We Three Kings

Where is He that is born King of the Jews?  For we have seen His star in the east, and are come to worship Him"… They opened their treasures and presented Him with gifts of gold and of incense and myrrh. (Matthew 2:2, 11). 

Probably your Christmas celebration with young children is past.  Are the toys and gifts still in one piece?  “I remember one take-off on “T’was the Night before Christmas’ that had a line: “ …the presents are scattered and broken I fear and St Nicholas won’t come again for a year!” 

Praise God, His Gifts to us are forever – if we choose to open\accept the gift of His love through His Son Jesus. We often think of God’s Gift as Jesus – but His gifts are so much more.  In her book Christmas is Always, Dale Evans Rogers wrote of the gifts and miracles of healing, redeeming, teaching, sacrificing of His life, resurrection and the anticipation of His coming again. But she really emphasized the gift of relationship, especially related to blessing the children.   Christmas is a special time for children and all of us - who are young at heart!

The Bible contains all kinds of true adventure stories: stories of daring feats, love, obedience, excitement and mystery.  I am always amazed when I read a passage over and over and yet something new seems to leap off the page. The passages we read during the Christmas season are like that.  In one year we may hear the same passage many times, still it is fresh and alive, mysterious and fascinating.

Mysterious in many ways – decree at the right time, travel for this family, and birth in a smelly cave for animals; and the story of the Magi.  Who were they really?  Where did they come from?  Did they travel together all the way?  Or did they see the star separately and through some mysterious way join forces? How many were there?  Did they bring just three gifts?  How long did the journey take?  Did the star appear before the birth and they arrived soon after, or did the star appear at the birth and they arrived close to two years later?

Many Christmas stories have been written to fill in these questions.  I'm glad it's not important for us to know.   It is important thing for us to center our thoughts on what we DO know….  God provided a way for everyone - from the lowly shepherds who were Jews, to the kingly Magi who were Gentiles. Christ, the Anointed One, is for everyone one!

We know for fact that these ‘Wisemen’ from the East, astrologers, Magi, or kings- depending on the translation you are reading,(the song- not Scripture- says three!) - or whoever they were, saw something special in the heavens and were willing to take a risk because they felt it was from God.  Maybe Daniel had shared the prophecy from Numbers “…A Star will come out of Jacob; a scepter will rise out of Israel” (24:17).  Verse 3 of Silent Night concludes:

                Silent night, holy night

                Wondrous star, lend thy light

                With the angels let us sing

Alleluia to our King; Christ the Savior is born!

The journey cost them time and finances.  They came prepared with gifts for the new King to worship Him.  How many others missed out because they were not will to take a risk and see what God would do?  We know the religious leaders of Jerusalem did not check it out.  How about you?  God is pro–active and wanting to do something special in your life.  It might be risky, it might even cost you something - time, ridicule, change.   Are you willing to make him King of your life?

               

The Song ‘We Three Kings’ has wonderful words and tells the importance of each of their gifts.  The last stanza is also important as we continue to anticipate His return:

                Glorious now behold Him arise

                King and God and sacrifice;

Alleluia, Alleluia sounds through the earth and Skies.

Our volunteering at the Voice of the Martyrs has taught us much about those who suffer \ die for speaking the Name of Jesus, and those who support and encourage them.  Most of those who are suffering do not pray to be removed from the situation, but rather that their testimony be so strong that their persecutors will seek to follow Jesus.  In the Bible schools, supported by VOM, one of the classes is ‘Prison Ministry 101’; not how to get out of going to prison, but rather how to teach and share while you are in prison! The implication is not if, but when you are arrested’).

SOOO, young friends, in this my last message to you remember, Christmas is Always – it is a state of our heart. Share the good News of the Gospel all year long.  The Magi came to worship the King!  We belong to the King of kings and the victorious Lord of Glory, who wants His JOY complete in us (John 15).  He says to the whole world, all races, color and creeds: “Live\abide in me and my words abide/ remain in you… remain in my love… I have told you this that my JOY might be in you and that your JOY may be complete. Love one another as I have loved you.” John 15: 7-13.

Blessings,

Gma

I Heard The Bells On Christmas Day

SCRIPTURE:  Isaiah 9:6 "For unto us a child is born...and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."

