Discipleship Persistence

December 31, 2008

As I sit here listening to stray fireworks impatient for midnight and the quickening tick of the clock approaching a new year, I’ve come to the following conclusion in my spiritual evaluation.

In my assessment process - prompted by my cupboard cleaning exercise – I came to this aspiration for 2009 in remembering the words read afresh over advent.

• I am the Lord’s bond-servant [Lk 1:38]

• He must become greater
  I must become less [Jn 3:30]
  
  for

• Nothing is impossible with God [Lk 1:37]
  

There are two weak areas that need to change in my life, servanthood and surrender. The refining of these must be combined with faith in our infallible God.

Philippians 2 tells us that Jesus emptied himself out and became a servant. I so want to empty myself of self and be filled with Him that I might grow in His grace of serving others with His love. He came to serve as my example and is to be my role model [Jn 13:15; Mt 20:28].

He must grow in me and I lessen in two ways; in surrender of self and yielding to His authority. As Rick Warren wrote; “Surrender is not the best way to live; it is the only way to live."

It is good to recall in the persistence of forming discipleship the words best said by Max Lucado and Rick Warren (and possibly others); “It’s not about me.” Thinking more of Him and His kingdom and less of myself and the world is key [Mt 6:33].

In this earth-bound journey and pursuit of attaining God’s will to reflect His glory, may we press on through the constraints of time. From this day, into the next, as each year comes upon us. Ever striving in the stead of our Master Teacher.

Happy New Year!

Dear God; I praise Your goodness and thank You that Your mercies are new every morning not just with the coming of a new year. Holy Spirit, I am totally dependent upon You to work Christ’s character in me. With each sunrise may I be reminded to surrender my will and yield to Your authority. May Your power work Your sanctifying will in my life, reflecting Your glory in ever-increasing measure. “Make me a servant, Lord, make me like You.” Amen.

And the Lord—who is the Spirit—

makes us more and more like him

as we are changed into his glorious image.

[2 cor 3:18 NLT]

Living the Pardoned Life ~ Today

December 30, 2008

Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death. For what the Law could not do, weak as it was through the flesh, God did: sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and as an offering for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh,
[Rm 8:1-3 NASB]

I need not wait until the first of a new year to get out from under a cloud of condemnation. I can lay my burdens down and live in freedom and victory today. Only the condemned walk downtrodden and defeated. I can choose to live out the salvation of Christ now.

Whoever believes in him is not condemned,
but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son.
[Jn 3:18]

The Incarnation birthed the fulfillment of God's promise for redemption. Christ's death paid the debt of my sin, assuaged the wrath of God, and released the power of sin's control.

What began in Eden came to be in Bethlehem's manger. And what began in the manger came to completion on Calvary's cross. Now, from Ascension to Advent, we are free to live out Christ's objective as outlined in Scripture [see Titus 2:14 for one reference].

We stand on the battlefield - shod with God's armor and might of the Spirit - we must rid ourselves of those things that impede our fight. An attitude of condemnation heavy on our mind is half the battle sometimes.

Let these words rest in you:

The Father loves the Son and has placed everything in his hands.
Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life,
but whoever rejects the Son will not see life,
for God's wrath remains on him."
[Jn 3:35-36]

With Christ's indwelling Spirit - the One who overcame the world and lived a perfect life - has reign, not sin's power. It is dethroned by the One sent from heaven, who is above all things.

When I do fall, in devotion to God I approach Him for mercy with a head held in shame, acknowledging my sin. In contrition, confession, and repentance I bow before the God I have offended. Then in faith I can leave the guilt of past sins at the Cross of Christ and walk on - free from accusation. Jesus paid the price with His blood that I might receive forgiveness. Penance made, price paid, sinner forgiven. Satan's labels have no hold on me.

Where do you stand? In the saving, merciful hands of the Son whom God loves? If so, we need not live in fear, apprehension, and anxiety but solely rest in His arms spread wide - crucified. That old, condemned man in me crucified also. Born to live free.

Dear Savior; I choose to live today the salvation You bought for me with Your precious, perfect life. Accepting God's extravagant gift of grace to live the forgiven, redeemed life - pardoned and delivered from the power of sin and the penalty of death - a victorious life in the Son Whom You Love. Amen.

Hidden in the Crevices

December 28, 2008

Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.

[Heb 4:13]

While doing the annual holiday baking I ventured into the less travelled territory of a far-reaching cupboard. Searching out bake ware and utensils stored out of the way, in a place hard to access, due to lack of use.

Balancing myself on a chair; straining up on my tip-toes; stretching far back into a dark, hidden crevice, I felt around the dust and cobwebs in search of the needed items. I came across things I forgot I even had and some things thought to be misplaced long ago. Why, I even found items that hardly belonged there. I have no idea how or when they came to this resting place.

Before I put the items back, I took the time to clean and reorganize the space. I tossed out the unused items that only took up valuable space; cleaned out the dirt and grime; replaced the misplaced.

Something worth considering on a spiritual level as I head into a new year. It is a good habit to regularly take stock of our spiritual lives. This is the perfect opportunity to seek the Lord’s guidance in taking an honest inventory of my shortcomings. Closely examine disciplines lacking or underused in my life and those things that obstruct my growth, maturity, and effectiveness.

Test me, O LORD, and try me,
examine my heart and my mind;
[Ps 26:2]

There are things God definitely wants me to let go of. Things that only hinder my walk with Him and interfere with my relationships. Things like unattainable expectations and worldly goals. Useless, they merely take up space and only cause me grief.

There are things I need cleansing of; sins to be confessed and repented of; allowing His forgiveness to wash them away. Or things that need dusted off and put back into practice.

There are things I thought I got rid of long ago that were only buried - to resurface unexpectedly another day. Things like failed dreams, past hurts, and personal offenses.

