HE IS WITH US (and Blog Break)

 

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Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel, which means, “God is with us.” Matthew 1:23 Isaiah 7:14 (NRSV)

Do we understand the significance of the angel’s message? This message refers to a prophecy of Isaiah some 4oo years earlier. God is with us!

Even today, we see evidence of God’s presence in our world. The end of November 2017, I received a prayer request from my best friend. Her husband’s nephew had called and asked her to pray for his new-born granddaughter. The baby was born with three heart abnormalities.

The medical team waited for almost a week before performing surgery. In the meantime, several of us were praying. I requested prayer from one of my social media friends and from an online social media prayer group. This family needed to see God’s working in this circumstance. On the day I prepared this. My friend texted me a picture of the baby being held by her 3-year-old sister. She seems to have no tubes for breathing or feeding or heart monitor leads. We believed that this baby will go home very soon. God was with them throughout this past year.

UPDATE: In the fall of 2022, my friend and her husband along with their younger daughter journeyed out west and visited this nephew and his family. The little girl told my friend’s husband that she has a zipper on her chest. He told her that he has a zipper as well. The child is doing very well.

In the early part of our nation, there were people who believed that God created the world and chose to stand back and see what we would do. However, this is not the way the modern theologians teach. Those of us who have witnessed His workings know that God chooses to stand beside us in the good times and in the not-so-good times and guides us through those less than good times.

As we continue in our walk with God, let us learn to seek God in our lives and let Him lead us through the difficult times of our lives.

May this thought continue as we approach the upcoming New Year.

I am going to take a blog break until Tuesday, January 3, 2023. There are some things I need to get done here at home and also finish a bit of Christmas shopping,

Called… Into His Wonderful Light

 

 

But you are a chosen people, a royal Priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare     the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.2 Peter 2:9 (NIV)

This passage tells me a lot about how God sees each of us.

The apostle Peter reminds us of who those scattered believers and we, as God’s people, are. God chose each of us to belong to Him. He made us His children, children of the King. He did these things so that we would share our praise of Him with others. We do this sometimes. Mostly we keep those praises to ourselves. We find excuses for our behavior: “They wouldn’t understand.” “They don’t care about God.” “They don’t care about me.”

 

a chosen people,

God himself chose each of us to carry His word to those around us.

 

 a royal Priesthood,

God has made us joint heirs with Jesus. We belong to Him. God wants us to tell His Good News to those who are hurting in this fallen world.

 

 a people belonging to God,

God deemed us as His when He created us. He claimed us for His own.

 

that you may declare the praises,

Do we give praise to God every day? Do we reflect on our day and realize that we have things happen that we can praise Him for, even during troublesome times?

 

called you …into his wonderful light.

When God calls us, does He not take us from a dark sinful world and place us in His world, one where we have no fear?

A Great Light

 

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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.  Isaiah 9:2 (NIV)

 

The prophet Isaiah speaks of people walking in darkness. Who does he mean? Does he mean people who have not followed God? Let us think that to be true.

 

As we are in the season of Advent, awaiting the arrival of the Christ child, do we believe that there are those around us who walk in darkness? I am sorry to say that the answer to this question is, “Yes, there are.”

 

We read in our newspapers about people who are hurting, who are homeless, and those who traverse the law. We read about victims of others, and those who lead others into terrible circumstances because they themselves are caught up in horrible situations.

 

On the other hand, there are those who have overcome the pull into harsh lifestyles and can say they are on the right path. Those who have been victorious over the harsh life of our fallen world can attest to Jesus’s power and His love. They have seen that “great light” that Isaiah prophesies about.

 

As believers of Jesus, we must live our lives in such a way that we direct people to that “great light”.

A Witness Testifying

 

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The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it. There was a man who was sent from God; his name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him that all men might believe. John 1:5-7 (NIV)

 

Our world is not any different from the world in the New Testament. In fact, some might say it is worse. People in our world hear of “the light” but most either have not cared or do not understand about it.

 

God sent John to point the way for the people of the New Testament so they could find their way through the darkness and enter into “the light.”

 

Present day, we read of school and workplace shootings, suicides, and random shootings. We need someone who can lead our people out of the murkiness of our world and into the presence of Jesus.

 

Our world is a fallen and hurting world. We must evaluate our thoughts, our actions, and our reactions as we advance through our lives. We have a responsibility to reflect Jesus to all those around us.

 

Are there things we could do to better reflect Jesus to those around us?

Jesus, the Light of the World

 

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“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.” John 8:12 (NIV)

 

Jesus Christ spoke these words to allow those who listened to and chose to follow Him the chance to be redeemed.

