Today’s Reading: John 1:1-18

Jesus: My Savior, my Redeemer, my LIFE.
Jesus: My Counselor, my Comforter, my LIGHT.
Jesus: My King, my Best Friend, my LOVE.

LIFE, LIGHT and LOVE — three powerful words that describe our Lord and Savior. We are able to experience these three gifts because of the presence of Christ in our life, the presence of the Word.

In the beginning the Word already existed.
The Word was with God, and the Word was God.
He existed in the beginning with God.
God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him.
The Word gave LIFE to everything that was created, and his life brought LIGHT to everyone.
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it. – John 1:1-5

JESUS, THE WORD, GIVES US LIFE.

He was there in the beginning when life was created. In fact, all life was created through Him because he is the One who gave life to everything that was created. We would not be here, we would not experience physical life, if it were not for Jesus — the Word. But we would also not experience a rebirth or a second gift of life if it were not for him. We experience new life in God when we accept what Jesus did for us on the cross. When we see the part we played in his death and believe that he rose from the dead, we accept that Jesus is the pathway to life. We experience a new life because of the One who gave life to everything. Jesus, the One who gave us life, is the way to life (John 14:6).

The one who is the true light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. He came into the very world he created, but the world didn’t recognize him. He came to his own people, and even they rejected him. But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. They are reborn – not with a physical birth resulting from human passion or plan, but a birth that comes from God. – John 1:9-13

JESUS, THE WORD, GIVES US LIGHT.

Just as God spoke light into existence at creation, Jesus brought light when he came into the world he had created. Jesus came into a world that had been darkened by sin in order to cast his light into the world he created. We come to know the God who created us through the Son who died for us, and then we have the extraordinary blessing of His Spirit living within us. Jesus, the One who gave us light, is the light (John 8:12).

No one has ever seen God. But the unique One, who is himself God, is near to the Father’s heart. He has revealed God to us. – John 1:18

I am so thankful that the light of Jesus led me to an understanding of God’s plan for my life. His light shines in the darkness so that we can see beyond the sinful options of this world and see the difference He can make in our lives. The same God who created light in the beginning, when all was dark, is the God who sent the Word to become the light of the world. His light shines brightly in the lives of those around us, giving us hope for our own salvation.

For God, who said, “Let there be light in the darkness,” has made this light shine in our hearts so we could know the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ. – 2 Corinthians 4:6

In what ways can we choose to walk in the light today? There is so much darkness around us — in the news, politics, social media, and in the hearts of those we meet. With this darkness comes loneliness, grief, hopelessness, and pain. The One who created light has a plan to be the light in our lives for those who are hurting. This changes the way we see our day. Is this just another day or is this the opportunity to let His holiness shine in our lives? Today is the day to bring hope to everyone we come in contact with.

JESUS, THE WORD, GIVES US LOVE.

So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing LOVE and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son. – John 1:14

When Jesus entered the world of darkness, he gave us blessing after blessing from the abundance of his love. Before this time, God’s people had experienced the love of their Creator, but it was through the gift of His Son that God’s unfailing love and faithfulness came down so close they could see it!

From his abundance we have all received one gracious blessing after another. For the law was given through Moses, but God’s unfailing love and faithfulness came through Jesus Christ. – John 1:16-17

What a gift we were given when the Word took on flesh! As we study the life of Jesus, we come to a better understanding of who God is. The manger scene displays the evidence of God’s love. The sacrifice of Jesus gives us perspective of just how much God loves us. His love for us is revealed in the gift of His Son. Jesus, the One who taught us how to love, displayed his love on the cross (1 John 4:10).

Life, light and love — we will experience all three of these today but it is our choice whether or not we acknowledge the presence of these gifts in our life. Today I can choose to recognize God’s blessings in my life that overflow from the abundance of His unfailing love and faithfulness, or I can focus on the loud cries of the darkness that try hard to extinguish these gifts of life, light and love.

Jesus, we recognize you this Christmas morning as the Giver of Life. We thank you for each day you give us to experience life with our family and friends, and we praise you for the opportunity to experience new life by walking in fellowship with you. You are the way to life, you are the truth that guides our life, and you are the source of life itself. Help us to show joy and cast hope into the lives of others. May the words of our mouths and the brightness of our hearts help someone else see you today. Jesus, we choose to walk in your light and shine for others, just as you are shining for us. Amen.

Today’s Reading: Matthew 2:1-12; Psalm 150

Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the reign of King Herod. About that time some wise men from eastern lands arrived in Jerusalem, asking, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star as it rose, and we have come to worship him.” – Matthew 2:1-2

WE SAW AND SO WE CAME.

The Magi arrived in Jerusalem seeking the promised Messiah. They had been studying the sky and so they knew the meaning behind the bright star. The wisemen had left their homes and traveled a long distance in order to personally greet the King of the Jews. Each step they took towards Bethlehem got them closer to meeting Jesus face to face — the One who would become the Savior of the world.

