pursue it?
What are some possible “crazy” things you think God might want you to do?
How can you be sure something is really God’s will?
Prayer
Dear God, please send people in my life to encourage me to follow your will. Amen.
Song
“It Came Upon A Midnight Clear”
Luke 2:25-35 (HCSB) 25 There was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, looking forward to Israel’s consolation, and the Holy Spirit was on him. 26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he saw the Lord’s Messiah. 27 Guided by the Spirit, he entered the temple complex. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to perform for Him what was customary under the law, 28 Simeon took Him up in his arms, praised God, and said: 29 Now, Master, You can dismiss Your slave in peace, according to Your word. 30 For my eyes have seen Your salvation. 31 You have prepared [it] in the presence of all peoples— 32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles and glory to Your people Israel. 33 His father and mother were amazed at what was being said about Him. 34 Then Simeon blessed them and told His mother Mary: “Indeed, this child is destined to cause the fall and rise of many in Israel and to be a sign that will be opposed— 35 and a sword will pierce your own soul—that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
Confirmation. It’s one thing to hear from an angel. It’s another thing to have the message confirmed by flesh and blood. When Mary and Joseph reached Jerusalem, a man they did not know confirmed what they already knew. Jesus was the Messiah.
Sometimes God allows us to get a bigger picture of his plan. Sometimes he provides those in our lives to share with us and encourage us on the path that he has already laid out for us. And sometimes… we get information we wish we did not have to know. Such was the case with Simeon. Simeon revealed to the young couple that there would be the cause of sorrow as well as joy.
However, the encouragement that they were not crazy and that God was up to something must have been a great relief!
Questions for Discussion
Have you ever felt God leading you to something, and then been encouraged by someone to pursue it?
What are some possible “crazy” things you think God might want you to do?
How can you be sure something is really God’s will?
Prayer
Dear God, please send people in my life to encourage me to follow your will. Amen.
Song
“It Came Upon A Midnight Clear”
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
December 15, 2008
What’s In A Name?
Luke 2:21 (HCSB) When the eight days were completed for His circumcision, He was named JESUS—the name given by the angel before He was conceived.
The “fragrance of Christ” in this verse would be the smell of a baby. Sometimes sweet and innocent, sometimes, er, not so sweet. There’s that fresh baby powder scent.
Jesus. The baby born was named Jesus.
Jesus was the Greek version of the Hebrew name Joshua. And it means “one who saves.” The angel said to name him Jesus because “He will save his people from their sins.” Jesus came to save. What an amazing thought. This helpless baby, dependant on Mary and Joseph for everything… and he was sent to save the world.
It is the real story of Christmas! The story of a baby come to grow to save the world. It is the ultimate action adventure hero story. Humble baby born in a stable grows up to fight evil and against all odds seeks to save the world – and He succeeds! Only God could create such a great story and it not be fiction.
Questions for Discussion
What can we do to share the salvation message at Christmas?
How can we remind ourselves of this great salvation we have?
Prayer
Dear God, thank you for sending Jesus to save us. Amen
Song
“Go Tell It On the Mountain”
Luke 2:21 (HCSB) When the eight days were completed for His circumcision, He was named JESUS—the name given by the angel before He was conceived.
The “fragrance of Christ” in this verse would be the smell of a baby. Sometimes sweet and innocent, sometimes, er, not so sweet. There’s that fresh baby powder scent.
Jesus. The baby born was named Jesus.
Jesus was the Greek version of the Hebrew name Joshua. And it means “one who saves.” The angel said to name him Jesus because “He will save his people from their sins.” Jesus came to save. What an amazing thought. This helpless baby, dependant on Mary and Joseph for everything… and he was sent to save the world.
It is the real story of Christmas! The story of a baby come to grow to save the world. It is the ultimate action adventure hero story. Humble baby born in a stable grows up to fight evil and against all odds seeks to save the world – and He succeeds! Only God could create such a great story and it not be fiction.
Questions for Discussion
What can we do to share the salvation message at Christmas?
How can we remind ourselves of this great salvation we have?
Prayer
Dear God, thank you for sending Jesus to save us. Amen
Song
“Go Tell It On the Mountain”
Thursday, December 11, 2008
The Third Sunday of Advent December 14, 2008
The Shepherds!
Scripture
Luke 2:8-9, 15-20 (HCSB) 8 In the same region, shepherds were staying out in the fields and keeping watch at night over their flock. 9 Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. … 15 When the angels had left them and returned to heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go straight to Bethlehem and see what has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 They hurried off and found both Mary and Joseph, and the baby who was lying in the feeding trough. 17 After seeing [them], they reported the message they were told about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary was treasuring up all these things in her heart and meditating on them. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had seen and heard, just as they had been told.
JOY! The Shepherds were given the great news and responded in faith to go to see the child, born to be the kings!
This is another one of those moments we wonder what God was thinking. The shepherds were stinky smelly unclean lowly field workers. Couldn’t God think of someone else to send the birth announcement to?
First of all, God is not a respecter of persons, so it never probably crossed his mind.
Secondly, God was looking for a group of people who would respond, as they did, in faith!
I wonder if a group of religious leaders would have been so quick to drop everything to go to Bethlehem.
Questions for Discussion
How about us? How would we respond? How do we respond?
God is still announcing his intentions through his word.
Be kind to one another.
Love one another.
Love God.
Love your neighbor.
Do we rush to respond in faith?
Prayer
Dear God, Help me respond in faith to the message You give me, like the shepherds! Amen.
