Housekeeping

"No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come. It's like a man going away: He leaves his house and puts his servants in charge, each with his assigned task, and tells the one at the door to keep watch.

"Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back—whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn. If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping. What I say to you, I say to everyone: 'Watch!' " [Mk 13:32-37]

Now it's time to shift into clean-up mode. Time to pack away the decorations for another year and put the house back in order. We're in housekeeping mode. In this passage I selected for today's meditation I mulled over this simile Jesus used in referring to this interval between Comings. We are watchful housekeepers.

In what is referred to as the Olivet Discourse repeatedly Jesus told His disciples to remain alert in the end age. He explained that "only the Father knows" the time to come and, fully understanding the great need for vigilance, He warned strongly to "take heed."

"Take heed, keep on the alert;
for you do not know
when the appointed time will come."
[Mk 13:33 NASB]

We can draw upon His imagery in this painted scene to visualize us as dutiful servants with specific assigned tasks as we await the homeowners return. Keeping watch and ever ready.

"Don't let him find you sleeping."

Today I am reminded that though our waiting has passed, we wait still. Christmas Advent is over yet Final Advent lingers. Let's determine to be good housekeepers.


By the power of Your Holy Spirit may we remain faithfully vigilant in the present age. Amen.

"What I say to you, I say to all: 'Watch!'"

Anna's Life Lesson

There was also a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, and then was a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem. [Lk 2:36-38]

Anna, an elderly widow, so easily discounted. As easily overlooked as this brief passage. Accounts of Jesus' early days are few but this one speaks volumes. A short section of Scripture no less profound in the richness of its message.

The prophetess lived in fervent worship. Having been a part of the temple surroundings for so long, she blended into the backdrop, mainly unnoticed. Alert and aware of a coming Messiah, she recognized Him in that infant son. So, when these young Jewish parents came according to custom she responded in a manner pleasing to God.

This is the third ceremony required by the Law that they have observed in these 40 days since their firstborn's incredible birth. Not able to afford a lamb for the offering, she brings the very Lamb of God. There's great irony in Mary entering the Temple Courts to make an offering for her ritual purification bringing God's own purification for all mankind. Joseph and Mary first experience the prophets song of Simeon and now before them is this devout elderly woman.

Anna's name is the same as the Old Testament name Hannah, meaning gracious. Both of these faithful women sang praise to God of firstborn sons. She sacrificed her life in service to God in worship at the Temple and God blessed her with a message. Let us be gracious in sharing the Word God has imparted to us.

She knew what true fasting meant. God's word undoubtedly was etched on her heart. The passage we now know refer to as Isaiah 58 most likely one she knew full well. The burning question; "Is that what you call a fast, a day acceptable to the Lord?" Prayer and fasting was her life -- for most of her life. And what of our celebrations of Jesus? Do we dedicate just a day to our celebration of Jesus? Just Christmas? Just Sundays?

Anna had two responses of note we should emulate.

1). She gave thanks.

2). She spoke about the Christ child to all who hoped for deliverance.

Gracious Anna teaches us a valuable lesson by the way she lived her life. Her life lesson: give thanks and speak up. Give thanks to God for the astounding birth of His Son - living in us. Giving hope. Hope of deliverance. Speak about this God-Child that offers redemption.

Father God; Thank You for the recorded response of Anna, Your faithful servant. Make me more like her.


Painting Artist: Nora Kelly

What Follows Christmas?

Heaps of crumpled paper,
Piles of scrunched up bows.
Gifts long since opened,
Exchanges need be made.

The holiday jubilation hours since has passed.
Left with the mess of my own creation,
Christmas has come and gone at last.

Now what?!

Let it continue!

Don't let the spark go out of the wonder,
The adoration fade from our worship.
Stay near the Living Child of God,
Remembering the angel's message.

Meditate upon what Paul Gerhardt penned (1653):

O Jesus Christ, Thy manger is
My paradise at which my soul reclineth.

For there, O Lord, doth lie the Word
Made flesh for us; herein Thy grace forth shineth.

He whom the sea and wind obey
Doth come to serve the sinner in great meekness.

Thou, God's own Son, with us art one,
Dost join us and our children in our weakness.

Thou Christian heart, who-e'er thou art,
Be of good cheer and let no sorrow move thee!

For God's own Child, in mercy mild,
Joins thee to Him; how greatly God must love thee!

Lord God; Let Christmas reign in my heart and home all year long. Don't let the light go out my Savior came to bring. Keep me in a ceaseless, living nativity -- Jesus birthed in me. Amen.

Christmas Day Poetry

I know not how that Bethlehem's Babe
Could in the Godhead be;
I only know the Manger Child
Has brought God's life to me.

I know not how that Calvary's Cross
A world of sin could free;
I only know its matchless love
Has brought God's love to me.

I know not how that Joseph's grave
Could solve death's mystery;
I only know a living Christ,
Our immortality.

I Know Not How That Bethlehem's Babe

~Harry Webb Farrington, 1910

Painting: Adoration of the Shepherds
James Tissot
1836-1902

Christmas Day Hymn

A Hereford Carol

Come, all you faithful Christians
That dwell here on earth,
Come, celebrate the morning
Of our dear Saviour's birth.
This is the happy morning,
This is the blessed morn:
To save our souls from ruin,
The Son of God was born.