There are some things, however, that need to be stored for future use. Valuable lessons learned that came in the form of discipline or consequences; deliverance from past battles; answered prayers. These strengthen faith, are used to encourage and minister to others, and build trust in our faithful Father.

As the year draws to a close some things have gotten misaligned; this exercise will bring godly priorities into perspective and help put things in their proper place. Maybe next time I won’t wait so long to reorganize.


Shine Your light, O Holy Spirit, that I might examine each nook and cranny of my heart and mind. Search me and show me things hidden in the dark crevices that need attention in my life. Give me strength and courage to deal with each iniquity in the proper manner that I might be cleansed and made whole. Thank You for Your ever-watchful eyes. In Christ, Amen.

Closing Advent Prayer

December 27, 2008

But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.

[Lk 2:19]

May I, like Mary, treasure these things of God deep within my heart.

May I leave the Gift unwrapped and open, abiding in You and bearing Your gifts of righteousness, peace, joy, and love keeping them on display.

As I pack away the candles and store away the advent wreath, ignite a passion for Christ that burns long past Christmas. May I leave Your Light glowing for all to see.

May I seek You with the same diligence as the Magi and be willing to give sacrificially of myself as an act of worship.

May I glorify You with words of praise, acts of faith and obedience, and celebrate Your birth in me daily.

May I continue to remain in Your Word and grow in favor with God and man.

In Christ Jesus holy name I pray, Amen

Advent to Advent

December 26, 2008

Artist: Greg Olsen

After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, "Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him."

.

On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh. [Mt 2:1-2, 11]

The story doesn't end in the manger. The birth story continues. Read on through Luke 2:25-40. Worship was to be the undeniable response of those that encountered the Christ child.

The events that follow the birth of Jesus are no less miraculous. The worship response of the angels, shepherds, and magi, was uncontainable ~ and rightfully so.

Mary and Joseph presented the Lord to God in His temple at the appropriate time. He was brought to His Father's House as required by the Law for Mary's purification and Jesus's consecration and redemption [see also Ex 13:2,12-13; Lv 12:8]. The Sacrifice for Purification brought to offer a sacrifice for purification. Brought to be redeemed under the law in order to redeem man from the requrements of the law (but that's another lesson).

While there the Holy Spirit revealed God's truth in the coming of the Messiah to both Simeon and Anna, faithful elders that held on to their hope were blessed with a word from God.

All of the people depicted in the Gospel accounts exhibited qualities God desires of us:

• The Angels glorified God and joyfully shared news of the Christ


• The shepherds responded immediately in faith and action. They obeyed the direction given, worshipped Jesus, then went about praising God


• The Magi diligently searched for the Christ and sacrificially gave of themselves as an act of worship


• The consecrated of God remained faithful and hopeful and spoke of the Lord's salvation at the leading of the Holy Spirit

They searched
They followed
They found
They worshipped


We search
We find
We follow
We worship

The thousands of years that separate us does not change the experience. God promises that when we seek Him with all our heart we'll find Him [Jer 29:13]. And when we encounter the Christ He touches our heart in the most incredible way. The choice is then ours to worship and follow. God has come near, now shall we?

Daily Christmas advent worship has primed my heart to desire more of Him. May it lead to daily advent worship for the Coming our hearts long for.

Glorious God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ we bow our hearts in worship and praise the King of Glory. May He reign in our hearts as we await His Coming. In Christ, Amen.

Let this be written for a future generation,
that a people not yet created may praise the LORD :

"The LORD looked down from his sanctuary on high,
from heaven he viewed the earth,

to hear the groans of the prisoners
and release those condemned to death."

So the name of the LORD will be declared in Zion
and his praise in Jerusalem

when the peoples and the kingdoms
assemble to worship the LORD.
[Ps 102:18-22]

Selected Verses for Christmas Worship

December 25, 2008

"Give thanks to the LORD, call on his name;

make known among the nations what he has done,

and proclaim that his name is exalted.

Sing to the LORD, for he has done glorious things;

let this be known to all the world.

Shout aloud and sing for joy, people of Zion,

for great is the Holy One of Israel among you."

[Is 12:3-6]

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

I'll make a list of God's gracious dealings,

all the things God has done that need praising,

All the generous bounties of God,

his great goodness to the family of Israel—

Compassion lavished,
love extravagant.

He said, "Without question these are my people,

children who would never betray me."

So he became their Savior.

In all their troubles,

he was troubled, too.

He didn't send someone else to help them.

He did it himself, in person.

[Is 63:7-8 Msg]

Thanks be......

I, Too, Must Sing

I, Too, Must Sing

~Martin Luther~

Ah, dearest Jesus, holy Child,

Make Thee a bed, soft, undefiled,

Within my heart that it may be

A quiet chamber kept for Thee.

My heart for very joy doth leap,

My lips no more can silence keep,

I, too, must sing with joyful tongue

That sweetest ancient cradle song:

"Glory to God in the highest heaven,

Who unto man His Son hath given."

While angels sing with pious mirth

A glad new year to all the earth.

Photo purchased from istockphoto.com

Behold!

Behold!

God's perfect gift wrapped in flesh

His love expressed in a baby's coo

God's voice

The Word speaks

Behold!

Joy in His present

Joy in His presence

Behold!

God With Us

We draw near the manger-cradle and offer our presence to God's holy child. The best gift we have to give is our heart's desire to practice real religion that pleases You. Prepare our hearts for Your coming --- prepare our hearts for ADVENT.

“Behold! The Lamb of God

who takes away the sin of the world!

[Jn 1:29NKJ]

Salvation Song

December 24, 2008

"Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!"