Song
“While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks by Night”
Scripture
Luke 2:8-9, 15-20 (HCSB) 8 In the same region, shepherds were staying out in the fields and keeping watch at night over their flock. 9 Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. … 15 When the angels had left them and returned to heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go straight to Bethlehem and see what has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 They hurried off and found both Mary and Joseph, and the baby who was lying in the feeding trough. 17 After seeing [them], they reported the message they were told about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary was treasuring up all these things in her heart and meditating on them. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had seen and heard, just as they had been told.
JOY! The Shepherds were given the great news and responded in faith to go to see the child, born to be the kings!
This is another one of those moments we wonder what God was thinking. The shepherds were stinky smelly unclean lowly field workers. Couldn’t God think of someone else to send the birth announcement to?
First of all, God is not a respecter of persons, so it never probably crossed his mind.
Secondly, God was looking for a group of people who would respond, as they did, in faith!
I wonder if a group of religious leaders would have been so quick to drop everything to go to Bethlehem.
Questions for Discussion
How about us? How would we respond? How do we respond?
God is still announcing his intentions through his word.
Be kind to one another.
Love one another.
Love God.
Love your neighbor.
Do we rush to respond in faith?
Prayer
Dear God, Help me respond in faith to the message You give me, like the shepherds! Amen.
Song
“While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks by Night”
December 13, 2008
The Birth
Scripture
Luke 2:6-7 (HCSB) 6 While they were there, the time came for her to give birth. 7 Then she gave birth to her firstborn Son, and she wrapped Him snugly in cloth and laid Him in a feeding trough—because there was no room for them at the inn.
Devotion
Here we are on this verse for the third day! Well it’s important. Today we talk about the birth. Don’t worry, even though the birth of Jesus was a real human birth, we won’t get into the details of all that. But let’s talk about the humanity of Jesus.
When you think of Jesus do you ever think about him as a human? As a real human?
Jesus went to the bathroom. Jesus ate. He slept. Jesus experienced life as a human. His human body experienced everything that we experience.
For Jesus to be anything less than human would change everything. In order for his sacrifice to mean anything Jesus had to be human. And He was!
Questions for Discussion
Is it a new thought to think of Jesus as fully human?
What kind of things do you think Jesus did as a toddler? A child? A teen?
Jesus understands us because he was completely human. How does that help you?
Prayer
Thank you God that Jesus came not just to experience humanity but to become humanity for all of us. Amen.
Song
“Away in a Manger”
Scripture
Luke 2:6-7 (HCSB) 6 While they were there, the time came for her to give birth. 7 Then she gave birth to her firstborn Son, and she wrapped Him snugly in cloth and laid Him in a feeding trough—because there was no room for them at the inn.
Devotion
Here we are on this verse for the third day! Well it’s important. Today we talk about the birth. Don’t worry, even though the birth of Jesus was a real human birth, we won’t get into the details of all that. But let’s talk about the humanity of Jesus.
When you think of Jesus do you ever think about him as a human? As a real human?
Jesus went to the bathroom. Jesus ate. He slept. Jesus experienced life as a human. His human body experienced everything that we experience.
For Jesus to be anything less than human would change everything. In order for his sacrifice to mean anything Jesus had to be human. And He was!
Questions for Discussion
Is it a new thought to think of Jesus as fully human?
What kind of things do you think Jesus did as a toddler? A child? A teen?
Jesus understands us because he was completely human. How does that help you?
Prayer
Thank you God that Jesus came not just to experience humanity but to become humanity for all of us. Amen.
Song
“Away in a Manger”
December 12, 2008
The Feeding Trough
Title
Scripture
Luke 2:7 (HCSB) Then she gave birth to her firstborn Son, and she wrapped Him snugly in cloth and laid Him in a feeding trough—because there was no room for them at the inn.
Devotion
The maternity ward of a hospital is a strange thing. Everywhere else you go in a hospital, there is sickness and suffering, but most of what goes on in the maternity ward is excitement and joy!
Jesus, of course was not born in a hospital. Jesus was born in stable. He was placed in a feeding trough. We call it a manger.
Imagine. Jesus. Son of God. King of kings. Lord of lords. Placed in a rough hewn wooden crate used to place food for animals. Crazy. Sometimes our frail human minds want to ask things like “What was God thinking?”
I am reminded that as we study the character of God, we often forget that one characteristic of God is humility. We typically don’t see God as humble. But look at the manger. Philippians tells us that He humbled himself. James tells us that God gives grace to the humble and resists the proud.
We should be like Jesus. We should be humble.
Questions for Discussion
How are you doing in the humility department? (Be careful how you answer that - it might ruin it)
How can you be more humble this Christmas?
Prayer
Jesus, help me to be humble like you. Amen.
Song
“What Child is This?”
Title
Scripture
Luke 2:7 (HCSB) Then she gave birth to her firstborn Son, and she wrapped Him snugly in cloth and laid Him in a feeding trough—because there was no room for them at the inn.
Devotion
The maternity ward of a hospital is a strange thing. Everywhere else you go in a hospital, there is sickness and suffering, but most of what goes on in the maternity ward is excitement and joy!
Jesus, of course was not born in a hospital. Jesus was born in stable. He was placed in a feeding trough. We call it a manger.
Imagine. Jesus. Son of God. King of kings. Lord of lords. Placed in a rough hewn wooden crate used to place food for animals. Crazy. Sometimes our frail human minds want to ask things like “What was God thinking?”
I am reminded that as we study the character of God, we often forget that one characteristic of God is humility. We typically don’t see God as humble. But look at the manger. Philippians tells us that He humbled himself. James tells us that God gives grace to the humble and resists the proud.
We should be like Jesus. We should be humble.
Questions for Discussion
How are you doing in the humility department? (Be careful how you answer that - it might ruin it)
How can you be more humble this Christmas?
Prayer
Jesus, help me to be humble like you. Amen.