Behold the angel Gabriel,
In Scripture it is said,
Did with his holy message
Come to the virgin maid:
"Hail, blest among all women!"
He thus did greet her then,
"Lo, thou shalt be the mother
Of the Saviour of all men."

Her time being accomplished,
She came to Bethlehem,
And then was safe delivered
Of the Saviour of all men.
o princely pomp attended Him,
His honors were but small;
A manger was His cradle,
His bed an ox's stall.

Now to Him that is ascended
Let all our praises be;
May we His steps then follow,
And He our pattern be;
so when our lives are ended,
We all may hear Him call:
"Come, souls, receive the kingdom,
Prepared for you all."

(Author Unknown ~ Of medieval origin)

Christmas Day Psalm

Fairest of morning lights appear,
Thou blest and gaudy day,
On which was born our Savior dear;
Arise and come away!

This day prevents His day of doom;
His mercy now is nigh;
The mighty God of Love is come,
The Dayspring from on high.

Behold the great Creator makes
Himself a house of clay,
A robe of virgin-flesh He takes
Which He will wear for aye.

Hark, hark the wise Eternal Word
Like a weak infant cries:
In form of servant is the Lord,
And God in cradle lies.

This wonder struck the world amazed,
It shook the starry frame;
Squadrons of spirits stood and gazed,
Then down in troops they came.

Glad shepherds ran to view this sight;
A quire of angels sings;
And eastern sages with delight
Adore this Kings of kings.

Join then, all hearts that are not stone,
And all our voices prove,
To celebrate this Holy One,
The God of peace and love.

~Thomas Pestel
(1584-1659)

Christmas Day Prayer

Loving Father;
Help us to remember the birth of Jesus,
that we may share
in the song of the angels,
the gladness of the shepherds,
and worship of the wise men.

Close the door of hate and
open the door of love
all over the world.

Let kindness come with every gift
and good desires with every greeting.

Deliver us from evil by the blessing
which Christ brings, and
teach us to be merry
with clear hearts.

May the Christmas morning
make us happy to be children,
and Christmas evening bring us
to our beds with grateful thoughts,
forgiving and forgiven for Jesus' sake.

~Robert Louis Stevenson
(1850-1894)

Augustine's Call to Rejoice

The scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to [Jesus].
Unrolling it, he found the place where it is written:

"The Spirit of the Lord is on me,
because he has anointed me
to preach good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners
and recovery of sight for the blind,
to release the oppressed,
to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor."
[Lk 4:17-19 adapted]

Adapted from the works of St. Augustine
(354-430)

"Let us, then, celebrate the Lord's birthday with the full attendance and the enthusiasm that we should give it. Let men rejoice, let women rejoice. Christ was born Man; He was born of woman. Both sexes have been honored. Let him, therefore, who had been condemned before in the first man, now become a follower of the Second Man.

A woman had been the cause of our death; a woman, again, gave birth to life for us. The likeness of sinful flesh was born to purify the sinful flesh. For that reason do not let the flesh be found with sin, but let sin die that nature may live; for He was born without sin, that he who was with sin might be reborn.

Rejoice, you who are just. It is the birthday of Him who justifies.

Rejoice, you who are weak and sick. It is the birthday of Him who makes well.

Rejoice, you who are in captivity. It is the birthday of the Redeemer.

Rejoice, you who are slaves. It is the birthday of the Master.

Rejoice, you who are free. It is the birthday of Him who makes free.

Rejoice, you Christians all. It is Christ's birthday."

Our Righteous Father; There is no greater day to celebrate and rejoice over than the birthday of our Blessed Lord. We celebrate the birth of our Justifier, Healer, Redeemer, Master, and Friend -- today. "Joyfully, we adore Thee!" May we reflect the true joy You have birthed in us in the Most Extraordinary Way. In Our Most Glorious Lord and Savior. Hallelujah & Amen!

Painting:
Adoration of the Magi
Giotto di Bondone
1266-1337

A Tale of Two Searches

Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared. He sent them to Bethlehem and said, "Go and make a careful search for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him."
[Mt 2:7-8]

Yes, evil enters even the holy birth story. It contains both light and dark. Two state-of-the-hearts.

In search of the King of Kings, these wise travelers receive a summons from a wicked earthly king. These men on a mission were tempted by an enemy with ulterior motives. The magi were confronted with the power of choice. That Herod's maneuver was trumped by God lends us hope. For in a battle of wills, the one strengthened by God always wins.

Their quest was protected and overseen by God -- not to be undone by the devious plot of the enemy. They were wise enough to realize that no one can offer worship for another. They chose to heed spiritual counsel and faded into history. The mark they made upon holy pages a lesson for us all.

Detours, distractions, and temptations abound this time of year. They attempt to steal the worship meant for Jesus. Seek the King with treasure of a pure heart, and -- as promised -- He will be found to receive your worship (Dt 4:29).

Almighty God; Don't let the trappings of the season make a Herod out of me. May I search out the King of Kings myself; worship Him for myself, for no one else can offer Him my heart. Amen.

A Glorious Encounter

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."

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened,
which the Lord has told us about."
[Lk 2:13-15]

Steal away today and read this passage. Pause your preparations and try to imagine this unimaginable scene. Marvel in reading the account when heaven and earth met face-to-face. When common man encountered an Uncommon God.