Jesus revealed himself to those in the crowd. He identified himself as the one who would make the world right. People were dishonoring God. He told them they would not have to walk in darkness again.

 

Each of us must recognize that we are sinners—sinners saved by grace. Because of God’s grace, we can call on Him to listen to our prayers and to guide us through the difficult issues we sometimes face.

 

Jesus is coming again very soon. Will He find that we have been walking in the light with Him?

Book Review: Prepare Him Room

 

Bethany House Publishers

Written by Susie Larson

 

Susie Larson has created a journey for her readers, a journey through the life of Jesus Christ. This pilgrimage takes us from the visit of the angel of God and his announcement to Mary of her role in the birth of Jesus.

 

The author takes us through the Advent season with a devotion each day. She includes a chapter from the book of Luke and two other scripture passages along with an applicable quote for each day’s reading. At the end of each chapter, she includes a prayer and a daily fast for the readers to attempt.

 

I profited from reading this devotional and will use it in depth during the upcoming Advent season. She cleared up some things I had on my heart.

 

I recommend this seasonal devotional for anyone who gets ‘hung up’ in the rush of the Advent season in trying to do so much extra to commemorate the season of Jesus’ birth.

 

I received this book, free of charge, from Bethany House Publishers. All they asked of me was to give an unbiased review.

 

Copies of this devotional can be found on: Amazon.com 

Some Thoughts on Christmas

 

This Christmas season has been different for all of us. People being advised not to congregate in large crowds or celebrations. However, we must remember that the first Christmas was observed by a few people, Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds.

We still send Christmas cards to some friends in southern Indiana. The picture above is an ornament that came in one of those cards. The lady that sent it to us is Jim's best friend's sister. She has had a rough couple of years, healthwise.  She made this from scratch. She has the dove so that one can turn it over and see another dove. I love the poem. I am unsure where she found it. I love the message.

Merry Christmas to each of you and to your families.

Prince of Peace

 

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He shall be called. . . Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6 (NIV)

 

A friend of mine, now residing in heaven, told of a phone survey she was a part of. The surveyor asked her what she thought about a certain peace accord conference going on at that time. She told the person that our world would never see lasting peace until Jesus comes again. She was right. Peace only will come when Jesus returns and sets things right. He is the only one who can do that. 

 

I have learned we can only have peace for the world when each of us finds true peace, the peace that comes from Jesus, in our hearts.

Everlasting Father

 

 

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He shall be called. . . Everlasting Father. . . Isaiah 9:6 (NIV)

 

Jesus, the Son of God, is eternal. There is no end to His kingdom. And He is our heavenly Father. We can tell Him anything and He will understand what our thinking is. If we look at something incorrectly, He gently guides us through how we are supposed to think, and He forgives us. He does these things out of His love and grace for us.

 

He willingly forgives us because of His great, undying love for us. His is our Father forever.

Mighty God,

 

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He shall be called. . . Mighty God. . . Isaiah 9:6 (NIV)

 

God has no equal in this world. He is invincible. All victory belongs to Him. All things are under His control.

 

Although, the enemy rattles his sabers, tries to gain control of our world. It is basic to our Christian belief that we withstand the onslaught of the enemy and allow Jesus to remain victorious over our world.

 

As the time for Christ’s return approaches, we must learn to worship Him fully and truly, recognizing Him for who he is. . .the Mighty God.

 

Wonderful Counselor

 

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Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. 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. For unto us a child is born, a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. For unto us a child is born, a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor. . . Isaiah 9:6 (NIV)

 

When He walked this earth, Jesus gave counsel to His disciples and to those who heard Him preach.

 

Presently, Jesus gives counsel to those who approach Him in prayer and seek His guidance. He upholds each of us as we go through difficult times and times of questioning.

 

As children of God, we must seek His counsel on all that we attempt to do for ourselves, our families, and ultimately for Him.

 

A friend once told a group of us that we should not run ahead of God. She also reminded us that we also should not run behind God as we go through our walk with Him. We are to walk alongside Him.

 

As we walk with the LORD, we learn to trust Him without reservation. We learn to believe in what He tells us and how He guides us. His counsel is indeed wonderful.

God Came to Earth

 

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 How He Came

 

 As a baby,

 

God did not enter the world as a full-grown human being. He came to us as an innocent baby.

 

Into a poor family,            

 

By coming into the world in this way, He conveys that He came for all the world.

He did not come for those who live in “Ivory Towers.” He came for ALL people.