King Herod was deeply disturbed when he heard this, as was everyone in Jerusalem. He called a meeting of the leading priests and teachers of religious law and asked, “Where is the Messiah supposed to be born?”
“In Bethlehem in Judea,” they said, “for this is what the prophet wrote:
‘And you, O Bethlehem in the land of Judah,
are not least among the ruling cities of Judah,
for a ruler will come from you
who will be the shepherd for my people Israel.’” – Matthew 2:3-6

Perhaps King Herod was struggling with what today we call imposter syndrome. He knew that the Romans had taken over the land of the Jews, and he did not like the idea of having the rightful king show up and claim the throne. He needed to figure out what the wisemen were talking about so that he could stop this newborn king before it was too late.

HE WONDERED AND SO HE ASKED.

Then Herod called for a private meeting with the wise men, and he learned from them the time when the star first appeared. Then he told them, “Go to Bethlehem and search carefully for the child. And when you find him, come back and tell me so that I can go and worship him, too!” – Matthew 2:7-8

King Herod asked his questions, gathered the information he needed, and then executed his plan to gain access to this little king whose presence threatened his power. He feigned interest, joining the wisemen in their excitement to worship the one the Jews had been anticipating. His jealousy was masked by a pretense of authentic interest.

After this interview the wise men went their way. And the star they had seen in the east guided them to Bethlehem. It went ahead of them and stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were filled with joy! – Matthew 2:9-10

THEY WERE BEING LED AND SO THEY FOLLOWED.

The wise men saw the star in the sky and knew they needed to reach the star in order to arrive at their destination. Day after day, perhaps month after month, they followed this star but it remained out ahead of them. What many would have considered an unreachable dream, these men considered a worthwhile journey. The search for the Christ child was worth their time, it was worth their effort, and it was worth their perseverance. They did not stop until the star stopped. And when their purpose was realized, the wise men were filled with joy. It had not been easy, but it had been worth the search.

THEY WERE AWE OF BABY JESUS AND SO THEY WORSHIPED HIM.

They entered the house and saw the child with his mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasure chests and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. When it was time to leave, they returned to their own country by another route, for God had warned them in a dream not to return to Herod. – Matthew 2:11-12

When they reached their destination, the wise men bowed before Jesus and began to worship him. Because they had been studying the scriptures, they understood the significance of this moment. They held nothing back as they opened up their most valuable treasures and lavished them upon Jesus. What a beautiful moment of fulfillment! They had been seeking the newborn king and they had found him. They were experiencing this amazing moment because they had made the journey towards Jesus, found the search to be worthwhile, and were willing to endure the difficult days along the way.

WE LONG TO SEE JESUS AND SO WE SEEK HIM.

Where are you on your journey towards Jesus? I hope that 2024 has been a year that has brought you joy as you pursued a covenant relationship with Jesus. This is what you were created for and what Jesus came to earth in order for you to experience. Perhaps this year has not been easy, and perhaps the enemy has tried his best to distract you from the purpose you set out to follow.

Through it all (the grief, the anxiety, the troubles), I hope you have recognized the goodness of God that has daily provided you with direction, the light of Jesus that has shed clarity, and the peace of the Lord that has filled you with joy. May these last few days of 2024 find you grateful for His provision and hopeful for the blessings this next chapter holds.

Praise the Lord!
Praise God in his sanctuary;
praise him in his mighty heaven!
Praise him for his mighty works;
praise his unequaled greatness!…
Let everything that breathes sing praises to the Lord!
Praise the Lord! – Psalm 150

Today’s Reading: John 12:1-3; 2 Corinthians 2:14-17; Psalm 100

Are you ready for Christmas? I have so much more to do — more gifts to buy, stockings to fill, and groceries to buy. I am more than ready to spend time with my family but not quite ready for the celebration. My task list is long and I am feeling all of the pressure of this season of life we are in.

But maybe this is the question I should be answering — Have I prepared my heart for Christmas? Am I leaning into the meaning behind our Christmas celebrations? Is my heart anticipating the worship of the Christ child again this year? Am I ready for the Lord to do something new in my heart and life this Christmas? I do not want to get so caught up in the traditions of the holiday and the preparation for the celebration that I forget the true meaning behind Christmas.

AM I PREPARED FOR CHRISTMAS?

We are only two days from celebrating the birth of Jesus, but let’s fast forward for today to ponder a party that was being thrown for Jesus. Let’s consider a very special family preparing for a very special evening.