“God exalted him (Jesus) to His own right hand as Prince and Savior that he might give repentance and forgiveness of sins to Israel “.(And those of us grafted in) (Acts 5:31).

PEACE …PEACE – all the world talks about it but there is no PEACE on earth –except in the hearts of those who firmly rest In Jesus Christ.  “PEACE I leave with you, my PEACE I give you, not as the world gives.” John 14:27

Peace comes in the form of Jesus – but it is also a choice of lifestyle, a condition of the heart.

Have you heard any bells of PEACE?  I am old enough to remember the ending of the various theaters of WWII.  How loud and long the Church Bells rang out!! Church Bells rang out world- wide. Peace had come at last - but not to stay.  When men’s hearts are geared towards power and control – there will never be peace. (Our grands think we are older than dirt, but I did not hear the Liberty Bell ring!)

I heard the bells on Christmas day Their old familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet the words repeat Of peace on earth, good will to men.

And thought how, as the day had come, The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along the unbroken song Of peace on earth, good will to men.

Till ringing, singing on its way The world revolved from night to day,
A voice, a chime, a chant sublime Of peace on earth, good will to men.

And in despair I bowed my head “There is no peace on earth,” I said,
“For hate is strong and mocks the song Of peace on earth, good will to men.”

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep: “God is not dead, nor doth He sleep;
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail With peace on earth, good will to men.”

When I was growing up Church Bells rang out to call the community to worship.  We don’t hear them as much today, sometimes at Christmas Time and New Year’s Day.  I miss them.  In Jesus’ day, and before, it was the Shofar that called people to worship. 

When Jesus was born on earth, the Romans ruled all the lands around the Mediterranean Sea.  They had conquered them by force and ruled with an iron hand!  There was a "system of justice" but not for everyone.  People frequently were put to death without reason.  There was a lot of turmoil, rebellion and dissension among the subjects.

This was over 2000 years ago and there still is no peace on earth.  Nations have fought civil wars, holy wars, wars over countries and wars to settle differences. It is hard to count all the wars in the world today - cold wars, police actions, and skirmishes.  Matthew 24:6 tells us there will be wars and rumors of wars until Jesus comes again.

Having spent time in Israel, I enjoy hearing their Hebrew word for peace – Shalom.  They offer it as a greeting, as a good-by and a blessing on Fridays as you hear “Shabbat Shalom’.  Shalom is more comprehensive than just ‘without conflict’.  The short meaning is ‘being all that God created me to be’: right relationship with God the Father, perfect health, perfect wealth, ie spiritual tranquility.”

 I looked up the word ‘peace’ in the Bible Concordance and found it occurs in each book of the New Testament except I John.  It is used to describe harmonious relations to God, between men, between nations, and sense of rest and contentment.

To put all this in perspective, one needs to remember that the Kingdom of God today is invisible and not of this world; it is in the hearts of those who have accepted Christ as Savior and Lord.   This is difficult to explain to someone who lies on the edge of turmoil and crisis, but Jesus came that we wouldn't have to live in the defeat and the blackness of yesterday; He is our hope of Eternity with God the Father.

SOOO .. young friends and not so young ones, Jesus gave us this gift of peace, but it is only valuable when we use it.  We can leave it in the wrapping if we choose.  As we let Jesus control more of our thoughts and actions, more of His peace floods our soul.  It requires us to ask forgiveness.  As Christians we think we can handle the big crisis; but get all upset with the little things in daily living.  We need to confess this whole attitude as sin and let Jesus take over ALL our problems and give us His PEACE.

I know from my own experience that Jesus can bring peace to your heart - no matter what the circumstances – disappointments, death of a child, battling cancer myself and in loved ones, loss of job.

PRAYER:  Jesus, thank you for the peace you bring to trouble hearts and minds midst the turmoil and chaos of the world. In Your invisible kingdom we see such visible results as we trust you…..

Go Tell It On THe Mountain

“Jesus gave His charge: ‘.”  Matthew 28:18 The Message.

God authorized and commanded me to commission you: go out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefold name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.  Then instruct them in the practice of all that I have commanded you. I’ll be with you as you do this, day after day after day, right up to the end of the age.”

Go tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere. Go tell it on the mountain that Jesus Christ is born.