Song
“What Child is This?”
December 11, 2008
The Inn
Luke 2:6-7 (HCSB) 6 While they were there, the time came for her to give birth. 7 Then she gave birth to her firstborn Son, and she wrapped Him snugly in cloth and laid Him in a feeding trough—because there was no room for them at the inn.
Devotion
As we think again about the smells of Christmas Mary and Joseph travel to an Inn in Bethlehem.
Now you may remember the good or bad smells associated with a hotel room, but you have probably never experienced the smell of staying at an Inn in the first century. Now move outside, because Joseph and Mary stayed in the stable. You know what kind of smells are in a stable!
There was no room for Jesus in the Inn.
It’s easy for us to sit back a criticize the Innkeeper (who is not in the Bible by the way) or the town of Bethlehem, however, the truth is, we are not very good at giving Jesus room in our lives either.
Many people leave Jesus just a small amount of room at Christmas and Easter. Others are a little more giving, providing him an hour a week.
The problem is, Jesus wants more. He wants a lot more. Jesus wants complete control of all of our life.
The good news is, that when we give Him that control, he is very generous to provide us with a very abundant life filled with family, fun and great things.
Questions for Discussion
Are there times when you don’t want to make room for Jesus?
How have you allowed Jesus to control your life?
What good things have you gotten since giving Jesus control?
Prayer
Dear God, please help me to give Jesus complete control of my life. Amen.
Song
“O Little Town of Bethlehem”
Luke 2:6-7 (HCSB) 6 While they were there, the time came for her to give birth. 7 Then she gave birth to her firstborn Son, and she wrapped Him snugly in cloth and laid Him in a feeding trough—because there was no room for them at the inn.
Devotion
As we think again about the smells of Christmas Mary and Joseph travel to an Inn in Bethlehem.
Now you may remember the good or bad smells associated with a hotel room, but you have probably never experienced the smell of staying at an Inn in the first century. Now move outside, because Joseph and Mary stayed in the stable. You know what kind of smells are in a stable!
There was no room for Jesus in the Inn.
It’s easy for us to sit back a criticize the Innkeeper (who is not in the Bible by the way) or the town of Bethlehem, however, the truth is, we are not very good at giving Jesus room in our lives either.
Many people leave Jesus just a small amount of room at Christmas and Easter. Others are a little more giving, providing him an hour a week.
The problem is, Jesus wants more. He wants a lot more. Jesus wants complete control of all of our life.
The good news is, that when we give Him that control, he is very generous to provide us with a very abundant life filled with family, fun and great things.
Questions for Discussion
Are there times when you don’t want to make room for Jesus?
How have you allowed Jesus to control your life?
What good things have you gotten since giving Jesus control?
Prayer
Dear God, please help me to give Jesus complete control of my life. Amen.
Song
“O Little Town of Bethlehem”
December 10, 2008
The Census
Luke 2:1-5 (HCSB) 1 In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that the whole empire should be registered. 2 This first registration took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. 3 So everyone went to be registered, each to his own town. 4 And Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family line of David, 5 to be registered along with Mary, who was engaged to him and was pregnant.
Devotion
What does it smell like to travel? Smelly vans, dirty clothes, restaurant foods, outdoor clean air, outdoor stinky air.
Travel was what Joseph and Mary had to do. Of course they did not have a van or restaurants to go to, but they had a destination, and it wasn’t vacation. It was a demand of the government.
Wow.
Can God actually use the ungodly government structure of the Roman Empire to bring about the fulfillment of prophecy?
Could God use the course of human events around you to get you where he wants you to be?
He did and he does!
God, in his Sovereignty will use the events of the world around us to align us with his will. Of course we need to be open to allowing him to use us.
Someone told me recently that interruptions in your life should be seen as opportunities to minister. Let’s see them this way as we go about the Christmas season!
Questions for Discussion
Have you ever thought of what Joseph and Mary felt about traveling such a distance?
How has God used an “interruption” in your life as an opportunity to minister?
Where have you seen God at work that surprised you?
Prayer
Dear God, help me to keep my eyes open for where you are at work in my life and to take advantage of opportunities to minister. Amen.
Song
Emmanuel
Luke 2:1-5 (HCSB) 1 In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that the whole empire should be registered. 2 This first registration took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. 3 So everyone went to be registered, each to his own town. 4 And Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family line of David, 5 to be registered along with Mary, who was engaged to him and was pregnant.
Devotion
What does it smell like to travel? Smelly vans, dirty clothes, restaurant foods, outdoor clean air, outdoor stinky air.
Travel was what Joseph and Mary had to do. Of course they did not have a van or restaurants to go to, but they had a destination, and it wasn’t vacation. It was a demand of the government.
Wow.
Can God actually use the ungodly government structure of the Roman Empire to bring about the fulfillment of prophecy?
Could God use the course of human events around you to get you where he wants you to be?
He did and he does!
God, in his Sovereignty will use the events of the world around us to align us with his will. Of course we need to be open to allowing him to use us.
Someone told me recently that interruptions in your life should be seen as opportunities to minister. Let’s see them this way as we go about the Christmas season!
Questions for Discussion
Have you ever thought of what Joseph and Mary felt about traveling such a distance?
How has God used an “interruption” in your life as an opportunity to minister?
Where have you seen God at work that surprised you?
Prayer
Dear God, help me to keep my eyes open for where you are at work in my life and to take advantage of opportunities to minister. Amen.
Song
Emmanuel
Monday, December 08, 2008
December 9, 2008
Joseph, Step-father of Jesus
Matthew 1:19,24 (HCSB) 19 So her husband Joseph, being a righteous man, and not wanting to disgrace her publicly, decided to divorce her secretly… 24 When Joseph got up from sleeping, he did as the Lord’s angel had commanded him. He married her
Joseph is the strong silent type. We don’t know a lot about Joseph. However, if we look close, we will discover some great nuggets of gold about this unsung hero of the Christmas story.