Six days before the Passover celebration began, Jesus arrived in Bethany, the home of Lazarus—the man he had raised from the dead. A dinner was prepared in Jesus’ honor. – John 12:1-2a

Jesus was coming and they were throwing a party! Mary, Martha and Lazarus were preparing for Jesus to come to dinner. The Passover celebration was just days away, but tonight it was about Jesus and all that he had done in their lives. Lazarus had been dead for three days but, with a simple command from Jesus, Lazarus had stood up and walked out of the grave. Their hearts were still exploding with gratitude that their brother was there today to be a part of this special dinner party.

This morning is a great opportunity for us to look back with gratitude on everything Jesus has done for us this year and in previous years. What prayers has He answered; in what ways has He provided for us this year? This remembrance could have the potential to prepare our hearts and minds for all the Lord wants us to experience this Christmas. It will help us get our hearts focused on Jesus.

Then Mary took a twelve-ounce jar of expensive perfume made from essence of nard, and she anointed Jesus’ feet with it, wiping his feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance. – John 12:3

Here is another way in which Mary was prepared for an evening with Jesus. She had expensive perfume prepared, and her heart was postured to fall at the feet of Jesus and worship him in a way that no one else had done. This gift was not lost on Jesus; he saw the heart of Mary that day.

THE HOUSE WAS FILLED WITH THE FRAGRANCE.

Consider with me the impact you could have on all of your Christmas celebrations over the next few days if your mind is prepared and your heart is postured for worship. What if the house was filled with the presence of Jesus and the fragrance of praise? What if your efforts to keep Jesus in the center of the celebration could have a tremendous impact on your loved ones? What if your worship filled the house with a fragrance that was sweet and beautiful for all to experience?

But thank God! He has made us his captives and continues to lead us along in Christ’s triumphal procession. Now he uses us to spread the knowledge of Christ everywhere, like a sweet perfume. Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God. But this fragrance is perceived differently by those who are being saved and by those who are perishing. To those who are perishing, we are a dreadful smell of death and doom. But to those who are being saved, we are a life-giving perfume. And who is adequate for such a task as this? – 2 Corinthians 2:14-16

LET’S ALLOW GOD TO TAKE OUR HEARTS CAPTIVE THIS CHRISTMAS.

Lord, thank you for this reminder to refocus before we get any farther into the Christmas celebrations. Lord, we give you our hearts. Take them captive — may your desires be reflected in ours, and may our actions give you glory. Thank you for the gift of your Son and for the miracle of His birth. We bow down and worship you this morning with shouts of joy and a thankful heart. Amen.

Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.
Worship the Lord with gladness;
come before him with joyful songs.
Know that the Lord is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name.
For the Lord is good and his love endures forever;
his faithfulness continues through all generations. – Psalm 100

Today’s Reading: Luke 2:8-20; Psalm 68

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. – Luke 2:8

They were shepherds doing what shepherds do. It was their job to keep their eye on the flocks, protecting them from thieves and wild animals or simply from wandering away and getting lost. Perhaps the night already felt special because there was a star over Bethlehem that was lighting up the field. It’s possible there was not anything obviously special about these herdsmen, yet their proximity to the birth of Jesus allowed them to experience a night the world would never forget!

THEIR PROXIMITY GAVE THEM AN OPPORTUNITY.

An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. – Luke 2:9

Imagine with me how magnificent it must have been to be surrounded by the glory of the Lord. How amazing would it have been to actually see an angel of the Lord in all his beauty. Yet the shepherds were afraid. This was new. This was unexpected. This was terrifying. They were responding in the same way that many others in scripture responded when they saw an angel for the first time. Perhaps this is why so many of the angel messages in the Bible start with a message of comfort — “Do not be afraid.”

THEIR EXPERIENCE BROUGHT FEAR OF THE UNKNOWN.

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” – Luke 2:10-12

I love it when someone approaches me asking the question — Do you want to hear some good news? I find myself immediately answering with a “yes”, anticipating just how good this news might be. Many life-giving moments have started with the preface — I have great news for you!

THEIR ANTICIPATION WAS FOLLOWED BY THE CLEAR WAY TO ENCOUNTER THE PROMISED MESSIAH.

I love the clarity with which the angels delivered the message to the shepherds. The shepherds were given everything they needed to know. What happened? The Messiah had been born. When did this happen? Today. Where was he born? In Bethlehem, known as the hometown of David, just as the prophets had foretold. How would they know who he was? You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger. The shepherds were told everything they needed to know in order to experience the presence of the long-awaited Messiah — the one who would become the Savior of the World.

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
“Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” – Luke 2:13-14

Let’s stop and picture this moment. Close your eyes and try to visualize a great company of angels. Imagine the sky being filled with the heavenly host. Can you hear the rush of angels’ wings? Can you feel the air swirling around you? Can you hear the magnificence of the angel voices worshiping the Almighty God? It seems to me like a moment I would not wish away, but hope would last forever.