This simple American Negro Spiritual was passed down by oral tradition and first published in 1907. Many, who were in physical slavery, struggling in every way, looked to Father God above for strength, help and hope.  Thus, these spirituals have such deep meaning.  In these often- intolerable conditions Scriptures were quoted and Bible Stories repeated.  Someone told the Good News to John Wesley Work, Jr. and he told the world with this song.

Today our culture is becoming very dark and many are in spiritual slavery.  We have learned that light chases darkness away and Jesus is the LIGHT and LIFE.  We need to shout the Good News of his birth and redemption from the mountain tops. His mission was to set the captives free. (Luke 4:18-20). We celebrate God’s gift of a baby – sweet and innocent.  People reach out to a baby – just check out the supermarket and the grandmothers ‘oohing and aahing’. 

But, as we learned after 9/11, people may reach out to God for comfort and peace, for a while, but the name of JESUS – not so. So powerful is His name that even the demons tremble and obey! Many in our culture use it in distain and we are accountable for all that we say. So, speak the Good News! Say with the angels, “Good tidings of great joy!!! Unto you a Savior is born.” (Luke 2:10)    Jesus, Name above all names: Savior. Redeemer. Coming King.  One day – maybe soon – “EVERY knee shall bow in heaven and earth and under the earth, and EVERY tongue confess that Jesus Christ is LORD to the glory of God the Father.”  Phil 2:10-11

Part of my selecting and giving gifts over the years, many of which I made, was the thrill of watching loved ones open them – sometimes after strange puzzles or treasure Hunts Gramps sent our kids to find. But hearts are often saddened and hurt when gifts are not acknowledged or enjoyed.  Jesus, the God-man, is God’s gift to us; so take off the wrapping, invite Him in, be blessed by His love, and walk in His light. Jesus, the man, is our pattern for living.  Writer Henry Gariepy said, “Jesus became God’s self-disclosure.  In Jesus God entered humanity, eternity and invaded time.”

SOOO, my friends, Go tell it on the mountains!  To your family, at school, at work and at play – Jesus Christ was born, lived a sinless life, died for our sins, was resurrected and today is sitting at the right hand of the Father – or maybe standing, readying the troops, and calling  our three cowboys to groom and prepare the white stallion for His return as King of kings.  Go tell it on the mountains!!!

Christmas is More                               (Author unknown)

Christmas is more than a day at the end of the year

More than a day of joy and good cheer

Christmas is really God’s pattern for living

To be followed each day by unselfish giving

Then Peace on Earth will come to stay

When we live Christmas every day.

Have a Blessed Christ -filled Christmas,

Gma

Silent Night

"But when the time arrived that was set by the Father, God sent His son, born of  a woman, born under the conditions of the Law so that He might redeem those of us who have been kidnapped by the law."  (Gal 4:4 The Message)

             “What time is it?  Time is a wasting!  You cannot get this Time back.  My time is valuable. Time is running out!”      You have heard all of these – maybe even some today!

Soo… TIME – What is it??  Webster has much to say; one definition is ’the entire period of existence of the known universe’; the writer of Ecclesiastes, in Chapter 3, says there is a time for everything, and a season for every activity. We often say, ‘in God’s time.”  Is that different? Did you know that there is no Time in eternity?

Christmas is that white –hot moment when Eternity melted into TIME.   (author unknown)

             Silent Night, Holy Night! Son of God, loves pure light,

             Radiant beams from Thy holy face, with the dawn of redeeming grace,

             Jesus Lord at They birth!  Jesus Lord at Thy birth.

           

Yes, God had a plan even before creating mankind with free will.  Because He sees the beginning and the end as one picture, He knew sin would enter the world and that mankind would choose to go their own way and need a Savior to restore fellowship with Him, a Holy God.  Jesus, Holy Son of God, chose to take upon Himself the sins of the world and be the righteous covering to allow men to come into the presence of God in prayer and for eternity.