· Joseph was a righteous man.
· He was sensitive to the prompting of the Holy Spirit.
· He was obedient to God.
· He was faithful.
Joseph was a protector. Joseph was the protector of Mary, and also Jesus. Later he protected Jesus by fleeing to Egypt. I think there is some sort of innate desire of every man to protect his family. Whether that is the case or not, Joseph certainly chose to be the protector. God used Joseph to protect Mary and Jesus from harm and to prepare the way for Jesus to grow up “in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and with people. (Luke 2:52)
Questions for Discussion
How can you be obedient to God in order to pave the way for someone to know Jesus?
Can you be the protector of someone by showing them the way to Jesus?
Pray:
Dear God, thank you for Joseph and his willingness to follow your plan and protect Jesus. Amen.
Song
“Silent Night”
Matthew 1:19,24 (HCSB) 19 So her husband Joseph, being a righteous man, and not wanting to disgrace her publicly, decided to divorce her secretly… 24 When Joseph got up from sleeping, he did as the Lord’s angel had commanded him. He married her
Joseph is the strong silent type. We don’t know a lot about Joseph. However, if we look close, we will discover some great nuggets of gold about this unsung hero of the Christmas story.
· Joseph was a righteous man.
· He was sensitive to the prompting of the Holy Spirit.
· He was obedient to God.
· He was faithful.
Joseph was a protector. Joseph was the protector of Mary, and also Jesus. Later he protected Jesus by fleeing to Egypt. I think there is some sort of innate desire of every man to protect his family. Whether that is the case or not, Joseph certainly chose to be the protector. God used Joseph to protect Mary and Jesus from harm and to prepare the way for Jesus to grow up “in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and with people. (Luke 2:52)
Questions for Discussion
How can you be obedient to God in order to pave the way for someone to know Jesus?
Can you be the protector of someone by showing them the way to Jesus?
Pray:
Dear God, thank you for Joseph and his willingness to follow your plan and protect Jesus. Amen.
Song
“Silent Night”
December 8, 2008
The Mother of God
Luke 1:46-55 (HCSB) 46 And Mary said: My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, 47 and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior, 48 because He has looked with favor on the humble condition of His slave. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed, 49 because the Mighty One has done great things for me, and His name is holy. 50 His mercy is from generation to generation on those who fear Him. 51 He has done a mighty deed with His arm; He has scattered the proud because of the thoughts of their hearts; 52 He has toppled the mighty from their thrones and exalted the lowly. 53 He has satisfied the hungry with good things and sent the rich away empty. 54 He has helped His servant Israel, mindful of His mercy, 55 just as He spoke to our ancestors, to Abraham and his descendants forever.
Sometimes we get uncomfortable with the phrase “mother of God.” But Mary was a real human biological mother to Jesus who was the real God/man, 100% God and 100% man.
Mary is blessed! She had the privilege of bringing our Lord into the world. Mary recognizes the magnitude of what she is about to do, but she sees her position also, as a sinner in need of a Savior. She rejoices in her Savior! Mary exalts the Lord for fulfilling his promises.
We, too need to rejoice in the Savior that God has brought us. Mary could have done a lot of things at this point in her life. She could have whined. She could have complained. She could have worried about all the troubles she was going to endure, but instead, she rejoiced.
Ecclesiastes 3:4 (HCSB) a time to weep and a time to laugh; a time to mourn and a time to dance;
Ecclesiastes reminds us that there is a time and season for everything. Mary knew that this was a time to rejoice!
Let’s spread joy this Christmas. Our Savior is born!
Questions for Discussion
What are things we can rejoice about this week?
Have there been times to mourn lately?
How does God see us through the hard times?
Pray:
Lord, help me have an attitude of joy as I go about this Christmas season. Amen.
Song:
“Gentle Mary Laid Her Head”
Luke 1:46-55 (HCSB) 46 And Mary said: My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, 47 and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior, 48 because He has looked with favor on the humble condition of His slave. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed, 49 because the Mighty One has done great things for me, and His name is holy. 50 His mercy is from generation to generation on those who fear Him. 51 He has done a mighty deed with His arm; He has scattered the proud because of the thoughts of their hearts; 52 He has toppled the mighty from their thrones and exalted the lowly. 53 He has satisfied the hungry with good things and sent the rich away empty. 54 He has helped His servant Israel, mindful of His mercy, 55 just as He spoke to our ancestors, to Abraham and his descendants forever.
Sometimes we get uncomfortable with the phrase “mother of God.” But Mary was a real human biological mother to Jesus who was the real God/man, 100% God and 100% man.
Mary is blessed! She had the privilege of bringing our Lord into the world. Mary recognizes the magnitude of what she is about to do, but she sees her position also, as a sinner in need of a Savior. She rejoices in her Savior! Mary exalts the Lord for fulfilling his promises.
We, too need to rejoice in the Savior that God has brought us. Mary could have done a lot of things at this point in her life. She could have whined. She could have complained. She could have worried about all the troubles she was going to endure, but instead, she rejoiced.
Ecclesiastes 3:4 (HCSB) a time to weep and a time to laugh; a time to mourn and a time to dance;
Ecclesiastes reminds us that there is a time and season for everything. Mary knew that this was a time to rejoice!
Let’s spread joy this Christmas. Our Savior is born!
Questions for Discussion
What are things we can rejoice about this week?
Have there been times to mourn lately?
How does God see us through the hard times?