[2 Cor 9:15]

The song of the adopted, redeemed of God: thanks be! Sometimes that's all I can utter. To God, at times, that's quite enough.

Let's chime it in with the Christmas Caroles: Thanks be. A simple salvation song; understated but eloquent. Impious but reverent.

As Moses sang celebrating God's deliverance, we must, too, sing.

"The LORD is my strength and my song;

he has become my salvation.

He is my God, and I will praise him,"

[Ex 15:2a]

God is most pleased with grateful worship. Create your own rendition. A signature carole to sing by filling in the blanks with your own personal experience; "Thanks be.........!"

Here's some inspiration to get you started - or not (it doesn't have to rhyme ~ lol).

Thanks be for God's Word through the prophets foretold

Thanks be to His faithfulness to His promises of old

Thanks be for the angels carrying messages from heaven

Thanks be to the blessed ministry of His Spirit given

Thanks be for His tender-care of a young servant mother

Thanks be for the righteous acts of a bewildered father

Thanks be for a stable for a newborn king to sleep

Thanks be for glory revealed to shepherds tending sheep

Thanks be for a star that brought worshippers to Jesus

Thanks be for His grace - the real gift of Christmas

Thanks be that He came as a servant and not a stern, tyrant king

Thanks be given our Lord and Savior that gladdens our hearts to sing

Before you light tonight's candle of advent, before you read the birth litany, before you tuck that last gift under the tree or stuff another stocking, stop and give thanks to our merciful and gracious God for the most lavish, incomprehensible, magnificent of all gifts ~ Himself.

Father; accept our simple thanks as our salvation song. Thanks for coming, for serving, for suffering, for dying, for bringing us new life. Thank you for the great joy in celebrating You. May You receive all honor in our praise.

Art: "Adoration of the Magi" by Giotto

Gifts For Our King

December 23, 2008

I came across a poem many years ago that we incorporated into our family advent tradition. On Christmas Eve we read the poem aloud together. Then we discuss the gifts we would give to Jesus. We write them down anonymously, tuck them into a small box, and place them under the tree with a prayer. It made for a great devotional time for us and taught the valuable lesson that even a child has something to offer Jesus.

We'll Bring Our Hearts

~Author Unknown~

The wise may bring their learning;
The rich may bring their wealth.
And some may bring their greatness;
And some bring strength and health.
We, too, would bring our treasures
To offer to the King;
We have no wealth or learning;
What shall we children bring?

We’ll bring Him hearts that love Him;
We’ll bring Him thankful praise
And young souls meekly striving
To walk in holy ways:
And these shall be the treasures
We offer to the King;
And these are gifts that even
The poorest child may bring.

We bring our hearts to You, Lord Jesus, filled with thankful praise. It is nothing without You. It is not worthy of You, but it is all I have. It is all You desire. Fill it with Your love to share with a hurting world. Amen.

Concert Under the Stars

December 22, 2008

The heavens praise your wonders, O LORD,
your faithfulness too,
in the assembly of the holy ones.
[Ps 89:5]

And there was a miraculous night when the heavens burst forth in glorious song in full view of some humble shepherds.

Where I grew up, there was an outdoor venue for music performances that held a summer series entitled "Concert Under the Stars." Whenever I get to this part of the birth story that name echoes in my head. It's rather appropriate.

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host

appeared with the angel,

praising God and saying,

"Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to men
on whom his favor rests."
[Lk 2:13-14]

The unparalleled pronouncement of the ages accompanied by the ancient eternal song "Glory to God!" The veil rolled back for a peek into the heavens in worship singing the heaven-song, "Glory!"

"Glory!" ~ an unfathomable sound resounding throughout those pasture hills. "Glory!" resonating throughout the heavens ~ around the earth. Resonating through the hearts and souls of mankind for ages. Resonating still. "Glory!"

Luke 2:9 says that "the glory of the Lord shone around them." God revealed His glory in the heavens and on earth at the birth of His Son. God spoke of His redemption and forgiveness of sins to Israel and Isaiah the prophet responded with a call to worship.

Sing, O heavens, for the Lord has done this wondrous thing.

Shout for joy, O depths of the earth!

Break into song, O mountains and forests and every tree!

For the Lord has redeemed Jacob

and is glorified in Israel.

[Is 44:23 NLT]

What better time for worship than the season of Christmas? Shout for joy, inhabitants of this earth; our Savior has come and God has done the most wondrous thing!

Almighty and Glorious God; May You be exalted in all the earth and receive all praise. We join in the chorus of hallelujahs this day to honor Your Son and our Redeemer. We lift up our hearts and our voices and praise our God of Wonder for Your grace bestowed upon us. Through Christ our King, Amen.

Photo compliments of Public Domain Clipart

Gifts ~ God's Instruments of Love

December 21, 2008

I wanted to wrap my heart in wonder and worship to give as a gift to God this Christmas. I chose to combine His gifts of His Word, the birth of His Son, the fruit of the indwelling Holy Spirit, and my love of writing to share daily as an Advent offering.

Well, as God always does, He has faithfully provided that I might be able to give and then has given back the gift as a blessing to me. Proving completely the statement penned by Francis of Assisi; "It is in the giving that we receive."

I can hardly believe that we have already arrived at Christmas week! Today has brought to mind thoughts of gifts.

I think of the Magi's hearts to set out with gifts for a King. About how God guided them on their journey that they might give. About how their gift was God's provision for Joseph's family to flee to Egypt for safety. Their gift filled a need they were unaware of.

That brings personal thoughts to mind. In the span of my life, I have received extravagant gifts, simple gifts, gifts from loved ones, and those I hardly knew, obligatory gifts of guilt, gifts uncomfortable to receive, gifts of need too desperate to deny, and heartfelt gifts of love.