            “I bring you good news that shall be for all people.” Like 2:10 (NIV)

 

As A Young Man

 

Learned a trade from Joseph

Like most young men of that time, Jesus learned a trade, that of a carpenter from his earthly father, Joseph.

 

 Grew up

“and Jesus grew up in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.”  Luke 2:52 (NIV)

 

 His Work for the Kingdom

 

He preached to, taught, and healed those whom He met.

 

He comforted His disciples.

He foretold of his leaving them and going to His Father.

 

He Took on the Sins of the World

Jesus died a criminal’s death, yet He was sinless.

“The other criminal rebuked him. ‘Don’t you fear God’, he said, ‘We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.’” Like 23:40 (NIV)

 He took on sins of the world-my sins and yours. He asked His Father to forgive those who maltreated Him in this terrible way-the way of crucifixion.

 

He Forgave Peter

Peter denied knowing Jesus three times. He even got vehement in his response to the slave girl.  In the end, Jesus forgave Peter and commissioned him to carry His message to the world.

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He Ascended to the Right Hand of God

This was God’s plan.

 

 When He Comes Again

He will live with His people.

 Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea.  I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. Revelation 21:1-3 (NIV)

 

 

 

 

 

The Magi from the East

 

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After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem 2 and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”

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, frankincense, and myrrh.

      Matthew 2:1-2, 10-11(NIV)

 

We read of the wise men (the Magi) who traveled great a distance over a lengthy time in search of the promised Messiah.

 

These men were foreigners in Judah. Tradition tells us they spent years studying the skies, in search of a sign. They saw the star as it rose in the sky and set out to find the Christ child.

 

These wise men followed the Star of Bethlehem until it “stopped over the place where the child was.” When they saw the child, they “bowed down, and worshiped and opened their treasures and presented him with gold. frankincense, and myrrh.” As I see it, these were very costly gifts. They gave these gifts to the Christ child out of obedience to God.  They gave these gifts as a form of worship.

 

We do not read of these three wise men after they depart Bethlehem to return to their homelands. However, the lesson they provide for us is memorable. They teach us that we must pay homage to (worship) God. The ways we worship God include praise, thanksgiving, and presenting our gifts to Him.

 

As we go through each November, our hearts and minds turn to ponder the things for which we are thankful. When Advent begins, our heart thoughts turn to the Christ child and His humble beginnings. I was reminded by a friend that we are to have Christmas in our hearts every day. My response to her was that we are to be thankful for all God gives us.

 

 

Tradition tells us there may have been 12 magi. We presume there were three because of the three gifts, gold, frankincense, and myrrh. ⁽¹

 

(1)          Encyclopedia Britannica (https://www.britannica.com/topic/Magi) accessed 12/12/2020

Let Every Heart Prepare

 

A voice of one calling in the desert. Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.

                                Isaiah 40:3, Matthew 3:3 (NIV)

 

We all know the Christmas carol, Joy to the World. The words, “Let every heart prepare Him room.” Give me pause. We prepare our homes—cleaning, rearranging, decorating. I used to make candy. Shopping for that one special gift for each person on our list.

 

During this Christmas season, things will be different. We have the pandemic raging around us. Personally, I am housebound as I heal from major surgery. It could be another two weeks before I being to feel like doing anything toward preparing our home for Christmas.

 

During these times of lockdown, shutdown, or whatever you wish to call them, I have fallen out of certain habits. I believe I need to get back in step and do what I must do to regain my relationship with God. No, He has not left me, but I feel that I am not as close to Him as I once was.

 

At the end of November, I started a re-read of the book, True Worshipers. On the first Sunday of Advent, I started reading a devotional booklet, Our Greatest Gift, A Wonderful Life in Christ by Michael Hoy. It is a devotional booklet that our Sunday school class would be studying, had we been able to meet.

 

I once heard a dear Christian lady tell a group of us that we must prepare for worship as we would prepare for company or a vacation. Shouldn’t we prepare our hearts to celebrate Christ’s birth?

 

 

 

 

 

Advent

 

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                 Do not be afraid. I bring you good tidings of great joy that will be for all the people.

                                                                Luke 2:10 (NIV)

The term Advent comes from the Latin. It means “He comes to.” We take it to mean that Jesus comes into our world. As we prepare for His arrival in our world, we celebrate His birth each year.

 

We welcome Him into our hearts and share His love with those around us, our families, our church families, our friends, those who assist us in the market place.

 

Our heavenly Father sent Jesus into our world because of His love for us, His children. He sent His son into a world fraught with hardship, heartache, and danger. He sent Jesus into our world to show us how to live for His Father. We are not to fear the things of this world.