Pray:
Lord, help me have an attitude of joy as I go about this Christmas season. Amen.
Song:
“Gentle Mary Laid Her Head”
Wednesday, December 03, 2008
The Second Sunday of Advent December 7, 2008
The Announcement
Luke 1:26-28 (HCSB) 26 In the sixth month, the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, 27 to a virgin engaged to a man named Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28 And [the angel] came to her and said, “Rejoice, favored woman! The Lord is with you.”
The baby announcement is special! We tell our friends, we call our relatives, and we send out little cards telling everyone – a baby is coming!
Angels are very popular in our culture. Some people are even prone to worshipping them. Angels are as Billy Graham called them “God’s secret agents.” Angels do the will of the One who sends them, and bring the glory back to him. We could learn a lot from angels. The angel Gabriel and the angels we meet later in the Christmas story with the Shepherds are apparently a sight to behold. (“When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and overcome with fear.” Luke 1:12, “Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.” Luke 2:9)
The Shepherds and Zechariah seemed afraid of the angel. Mary was not. However, Mary and Zechariah questioned the angel (Luke 1:18, 34) but the shepherds did not (Luke 2:15).
All of this, and we sometimes wonder why God does not just send us an angel to give us instructions. Well, God did send us a message, it’s called the Bible and it gives us plenty of instructions for life. He also sent us Jesus, the one who came to save us from our sins.
Perhaps he is looking for us to share this message with those we know. We are not half as scary as an angel. We have the best news to share. More important than the birth of a baby - it is how that baby came to save the world!
Questions for Discussion
How do you think you would respond to an angel?
When have you been given good news from someone?
When have you last shared some good news with someone?
Prayer
God help me be an angel to someone and announce the good news of great joy that the savior is born! Amen.
Song
“Angels from the Realms of Glory”
Luke 1:26-28 (HCSB) 26 In the sixth month, the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, 27 to a virgin engaged to a man named Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28 And [the angel] came to her and said, “Rejoice, favored woman! The Lord is with you.”
The baby announcement is special! We tell our friends, we call our relatives, and we send out little cards telling everyone – a baby is coming!
Angels are very popular in our culture. Some people are even prone to worshipping them. Angels are as Billy Graham called them “God’s secret agents.” Angels do the will of the One who sends them, and bring the glory back to him. We could learn a lot from angels. The angel Gabriel and the angels we meet later in the Christmas story with the Shepherds are apparently a sight to behold. (“When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and overcome with fear.” Luke 1:12, “Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.” Luke 2:9)
The Shepherds and Zechariah seemed afraid of the angel. Mary was not. However, Mary and Zechariah questioned the angel (Luke 1:18, 34) but the shepherds did not (Luke 2:15).
All of this, and we sometimes wonder why God does not just send us an angel to give us instructions. Well, God did send us a message, it’s called the Bible and it gives us plenty of instructions for life. He also sent us Jesus, the one who came to save us from our sins.
Perhaps he is looking for us to share this message with those we know. We are not half as scary as an angel. We have the best news to share. More important than the birth of a baby - it is how that baby came to save the world!
Questions for Discussion
How do you think you would respond to an angel?
When have you been given good news from someone?
When have you last shared some good news with someone?
Prayer
God help me be an angel to someone and announce the good news of great joy that the savior is born! Amen.
Song
“Angels from the Realms of Glory”
December 6, 2008
The Last of the Prophets
John 1:6-8 (HCSB) 6 There was a man named John who was sent from God. 7 He came as a witness to testify about the light, so that all might believe through him. 8 He was not the light, but he came to testify about the light.
As we talk about the real smells of Christmas, when we get to John the Baptist, be prepared to hold your nose. When he grew up he wore camel skin clothes and lived in the dessert. I don’t imagine he smelled very good. It is true he got in the water to baptize so he washed off some of that stink, but then he was wearing wet camel skin clothes! Anyway, I digress.
The story of the birth of John the Baptist would really be a bigger story to tell if it were not for the fact that it is so closely interwoven with genuinely the greatest story of a birth ever. John would probably approve because He knew that he was to decrease and the Messiah was to increase. However, John is the last of the prophets. He is the last one who predicts the coming of the Messiah, only to have the Messiah walk up to him to be baptized. I am sure that (if they were not in heaven where they could not sin) Isaiah and the other guys would be insanely jealous. Imagine! The prophet speaks and instantly his prophesy comes true!
We know enough about the story to know that not everyone received the truth, but thank God for a prophet born six months before Jesus’ who would prepare the way.
Questions for Discussion
How would you like a camel skin robe for Christmas?
How can we prepare the way in the hearts of our friends and neighbors for Jesus?
Prayer
Dear Jesus, help me to prepare people to hear about and receive you. Amen.
Song
“Angels We have Heard on High”
John 1:6-8 (HCSB) 6 There was a man named John who was sent from God. 7 He came as a witness to testify about the light, so that all might believe through him. 8 He was not the light, but he came to testify about the light.
As we talk about the real smells of Christmas, when we get to John the Baptist, be prepared to hold your nose. When he grew up he wore camel skin clothes and lived in the dessert. I don’t imagine he smelled very good. It is true he got in the water to baptize so he washed off some of that stink, but then he was wearing wet camel skin clothes! Anyway, I digress.
The story of the birth of John the Baptist would really be a bigger story to tell if it were not for the fact that it is so closely interwoven with genuinely the greatest story of a birth ever. John would probably approve because He knew that he was to decrease and the Messiah was to increase. However, John is the last of the prophets. He is the last one who predicts the coming of the Messiah, only to have the Messiah walk up to him to be baptized. I am sure that (if they were not in heaven where they could not sin) Isaiah and the other guys would be insanely jealous. Imagine! The prophet speaks and instantly his prophesy comes true!