Family, friends, anonymous church members have all given beyond my imagining for my family. The past several years have been difficult ones for us as our family has faced one challenge after another. None uncommon and unfortunately all too familiar in our broken world. But God has been so good to us through the tender-hearted servants of His. I praise God for His goodness and mercy toward us and give thanks.

The ones I find most treasured are the ones that come from the very hand and heart of Christ. The gifts of answered prayer and God's generous provision. Gifts given in various forms from the hands of those with caring, Christian hearts. Whether in deeds of service, encouragement, prayers, and support or in material ways of food, clothing, or money. All have been perfectly timed to fill a need and answer a prayer. All from people I dearly love but ultimately as good and perfect gifts from our great Abba God.

It is a humbling experience that requires grace to receive. I have realized that to reject the gift is to deny God the blessing He has intended for the giver as well.

It's overwhelming to receive such undeserved kindness. But these gifts - as great as they are - are far inferior to the gift God gave from eternity; long before time ever began. The indescribable gift of His Son and my salvation given long before my first Christmas.

What also comes to mind is the great joy I get from giving to my children. That joy is a poor reflection of how God must feel.

God has placed giving in the heart of every Christian as both a necessity and a blessing. His gifts, the gifts of others, and our gifts given are instruments to mold our hearts into a heart more like His.

Thank You, God for Your daily gifts of provision; for Your added gifts of extravagance; and for Your ultimate gift of Jesus. Make me more like You. Thank You for the loving generosity of Your precious children that choose to give sacrificially of themselves for Your Name. I ask Your blessing upon them, Lord. May we realize we never have too little to give, to be used by You to fill a need in others. In the name of Jesus, Your Eternal Gift of Christmas.

All-Inclusive

December 20, 2008

But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid.

I bring you good news of great joy

that will be for all the people.

[Lk 2:10]

Appearing before shepherds in the dead of a dark night, an angel brings a joyful greeting. The angel is careful to explain that his heavenly message of good news is meant for all people.

With delivery of the Savior came delivery of a reminder that God's plan all along was to include people from all nations. The covenant with Abraham was God's promise to bless all people through him.

"and through your offspring

all nations on earth

will be blessed, because you have obeyed me."

[Gn 22:18]

John the Baptist introduced Jesus in the following manner:

The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said,

"Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away
the sin of the world!

[Jn 1:29]

Simeon, a elderly, devout man testified of the baby Jesus:

"I have seen your salvation,

which you have prepared for
all people.

He is a light to reveal God

to the nations,

and he is the glory of your people Israel!”

[Lk 2:32NLT]

The Lord's Christ came for us all. Not just the wise and learned men of royalty with extravagant gifts; not just common shepherds with nothing to offer but praise; not just His ordinary parents living in poverty; the law-abiding religious leaders living in God's holy city; nor the devout priests serving in God's temple.

The news the angel came to deliver was for all people. Those living in Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Israel, and beyond. Those living in that time in history and throughout the end of times.

"Today in the town of David a Savior has been born

to you;

he is Christ the Lord."

[Lk 2:11]

Yes, God's gift is for the world. What's really wild is this: not only did He come to save the masses but individuals. And not just to save us but to know us. Every last detail about each and every one of us. Not just you, but me as well. And (more importantly), not just me but my neighbor. The stranger on the street. The impatient person in line. The annoying family member.

It's sometimes difficult to accept His grace extended to me, and often overlooked is that His grace is offered to those around me.

This time of year, when we read the awesome birth story of our Lord and Savior, may you be comforted, encouraged, and challenged in this reminder.

God of All Creation; Thank You for including me in Your plan of salvation and for sending Jesus to be Savior of the world. Thank You for wanting to know me in a personal way. Give me eyes to see the perfect love You have for others and share the news the angel bore that blessed eve. In Jesus, Amen.

The LORD has made his salvation known

and revealed his righteousness to the nations.

He has remembered his love

and his faithfulness to the house of Israel;

all the ends of the earth have seen

the salvation of our God.

[Ps 98:2-3]

Room For Jesus

December 19, 2008

"and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son.
She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger,
because there was no room for them in the inn."

[Lk 2:7]

In Jesus' life there was often no room for Him. No room at the beginning of His life in the inn. No room at the end of His life in religion. Jerusalem could not make room enough to hold both the law and grace, the Pharisees and the Christ.

I don't need to look back in history a half a world away to see where room was not made for Jesus. Judge me guilty of that and far worse offenses.

In my twenties, before I became a baptized believer, Christmas was a dreaded, dark time of the year.

I found myself feeling lonely and depressed. I even refused to decorate and was often cynical of what I viewed as commercial religion. I didn't have room for Jesus at Christmas.

Now it is my absolute favorite time of year, although not for the reasons most give. I have an indescribable joy and appreciation for my redemption from the pit of life and for the work God is doing in me.

I'm ashamed of myself and of those years lost.......those lost years. My heart was vacant yet I had no room for Jesus. Now I choose to make room for Him though my heart is full. Ironic.

Are we allowing Him access? Opening the door to our hearts and homes and letting Him in?

I'm afraid He's still denied, rejected. Some things may need to go to make space; some things may not be compatible and require repentance; some may simply need awakening. Whatever the conflict, it's worth surrender.

When our hearts are softened at the reminder of God's great gift of love at Christmas, it's easy to give Him some of our attention. It's a great place to start. Shall we not make room daily?

Room in our homes

Room in our schedules

Room in our lives

Room in my heart

Gracious Roommate Jesus; Thank You for bringing me out of that dark, dreary, and dreadful state into Your glorious light. I surrender all that does not allow room for You in my life. Fill to overflowing all of me and be Lord of my life, You deserve nothing less. Amen.