David spoke of a great army of angels bringing good news, an army that caused the enemy armies to scatter and flee (Psalm 68). In his vision, Daniel saw millions of angels ministering to the Ancient One and many millions attending to Him as He sat on the throne to judge (Daniel 7). Angels came to attend to Jesus after he had been tempted in the desert (Matthew 4), and an angel of the Lord killed 185,000 Assyrian soldiers after King Hezekiah laid out before the Lord a threatening letter he had received from his enemies (2 Kings 19).

But on the night that Jesus was born, the angels came with a message. They were there to make sure these shepherds heard the good news about Jesus. They came rejoicing over the birth of God’s Son, praising God and celebrating this moment that held such great significance. Just as the shepherds were watching over their flocks, the angels were watching over the Lamb of God.

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.” – Luke 2:15

THEIR EXCITEMENT LED THEM TO THE PLACE WHERE THE CHRIST CHILD HAD BEEN BORN.

So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told. – Luke 2:16-20

Jesus, we celebrate your wondrous birth. Our hearts are exploding with gratitude for your willingness to come near so that you could make a way for us to experience salvation. Like Mary, we want to take time to treasure up all these things and ponder them in our hearts. As we anticipate spending time with our loved ones this week, we thank you for the opportunity to spend time in your presence this morning. Thank you for a love so amazing that you became Immanual — God with us. We love you! Amen.

Today’s Reading: Luke 2:1-14

In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to their own town to register. – Luke 2:1-3

In this next passage, we see Joseph doing his best to prepare for the birth of Jesus. It would have been great if they could have been in their own home when Mary went into labor; it would have been great if she could have rested on the days leading up to the delivery. But God had a plan and a purpose that was beyond their understanding. Jesus was to be born in Bethlehem, not Nazareth.

But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah,
are only a small village among all the people of Judah.
Yet a ruler of Israel,
whose origins are in the distant past,
will come from you on my behalf. – Micah 5:2

OH LITTLE TOWN OF BETHLEHEM, THE SON OF GOD WILL COME FROM YOU.

Like everyone else, Joseph was obligated to go to Bethlehem to register for the census. Caesar had decreed it and so Joseph complied. Because he was from the line of David, he and Mary needed to go to Bethlehem to register. We often picture the two of them traveling alone, but both of their families were from the line of David so it makes sense that they would have traveled with a group of family members. It would have been a difficult journey, especially for a pregnant woman, and it makes sense that it would not have been safe to travel alone.

So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. – Luke 2:4-5

You will remember from the genealogy of Jesus that Joseph was a descendant of Obed, the son of Boaz and Ruth (Matthew 1:5). Naomi was from Bethlehem and returned to Bethlehem with her daughter-in-law, Ruth, after her husband and sons died. After Boaz married Ruth and they had a son (Obed), the people of Bethlehem rejoiced.

Then the elders and all the people standing in the gate replied, “We are witnesses! May the Lord make this woman who is coming into your home like Rachel and Leah, from whom all the nation of Israel descended! May you prosper in Ephrathah and be famous in Bethlehem.” – Ruth 4:11

OH LITTLE TOWN OF BETHLEHEM, YOUR STORY CONTINUES FROM GENERATION TO GENERATION.

We see Bethlehem again in the story of David. The Lord sent Samuel to Bethlehem to anoint one of Jesse’s sons as the next king. After considering all of Jesse’s boys, God made it clear to Samuel that it was David he was calling to lead His people.

So as David stood there among his brothers, Samuel took the flask of olive oil he had brought and anointed David with the oil. And the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon David from that day on. – 1 Samuel 16:13a

In the same village where David was anointed king, the King of David was born.
In the same place where the youngest son of Jesse was considered the least of his brothers, the baby Jesus was born in the least likely way.
In the same town where Boaz exercised his right as the family redeemer and married Ruth, our Redeemer was born so that we could be forgiven of our sins.
In the city known as the House of Bread, the Bread of Life arrived so that we would never hunger again.

While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them. – Luke 2:6-7

OH LITTLE TOWN OF BETHLEHEM, A STAR IS SHINING BRIGHTLY ABOVE YOU.

With all of the tribe of Judah making their way to Bethlehem, it makes sense that things were a little crowded by the time they arrived. Most likely they had family in Bethlehem and were outside in the area of the home where the animals bedded down for the night because the house was already full. If this were the case, I can just imagine the excitement among the relatives that Mary’s baby was choosing that night to arrive. Or perhaps they were all asleep when Jesus entered into the world.

There is so much we do not know about the night Jesus was born. It’s easy to make reasonable assumptions — Mary rode on a donkey, Jesus was born in a stable, there were animals surrounding them, they were alone until the shepherds arrived. Maybe our nativity scene is missing some of the pieces, or maybe that’s exactly how it took place. What we know with confidence is that Jesus was the Son of God, and he came to this earth exactly as planned yet nothing like expected.