God peeled open the skies above the poor laborers in the field. A great company of heaven's hosts made the most wondrous announcement. These chosen men experienced gleaming glory divine. The Lord's glory. They peered into heaven as God revealed His splendor.

What a glorious display to match a glorious event! The simplicity of the stable and shepherds are a stark contrast to the grandeur and majesty of the arrival and the angel's revelation.

The shepherds left their field and flock and ran to worship. Would we? Had He been born in today's busy world would we stop? Would we detour our set duties and plans -- on faith? If only I would respond as they did! They hurried to bend a knee and worship the Lamb of God. Oh, for that day when every knee shall bow...

Now we are surrounded by the signs of the season that keep Him before us, in the forefront of our minds. The heavens may not part and angels may not descend -- today -- but we have no less cause to pause and worship.

God of Glory; You have revealed Your Glory and the pronouncement has been made that our Savior has been born. May we run from our chores to worship the Lord. May I join with the angels in singing Your praise. May His glory shine through me today.

Delivering Love

Low in the womb He lay.
His movements have slowed.
Positioned and ready.
Life ready to be birthed.
Mother's breathing labors.
Abdomen walls grow taut, stretched tight.
Muscles twinge, relax, squeeze, contract.
Intensity increases more rapidly.
"Not here, not now."
She thinks back over these gestational months.
The disbelief, the stares, the heartache of rejection.
But the joy!
She recalls each blessed stage.
That first wave of nausea that confirmed suspicion.
The cravings that substantiated faith.
That surreal first flutter.
An elbow poking mid-section -- from the inside.
The tickle of hiccups.
The long talks, and hopes, and prayers.
The giddiness, apprehension, fear.
Exuberation!
And now, pain!
You groan to deliver.
You hold that hard globe steady from the jostling ride.
Holding him in -- trying to delay the inevitable for a more convenient time.
But the time had fully come.
"We must wait until we can reach a place to rest."
Wave upon incredible wave, a body on sensory overload.
Wanting to go back and forward both at the same time.
"I must lie down."
Knees too weak to stand; back too cramped to straighten.
You must deliver He who will deliver you....
...the world.
Husband gives aid, he lovingly comforts and coaches along.
You finally lay, weary, upon a bed of straw.
What to do?
What now?
Crowned and straining forward.
Light pushed toward light.
At last!
Gazes meet at last!
The One whose known you forever meets you at last.
The child you've held for months is finally cradled in your arms.
Thoughts of travel, labor, location all vanish.
All you know is love.
All you see is Love.

Come Near Enough, Again

Christmas week. Swelling with excitement as we draw closer the day we've been waiting for, preparing for, we're pregnant with anticipation. Straining to near fullness with activities surrounding the coming holy day.

Draw near enough to be filled, as Mary, heavy with the Christ Child. Travel in your heart to Bethlehem to experience new life birthed in Christ. Don't miss the miracle. Don't overlook the awesome.

I chose to edit a post from the archives for today. As we draw near the date, may we, too, draw near the Child.

A gentle voice whispers in the air:

Come
Draw near the manger and adore the Christ child

Come
Draw near enough
to hear the cattle lowing

Come
Draw near enough
that the hay tickles your nose

Come
Draw near enough
to see the slow breathing of sleeping babe

Come
Draw near enough
that the very Breath of Life might breathe on you

Come
Draw near enough
that He may touch your heart anew


Is that tug on my heart Your voice whispering; "Come"? We respond by kneeling before our King. Drawing near enough to be part of the nativity scene, part of Your story. In our Lord's Name we offer ourselves and this prayer. Amen.

Hymn of Herald

Hark! The Herald Host Is Singing
Translated by J. Bernoff

Music by Engelbert Humperdinck
1854-1921

Hark! the herald host is singing
Thro' the silent holy night,
Tidings of great joy they're bringing,
From yon starry azure height.
And each heart is filled with gladness,
At the message which they bring:
"Christ is born; forget all sadness,
Trust in Him, your Savior King!"

And behold the stars bright glowing,
Shed o'er earth their radiant light,
While from Angels' lips are flowing
Anthems thro' the holy night.
Bright each window now is glowing,
Lighted by the Christmas tree;
And each cheek with joy is glowing,
And each heart is filled with glee.

Soft the messengers from Heaven
Wing their flight from home to home;
Bearing blessings God hath given
Unto all on earth that roam.
"Welcome, welcome, Christmas evening,
Bringing peace and love to earth!"
Show your gratitude, rejoicing,
Christians in your Savior's birth!

Mysterious Gifts

When speaking of gifts of mystery my memory drifts back to a Christmas when I was a teen. Mom wrapped a large gift in sheets and placed it behind the tree for what seemed like weeks before Christmas. Everyday I would prod her for answers. Clues even. I would beg and plead and we'd laugh. She delighted in the game. Giving the gift brought her joy but she also had the added pleasure of keeping me guessing.

God had a mystery gift for the whole of humanity. This would remain hidden in secret until the time had fully come to be birthed into a stumped world. An incomprehensible gift of love that God would deliver through Mary. When this was revealed to her through the angel Gabriel she asked; "How will this be since I am a virgin?" [Lk 1:34] It was a complete mystery to her.

The advent of the Messiah's first coming was shrouded in mystery. There is the beautiful and amazing mystery of Mary's conception. The early followers of Christ I imagine must have lived in a perpetual state of curiosity. Nicodemus was greatly puzzled at the thought of rebirth. The list grows from generation after generation.