Are there ways we can show our love to those around us? During the last shutdown of our church, our pastor’s wife started a ‘’shepherding group,”  certain ones signed up to act as shepherds to those who either can’t get out or haven’t gotten out to church due to fear that it is not safe for them to be out.

One lady I call lives in another town. She is divorced (has been for a long time.) Her sons are grown and live in other parts of the state. As we were ending our conversation earlier this week, she told me she loved me. I was touched.

 

Before snow set in, I hoped to have our Christmas decorations out of our yard barn. It did not happen, the snow won. Hubby is not feeling well either, so we will wait until he starts to feel better.

Mary’s Response

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And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant.” Luke 1:46-48

(NRSV)

Mary was very young and from a poor family.

The Angel Gabrielle came to her and told her that she would bear God’s child. At first, she seemed skeptical. She couldn’t understand this message.

Gabrielle shared news about Mary’s relative, Elizabeth. Elizabeth, an older woman was with child. She and her husband Zechariah had not been blessed with children before.

Mary visits Elizabeth in her home. Elizabeth and her unborn son both recognize that Mary is the mother of the LORD.

Mary gives praise to God. She realizes that God is made real to her by His decision to use her in such a special way. She feels God’s presence in her soul and her spirit.

God became real to Mary during the time she carried this special baby.

Has God ever become real to you through something He has done for you?

Has God become more real to you through someone else by what they said or did to help you through an uncertain time? 

Preparing Our Hearts

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I had to extend my blog break into this week. My husband was in the hospital. God has been good to us through this ordeal. When I wasn’t at the hospital, I was exhausted and just sat and read and watched television. I brought him home yesterday afternoon (Thursday, Dec 5^th)

Last Sunday was the first Sunday of Advent. It was my turn to talk to the children of our church during Children’s Moments.

One of the questions I asked them was, “Do you know who Jesus is?” I got some very good answers. LORD, King, and God were the answers they gave me.

I shared with them that Advent is a time of preparation. One of my favorite traditional Christmas carols is “Joy to the World.” I love the line, “Let every heart prepare Him room.” As we prepare our homes and plan for family festivities, we also need to prepare our hearts for Jesus’ birth.

Just the next day, someone reminded me of a challenge she saw on Facebook. It goes like this. Starting on December 1^st, read the book of Luke one chapter a night. There are 24 chapters in Luke. By the time you read the last chapter on Christmas Eve, a person would understand the true meaning of Christmas. I came home from that meeting and promptly read the first chapter. Later that night, I read the second chapter.

As we enter this Advent season, let us remember to take time to prepare our hearts, as well as our homes, to receive Jesus.

Do you do anything special to remember Jesus during Advent?

Has your family ever had a birthday party for Him?

Some Christmas music for your enjoyment:

Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus

O Come, O Come, Emmanuel

 

He Lived Among Us

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And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14 (ESV)

John says it very well. Jesus lived among His people. Do we truly realize what John says here? God came to earth and ate, worked, traveled, and experienced grief and happiness as we do. He chose to live among us.

God doesn’t sit on his throne, shaking his head and waits to see what kind of mischief we humans get into. When we do get into trouble and sin, He doesn’t say,” You’re on your own.” If we ask Him, He forgives us. He understands us because He lived here on earth.

Jesus came to earth as a baby to show us how to live for God. He taught the people of Israel about His Father. Once we accept him, He lives in our hearts and guides us through life here on earth. He will come again and live with us forever in the New Jerusalem.

Children of God

 

He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of the blood nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. John1:11-13 (ESV)

John states something very basic to our belief here. When we receive Jesus we each become a child of God. Jesus’ earthly family did not believe in Him nor did a lot of those from the area where he grew up. When he spoke in Nazareth, they thought of whose earthly family he was a member not of what he said.

When one accepts Christ as Lord of his or her life, Jesus claims that person as His own.  His acceptance of us gives each of us eternal life. And He calls us his sons and daughters.

Cohen's Hallelujah, Christmas Version

The True Light

The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. John 1:9-10 (ESV)

John calls Jesus the true light. When something is true, we know it to be real. We know that fact to be as stated. In present-day language, we know something that is true to be the real deal.

However, John lets us know that the world, which was made through him, did not know Jesus. The Pharisees and the Sadducees chose not to believe his message. We have this condition here in the present age. Some people have chosen not to believe in Jesus and some have never had the opportunity to meet Him.

As we come to know Jesus as the King of our lives, we learn to wait on Him and His direction for our lives. Sometimes have to search the scriptures for His words to tell us what we must do. We may have times when all we can do is follow His leading and wait for the outcome He has planned. 

Do You Hear What I hear?