As we read the Christmas story this week, our hearts will once again focus on the beauty of the birth of Christ. From the moment the angel appeared to Mary, to the moment the angels appeared to the shepherds, God was working out His plan of salvation on our behalf. And God is still at work in our lives today, showing up in unexpected ways and in His perfect timing. Today let’s join the angels in singing:

“Glory to God in highest heaven,
and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.” – Luke 2:14

Today’s Reading: Mark 1:1-8; Luke 1:67-80

Awe fell upon the whole neighborhood, and the news of what had happened spread throughout the Judean hills. Everyone who heard about it reflected on those events and asked, “What will this child turn out to be?” For the hand of the Lord was surely upon him in a special way. – Luke 1:65-67

WHAT WILL THIS CHILD TURN OUT TO BE?

As a mother, my heart is stirred by this question because it is a question I have often pondered about my own daughters. Don’t we all wonder what will become of our children and grandchildren when they grow up? What career will they have? Will they be successful? Most of all, will they be happy? Will the Lord bless them with a family of their own? Will the Lord be glorified through their lives? Again today, I find myself wondering what God has planned for the beautiful young women who call me “Mom”, and I pray that today’s experiences will prepare them for tomorrow’s opportunities.

Zechariah spoke a blessing over his newborn son: “And you, my little son, will be called the prophet of the Most High, because you will prepare the way for the Lord. You will tell his people how to find salvation through forgiveness of their sins. Because of God’s tender mercy, the morning light from heaven is about to break upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, and to guide us to the path of peace.” – Luke 1:76-79

Daily we have the opportunity to speak blessings on our children — whether they are small enough to crawl into our laps, old enough to ask for the keys to the car, or grown enough to have a home of their own. Our children need to hear that we believe in them and in God’s plan for their lives. Our role as parents never ends. We can still be the one to pray over them, asking for God’s blessings and protection.

This is the Good News about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God. It began just as the prophet Isaiah had written: “Look, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, and he will prepare your way. He is a voice shouting in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord’s coming! Clear the road for him!’”

This messenger was John the Baptist. He was in the wilderness and preached that people should be baptized to show that they had repented of their sins and turned to God to be forgiven. All of Judea, including all the people of Jerusalem, went out to see and hear John. And when they confessed their sins, he baptized them in the Jordan River. His clothes were woven from coarse camel hair, and he wore a leather belt around his waist. For food he ate locusts and wild honey.

John announced: “Someone is coming soon who is greater than I am—so much greater that I’m not even worthy to stoop down like a slave and untie the straps of his sandals. I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit!” – Mark 1:1-8

HE ATE WHAT?!

What happens when we struggle to understand the decisions our children are making or the road they are choosing? I wonder how Zechariah and Elizabeth reacted when they heard their son was living in the wilderness. Did they worry? Were they surprised at the details of how his ministry was rolling out?

I can easily see how parents could go from being the cheerleader to the voice of doubt. How easily we can get an idea in our head of what our children should do and then end up being a discouragement to them. That’s not who I want to be; I want to be their biggest cheerleader and most faithful prayer warrior. I pray that I continually point them back to God with words like, “As long as you are doing what God has asked you to do” or “Just keep listening to God and following Him and I’ll be here no matter what.”

Perhaps we should look for an opportunity this Christmas to tell the young people in our lives how much we believe in them and in the plan God has for them. Make sure they know God can use them in a powerful way wherever He places them and whatever He asks them to do. Maybe we should look for opportunities every day to essentially say…

YOU DID IT! GREAT JOB! I’M PROUD OF YOU.

Lord, give me wisdom. Parenting is not always easy but it is such an honor and a blessing, and I would not trade it for anything in the world! Thank you for the privilege of this responsibility. I am grateful for all of the young people in my life. Heavenly Father, guide me and teach me what to say and when to say it. May I always be a source of encouragement and a positive voice in the heart of each of my family members and friends.

“Tell Aaron and his sons to bless the people of Israel with this special blessing:
‘May the Lord bless you and protect you.
May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you.
May the Lord show you his favor
and give you his peace.’
Whenever Aaron and his sons bless the people of Israel in my name, I myself will bless them.” – Numbers 6:23-27

Today’s Reading: Luke 1:67-80; Psalm 71, 75 & 107

What came of Zechariah’s period of silence? Now that he knew what it was like to be unable to communicate, how did his new appreciation for words impact what he chose to say? Zechariah had more than nine months to consider what God was telling him through the angel Gabriel. A new wisdom and understanding was birthed from this time of quiet. Just as his son was born filled with the Holy Spirit, Zechariah was also filled with the Holy Spirit, and he began to prophesy. He spoke of the coming Messiah, as well as speaking purpose over his newborn son.