God still has many mysterious gifts. Among them are the entire spiritual realm we know nothing of. The righteousness of Christ and the new life we receive upon baptism into Christ is indefinable. That we are born again as a new creation and the temple of the Holy Spirit cannot be adequately explained. Only believed.

We have God's mysterious gift of our promised resurrection; the world's redemption; a new earth as an eternal dwelling.

And what can be more arcane than our Lord's return. This advent we live in leading up to His 2nd coming is, too, shrouded in mystery. Why? Faith! God takes great pleasure in our believing. In our trusting.

The gifts of God are wrapped in the beauty of the truth of His Word. We need not unwrap them to accept them, receive them. We need not see what lies beneath to believe them as good and perfect gifts.

Heavenly Father; I have faith to believe. I receive Your gifts though I understand not. The most beautiful of all the gifts You have given is that precious Baby, wrapped in clothes and laid in a manger. The True Gift of Christmas, the Great Mystery of God, we celebrate with thanksgiving in this, our season of advent. In Christ Jesus, Amen.

Begotten of God

But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons. Because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, "Abba, Father." So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and since you are a son,
God has made you also an heir.
[Gal 4:4-7]

Holidays and family. They just go together. Like Christmas trees and lights, stables and cattle. They go together.

There are family vacations, family gatherings, family traditions.

Then there are the lists. Family lists. Christmas card lists, gift lists, packing lists.

Gospel writers Matthew and Luke both recorded family lists. Jesus' family lists. Luke recorded the geneology of Jesus back to God (see Luke 3:23-37). Matthew started the lineage with Abraham moving forward to Jesus (see Matthew 1:1-17). I heard this referred to as the "begat list". "Abraham begat Isaac; Isaac begat Jacob; Jacob begat Judah," and so on.

Jesus the Christ, Son of God, through the cross, begat John, Peter, Paul, ____________ [insert your name here]. You are begotten of God through Christ. Aren't all in Christ Begotten of God? The family list doesn't stop with only the names written in the Bible. They continue to be added to The Book.

Indeed, this is good news of great joy for our families to celebrate this blessed season.

Abba Father; Thank You that in Christ I am called your child -- a member of Your redeemed family.

Virtuous Gifts

When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.
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 2:10-11]

Close your eyes and imagine with me...

You look up through the crisp night air and you see a brilliant star sparkling bright against the black velvet sky. You've finally reached your destination. Exhausted yet exuberant you approach the home of family unknown to you. You don't know who will greet you at the door. You're not sure of their welcome response. You don't even know what you will say once greeted. You've come to a foreign land to honor a Newborn King of Promise.

Travel back thousands of years to the celebratory visit of the Magi of the East. Their tangible gifts were extravagant. Their sacrificial gifts of worship far more valuable.

Often our response to God's lavish gifts in Christ of salvation and eternal life create in us an intense desire to give in return. (And rightfully so!)

What gift will you bring to the Christ this Christmas?

Now, close your eyes once more and imagine yourself approaching the scene. What gift shall you offer?

It need not be elaborate. Consider simply bringing a gift of Christian virtues:

Giving
.....Give God a gift of praise. Give to others, in the name of Jesus,
.....a gift of thanks, joy, encouragement. Give of your time,
.....talents, resources.

Purity
.....Determine to live holy lives. Have pure motives,
.....use pure speech,choose actions of purity.

Servitude
.....Give yourself away to Jesus. This is ultimate treasure.
.....Give Jesus away to others. Servitude is the Great Giveaway.
.....Serve others in the Blessed Name of Jesus.

A suggested three merely a primer for your imagination, an idea-starter to consider other ways you can wrap your heart in adoration to offer to our King.

Lord Jesus; I offer a heart; a hallelujah; and committ to add to these a gift of Christ-like virtues. Amen.

(To view similar posts from my 2008 Christmas Advent series,
click on the links of these related titles)

Gifts For Our King

Gifts ~ God's Instruments of Love

Simply Grand

I marvel at the greatness in the simplicity of God's arrival.

He came -- not to a sophisticated, cultural city
....but an obscure village

Not to a royal palace
....but a cave

Not as a warrior prince
....but a baby

Simple. Plain. Small.

Grand! A plan of grand design, grand proportions, grand ingenuity.

Grand in its simplicity.

Magnificent God; Return me to the humility of the manger. Remind me You use the small, the ordindary, to accomplish Your set purpose. Make me small enough. In Christ. Amen.

Hues of Darkness

"But if your eyes are bad,
your whole body will be full of darkness.
If then the light within you is darkness,
how great is that darkness!"
[Mt 6:23]

The advent candle's halo-glow warms the room, diverts the eyes toward soothing light. A child's voice reading scripture fills the void, music to the heart, feast for the soul. The body is weightless with peace. I sense the healthy eyes this verse speaks of and the presence of God that casts out darkness.

Great darkness I've known. Seen in others. It comes in many hues.

The darkness of hopelessness.

The darkness of ignorance.

Darkness of sin.

Darkness of doubt.

Dark storms deep within.

Darkness of hatred; anger; indifference.

Darkness from being blind to truth. Blind to both light and darkness. Can the darkness be so dark you can't even see it? Can your eyes be so filled with it you can't see the lack of light? Sadly, yes. How great that darkness can be.