Ecclesiastes is not the only Scripture referring to time. There are many and, as one who sews and knits, I enjoy following the threads throughout the Scripture.  Check your concordance, but here are a few relating to Christ among us:

A time for His birth: “But when the time arrived that was set by the Father, God sent His Son, born of  a woman, born under the conditions of the Law so that he might redeem us.” (Gal 4:4 The Message)

A time to preach: “Jesus went into Galilee preaching: ‘Time’s up! God’s Kingdom is here.  Change your life and believe the Message.”  (Mark 1:15  The Message)

A time for His death: “Who gave himself a ransom for all, the testimony given at the proper time.” I Timothy 2:6  NASB)

A time to spread the gospel: “This is the life God promised long ago – and he doesn’t break promises! And then when the time was ripe, he went public with his truth.  (Titus 1:3  The Message)

As we celebrate the birth of the Christ child, we are celebrating the fullness of time - before Jesus came the first time as Savior.  There are also time clues about his return as KING of kings.  We enjoy teaching about His return – but will only cite a couple Scriptures here. Not all references use the word time, but we know Daniel’s 70 weeks (Chapter 9) is time oriented and states a specific time after the anti-Christ’s Covenant of Peace with Israel.

I am writing this on December 21,2019, and the world is still here.  But, the Disciples also had questions about the end of time (Luke 21/ Matt 24-25) and, among other responses in this chapter Jesus said that many would come in His name and we are not to be deceived.  In verse 8 Jesus says, “the time is near.”  In verse 27 Jesus said, “…then look up! Your redemption draws near”. One last quote from Revelation 10:6 KJV:
“And swore by him who lives forever and ever, who created heaven, and the things that are therein, and the earth, and the things that are therein, and the sea, and the things which are therein, that there should be time no longer.”

Time has a beginning and an end but our Triune God has none and His love is for eternity.  “For God so loved the world that whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have everlasting life.”  John 3:16.

Soo, young friends, (since we are part of the older-than-dirt club) have a blessed Christ –filled Christmas and New Year. Celebrate His love, be not deceived, have your lamps trimmed and  burning and look up – He is coming again… SOOOOON!!!!!

Merry Christmas

Gma

Image This Little Light of Mine....

Often times we focus on all the ‘lights’ of Christmas and there is much to share about various lights. However, The Lord seemed to have turned my thinking only to God’s Eternal LIGHT -Jesus, Light of the World. Today I’d like to focus on our responsibility, as Children of God, to reflect His LIGHT into the world in which we live, work and play. It seems this is getting harder every day and many are ridiculed, persecuted and martyred for sharing the Love of God with others.

Scriptures: “If we walk in the LIGHT, as He is in the LIGHT, we have fellowship with one another…”  (I John 1:7). “Ye are the Light of the world….let your light so shine before men that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in Heaven.” (Matthew 5:14, 16).

Jesus, Creator, LIGHT of the world, loved us so much that He spent nine months in the darkness of his mother’s womb, to become one of us, that He might vanquish the darkness of sin and its penalty of death, forever! He left the glorious light to dwell with humanity.

The Old Testament Scriptures foretold of the Light to come and, the Light of Glory and an especially bright Star announced his birth to mankind.  His disciples, chosen to share his Kingdom of God principles, listened to his teaching, witnessed his miracles and interacted with him as a friend.  Can you imagine the WOW factor when Peter, James and John saw HIS LIGHT at the Mount of Transfiguration?  Radiant pure LIGHT!

For several years we attended a large Church that did a presentation near Resurrection Sunday.  I will never forget the first presentation in the new Sanctuary, which was designed to include these presentations.  The brilliance of the light used as Jesus came forth from the tomb – blinding! I often wonder what kind of JESUS LIGHT others see in me. Wherever light goes, darkness has to flee!  JESUS’ LIGHT in me also chases darkness - if I let it shine!  God inhabits the praises of His people. (Ps 33:2). do you praise him in ALL things?

As Believers we are drawn to the LIGHT.  But we are also challenged by Jesus to reflect His LIGHT to others.  We are the only JESUS-LIGHT  many people see. Does the LIGHT of His Word light your path?  Control your tongue and your actions?  Do others see pure LIGHT in your life?  Or is it somewhat dimmed – by not reading or walking in his Word?  Not talking to Him in prayer?  Not being obedient to what He asks us to do?  Sharing with poor and needy? (Matthew 25:40)

Today, our culture is trying continuously to put out God’s light: We have an overkill of the world’s lights and bangles; morning prayer and Bible reading has been taken out of schools;  ‘In God We Trust’ attempted to be removed from coins; The name of Jesus is not allowed in some formal places and military prayers -  just to name a few issues.  And, of course, now at Christmas, we notice the hassle about Nativity Scenes  - or anything related. at this time of year.  Blue is the political correct color for Christmas – I prefer red, green, and gold! 