HIS TIME OF SILENCE WAS A GREAT TIME TO EMPTY HIMSELF OF ALL THAT WAS ZECHARIAH SO THAT HE COULD BE FILLED WITH ALL THAT WAS GOD.

“Praise the Lord, the God of Israel,
because he has visited and redeemed his people.
He has sent us a mighty Savior
from the royal line of his servant David,
just as he promised
through his holy prophets long ago.
Now we will be saved from our enemies
and from all who hate us.
He has been merciful to our ancestors
by remembering his sacred covenant—
the covenant he swore with an oath
to our ancestor Abraham.
We have been rescued from our enemies
so we can serve God without fear,
in holiness and righteousness
for as long as we live.
“And you, my little son,
will be called the prophet of the Most High,
because you will prepare the way for the Lord.
You will tell his people how to find salvation
through forgiveness of their sins.
Because of God’s tender mercy,
the morning light from heaven is about to break upon us,
to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death,
and to guide us to the path of peace.” – Luke 1:68-79

I love the picture of Zechariah smiling down at his newborn son and speaking these tender words of purpose. There have been many moments in my life when someone took the time to speak words of encouragement over me. I can look back at some pretty pivotal moments when someone I highly respected spoke purpose into my life and the impact was powerful.

Perhaps the Lord will give us a moment like that today — a moment when we can speak into the life of a student, friend or coworker. Perhaps you have a family member who needs you to break the silence today and let them know you see the potential of who God created them to be.

SPEAK HOPE. SPEAK TRUTH. SPEAK LIFE.

O God, you have taught me from my earliest childhood,
and I constantly tell others about the wonderful things you do.
Now that I am old and gray,
do not abandon me, O God.
Let me proclaim your power to this new generation,
your mighty miracles to all who come after me. – Psalm 71:17-18

When we speak truth over the life of someone else, we break the power of the enemy’s words. We fight against the negativity and lies that have become the soundtrack of their life, replacing it with songs of hope and truth. When the Lord gives us words of encouragement to share with someone else but we choose to remain silent, the enemy wins and we lose the opportunity to make an impact.

But as for me, I will always proclaim what God has done;
I will sing praises to the God of Jacob.
For God says, “I will break the strength of the wicked,
but I will increase the power of the godly.” – Psalm 75:9-10

Let’s be intentional with our day — intentional to be heard by someone else, but also to hear from God. Today could get pretty hectic, busy, chaotic and loud for us. Let’s refuse to make so much noise that we cannot hear God’s still small voice speaking of His purpose for our day. Let’s bow quietly before Him and pray for a new wisdom and understanding, a new and fresh in-filling of the Spirit. Then, when we hear from Him, let’s choose to remain quiet and ponder His words, allowing Him to guide us down the path of peace.

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good!
His faithful love endures forever.
Has the Lord redeemed you? Then speak out!
Tell others he has redeemed you from your enemies. – Psalm 107:1-2

Today’s Reading: Psalm 60, 70 & 83

I pray to you, O Lord, my rock. Do not turn a deaf ear to me. For if you are silent, I might as well give up and die. – Psalm 28:1

Sometimes God asks us to be silent before Him, prompting us to spend more time listening and less time talking. God asks us to silence the noise so that we can hear His still small voice. I am reminded of Abraham’s servant who was given the task of finding a wife for Isaac. He responded in obedience to the task he was given; then he prayed for success in accomplishing that task and waited in silence.

The servant watched her in silence, wondering whether or not the Lord had given him success in his mission. – Genesis 24:21

THE ART OF BEING STILL IS A BEAUTIFUL MOTION OF OBEDIENCE AND TRUST.

We do what we know to do and then watch for evidence of God at work in our lives. But what happens when we seek clarity and get none; what happens when we look for evidence of God’s presence and come up empty-handed? What if we are left wondering whether or not the Lord is already moving on our behalf?

But may all who search for you
be filled with joy and gladness in you.
May those who love your salvation
repeatedly shout, “God is great!”
But as for me, I am poor and needy;
please hurry to my aid, O God.
You are my helper and my savior;
O Lord, do not delay. – Psalm 70:4-5

At times we can go through a season when it feels like God is silent. We long to hear from Him, we call upon His name, but hear no response. We daily spend time in his words, lifting our prayers and petitions to our Lord, but there is no evidence that God is responding to the cries of our heart. Our impatience gets the best of us and we cry out for God to hurry, to speak, to respond in some way:

O God, do not be silent!
Do not be deaf.
Do not be quiet, O God. – Psalm 83:1

The psalmist went on to describe to God what the enemy was doing to the nation of Israel. It seems as if he was questioning God’s attention to the situation as he detailed what was happening all around him. Then he took the rest of the song to suggest, or rather demand, that God should do something to make right all that was going wrong.