"Here I am!
I stand at the door and knock.
If anyone hears my voice and opens the door,
I will come in and eat with him,
and he with me." [Rev 3:20]

Draw Nigh, Lord

December 18, 2008

"The LORD hears the needy

and does not despise his captive people."

[Ps 69:33]

O Come, O Come, Emmanuel, the oldest Christmas carol, is a blend of prophetic verses to a rather haunting tune comprised of seven stanzas that each spotlight a name of Jesus.

It is a prayer of despair that pleads for God's presence and expresses a great longing; invoking God to draw near to our human experience.

It pleases God to answer this cry of our hearts desire. It is a petition conformed to His will. Petitionary pleas are as much for our sake; that we may rest assured in His perfect peace and prepare our hearts to receive the gift of His answer. It is a mutual desire, for He longs to be with us as well.

"O come, O come, Emmanuel

And ransom captive Israel

That mourns in lonely exile here

Until the Son of God appear"

Take your mind back in time to Israel held in Babylonian captivity and tune your compassionate ear to hear their cries for deliverance. Mourning their separation from God, their temple, their homeland, and desperate for God to draw near.

Hear the same cries today in our streets and in our homes. People in bondage to sin ~ a spiritual enslavement.

Crying Out.

Come and deliver us

......Come and save us

...........Come and cheer us

................Come and teach us

......................Come, be with us

............................Draw nigh, Lord

God responded then - He responds now. He is the One Who Came and Is To Come.

"And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world." [1 Jn 4:14]

He came to set the captives free. [Is 61:1/Lk4:18-19] Freedom from the enslavement to sin.

"For we know that our old self was crucified with him

so that the body of sin might be done away with,

that we should no longer be slaves to sin—"

[Rm 6:6]

Dropped behind enemy lines, the Son of God did appear to bring hope, love, joy, and peace. Our "Dayspring" entered a broken world of oppression as dawn dispels the dark night. He came to ransom the captives and bring a promise for victory. He is with us - with you - with me.

"'And surely I am with you always,

to the very end of the age.'"

[Mt 28:20]

The song turns from mourning to one of rejoicing when the chorus chimes a response of faith and hope in God's arrival. Accepting the truth of His coming and sure return does the same for our very souls. Emmanuel, He is our joy of Christmas. Rejoice!

"I will say it again: Rejoice!"

[Ph4:4b]

Emmanuel, draw nigh upon Your ransomed captives. We give thanks and rejoice that You desire to set free those in bondage crying out for release. We await the sure victory You have promised upon Your return -- do not forsake the work of Your hands, Lord.

Augustine Irony

December 17, 2008

He so loved us that, for our sake,

He was made man in time,

although through Him all times were made.

He was made man, who made man.

He was created of a mother whom He created.

He was carried by hands that He formed.

He cried in the manger in wordless infancy,

He the Word,

without whom all human eloquence is mute.

~Sermon 188.2

.

The Word Who is God before all time

became flesh at the appointed time.

The maker of the sun was made under the sun.

He Who fills the world lays in a manger,

great in the form of God but tiny in the form of a servant;

this was in such a way that neither was

His greatness diminished by His tininess,

nor was His tininess overcome by His greatness.

~Sermon 187. 1.1

.

He lies in a manger, but contains the world.

He feeds at the breast, but also feeds the angels.

He is wrapped in swaddling clothes, but vests us with immortality.

He found no place in the inn, but makes for Himself

a temple in the hearts of believers.

In order that weakness might become strong,

strength became weak.

~Sermon 190.3, 4

.

~Augustine

Incarnation of the Son of God

A First Rate Dad

December 16, 2008

When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him
[Mt 1:24]

When Jesus said; “there are those who are last who will be first, and first who will be last” is it possible he heard those words spoken by his earthly father as well as his heavenly father? There are several occasions recorded in the gospels where Joseph certainly modeled that in his life.

Joseph chose to put himself last to heed the instructions given in a dream by an angel. Even though he had every right to “divorce” Mary, in humility and mercy, he chose not to publicly disgrace Mary but honored their engagement [Mt 1:19].

He relinquished his head-of-household role and assigned it to the Sovereign when, often, he followed the leading of angels.

He obeyed God’s instructions through a dream-angel to flee to Egypt [Mt 2:13-15] from Bethlehem. Common sense just tells me this wasn’t exactly what he had planned.

Again he followed when he was told it was safe to return to Israel, not necessarily knowing exactly where he was going [Mt 2:19-20]. In the course of this return trip he was twice given direction. Headed to Judea he was told to bypass and go on to Galilee [Mt 2:21-23]. Forsaking his way and his plans to blindly follow by faith.

When you’re treading unknown territory aren’t you more likely to pay attention to every detail? I mean, how often are you visited by angels being told you will marry a woman who will give birth to God’s Son conceived by the Holy Spirit? Wouldn’t you be more likely to surrender trust in your own competency for the One who has the master plan?

Did he often feel inadequate in light of his assigned position? Wondering; “Why me, a lowly carpenter?” There is a song by Michael Card, Joseph’s Song, that alludes to possible thoughts he may have had. Imagine that he may have had similar prayers as this:

Father show me where I fit into this plan of yours
How can a man be father to the Son of God
Lord for all my life I’ve been a simple carpenter
How can I raise a king, How can I raise a king

After the Birth Story, Joseph basically fades into obscurity. He had a significant role in the life of Jesus and in God’s plan and yet he is mentioned little. But the little we do read brings us to some conclusions of his faithful character. A character that I think would have had some influence on his adopted son.

Sovereign Lord; I need to learn from Joseph to put Your plans first. Create in me a will to do Your will and trust You completely for guidance and direction. In Christ name I offer this prayer, Amen.

"When the time came.......