Sooo, dear ones, Let the lights of Christmas remind you to let the LIGHT of JESUS be reflected in your face, in your words, and actions.  Jesus said that we are ‘The Light of the world’.  We are not to hide our light under a basket – but set it on a hilltop for all to see. Even though we live in a fallen world, the LIGHT of God is not extinguished.  Be LIGHT –BEARERS, reflectors of His character and, as our Pastor reminded us, "Share the good tidings of great joy!" (Luke 2:10)

Blessings

Gma

PS  This is one of Gramps favorite songs.  Can be heard as he drives the tractor or works out doors.  He does have a good voice and sang in the College Choir.

Jesus IS the Light of the World

“People walking in darkness have seen a GREAT LIGHT: and on those living in the land of the shadow of death a LIGHT has dawned.” (emphasis mine. Isaiah 9:2 NIV).  Read John 1: 1-18

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Previously, I mentioned a couple books I often reread during Advent.  This morning, reading another one Christmas Treasury by Dr Adrian Rogers, the Lord touched my heart to share some key points of his section on LIGHT, adding my thoughts to his, and let you ponder this LIGHT of LIFE, JESUS. 

GREAT LIGHT – In Isaiah’s time, as in ours and down through the centuries, there has been much darkness. (So much of Today’s culture) God’s enemy, Satan has developed a culture of darkness and death; but spiritual darkness is also very prevalent.  The Hebrew people were often in darkness when they rejected God’s Law and presence.

At the time of Jesus’ birth there had been no prophetic Word from God for nearly 400 years.  Jesus’ birth was announced with a light in the sky for us to see and light from the heavenly angels for all to hear.  He is the LIGHT of the world for all to follow and not walk in darkness.

PURITY of LIGHT – Dr Rogers’ research indicated nothing is so pure as light.  It cannot be corrupted or defiled no matter what it passes through or what falls on it.  If you shine a light on a dirty window, the light is not touched by the dirt; light only exposes dirt!!

Jesus, the pure, incorruptible light from heaven, God-man, who knew no sin, came to expose it – John 1:8. He touched sinners, but sin never touched him – until the cross.  He was the only one who could look at others and say, “Can any of you prove me guilty of sin?”  (John 8:45).

CONSTANT LIGHT – We enjoy the lights of Christmas.  Do they make you think of Jesus the Light of the World? He was in the beginning with God /Creator (John 1:1-2) and God declares that He changes Not. (Malachi 3:6).

Einstein recognized that the speed of light is THE constant of the natural world. He indicated that all else is relative.  Our LIGHT, Jesus, was in the beginning and will be the LIGHT of Eternity. (Revelation 22:5).

VITALITY of LIGHT – “In him was life and that life was the LIGHT of men.” (John 1:4)

So often we see life and light connected.  Try growing something without light! Even we humans get depressed when natural light is not available for length time.  Dr Rogers used the illustration of ‘Photosynthesis’, which we all learned elementary science.  The Psalmist tells us God’s words are Light. (119:130).

No matter how dark our circumstances might seem, the Light of Jesus can shine in our heart, mind and soul.  The LIGHT from heaven – baby Jesus - brought us eternal light as resurrected Messiah!

VICTORY LIGHT – “Let your Light so shine before men that they might see your good works and glorify the Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16) 

Dr Rogers wrote about another truth of Light: not only does it shine in darkness – “the darkness does not comprehend It extinguish.  ( (John 1:5). History – His Story – is really about God and evil, ie. light and darkness.  The enemy has tried to extinguish it from the beginning of TIME.  Check out the stories of Adam, Cain, Tower of Babel, Sodom and Gomorrah, just to name a few.  God has always had a remnant who seek Him.

Yes, today the enemy continues to try to disrupt, discourage and extinguish our light, in your life and mine – but “Greater is He in me than he who is in the world.”  (I John 4:4).