Not greater than the Glorious Light. He fears not darkness. He created from the dark abyss of nothing. He entered the dark womb of humanity to adorn flesh. Birthed into the dark of night. Darkness filled the sky as He died on Calvary's Cross. Buried in a darkened tomb. Victorious He rose. Blinding light filling death's chamber.

I rest my eyes on the light of advent. I rest in Light. Let Him fill every crevice.

Light a candle of Christmas. Bask in it's glow and fill your eyes with light.

Heaven's Pure Light is welcome here, wanted here, needed here. Bring health to these eyes to see it and eyes to see darkness that need be given over to Your sovereign Light. Amen.

Waiting for Light

The light shines in the darkness,
but the darkness has not understood it.
[Jn 1:5]

In the long wait of darkness the Light came at last. We have the Light and yet, too, another long wait in darkness. Yet darkness prevails not -- nor the world. Jesus has overcome both.

Advent reminds us of the waiting in expectancy. The hope in the promise. The promise that the Light will dawn again on this earthly horizon. We are reminded of what is yet to come. And Christmas can remind us of the celebration to come when it does.

Move out of the shadows and toward the Light. Step out of the material world into the spiritual -- into eternity. Where Jesus dwells and bids us; "Follow."

Light of Life; We rejoice in Your light that dispels every darkness, though we do not understand it. Empower us to cast out every deed of darkness and live in Your eternal light. Amen.

Multilateral Giftedness

Different gifts for different people.

Gifts for delight.

Gifts of purpose.

Gifts to fill a need.

JESUS.

This Gift fills the deepest of all needs.

Meets every purpose.

Brings great joy.

For child or adult, man or woman.

Rich or poor.

Every nation and culture.

For shepherds, magi, kings or peasants.

For you.

Conceive and bring forth into this world the Christ Child --
a Gift for you to share.

Heaven's Royal Visitor

“Blessed is the Lord God of Israel,
For He has visited and redeemed His people,
And has raised up a horn of salvation for us
In the house of His servant David,

Through the tender mercy of our God,
With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us;
To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, To guide our feet into the way of peace.”
[Lk 1:68-69; 78-79 NKJV]

How many visitors are you expecting this holiday season? You tend a flurry of details as you prepare. You fluff and fix and fuss as you anxiously await their arrival.

The world has known the most grand and majestic of all visitors. A royal dignitary of highest honor. The world knew of His coming. And yet it welcomed Him in a dark, smelly cave that penned cattle. Not the most hospitable welcome we could afford. I believe Zechariah and Elizabeth's son, John, was born into a more comfortable setting than God's own Son.

At the birth of his son, Zechariah sang prophetically in praise of God. He celebrated God's redemption and extended a welcome of praise for the descendant of the most prized king of Israel. He had readied a welcome for this visitor long before He even arrived. A lesson well-learned from this elderly priest that the world not repeat it's grave error.

Zechariah's silence broken, he realized fully that God had remained ever mindful of His children and remembered His words of promise. God visited as His people sat in darkness. In His tender mercy He brought salvation. He brought light to the eyes to see hope and light for our feet to guide through the valley.

Welcome the Visitor of Christmas. Celebrate the redemption He brings with praise. Ready for His next visit.

Incarnate God; Blessed are you Lord and blessed are we for You have visited us with salvation. Shining light in the darkness and in this valley of the shadow of death. Guide us in the way of peace. Kindle our hearts to extend a warm welcome of heaven's Royal Visitor.

A Blessed Visitation

At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, where she entered Zechariah's home and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed: "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!"
[Lk 1:39-45]

Do you have an Elizabeth in your life? We all need them. That one person you can turn to with the things of God. In your excitement and praise. With your epiphanies and questions. When you need encouragement. Do you have that One?

Mary had Elizabeth. They shared a common experience in God. That made them suited to minister to each other.

One's true character is revealed in how we respond to God. They responded in faith and obedience and had the godly support to carry out His assignment.

Elizabeth recognized the blessing of Mary's visitation. Recognizing the Lord in Mary, Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit herself. Oh, that the Holy Spirit in others would leap for joy upon seeing us. Would recognize Christ in us.

Our Gracious Father; May we be so favored as to have the Holy Spirit in others leap for joy at the recognition of Christ in us. Amen.


Painting:
The Visitation
By James J. Tissot
1836-1902

Son Of The Most High

God sent an angel to announce
Man's Redeemer born as babe,
Son of The Most High

Born of virgin Mary
Conceived of Diety,
Son of The Most High

Promised Messiah
By prophets of old,
Son of The Most High

An unending kingdom
He will justly reign,
Son of The Most High

Word from the beginning
Come in flesh to dwell,
Son of The Most High

Born of God in Mary
Born of God in me,
Son of The Most High

Impossible for man
Made possible only by
Almighty God Most High

Painting:

The Annunciation
By Carl H. Bloch
1834-1890

Advent Hymn

Hosanna Now Through Advent
By: Claudia F. Hernaman
1623

Hosanna now through Advent
With loving hearts we sing,
For Jesus Christ is coming
To be his children's king.

Hosanna! Blessed Jesus,
Come in our hearts to dwell,
And let our lives and voices
Your praise and glory tell.

Hosanna! Let this welcome
Ring out from ev'ry heart;
Draw near to us, O Jesus,
And nevermore depart.

