Advent

December 4th – Luke 2:10-11

Luke 2:10-11

The beginning of the Christmas season doesn’t officially start for me until the nativity scene is set up. I love gazing upon the stable as I place baby Jesus in His manager. And I can’t help but get caught up in the wonder of His birth. Because it’s in that manger of Bethlehem where we find not just a baby, but the source of unending joy. The birth of Jesus is a great gladness that transcends time and circumstance. For in that humble manger, joy was born anew. Inviting us to discover lasting happiness in the presence of the One who brings light to our darkest nights and comfort to our deepest sorrows. How can our hearts not overflow with joy at the fulfillment of God’s promise? A newborn King who would reconcile us back to our Heavenly Father. It’s a joy that comes from having God’s presence among us, promising peace and goodwill to all.  The great news declared by the angel is a reason for us all to abound in great joy. For to us a Savior is born. Messiah Jesus. King at kings and Lord of lords.

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December 3rd – John 14:27

John 14:27

I love walking in the snowfall. Seeing the beauty of the trees glistening from the sparkle of the snowflakes. The quiet hush that comes as the flurries blanket the sounds of the world. And the great peace that comes in the quiet moments. Where the world is veiled in a soft stillness. A peace that settles upon my heart and invites me to seek out the Lord. My Savior, who offers a peace that transcends all understanding. The Advent season is more than just a time to exchange gifts and gather with family. It’s a celebration of the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ. Whose birth ushered in a transformative tranquility for our restless hearts. As we gather around the manger in awe and gratitude, we are reminded that the ultimate gift God’s peace. It’s a refuge where our hearts can find rest. An anchor in the storms of life. A peace given to us by the One who came to reconcile, comfort, and bring everlasting serenity to a world in need.

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December 2nd – Psalm 62:1

Psalm 62:1

Does it feel like life is one big waiting room? Waiting to see the doctor. Waiting in line at the grocery store. Waiting for next available representative. Over the course of a lifetime, we spend almost fours years waiting. Normally we wait without giving it a second thought. But when we’re hurting, when we desperately need a victory, the waiting becomes painfully unbearable. That’s how the Israelites felt as they endured suffering while awaiting their promised Messiah. The advent season is all about waiting. And the importance of trusting in God, in His timing and promises. But although waiting isn’t easy, we can find comfort knowing we never wait in vain. Nor longer than God intends. And He always blesses our faithfulness greater than we could ever imagine. So as we celebrate the birth of Jesus, and await His glorious return, this Advent season invites us to share in the joy of God’s gift to humanity. And find comfort knowing the pain of waiting is nothing compared to the awesome goodness God has in store for us.

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December 4th – Psalm 89:1-4

Psalm 89:1-4

We all have our favorite Christmas song, and singing it fills our hearts with joy and memories. And even though we all aren’t blessed with ear pleasing voices, the gift of praising God in song is one reserved for man alone. Each Advent season many songs are sung, including the Psalms. And Psalm 89 is on the list. Why? Because it contains God’s promise that a king from the family of David would forever be on the throne. A promise realized with the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. As a great light of salvation, Jesus came as the King of the world to save us from darkness and sin. So Christmas or not, because of God’s great gift, I will forever sing of His lovingkindness. My lips will forever praise His name. And whether my voice is in tune or not, I will sing loud and proud of my God. Singing of His love, mercy, and of His Son, who came to lay down His life to save mine.

December 4th – Psalm 89:1-4 Read More »