GLORY of the LIGHT - Jesus our Savior and LORD. Remember He was in the beginning with God and said, “Be Light” (Gen 1:3). God led the Children of Israel through the Wilderness with cloud by day and LIGHT by night.  That same LIGHT, the Shekinah Glory of God, filled the Tabernacle (dwelling place) and later the Temple.  The Apostle John wrote, “We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” (1:14 NASB)

Science tells us ‘light’ is made up of a spectrum of seven colors. (Check out a prism) Jesus/ Creator is the one who made everything colorful and glorious. He is the Glory of God.  We can choose to reject the LIGHT, but like the stars, even when we don’t see them, they are in place. Jesus is a heartbeat away.

Sooo, dear family and friends, Jesus will dispel your darkness and mine with the Glory of His presence…IF WE ASK HIM to do so!!!   Have a glorious Christ/LIGHT filled Christmas and let his LIGHT shine in the New Year.  

               

                Silent Night, Holy Night, Son of God, Love’s PURE LIGHT,

                Radiant beams from Thy holy face, with the dawn of redeeming grace,

                Jesus Lord, at Thy birth…..

Light: Star of the East

Jesus is the Light of the world and will be the only light we need in Heaven.  (John 1, 8:12; Revelation 22:5) I have not been very faithful telling you which translation I quote. I forget to do it.  Mainly I use NASB, NIV interchangeable. Occasionally the Complete Jewish Bible or The Message, but I usually remember to note those.

As I started to write this, I about the many special Christmas books I have and enjoy each year.  I am sure there is one for  every day of  December. I do have favorites that  I read at least every other year.  Here are two special, inexpensive ones that you might want to get for yourself or as a gift: The Wonder of Christmas by Daniel Partner & The Glory of Christmas by  Max Lucado,Charles Swindoll  Anne Grahm Lotz, and Henry and Richard Blackaby     

         

 Light:  Star of the East

“In  the beginning GOD…=..v3 God said ‘Be Light’…..v 14 ‘be lights in the dome of the sky …to give light to the earth.’” (Genesis 1:1-20 Complete Jewish Bible)

In the beginning of creation God separated light and darkness.   He has continued doing that in the hearts and lives of people.   Picture yourself walking down a road on a dark night.  The sounds you hear can be frightening.  You can't see the path for sure, only shapes and outlines.  Contrast that with walking when the heavens are filled with the twinkling lights of the stars and moon.  You might stumble because you are looking up and watching. Many who live in cities seldom see the stars.

Think of lights in our world today. Wow, so many different types, sizes and shapes.  And Christmas lights  - so overwhelming, especially for special-needs kids.  Yes, growing up we had lights in the city, but my grandmother did not – only smoky kerosene lamp. Remember Lincoln read by candle or fireplace light.

From the earliest drawings and then writings, we learn mankind has been interested in the stars.  Maybe because they seemed to be in predictable order.  (Wonder where that evolved from?)  So, men studied the stars, mapped them, used them as light, navigation, and guidance.  Astronomy is one of the oldest sciences.

Stars are fascinating to most of us.  I have seen them on the ceilings of a nursery and other bedrooms; you have probably  sung ‘Twinkle Twinkle little Star’ and many of us have walked hand in hand with the one we love under the stars, or our family favorite –sitting around the campfire pointing out the various constellations.  What an Awesome God to hang the stars in just the right place! We used to sing this one….

 IT Took a Miracle!  Written by J W Peterson. I have included just the chorus.

It took a miracle to put the stars in place; It took a miracle to hang the world in space.
But when he saved my soul, Cleansed and made me whole,
It took a miracle of love and grace.

Over 2000 years ago    God hung a very special moving star in place – to get the attention of anyone studying the stars.  Only the Magi from the East seemed to recognize it as a sign from heaven that a new king was born.   Not only did they recognize it, they chose to see where it was going – probably  they had an idea from the teachings of Daniel.  And we know the ‘rest of the story’…..

SCRIPTURE:  "In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men.  The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness  did not comprehend it...the true Light, which coming into the world, enlightens every man." John 1:4-9  (Read Matthew 2:2).

God gave us Jesus, a Light that does not go out… and we never have to walk alone.  Sometimes we let our unconfessed sins or the darkness of unforgiveness, self-pity, and selfishness come between us and His Light.  But just as the stars are in the sky- whether or not we see them- so Jesus is always there.  We just have to get above the clouds of gloom and despair. He is waiting to roll the clouds away, but He is a gentleman and will not interfere.  He openly uses what we make available to Him. 