We know enough about the story to know that not everyone received the truth, but thank God for a prophet born six months before Jesus’ who would prepare the way.
Questions for Discussion
How would you like a camel skin robe for Christmas?
How can we prepare the way in the hearts of our friends and neighbors for Jesus?
Prayer
Dear Jesus, help me to prepare people to hear about and receive you. Amen.
Song
“Angels We have Heard on High”
December 5, 2008
The First to Recognize the Messiah!
Luke 1:43 (HCSB) How could this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?
Elizabeth recognized (by the Holy Spirit who fills her) that Mary’s baby is the Christ! It was (and is among Jewish women today) the desire of every Jewess to be the mother of the Messiah. Elizabeth knew that her pregnancy was of God, but she also discovered the glorious nature of her cousin Mary’s child. She, unlike Zechariah, immediately responded in faith. She was the first to recognize the Messiah!
One of the roles that Elizabeth had was a confidant – a mentor - for Mary. Mary had a very unique story and not everyone could relate. Elizabeth could relate to Mary. The child Elizabeth carried had its own miraculous angelic story. God used Elizabeth to confirm what Mary already knew.
Questions for Discussion
Is there something God has done in your life that would give you the ability to relate to someone else in a similar circumstance? Have you used that to encourage or minister?
Do you have someone in your life that is an encourager? A mentor? Are you that someone for someone else?
Prayer
God, help me to find others who can help me grow closer to You. Amen.
Song
“God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen”
Luke 1:43 (HCSB) How could this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?
Elizabeth recognized (by the Holy Spirit who fills her) that Mary’s baby is the Christ! It was (and is among Jewish women today) the desire of every Jewess to be the mother of the Messiah. Elizabeth knew that her pregnancy was of God, but she also discovered the glorious nature of her cousin Mary’s child. She, unlike Zechariah, immediately responded in faith. She was the first to recognize the Messiah!
One of the roles that Elizabeth had was a confidant – a mentor - for Mary. Mary had a very unique story and not everyone could relate. Elizabeth could relate to Mary. The child Elizabeth carried had its own miraculous angelic story. God used Elizabeth to confirm what Mary already knew.
Questions for Discussion
Is there something God has done in your life that would give you the ability to relate to someone else in a similar circumstance? Have you used that to encourage or minister?
Do you have someone in your life that is an encourager? A mentor? Are you that someone for someone else?
Prayer
God, help me to find others who can help me grow closer to You. Amen.
Song
“God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen”
December 4, 2008
The Faithless Priest of God
Luke 1:18-20 (HCSB) 18 “How can I know this?” Zechariah asked the angel. “For I am an old man, and my wife is well along in years.” 19 The angel answered him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and I was sent to speak to you and tell you this good news. 20 Now listen! You will become silent and unable to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their proper time.”
Smell the incense. It was probably pungent. It was there to cover the smell of death and blood. The Temple was also a place of sacrifice. I cannot imagine the smells that came from the holy of holies. Zechariah, a priest of God, was to take his turn in entering the Most Holy Place. The expexctation was that you would go into this place to hear from God. He did. Then he did not believe it.
We like to pick on people in the Bible when they do silly things. We look with hindsight at Zechariah and we think that he should have known better. He should have realized that an angel appearing to Him would know if he was going to have a baby or not. We think those things, then we turn around and do not believe God for the simplest things in our own lives. I’m just glad that every time I doubt God he doesn’t come in and close my mouth for nine months!
Questions for Discussion
What has God assured you, that you have a hard time believing?
How can you better walk in faith?
When we come to God, do we come to really hear from Him?
Prayer
Pray: “Dear God, I know you have assured us many things in your Word. Help us to believe and receive from you what you want us to have. Amen.”
Song
“O Come, All ye Faithful”
Luke 1:18-20 (HCSB) 18 “How can I know this?” Zechariah asked the angel. “For I am an old man, and my wife is well along in years.” 19 The angel answered him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and I was sent to speak to you and tell you this good news. 20 Now listen! You will become silent and unable to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their proper time.”
Smell the incense. It was probably pungent. It was there to cover the smell of death and blood. The Temple was also a place of sacrifice. I cannot imagine the smells that came from the holy of holies. Zechariah, a priest of God, was to take his turn in entering the Most Holy Place. The expexctation was that you would go into this place to hear from God. He did. Then he did not believe it.
We like to pick on people in the Bible when they do silly things. We look with hindsight at Zechariah and we think that he should have known better. He should have realized that an angel appearing to Him would know if he was going to have a baby or not. We think those things, then we turn around and do not believe God for the simplest things in our own lives. I’m just glad that every time I doubt God he doesn’t come in and close my mouth for nine months!
Questions for Discussion
What has God assured you, that you have a hard time believing?
How can you better walk in faith?
When we come to God, do we come to really hear from Him?
Prayer
Pray: “Dear God, I know you have assured us many things in your Word. Help us to believe and receive from you what you want us to have. Amen.”
Song
“O Come, All ye Faithful”
December 3, 2008
O Little Town of Bethlehem
Micah 5:2 (HCSB) Bethlehem Ephrathah, you are small among the clans of Judah; One will come from you to be ruler over Israel for Me. His origin is from antiquity, from eternity.
Ever smell bread baking? What would it be like to be in a “house of bread.” Bethlehem literally means “house of bread.”
The small town of Bethlehem became the mighty birthplace of the King! Micah, the prophet declared it to be so, and indeed it was. Although Jesus did not grow up in Bethlehem but Nazareth, events happened in such as way as to allow this town to be the place the child was born.