So when we see you coming
With angels in the sky,
Hosanna, loud hosanna
Shall be your children's cry.

We lift hosannas heavenward as we come toward Christmas and as we await the arrival of Jesus our King. Amen.

Peace of the Prince

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]

I've reached a stage of life where peace outranks excitement. Less adventure and surprise - more predictable calm. Some would call that boring.

In years' past we would load up the car and head to the hills. Escape the rat race of the big city and settle into simple. Not exactly genuine peace. I've had my fill of that kind of peace.

There's a significant difference between a tranquil soul and a tranquil environment.

The kind of peace the world is craving is lasting peace. Deep-down-in-your-soul peace. A peace that transcends these hurried Christmas days.

There are two distinct gifts of peace we can thank Jesus for this Christmas. The peace we have in our relationship with God - no longer are we considered enemies (Rm 5:1). And the inner peace of a contented child. Where the mind and heart have a place to rest -- the Christ of Christmas.

I can still remember those mid-night feedings with my precious babies. After silently nursing in the still of the night they would ease off into a deep slumber. There was an incredible peace that would wash over me as I watched them. We have that in common with Mary.

Jesus was born our Prince of Peace. Mary, too, watched over her sleeping newborn babe, fully at rest in Father God. She held Peace Himself. Beheld the only true source of blessed peace.

He brought a peace to the world that the world does not know, nor possess. A peace only from the promised Prince. Are you in need? Pack up your heart and head to the manger. Peace awaits you there.

"Peace I leave with you;
my peace I give you.
I do not give to you as the world gives.
Do not let your hearts be troubled
and do not be afraid."
[Jn 14:27 emph added]

Precious Prince Jesus; There is no sweeter rest than being lulled by Your peace. Fill us with Your peace as we trust in You. Amen.

He is Our Righteousness

"And if we are careful to obey all this law
before the LORD our God,
as he has commanded us,
that will be our righteousness."
[Dt 6:25 emph added]

IF. That's a big "if"! Our law-abiding righteousness failed miserably. We could not keep all the law. I know I can't do it. I have zero righteousness of my own. But God already knew that.

"Understand, then, that it is not because of your righteousness that the LORD your God is giving you
this good land to possess,
for you are a stiff-necked people."
[Dt 9:6 emph added]

Then, there came a magnificent promise. After kings failed (from the first) in their reign of Israel and righteousness was lacking in the nation's people, God gave a promise; "A king whose righteousness and justice are the foundations of His throne" (Ps 89:14) would be given by God Himself. A King whose righteousness was rock solid and could not fail.

"He will judge the world in righteousness;
he will govern the peoples with justice."
[Ps 9:8]

Establishing and upholding His kingdom with justice and righteousness (Is 9:7), He would reign over the entire world.

"The days are coming," declares the LORD,
"when I will raise up to David a righteous Branch,
a King who will reign wisely
and do what is just and right in the land.

In his days Judah will be saved
and Israel will live in safety.
This is the name by which he will be called:
The LORD Our Righteousness.
[Jer 23:5-6 emph added]

Relief! Finally, what they had long awaited. God's people received a hope-filled word. After being oppressed and hauled off to captivity they were desperate for a just ruler. God promised a Sovereign King of Righteousness by name.

Solomon, a wise king himself, wrote; "In the way of righteousness there is life; along that path is immortality." (Pv 12:28) Praise Jesus for He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life; giving life eternal. We have been redeemed by the Righteous One (Is 1:27).

And the Good News of the Gospel declares:

But now a righteousness from God, apart from law
has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.
[Rm 3:21-22 emph added]

Christ is the end of the law so that there may be righteousness
for everyone who believes.
[Rm 10:4]

Yet another great gift! Righteousness. It is His righteousness. He is righteous. He is Our Righteousness. Faith verses law-keeping. Can I believe? Will I believe? I sure can't keep all the law. Not only am I relieved of law-keeping (a gift in itself!) I get credited with perfect righteousness I can't earn. The gift is fantastically two-fold. Yet another heavenly gift (of many) to celebrate at Christmas. Another gift in our Lord. The gift of His righteousness.


In the Lord alone are righteousness and justice. God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God (2 Cor 5:21). May we be filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God (Php 1:11). In His Holy Name I pray. Amen.

I will give thanks to the LORD
because of his righteousness
and will sing praise to the name of the LORD Most High.
[Ps 7:17]

Transference Closure

2009 Continuing Series ~ Transference
Based on John 3:30: "Jesus must increase, I must decrease"



As the cold wind robbed the afternoon of any outdoor yard work, I opted to stay warm inside and do what I love -- write. "Tranference" naturally came to mind, so I sat before the flat screen and revisited older category posts.

27. Can't say I really kept track. Over the course of the year I have posted 27 devotions on this homemade topic.

But it's been far more than a topic. It's been a spiritual focus. A God-led focus for growth. I'm convinced it was Spirit-induced. (I'm just not that clever, folks!) God knows where I am lacking. And He answers those prayers that earnestly seek His involvement for Spirit-improvement.

He must become greater; I must become less.
[Jn 3:30]

I wanted Jesus to become greater in my life. It is through that lens that I read, I studied, I prayed -- I wrote. I sought application of God's Word in my life to make that desire - that choice - a reality.

What God taught me (and what I shared here) is that there are practices and attitudes that helped in this process. A certain change in perspective to renew my minds' habit of thought.