THE ART OF PRAYER IS A DUET BETWEEN DESPERATE PETITION AND HUMBLE SUBMISSION.

Let them know that you, whose name is the Lord—
that you alone are the Most High over all the earth. – Psalm 83:16

In this last verse, there is a submission to the authority of God. The psalmist referred to the name of the Lord, showing the desire to be obedient to the Master — the One who should always be in charge. He recognized that God alone is the Most High. And although his prayer was to “let them know”, it seems from the first verse that he was also asking for God to let him know. He needed the reassurance that God was taking care of His people.

Lord, let me know that you are aware. Show me that you are in control of the situation. I desire to feel your presence and rest in your faithfulness. Help me to let go so that I will stop trying to control my circumstances. I long to rest in your care, but my heart needs to be reassured of your love. Amen.

It is easy to feel alone at times. In fact, the enemy would love for us to believe that we are alone — that God has abandoned us. We begin to question His love and wonder if He even cares about what we are going through. During these times, we have to remind ourselves of what we know to be true — that we are never alone and that His love is unfailing.

God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” – Hebrews 13:5b

GOD, MAKE YOUR PRESENCE KNOWN TO US TODAY AS WE SIT IN THE SILENCE.

My God, whom I praise,
do not remain silent…
Help me, Lord my God;
save me according to your unfailing love.
Let them know that it is your hand,
that you, Lord, have done it. – Psalm 109:1,26-27a

Today’s Reading: Luke 1:26-56; Psalm 139

After receiving the message from the angel, Mary hurried to the town where Zechariah and Elizabeth lived. She had seen and heard an angel, receiving a message unlike one anyone had ever received before. She was a virgin, yet she was with child. She lived a simple life, yet the angel had called her “favored” and told her that she was not alone.

THE LORD IS WITH YOU.

Gabriel appeared to her and said, “Greetings, favored woman! The Lord is with you!” Confused and disturbed, Mary tried to think what the angel could mean. – Luke 1:28-29

Mary would have heard the stories of angels bringing messages to men and women throughout the history of the Jewish people, but she probably was not expecting to have her own encounter. And here she was, hearing an angel call her favored, and telling her that the Lord was with her. Even more, the angel went on to tell her that she would soon conceive a baby by the Holy Spirit and the Son of God would grow within her. She, a humble young girl, had been chosen for this amazing task.

THE LORD IS WITHIN YOU.

Instead of feeling joy, Mary was confused and disturbed at what the angel was telling her. But when Mary arrived at the home of Zechariah and Elizabeth, she was greeted with the affirmation she needed. Perhaps she had not even spoken to anyone about what the angel had said; perhaps she had immediately made plans with her family to go and visit the one who might possibly believe that she had received a message from an angel.

Elizabeth gave a glad cry and exclaimed to Mary, “God has blessed you above all women, and your child is blessed. Why am I so honored, that the mother of my Lord should visit me? When I heard your greeting, the baby in my womb jumped for joy. You are blessed because you believed that the Lord would do what he said.” – Luke 1:42-45

WOMB TO WOMB

Did you catch the significance of this moment? The unborn baby growing within Elizabeth responded to the unborn baby growing within Mary. What a beautiful moment of affirmation and wonder! What a generous sign from heaven to confirm what the angel had said would happen!

In this passage, we see Mary go from the description of confused and disturbed to choosing joy in this special calling God had placed on her life. There would be plenty of negative reactions ahead to her explanation of how she was with child, but in this moment she could rejoice that the Lord had chosen her. Not only was the Messiah about to enter into this world, she had the privilege of being the first person to feel his movement and then later to hold him in her arms. She was the first to love him like no one else would ever be able to love him — like only a mother can love.

Mary responded,
“Oh, how my soul praises the Lord.
How my spirit rejoices in God my Savior!
For he took notice of his lowly servant girl,
and from now on all generations will call me blessed.
For the Mighty One is holy,
and he has done great things for me.
He shows mercy from generation to generation
to all who fear him.
His mighty arm has done tremendous things!
He has scattered the proud and haughty ones.
He has brought down princes from their thrones
and exalted the humble.
He has filled the hungry with good things
and sent the rich away with empty hands.
He has helped his servant Israel
and remembered to be merciful.
For he made this promise to our ancestors,
to Abraham and his children forever.”

Mary stayed with Elizabeth about three months and then went back to her own home. – Luke 1:46-56

Three months to soak in the reality of this promise. Three months to feel her abdomen swell. Three months to prepare herself for how her family and fiancé would react to the news of her pregnancy, each day growing in confidence that what the angel said was true. God had done what He said He would do, and now she would walk humbly in the part she had been asked to play. She would be the mother of the Lord growing within her — this special baby she would name Jesus.

THE LORD IS PREPARING YOU.