December 15, 2008

"While they were there,
the time came for the baby to be born,"

[Lk 2:6]

God has been unfolding time since it's creation. God's eternal time and man's time does not necessarily coincide. Where in the heavens is the time-line? The boundary where earthly time ends?

The time at which God does things in history in accordance to His predestined plan is timed perfectly. Oftentimes scripture refers to the "proper time." And while man waited centuries for the coming of their promised Savior, "when the time came" God delivered.

For the revelation awaits an appointed time;
it speaks of the end and will not prove false.
Though it linger, wait for it;
it will certainly come and will not delay.
[Hab 2:3]

Down through time, God has always showed up on time. Noah waited for the rain to subside; Abraham waited for a son; Moses was brought back to Egypt at the proper time for God's deliverance of His people; Israel waited to be released from captivity; Joshua and Caleb waited to enter the Promised Land; Hannah waited for a son; David waited to take the throne; Elijah waited for the drought to end; Job waited for God's answer; Simeon waited to see salvation's arrival; mankind waited for prophecies fulfillment, Jesus waited to return to glory, and on it goes.

And we wait. While we wait for the return of our King, what are you waiting for? Are we waiting for the things of this world or for Christ to be formed in us, for the righteousness only He brings?

But by faith we eagerly await through the Spirit
the righteousness for which we hope.
[Gal 5:5]

But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever,
the purposes of his heart through all generations.
[Ps 33:11]

From my interpretation of Scripture, now is the time of God's favor. Now is the time to accept His salvation. In the waiting, now is the time to act. Look at 2 Corinthians 6:2:

For he says, "In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you."

I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation.

In this present age, is it we that are waiting upon God or is He possibly waiting on us?

Praise be to the LORD, who has given rest to his people just as he promised. Not one word has failed of all the good promises he has given. You are not bound by our imperfect and incomplete time table, God. May we use time as a measure to build faith and bring others to Christ. Enable us to wait patiently upon You, knowing You will come at just the proper time. Amen.

Waiting Mary

December 14, 2008

"This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she as found to be with child through the Holy Spirit." [Mt 1:18]

While the Christ was being formed in the entombment of Mary's womb - growing to fullness to give birth to new life - she had time to mull over a myriad of thoughts. In that moment, from surface-view, it could easily appear she experienced many disappointments as God's Son was being formed within her. Expecting one thing of God and yet realizing quite another.

She faced a possible broken engagement; endured a grueling trip to Bethlehem; was denied a room for rest; gave birth to Israel's King in a manger; fled to Eqypt to save his life.

She traveled a road of hardship to give birth in a land not her own. Longing for home and rejected a place to lay her firstborn son. Jesus, too, entered a world not His own - rejected and far from home.

Not exactly the circumstances you would expect at the hand of the God of all the universe, is it? Not quite the welcome reception and ease of lifestyle one would imagine.

Don't I expect God to do things one way and find He does them quite another? I find myself questioning His methods of accomplishing things in my life. The trials that form Christ in me. The struggles we face in a world not our own.

I can't imagine her thoughts and prayers as she waited for the birth of her own Savior. The things she "treasured" and "pondered in her heart." God was forming in her the spiritual as well as the physical. The Lord becoming both her son and her Lord.

Dear Lord; form Christ in me and help me to accept, by faith, Your perfect will for my life. My hope is in You and the things of heaven. May I learn not to expect too much from this life and to trust in You; knowing fully that Your ways are not my ways. In the name of Your Son, Jesus. Amen.

Zechariah's Prophecy

December 13, 2008

His father Zechariah was filled

with the Holy Spirit and prophesied:

"Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel,

because he has come and

has redeemed his people.

He has raised up a horn of salvation for us

in the house of his servant David

(as he said through his holy prophets of long ago),

salvation from our enemies

and from the hand of all who hate us—

to show mercy to our fathers

and to remember his holy covenant,

the oath he swore to our father Abraham:

to rescue us from the hand of our enemies,

and to enable us to serve him without fear

in holiness and righteousness

before him all our days.

And you, my child,

will be called a prophet of the Most High;

for you will go on before the Lord

to prepare the way for him,

to give his people the knowledge of salvation

through the forgiveness of their sins,

because of the tender mercy of our God,

by which the rising sun

will come to us from heaven

to shine on those living in darkness

and in the shadow of death,

to guide our feet into the path of peace."

[Lk 1:67-79]

Zechariah was a righteous Levite that had experienced a firm angel and God's discipline. After God unloosed his tongue, month's of stored-up praise came spilling forth.

As a man who aspired to serve the Lord, this brings a real appreciation to his words in verses 74b-75. Living in a homeland held captive by a pagan king, how deeply he must have desired to serve God without fear.

In his exile from speech he had time to listen. Listen to the word of God. I'm sure, being raised to serve in the temple, he stored up God's word within his heart and meditated often on the verses of promise. In his silence, how often did he replay the words of the angel? Words he would recognize as being vaguely familiar from his teachings? How often did he remember the Psalms of Ascent he would sing as he climbed the holy mount to serve at the Lord's temple. Storing up God's word in his heart enabled him to recognize God's hand and acknowledge Him in praise. Would he recall the words of praise now recorded in Psalm 89:2:

I will declare that your love stands firm forever,

that you established your faithfulness in heaven itself.

He was praising God for the long-awaited deliverance of God's people. He was relating to the Abrahamic Covenant, not realizing fully the new-coming Covenant of Grace. A covenant that would provide release not only from political captivity and oppression but freedom from keeping the law and a peace with God that the entire world would realize.

By the filling of the Holy Spirit he recognized that his son was the answer to the promised prophet and the forerunner to the Christ. Following praise, he then prophesied the role of his son and the coming of their Savior.