A simple summary of the meditations I experienced help me see more clearly the path I have traveled this year: (Each a link to related post)

Surrender ~ making a title transfer

Submission ~ having a sense of other-ness

Kingdom Allegiance ~ determining whom I will serve

Shift of focus from the world to God

Attention diverted from self to Christ

Transference of doubt for confidence; vice to virtue; exchange the worship of worldly idols with exclusive God-fidelity; swapping thirst-quenchers; trade natures; change in priorities; burden transfer; choose a new family association; transference of God's wrath;

Trading places ~ sins' propitiation

From a temporal to an eternal mindset

Approaching the Throne of Grace (vs judgment)


It comes down to a state of wholeheartedness. A heart full of Jesus. Undivided. (A key word, often reiterated). I would not be so bold as to give counsel. Who am I? Dear reader, this is nothing new. This is the very Word of God. Stated in both the New and Old Testaments.

"The Word became flesh " [Jn 1:14a]

Theologically "transference" may not make any sense. Literarily or grammatically it probably doesn't even apply. But, for me personally, it was a way for me to allow God an attempt to make Jesus more visible in this flesh. In my actions, behaviors, attitudes, heart, and soul.

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

In great eagerness and faith, desire was stirred in me to move-on in growth. Growing in Christ is to allow the Holy Spirit to form the pattern of Jesus in us visibly. Desmond Tutu wrote:

"One image I have of the spiritual life is of sitting in front of a fire on a cold day. We don't have to do anything. We just have to sit in front of the fire and gradually the qualities of the fire are transferred to us. We begin to feel the warmth. It's like that with God and us. As we take time to be still in God's presence, the qualities of God are transferred to us."

Jesus is the Word that became flesh. It is His spirit dwelling within us -- in our temple of flesh -- that is our hope of righteousness. He is the Incarnation. Will I allow Him to be incarnate in me? Will I allow His qualities to be transferred to me by basking continually in His presence?

I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master,
nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him.
[Jn 13:16]

Submitting to His authority daily will make Jesus incarnate in my life. Denying self and surrendering to His absolute control. Have I truly allowed Him to be Master of my life? Honestly? No! Maybe for brief moments. Or on shining occasions. More in '09 than years' past.

Will it last? Has it become a permanent change of lifestyle? The jury is still out on that one. For this recent, short-time-past I will give Him the glory and say; "Yes." I pray His mercy will grant me another year of grace. A new focus that this growth-cycle might remain unending. That is my petition. That is my hope. That is His goal.

Jesus said to them,
"My Father is always at his work to this very day,
and I, too, am working."
[Jn 5:17]

Let Jesus, God Incarnate, be seen in me; He the greater, I the lesser. Holy Spirit, make me an instrument that makes Jesus visible through my life. May this year's study make a difference to others for Him. May it make an everlasting impression on the work You are completing in me. In the Name of Christ, My Lord, I pray. Amen.

Click on photo-link here to travel to 2009 Theme Intro Post:

Reasons to Celebrate

On this mountain the LORD Almighty will prepare
a feast of rich food for all peoples,
a banquet of aged wine—
the best of meats and the finest of wines.

On this mountain he will destroy
the shroud that enfolds all peoples,
the sheet that covers all nations;

he will swallow up death forever.
The Sovereign LORD will wipe away the tears
from all faces;
he will remove the disgrace of his people
from all the earth.

The LORD has spoken.
[Is 25:6-8]

What would the first week of Advent be - with focus on the prophecy of the coming of Jesus - without reading from Isaiah?

This poetic prophet's hymn of thanksgiving for God's goodness is filled with confidence. He is assured that what has been said is good as done, he proclaims the promise as fact. The salvation that was coming into the world had not yet come yet he celebrated the coming kingdom as if he were already in the presence of the King in the royal dining hall.

For us, this salvation has come, do we not have greater cause to rejoice? Rejoice that Jesus has secured salvation for the world. Rejoice in assurance, as Isaiah, that the Word of the Lord of His return is good as done.

We know the outcome of their waiting. Doesn't that reason that we know the result of ours?

The feast invitation has been extended and promised to "all peoples." Have you accepted?

He will remove the disgrace of His people from all the earth. As far as the east is from the west! Isn't that great news?! Isn't that alone cause to toss tinsel, string lights, deck halls?

The shroud of mystery hiding the identity of God's Son has been lifted, the dividing barrier has been removed. The question of "Who" has been answered. One "when?" has come. Polish the silver, get out the fine china, dress in your Sunday best, and invite the neighbors! Celebrate! Not the presents; the Presence.

"The LORD has spoken." A word you can trust.

"In that day they will say,"
[Is 25:9a]

"In that day they will say." Need we wait for the feast in "that day"? What God promised through Isaiah has been accomplished. Will we be the "they"? Will we say today:

"Surely this is our God;
we trusted in him, and he saved us.
This is the LORD, we trusted in him;
let us rejoice and be glad in his salvation."
[Is 25:9b]

He waited to come that He might save His people at the perfect time. He saves still. He waits to come again that He might save yet more. That no chair at the banquet table will be empty. Have you claimed your seat? Are you living as to keep it reserved?

Jesus is Lord! Trust in Him, that you might be saved. Trust in Him, that you might rejoice. Trust in Him, the Rock, that you might have His peace.