Even as a Christian we can be defeated and miserable, if we choose not to read His Word or seek His will in prayer.  Christians have every right and opportunity to live victorious lives in the Light, but we don't have to - the choice is ours. The Magi saw the star, chose to take a risk and follow it to see the new King. Are you willing to trust Jesus who cares for you?  Will you choose to walk in the light of God's righteousness and glory?"

“I Jesus have sent my angels to testify to you these things for the churches. I AM the root and the descendant of David, the bright and morning star.” Rev 22:16 NASB

PRAYER:  Father, I thank you for Jesus, the Light of the world.  Help me to daily walk in your Light, seek your will in the Word and be obedient to your leading and sharing with others.  Amen

PS Here is a verse of the carol that introduces this day’s thoughts; Read all the stanzas on the web.

Love Came Down

SCRIPTURE:  "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." John 15:13  (Read John 3:16; I John 2:10; 4:15.)

As Believers, we first associate ‘Love’ with God’s indescribable love for us;  but, from my perspective,  putting ‘love and bells’ together, we gals, at least, think of Wedding Bells & young love, Silver Bells for those middle aged, and Golden Bells for those of us – ‘more mature’ and whatever bells are next.  We see them on cards, wrapping paper and hear them in music.  Most of you are not old enough to remember ‘The Bells of St Marys’, a song and movie from the Bing Crosby era.

So, what is LOVE?  Media ads say we love ‘toothpaste’, ‘cars’, ‘programs’, etc.  A dear friend used to say, “Love is a feeling that you feel when you feel you‘ve got a feeling you’ve never felt before!” Many live by that description.   When asked in a college class to define ‘love’ one of our daughters responded, “My Dad says love is a decision.”  I think most of us can agree with that.  Probably most of you know that some languages have more than one word for love.  The Greek writers of the New Testament used three:  eros, a sensual feeling; phileo, a friendship or brotherly love, and agape, lay down your life for another.

God’s love is indescribable! He created us for fellowship with Him, (beings who could CHOOSE to love Him or not.)  Even before He created the earth we learn He had a plan for our redemption: ”Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes.” (Eph 1:4 NLT). Love came Down….” … Jesus, who being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made himself of no reputation….coming in the likeness of men…” Philippians 2:5-7

Jesus left his glorious Throne surrounded by angels to become ‘God in skin’ - like us; to share our joys, sorrows, hurts, rejection, desertion and even a most cruel death. He came to show us Love and the Kingdom of his Father, SO that we might know the Power of His resurrection and the Hope of eternal life with Him. 

Christmas gives meaning to that which is born inside us...a message of love and joy to the world.  Christmas is a time of renewal and affirmation of love, together with all that is miraculous and magical in life.  It is the love of God, through His gift, Jesus - that enables us to be loving.  He gave His Only Begotten Son to you, to me, and to each individual who will choose to ask him to be their Savior and Lord.

Christmas is that white-hot moment when LOVE/Eternity melted into Time.

*Now that is LOVE!  What does Christian love look like to you?  Deeds of kindness?  Seeing and responding to needs before they are made known? Remember WWJD? What would Jesus Do?  Go and do likewise. The words of Scripture, as well as hymns and carols give us instruction:

          

            They’ll Know We are Christians By Our Love       by Peter Scholtes

We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord 
And we pray that all unity may one day be restored 
And they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love

Christian love is acting like Little Christs.  “Love each other as I have Loved you.”  John 15:12

Soooo,  Where does the LOVE of God/Jesus register on your love meter?  You probably know His name, maybe even about Him.  Do you know Him as Savior and Lord?  Do you share His love with others?

Many are hurting today and wonder where God is.  He has not moved!!  Our culture continues to shut Him out of everyplace.  Advent / Christmas is a time when love is often shown more freely.  Pray that this Christmas time all people will recognize God’s love and presence and say with Simeon in the Temple, ‘Mine eyes have seen the Salvation of the Lord” and accept his love and salvation.

Share God's Love Story by singing the old Carols that share His whole Love Story.

Blessings,

Gma

Joy To the World!

SCRIPTURE:  " Fear Not! For behold I bring you tidings of GREAT JOY which shall be to ALL people! For unto you is born this day, in the city of David, a Savior which is Christ the Lord." Luke 2:10-11

  

As I read my writing of years ago, I decided to include, in this week of caring for others, Bells of joy, peace and love.   As think about sharing the JOY of JESUS with others, my mind immediately sees and hears bells – from the tiniest bell in my collection to the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia.  I would challenge you to listen for bells this Advent season. 

