Revelation 19:11-16
Every year brings its own version of “hate is strong”, and some years, evil looks unstoppable – like the Civil War of Longfellow’s day. This feeling of defeat can be even more overwhelming in the shadow of Christmas. Like the poet, looking at the lights and presents, many people experience doubts and depression instead of hope and joy. It’s human. But in those moments instead of focusing on the trappings – it’s time to lift our eyes to Jesus because Christmas is about Him, the King of kings, and Lord of lords. His authority is absolute and His power unchallengeable. He is truth. His victory is certain. And even when we do not feel it, His loving hand and gaze rests on us to comfort and guide us in the way we should go.
John 3:14-21
(The story that Jesus is talking about with Nicodemus is in Numbers 21:4-9.) The third verse sounds a lot like a verse we know. For God so loved the world…that is the reason behind Christmas. Just like in Numbers, we are righteously under the punishment of God. We are dying and have no way to save ourselves. But God has provided. The bronze snake on a stake in the Old Testament is just a picture of the Son of God hung on a cross in the New. But the premise is the same: Lift your eyes, believe God, and be saved. How will you ring the bells for Jesus this season?
Luke 2:8-20
If you know this carol, you know the Christmas story. This season let’s go beyond knowing, and instead, “Come and see.” Come and see this thing which the Lord has made known to us! That first Christmas only a handful of people were “in the know” and each one of them was chosen and informed by God in a special way. You have been chosen by God and informed in a special way too. This divine revelation has been made to you – because God chose you. Your Bible sits in your hands because God is informing you. Next time you hear or read the Christmas story, take time to think: God has chosen me to hear this! Hebrews 10:3-7
The poor shepherds knew He was the Savior. The wise men knew He was King of the Jews. Mary knew He was her son. Joseph knew He wasn’t his. But they must have all wondered: What was He going to do? Why was He born? We know He was born to live a sinless life, teach a few short years, be nailed to a cross to die in our place, and rise from the dead. But the Scriptures say: He had come to do the will of God. Can you say the same about your life? For Deeper Thought… How is bringing a gift different than making a purchase? What gift are you bringing to Jesus this Christmas? 1 Peter 1:13
This carol, in particular, focuses on the peace of the season. Its tune calms our hearts. Its words remind us of the hope, joy, and peace of Christmases past. But peace is often elusive especially at this time of year. Family drama, money problems, the frantic to-do list, and the tight schedule all add to our stress. But all those things will change. They are temporary. Our peace is from Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth. He never changes. He is eternal. He is our peace. Today, what is one thing you can do to purposefully accept the peace of God? Hebrews 4:14-16
Long lay the world pining apart from her God. We had no advocate. We had no intercessor. We could not keep God’s perfect law. We were guilty and doomed to the judgment. Then: O Holy Night. Hope was born! Jesus came! And even more exciting, another holy night or day is approaching when Jesus will come again. Every tongue will praise Him, and eternity will open. How is Christmas meant to prepare us for Christ’s second coming?
Psalm 124:6-8
Yes, glory to God in the highest, but why did the angels sing such songs? What did the shepherds leave the flocks to see? Why are we invited to join them and kneel beside a feeding trough? Christmas comes around every year. “It’s just Jesus.” No. This is Jesus – the One Who will save His people from their sins. He is salvation! They sing because this is JESUS! Dear Father, please make this truth so very personal to us this year. We sing because of Jesus and the salvation and fullness He brings. Glory to God in the highest! |
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