Let the joy of your salvation light up your home. Let Christmas be the celebration of your trust in our Immutable God.

You will keep in perfect peace
him whose mind is steadfast,
because he trusts in you.

Trust in the LORD forever,
for the LORD, the LORD, is the Rock eternal.
[Is 26:3-4]

O LORD, You are my God; I will exalt You and praise Your name, for in perfect faithfulness you have done marvelous things, things planned long ago.

Advent Hosannas

Behold! Behold He Cometh
Hymn by Claudia F. Hernaman
1888

Behold! Behold He cometh,
Who doth salvation bring;
Lift up your hands rejoicing,
And welcome Zion's King;
With hymns of joy we praise the Lord,
Hosannas to th' Incarnate Word!

Hosanna to the Saviour,
Who came on Christmas morn,
And of a lowly Virgin,
Was in a stable born;
Emmanuel! Dear Jesus, come,
Within Thy children make Thy home!

Yea, come in love and meekness,
Our Saviour now to be;
Come to be formed in us,
And make us like to Thee,
Before the day of wrath draw near,
When as our Judge Thou shalt appear.


Heavenly Father; Make ready for the Lord a people prepared. Amen.

A Word You Can Trust

"See, I will send my messenger, who will prepare the way before me. Then suddenly the Lord you are seeking will come to his temple; the messenger of the covenant, whom you desire, will come,"

says the LORD Almighty.
[Mal 3:1]

Hope-filled words of God were delivered in ages past by prophets. They spoke warning of consequences and admonished God's people as needed. But they also delivered God's blessed promises. Promises of great comfort. Promises that God would send a messenger to prepare the way for the coming salvation. First, a messenger (in John the Baptist), then He -- Himself -- would come. "Says the Lord Almighty." A word you can trust.

And He came. The Messager of the Covenant is the means by which God would purify a people unto Himself. A means to restore us back to Him in preparation of a coming judgment. Jesus ushered in the New Covenant under which we now live - and wait. Waiting in this, the second advent, for the fulfillment of the message of promise Jesus delivered. Promise of His return.

The Lord you are seeking has come -- and will return, to His people, His temple.

And so, this first week of Advent, we light the Candle of Promise and read Scripture of prophecy. We see the unfolding of God's grand plan from Creation that gives us eyes of faith to "see" what is yet to come.

Jesus, You are our Entry into the New Covenant, accept our offerings of praise. This advent season prepare a way in our hearts and our homes for the coming Christmas that will bring spiritual renewal. Amen.

Escape and Participate

What "makes" your Christmas? Is it the...

Music
Decorations
Presents
Parties
Family Gatherings
A Church Service

Ceremony or Rituals
Seasonal Dramatic Theatre

The halls are decked and the malls are filled with ornaments of Christmas. Store fronts adorned with every imaginable decoration. Merchants arrogantly touting that we have created Christmas -- only they have what will make your Christmas special. They use every marketing strategy to play upon our senses and draw us in.

Meaningless. Mindless. Fearless.

Believers in Christ have purpose in our Christmas. We know the truth of the gifts of God that reaches far beyond the season. We enjoy the great gift of eucharistic living. Year round communion with Jesus in giving thanks to God, our Father. A continual awareness of God in Christ.

His divine power has given us
everything we need for life and
godliness through our knowledge of him who called us
by his own glory and goodness.

Through these he has given us his very great
and precious promises, so that through them
you may participate in the divine
nature and escape the corruption in the world caused
by evil desires.
[1 Pt 1:3-4]

Escape and participate. Escape the trappings of the commercial world and participate in the life of our Lord. The prime opportunity of advent is to prepare our hearts, instead of our homes, for Christmas.

Celebrate the New Life that brings life. Rejoice in the birth that would birth a church -- a nation of believers. Laud the arrival of the World's Salvation.


God, Our Father; Have mercy on us. The Baby came that we might be saved from ourselves and our errant ways. That we can be forgiven of our sins. Resore reverence and meaning to this God's-day. I accept the gift of power in Christ for godliness and rejoice in Your very great promises fulfilled. In Christ, Amen.

Tradition of Remembering

I will tell of the kindnesses of the LORD,
the deeds for which he is to be praised,
according to all the LORD has done for us—
yes, the many good things he has done
for the house of Israel,
according to his compassion
and many kindnesses.
[Is 63:7]

At the mention of Christmas what thoughts quickly flood into your mind? Possibly fond and ridiculous childhood memories of Christmas' past? Or family traditions that made the season special? I could sum it up by answering; "Memories and traditions." Even memories of traditions. Do you have a few favorites?

What if you started a new tradition? A tradition of remembering? Advent is a great time to reflect upon spiritual memories. Find a quiet corner alone with God and ask yourself a few heart-prodding questions:

• Where have I seen God's providence?
  


• Have I recognized His presence in certain situations?
  


• For what blessings can I give God thanks?
  


• Is there a sin I must acknowledge?
  


• Is there a confession that requires repentence?
  


• Do I see His goodness even in the pain of difficulties?
  


• How has He worked to bring about growth?
  

Let this be the perfect time to praise His good deeds in your life and remember what He has done. Start a new Christmas tradition. The tradition of remembering.

Heavenly Father; Open my eyes and help me see Your providential Hand upon me. I thank You for Your presence in each experience and praise You for all You have done.