You will hear them in the music and words of Christmas Carols, Christmas stories and Churches – from the old bells we pulled with ropes- to the newer Carillons, sleigh bells (in my youth we caroled in a sleigh so I hear those bells, maybe in movies for you), silver bells, Salvation Army Bells, …..  What do you do when you hear them?  Smile??  Feel more joyful?  Be moved to give? They usually represent happiness.

Maybe there were even bells in heaven the night Jesus was born.   What excitement there must have been!   I imagine the whole realm of heaven was just bursting at the seams. If angels ever argued, surely it was that night- not all of them were chosen to go to the shepherds to sing of God's glory and JOY to mankind, but all of them wanted to do so!

We enjoy Christmas Pageants where ‘little angels’ squirm, make faces and even wear halos a bit tilted, but the message is clear “Fear not!  I bring JOY…The long-awaited Messiah has come.  Joy to the world! Do you hear bells as you sing this favorite by Isaac Watts based on Psalm 98?

                        Joy to the world, the Lord is come!

                                         Let earth receive her King.

                                    Let every heart prepare Him room,

                                         And heaven and nature sing.    

I could fill each of these writings with carols, songs and Scriptures of joy – but I will only share a couple and let you think of those which are special to you. Christmas Carols have a special brightness of joy, hope and eternal love- and most have the whole story of Christs birth to resurrection! Check out ALL the verses.)  For days the chorus of the song: 

 Joybells has been ringing in my head.  Family has taught me to check the web for Scriptures and lyrics when I can remember only part of the words.  I looked for this one and decided the whole poem was really appropriate for our focus of sharing the Joy of Jesus so I will include it.  It was written by J. Edward Ruark

You may have the joy-bells ringing in your heart
And a peace that from you never will depart;
Walk the straight and narrow way, Live for Jesus every day,
He will keep the joy-bells ringing in your heart.

• Refrain: Joy-bells ringing in your heart, Joy-bells ringing in your heart;
  Take the Savior here below With you everywhere you go;
  He will keep the joy-bells ringing in your heart.

Love of Jesus in its fullness you may know;
And this love to those around you sweetly show;
Words of kindness always say;
Deeds of mercy do each day.     (emphasis mine)

The Old Testament is filled with joy, (check it out, especially the Psalms). Jesus spoke often about ‘Joy’; His joy of suffering for us is indescribable, but he also challenged us to share with others – kindness, cup of water, a word of encouragement; “In as much as you have done unto the least of these my brethren, you have done it unto me.” Matt 25:40. Check your heart.  Is there room for Jesus?

Christmas Joy is shared and remembered in stories:  The Grinch learned that Christmas was more than things, and Mean old Scrooge became the ‘best of men’ when learning that ‘Joy’ is a life-style.  (Jesus is implied here, Dickens was a Christian man who shared his faith.  One of my favorite books is the Gospel he simplified and wrote in story-form for his own children called the Life of Our Lord.)

SOOO, this week as you think about caring for others, make an honest effort to share a smile. See how many smile back.  As Christians we have the most reason to be joyful.  Remember to tell your face! Let others see the JOY of Jesus in you ALL year long.  May your heart and spirit be touched with transforming power of the JOY of JESUS.

Do you remember singing “I Have the Joy, Joy, Joy, joy Down in My Heart”? Is it still there?

 Here’s another of my favorites – Come on Ring Those Bells       by Andrew Culverwell

Everybody likes to take a holiday, Everybody likes to take a rest,
Spending time together with the family Sharing lots of love and happiness.

Come on, ring those bells, Light the Christmas tree, Jesus is the king Born for you and me.
Come on, ring those bells, Every-body say, Jesus, we remember This your birthday.

Celebrations come because of something good. Celebrations we love to recall
Mary had a baby boy in Bethlehem The greatest celebration of all.

Soooooo Come on ring those bells…. Jesus IS the King….

Father, Thank you for you unconditional love and forgiveness – you remember our sins No more when we accept Jesus into our hearts – that alone is reason for ringing bells!  Thank you that your presence, love and peace abides with us ALWAYS!!!!     Gma