Bethlehem was not the place for a king to be born. It was a small town on the way to Jerusalem, the “big city.” So the name means “house of bread.” Perhaps this means that this was a town to stop and get a bite to eat on your journey. I guess it was kind of a rest stop or fast food restaurant of that day.
Have you ever considered anything that you have done as small? Do you ever feel like a rest stop on the way to something important? When you serve Jesus, nothing you do is small! God will use your every service for his Glory!
Questions for Discussion
What small things can you do for God?
What thing can you do for God in the next 24 hours?
Write something down. Choose to do it.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, help me to serve you no matter how I feel about the extent of my service. May the small things I do for you, give great glory to God! Amen.
Song
“O Little Town of Bethlehem”
Micah 5:2 (HCSB) Bethlehem Ephrathah, you are small among the clans of Judah; One will come from you to be ruler over Israel for Me. His origin is from antiquity, from eternity.
Ever smell bread baking? What would it be like to be in a “house of bread.” Bethlehem literally means “house of bread.”
The small town of Bethlehem became the mighty birthplace of the King! Micah, the prophet declared it to be so, and indeed it was. Although Jesus did not grow up in Bethlehem but Nazareth, events happened in such as way as to allow this town to be the place the child was born.
Bethlehem was not the place for a king to be born. It was a small town on the way to Jerusalem, the “big city.” So the name means “house of bread.” Perhaps this means that this was a town to stop and get a bite to eat on your journey. I guess it was kind of a rest stop or fast food restaurant of that day.
Have you ever considered anything that you have done as small? Do you ever feel like a rest stop on the way to something important? When you serve Jesus, nothing you do is small! God will use your every service for his Glory!
Questions for Discussion
What small things can you do for God?
What thing can you do for God in the next 24 hours?
Write something down. Choose to do it.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, help me to serve you no matter how I feel about the extent of my service. May the small things I do for you, give great glory to God! Amen.
Song
“O Little Town of Bethlehem”
Monday, December 01, 2008
December 2, 2008
Promise to Abraham
Genesis 12:2-3 (HCSB) 2 I will make you into a great nation, I will bless you, I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. 3 I will bless those who bless you, I will curse those who treat you with contempt, and all the peoples on earth will be blessed through you.
We can dig deeper into the trunk in the attic and find more treasure, and when we dig deeper into the Word of God we find more promises to us. Abraham was given a promise. He was promised that he would be a blessing, not just to his people, but that “all the peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” Abraham had a son named Isaac, Isaac had a son who had sons and daughters who had a children…. and eventually Jesus was born through the line that began with Abraham. (This is why we sing that Abraham had many sons… but please, let’s not sing that J). The point of the story is not that Abraham got the many sons God promised, but that Jesus was to come and bless the whole world.
Isn’t it great that God thought of you, even way back then!
Questions for Discussion
What other things do you know about Abraham?
Would you have had the faith to believe God could create a nation from you when you had no children?
What impossible things can God do through you?
Prayer:
Dear God, Please let me have the faith to believe like Abraham. He made mistakes, but you used him to bring a blessing to people like me. Use me as well. Amen.
Sing:
“O Come, O Come Emmanuel”
Genesis 12:2-3 (HCSB) 2 I will make you into a great nation, I will bless you, I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. 3 I will bless those who bless you, I will curse those who treat you with contempt, and all the peoples on earth will be blessed through you.
We can dig deeper into the trunk in the attic and find more treasure, and when we dig deeper into the Word of God we find more promises to us. Abraham was given a promise. He was promised that he would be a blessing, not just to his people, but that “all the peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” Abraham had a son named Isaac, Isaac had a son who had sons and daughters who had a children…. and eventually Jesus was born through the line that began with Abraham. (This is why we sing that Abraham had many sons… but please, let’s not sing that J). The point of the story is not that Abraham got the many sons God promised, but that Jesus was to come and bless the whole world.
Isn’t it great that God thought of you, even way back then!
Questions for Discussion
What other things do you know about Abraham?
Would you have had the faith to believe God could create a nation from you when you had no children?
What impossible things can God do through you?
Prayer:
Dear God, Please let me have the faith to believe like Abraham. He made mistakes, but you used him to bring a blessing to people like me. Use me as well. Amen.
Sing:
“O Come, O Come Emmanuel”
December 1, 2008
They Should Have Known
Isaiah 59:2 (HCSB) But your iniquities have built barriers between you and your God, and your sins have made Him hide [His] face from you so that He does not listen.
Isaiah 53:6 (HCSB) We all went astray like sheep; we all have turned to our own way; and the Lord has punished Him for the iniquity of us all.
Isaiah 9:2 (HCSB) The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of darkness, a light has dawned.
Isaiah 9:6-7 (HCSB) 6 For a child will be born for us, a son will be given to us, and the government will be on His shoulders. He will be named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. 7 The dominion will be vast, and its prosperity will never end. He will reign on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish and sustain it with justice and righteousness from now on and forever. The zeal of the Lord of Hosts will accomplish this.
As we think of the fragrances of Christmas, one we don’t always think about is the smell of the attic. The scent of storage. The old, musty, “what in the world died in here” kind of smell. The prophets and prophecies are sometimes relegated to that dusty dingy place in the attic of our Biblical library. Yes, we say they are important, but we will just keep them stored for future use.
But they are crucial! As we read the words of the prophets and we look back in hindsight, we exclaim, “They should have known!” Hindsight is always 20/20. That is to say, it is easier to see the truth when we are looking from the future to the past.
The old, musty, truths of the prophets tell us much. God knew that the people of this earth were in need of a savior. He prepared for that. He was planning to send the savior. He would be the light!
Questions for Discussion:
Do you have any memories associated with an attic or storage place?
What do you think of when you think of the prophets?