Sitting in his silence, did he ponder Mary's child? Did they make the feasible connection? I can hardly imagine some of their prayers! Did they dare dream of the possible fulfillment of generations of hope?

God had given to Zechariah a precious gift. A gift to propecy that the time had indeed come. His service of worship in the temple had received ultimate blessing from God - use in His kingdom plan.

Merciful God; praise be that You have redeemed your people and have established a Covenant of Grace; that Your Son has come from heaven to shine a light on us in grace and truth. Thank You, Jesus, that You are the Way; our Righteousness, our Path of Peace to God and our Salvation. Amen.

"John testifies concerning him [Jesus]......'From the fullness of his grace we have all received one blessing after another. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.'"

[Jn 1:15a-17 adapted]

Psalm of Mary

December 12, 2008

And Mary said:

"My soul glorifies the Lord

and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,

for he has been mindful

of the humble state of his servant.

From now on all generations will call me blessed,

for the Mighty One has done great things for me—

holy is his name.

His mercy extends to those who fear him,

from generation to generation.

He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;

he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.

He has brought down rulers from their thrones

but has lifted up the humble.

He has filled the hungry with good things

but has sent the rich away empty.

He has helped his servant Israel,

remembering to be merciful

to Abraham and his descendants forever,

even as he said to our fathers."

[Lk 1:46-55]

Mary’s praise-song is one of the most beautiful hymns in Scripture. Her humble response of obedience is one of the reasons she found favor in God’s eyes. I must confess, I’m not as quick to agree to do the will of God.

The psalm in her heart rises from faith not only for what God is going to do in her life but what He is going to do in the lives of generations to come.

I believe we all have a praise-song tucked in our hearts. It takes practice to warm up this voice of worship. Sometimes the utterance of praise gets stuck in our throat from either fear of being labeled a freak or sometimes from the pain of a wounded heart or even from pride in our resistance to acknowledge the hand of God. But it’s there. Down deep, it’s there. Straining to burst forth; rise above the other messages packed in around it.

As Elizabeth exclaimed to Mary so, too, can be said of us:

Blessed is she who has believed

that what the Lord has said to her

will be accomplished!"

[Lk 1:45]

Believe the message of Christmas for God blesses those who believe. Faith has it’s own reward. It stirs the soul to believe the impossible and gives rise to the voice of praise. Yes, quite possibly faith compels praise.

While complicated and beyond all human comprehension, He is a wonderfully awesome God that changes not. He is most worthy of our praise regardless of our ever-changing circumstances.

Let’s join the chorus this Christmas and follow Mary’s direction and allow our souls to magnify the Lord Almighty.

Dear Lord; By Your Holy Spirit stir our souls to magnify You and sing a song of praise for our merciful God and Father. Amen.

Mysterious Heavenly Messengers

December 11, 2008

"The angel answered, "I am Gabriel.

I stand in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to tell you this good news."

[Lk :19]

Angels ~ God's loyal army of heavenly hosts entrusted with the very word of God.

Their role in the nativity event was quite significant.

Gabriel, standing in the presence of God, was given the message of the ages to deliver the mystery of a virgin conception to the chosen mother of God's Son. He carried with it the ultimate of all blessing - praise from God.

From the Scriptures we get the sense that these heavenly beings are rather peculiar and startling. What incredible favor is found from God to receive the guidance and protection of His spiritual aides.

Angels come on the scene in the gospel accounts several times:

• Announcement of John's birth to Zechariah - Lk 1:5-25


• Proclamation to Mary - Lk 1:26-28


• Counsel to Joseph - Mt 1:18-23


• Direction and guidance to Joseph - Mt 2:19-23


• Birth announcement to the Shepherds and rejoicing praise to God - Lk 2:10-15

We also read of their ministry to Jesus after 40 days in the desert and in the Garden of Gethsemane. It was the angels that announced His birth and angels that announced His resurrection; angels that announced His return to heaven and it will be angels that return with Him in glory.

They have a big role in God's grand plan, to be sure, and explains their prominence in our Christmas decorations and features in our Christmas caroles. It also gives cause for contemplation this advent season.

"With th' angelic host proclaim,
"Christ is born in Bethlehem!"
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
Charles Wesley

God of Heaven and Earth; Hallowed by Your Name. As we see the use of these mysterious heavenly messengers to announce the coming of Your Son, we ask that You enable us to be Your messengers of the Good News of Jesus Christ. May we rejoice as they rejoice; may we be as faithful as they are faithful; and may we glorify You as they glorify You. In Jesus name, Amen.

Interlude of the Advents

December 10, 2008

Here is a song for this Interlude between two Acts, the interim between Divine Comings.

In this season of longing let's remember the teachings of Jesus to be alert and prepared; to be prayerful and watchful; and above all, to serve in love. May this be our prayer for today:

“Come, Thou long-expected Jesus,
Born to set Thy people free.
From our fears and sins release us;
Let us find our rest in Thee.
Israel's Strength and Consolation,
Hope of all the earth Thou art -
Dear Desire of ev'ry nation,
Joy of ev'ry longing heart!

Born Thy people to deliver,
Born a Child and yet a King,
Born to reign in us forever,
Now Thy gracious kingdom bring.
By Thine own eternal Spirit,
Rule in all our hearts alone.
By Thine all-sufficient merit,
Raise us to Thy glorious throne.”

~Charles Wesley, 1744

Prophetic Psalms

December 9, 2008

I will also appoint him my firstborn,

the most exalted of the kings of the earth.

I will maintain my love to him forever,

and my covenant with him will never fail.
I will establish his line forever,

his throne as long as the heavens endure.

[Ps 89:27-29]

Most don't consider the prophecies of promise penned in the Psalms when thinking of the nativity story. In Psalm 72 Solomon spoke of the prosperity of David's reign at the same time being prophetic to Christ the King and His eternal kingdom.