We see this same pattern in our own opportunity for obedience. We receive a call on our life and then the Lord provides a season of preparation. He gives us time to adjust to the idea of what He has ahead for us — time to talk to our closest loved ones and time to align our heart with the heart of God. Thank God for sending individuals into our life who affirm God’s call and pray for us through the preparation. They are truly a gift! And how blessed are we when the Lord allows us to play that same role in the life of someone else who has heard from God — who is bravely taking the first steps of obedience.

Father God, thank you for allowing us to soak in the beauty of the Christmas story. We are grateful for the gift of your Son and for the privilege of serving a role in your plan of salvation. May our hearts remain humble and our bodies remain available for your calling, whether it’s for a moment or for a lifetime. You are a good God and we are blessed to be your servants. Amen.

Today’s Reading: Luke 1:21-25; Psalm 116, 124 & 145

How kind the Lord is! How good he is!
So merciful, this God of ours!
The Lord protects those of childlike faith;
I was facing death, and he saved me. – Psalm 116:5-6

Let’s sit in the story of Elizabeth one more day. She is far from a main character in the story of Jesus, but she is a main character in my story — so much so that I named my baby girl after her. It was important to me that Libby grow up knowing the story of Elizabeth. It is important to me that all three of my daughters know that when others say it cannot be done, God has the power to declare it WILL be done.

If I had a quote wall, Elizabeth would be on it twice. Luke‘s interview with Mary, the mother of Jesus, reveals two very profound statements that came from Elizabeth. We looked at one of those statements yesterday, when Elizabeth said to Mary, “You are blessed because you believed that the Lord would do what he said” (Luke 1:45). Now let’s consider the other statement Elizabeth made.

“How kind the Lord is!” she exclaimed. “He has taken away my disgrace of having no children.” – Luke 1:25

Stop and consider with Elizabeth just how kind the Lord has been to you. God is so good and so compassionate and so loving. There is evidence of His kindness all over our lives. What has he taken away from you as an act of kindness? Was it shame from a sin committed or regret of a word spoken? Did he strengthen you for the consequences that could have destroyed you? Was He with you through the loneliness that left you feeling unloved and unvalued? Are you even now experiencing pain from an unbearable loss or sickness that is taking away the life you loved?

Perhaps there is something in your life that is causing you pain. God might be willing to take that away from you, but consider the possibility that you are holding onto it so tightly that you have stopped clinging to Him. Perhaps it is time to offer everything to Him and let Him bless you with His kindness. Consider the possibility that today God could heal your hurts, answer your prayers, and do something amazing on your behalf.

WHEN OTHERS SAY IT CANNOT BE DONE, GOD HAS THE POWER TO DECLARE IT WILL BE DONE.

Elizabeth’s grief was probably stronger than what I experienced when we were struggling to start a family. I knew that, with or without children, I would be involved in full-time ministry. I was confident God would bless our lives even if we remained a family of two. Women today can choose a career or ministry in place of motherhood and be valued for that decision. In those days, childbearing was considered the highest calling for a woman. Infertility was often paired with a social stigma or shame, often assuming God was not blessing a woman with a baby because of some kind of sin in her life. But Luke makes it clear that Elizabeth was found righteous in God’s sight.

In fact, Luke went on to say that Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. There are a few instances in the Old Testament when someone is described as being filled with the Spirit of God, but there are only four people who were described in the gospels as being filled with the Holy Spirit: John the Baptist (1:16), Elizabeth (1:41), Zechariah (1:67), and Jesus (4:14). Once more, God poured out His blessing on this very special woman.

We serve a generous God, don’t we? He is involved in each unique life created, and loves us individually. When He sent His Son, He had you in mind. Even today, He is weaving your story into His, just like He did for Elizabeth. So take hope, my friend. Give God your yesterdays, trust God with your future, and believe that today He is going to do something amazing both for you, in you and through you.

WHEN OTHERS SAY IT CANNOT BE DONE, GOD HAS THE POWER TO DECLARE IT WILL BE DONE.

Do you see this Prince of Peace, born in a manger, as being kind and faithful? That is what He is. The little Lord Jesus, asleep on the hay, was born out of the kindness and generosity of our Creator and He loves us with that same kindness today. Will you let him take away what you have been holding on to and leave faith in its place? May this next season of your life be marked by a faith that God will do what He says He will do, even when others say it can’t be done.

The Lord always keeps his promises;
he is gracious in all he does.
The Lord helps the fallen
and lifts those bent beneath their loads.
The eyes of all look to you in hope;
you give them their food as they need it.
When you open your hand,
you satisfy the hunger and thirst of every living thing.
The Lord is righteous in everything he does;
he is filled with kindness.
The Lord is close to all who call on him,
yes, to all who call on him in truth.
He grants the desires of those who fear him;
he hears their cries for help and rescues them. – Psalm 145:13b-19