Why do you think they did not figure out Who Jesus was?
Prayer:
Lord, Thank you for sending your prophets to tell people about the coming Savior. Thank you for being true to your Word! Amen.
Song:
“Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus”
Isaiah 59:2 (HCSB) But your iniquities have built barriers between you and your God, and your sins have made Him hide [His] face from you so that He does not listen.
Isaiah 53:6 (HCSB) We all went astray like sheep; we all have turned to our own way; and the Lord has punished Him for the iniquity of us all.
Isaiah 9:2 (HCSB) The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of darkness, a light has dawned.
Isaiah 9:6-7 (HCSB) 6 For a child will be born for us, a son will be given to us, and the government will be on His shoulders. He will be named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. 7 The dominion will be vast, and its prosperity will never end. He will reign on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish and sustain it with justice and righteousness from now on and forever. The zeal of the Lord of Hosts will accomplish this.
As we think of the fragrances of Christmas, one we don’t always think about is the smell of the attic. The scent of storage. The old, musty, “what in the world died in here” kind of smell. The prophets and prophecies are sometimes relegated to that dusty dingy place in the attic of our Biblical library. Yes, we say they are important, but we will just keep them stored for future use.
But they are crucial! As we read the words of the prophets and we look back in hindsight, we exclaim, “They should have known!” Hindsight is always 20/20. That is to say, it is easier to see the truth when we are looking from the future to the past.
The old, musty, truths of the prophets tell us much. God knew that the people of this earth were in need of a savior. He prepared for that. He was planning to send the savior. He would be the light!
Questions for Discussion:
Do you have any memories associated with an attic or storage place?
What do you think of when you think of the prophets?
Why do you think they did not figure out Who Jesus was?
Prayer:
Lord, Thank you for sending your prophets to tell people about the coming Savior. Thank you for being true to your Word! Amen.
Song:
“Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus”
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Sunday, November 30, 2008 First Sunday of Advent
Thanks be to God!
2 Corinthians 2:14-16 (HCSB) 14 But thanks be to God, who always puts us on display in Christ, and spreads through us in every place the scent of knowing Him. 15 For to God we are the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing. 16 To some we are a scent of death leading to death, but to others, a scent of life leading to life.
Some translation render “puts us on display” as “leads us into triumph.” This is the picture of the returning heroes from war, or the championship team returning home and having a victory parade. We won! And we won because of Christ! Thanks be to God!
We become the fragrance of God to everyone. To some, the fragrance of life, to others, the fragrance of death. The whole idea of fragrance intrigues me. There are many fragrances that surround us during the holiday season. You probably have some fond memories related to fragrances. Our brain connects memories to smells. Just this past week we had the fragrances of Thanksgiving!
As we go through this advent season I want to explore some of the fragrances of Christ!
Questions for Discussion:
What are smells and fragrances you associate with Christmas?
Do you have certain memories associated with smells or fragrances?
How can we be the fragrance of Christ and of life to those around us?
Prayer:
Dear God, Thank you for your wonderful gift of a Savior! May we be the fragrance of Christ to the world around us! Amen
Sing:
“Joy to the World”
2 Corinthians 2:14-16 (HCSB) 14 But thanks be to God, who always puts us on display in Christ, and spreads through us in every place the scent of knowing Him. 15 For to God we are the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing. 16 To some we are a scent of death leading to death, but to others, a scent of life leading to life.
Some translation render “puts us on display” as “leads us into triumph.” This is the picture of the returning heroes from war, or the championship team returning home and having a victory parade. We won! And we won because of Christ! Thanks be to God!
We become the fragrance of God to everyone. To some, the fragrance of life, to others, the fragrance of death. The whole idea of fragrance intrigues me. There are many fragrances that surround us during the holiday season. You probably have some fond memories related to fragrances. Our brain connects memories to smells. Just this past week we had the fragrances of Thanksgiving!
As we go through this advent season I want to explore some of the fragrances of Christ!
Questions for Discussion:
What are smells and fragrances you associate with Christmas?
Do you have certain memories associated with smells or fragrances?
How can we be the fragrance of Christ and of life to those around us?
Prayer:
Dear God, Thank you for your wonderful gift of a Savior! May we be the fragrance of Christ to the world around us! Amen
Sing:
“Joy to the World”
Thursday, November 20, 2008
What is Advent anyway?
Advent literally means the “coming or arrival, especially of something extremely important.”
The focus of Advent is two-fold. On the one hand, we prepare to celebrate the coming (birth) of Jesus, the Son of God who came into the world as a human child to give us forgiveness for our sins. On the other hand, we can look forward to the end of the world with hope because through faith in Jesus, it will mean His coming again and the beginning of a new life with Jesus for eternity.
Advent then is a time for us to repent and believe. Knowing that Jesus was born to forgive our sins, we repent (admit our failures to God) and believe that we are forgiven because of Jesus. Also, knowing that Jesus is coming back to Earth to take us to a new heaven and earth, we repent and believe that when Jesus returns, He will give us eternal life.
So, we celebrate His coming, and His coming again!
The focus of Advent is two-fold. On the one hand, we prepare to celebrate the coming (birth) of Jesus, the Son of God who came into the world as a human child to give us forgiveness for our sins. On the other hand, we can look forward to the end of the world with hope because through faith in Jesus, it will mean His coming again and the beginning of a new life with Jesus for eternity.
Advent then is a time for us to repent and believe. Knowing that Jesus was born to forgive our sins, we repent (admit our failures to God) and believe that we are forgiven because of Jesus. Also, knowing that Jesus is coming back to Earth to take us to a new heaven and earth, we repent and believe that when Jesus returns, He will give us eternal life.
So, we celebrate His coming, and His coming again!
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