Several Psalms were prophetic of the Christ (referred to as Messianic Psalms) and were often quoted in the the New Testament to authenticate the true identity of Jesus - not only as the Messiah but also as God incarnate.

These can be used not only for the knowledge and comfort they impart but as worship of our heavenly King.

Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom,

and your dominion endures through all generations.

The LORD is faithful to all his promises

and loving toward all he has made.

[Ps 145:13]

Click here to navigate to Psalm 72 and spend time in worship bowing before God's Son reading just such a Psalm and praise the King who reigns.

Praise be to his glorious name forever;

may the whole earth be filled with his glory.

Amen and Amen.

[Ps 72:19]

World Illumination

December 8, 2008

The true light that gives light to every man

was coming into the world. [Jn 1:9]

The source of all light was coming into a world of turmoil for both Jew and Gentile alike [see also Is 49:6]. A light that we might see our dire need for a Savior. A light that would expose our sin. A light to dispel and overtake the darkness.

because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace." [Lk 1:78-79]

The source of our peace with God would tread upon this earth – born of a merciful, heavenly Father. The Sun of Righteousness [Mal 4:2] was coming that night might give way to dawn.

The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned. [Is 9:2]

Death casts its shadow in the dark places of this world, but Jesus casts the light of hope in the promise of eternal life and conquers the fear of darkness.

Even in darkness light dawns for the upright, for the gracious and compassionate and righteous man. [Ps 112:4]

God would provide the means by which it would be possible to remain faithful in darkness. Even as the light in the Exodus cloud that shined in the night offered reassurance and to the Israelites of His guiding presence.

When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." [Jn 8:12]

He testified himself to the truth that He was the light spoken of. Illumination of His light in my life is dependent upon my willingness to abide in Him.

As I light the candle of advent, I give thanks to the True Light of all men that has come into this world. I am reminded, also, that we are Your children of light. Illuminate our lives in Your world for Your glory.

Photo source: Hubble Site Gallery

Intricacies of Prophecies

December 7, 2008

"But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah,

though you are small among the clans of Judah,

out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel,whose origins are from of old, from ancient times. "

He will stand and shepherd his flock

in the strength of the LORD,

in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God.

And they will live securely, for then his greatness

will reach to the ends of the earth.

.

And he will be their peace.

[Mi 5:2; 4-5]

Yesterday we reflected on the names given the promised Messiah. Continuing today in that same theme, we turn to Micah who added to the portrait God was painting for His people.

We see the Christ's attributes here as Ruler and Shepherd; to guide, protect, and lead in the greatness of God's name and in God's power; whose bounds would know no end. He came to be our peace and reconcile our severed relationship with our Creator.

I discovered some other intriguing nuggets to share in studying this prophecy. Every intricate detail in each prophecy is rich with meaning. In this passage God tells us the birthplace of the Ancient of Days. Hebrew lexicons reveal that Bethlehem means "house of bread" and Ephrathah means "fruitful land." This small village would bear the most significant fruit, the very Bread of Life. Isn't it just like God to use the "least of these" for His purposes?

Yet another demonstration of God's divine sovereignty was in the act of using Caesar's census as an intricate part of His eternal plan to bring about this fulfillment (completely unbeknownest to Caesar Augustus). Being from the line of David, it brough Joseph back to the village of his ancestors to register. Jesus, born in Bethlehem as a registered descendant of David, officially recorded his geneology as foretold and proved He was the legal heir to the throne as Ruler of Israel; thus fulfilling this particular snapshot of the prophectic picture.

.

Dear God; I am amazed when I think of the length to which You planned every detail to bring about redemption's plan. I marvel at the fulfillment of each intricate prophecy. You are continuing to bring about the rest of the story; help us to recognize the coming about of what You have promised and gain discernment from each reading of the Grand Plan provided in Your Word. In Christ Holy Name, Amen.

Photo courtesy of Lost Seed

What's In A Name?

December 6, 2008

"For to us a child is born,

to us a son is given,

and the government will be on his shoulders.

And he will be called

Wonderful Counselor,

Mighty God,

Everlasting Father,

Prince of Peace."

[Is 9:6]

From beginning to end, the Bible declares the name of God. At first mention to Moses as "I Am", through Bible history, He further defined for our understanding what that means.

I Am _________________ (fill in the blank with everything good and great and powerful). He is all that and more -- so very much more.

Jesus made seven definitive "I am" statements that filled in those blanks for us. That would lend aid to our understanding and comprehension of who He is.

God came to be with us that we may know Him as our Immanuel. The most remarkable of all His names! The other names that represent His character and attributes are befitting of God; however, Immanuel is the unexpected, unpredictable, unlikely. That He would choose to be near a sinful people that He knew would reject Him is astounding.

Of all that's been said and written, in the end He is The Almighty. That is the final name given in Revelation.

"I am the Alpha and the Omega,"

says the Lord God,

"who is, and who was, and who is to come,

the Almighty."

[Rev 1:8]

Oh, how this world needs to know that we have a God Who Is With Us and Almighty! Our Immanuel - our God With Us - is the same God David wrote of in Psalm 23 when he stated that he did not fear evil.

The prophet Isaiah emphatically declared the word of the Lord as encouragement that the only Savior of Israel would be with them. Words of encouragement for our walk of faith, as well.

"When you pass through the waters,

I will be with you;

and when you pass through the rivers,

they will not sweep over you.

When you walk through the fire,

you will not be burned;

the flames will not set you ablaze.
For I am the LORD, your God,

the Holy One of Israel, your Savior;"

[Is 43:2-3a]

"Praise be to his glorious name forever; may the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen and Amen."