(We continue our look at the Christmas Story in Luke 2. Yesterday, we focused on Joseph’s response to Gabriel’s announcement that he was supposed to take Mary for his wife, even though she was pregnant by the Holy Spirit.) Let’s go back to Joseph. Joseph could have chosen to doubtContinue Reading
(We continue our look at the Christmas Story in Luke 2. Yesterday, we focused on the angel Gabriel’s messages to Zechariah and to Mary and their responses.) Even after Mary’s answer, Gabriel wasn’t done speaking yet. Mary was engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she became pregnant withContinue Reading
(Today I begin a series of posts that examines the Christmas Story found in Matthew 1-2 and Luke 1-2. My prayer is that this helps us all understand more deeply that Story and keep it as our focus over these last days of Advent.) Let’s take a few minutes toContinue Reading
But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. (Ephesians 2:4-5 NIV) It’s rather refreshing to come across someone in the Bible who is not a “Hero ofContinue Reading
“God has entrusted us with his most precious treasure – people. He asks us to shepherd and mold them into strong disciples, with brave faith and good character.” – John Ortberg Shepherding God, Thank you for inviting each of us – no matter what our status or sin – toContinue Reading
But the angel said to [the shepherds], “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 babyContinue Reading
And now there remain: faith [abiding trust in God and His promises], hope [confident expectation of eternal salvation], love [unselfish love for others growing out of God’s love for me], these three [the choicest graces]; but the greatest of these is love. (1 Corinthians 13:13 AMP) Yesterday I was readingContinue Reading
I will cry to God Most High, Who accomplishes all things on my behalf [for He completes my purpose in His plan]. (Psalm 57:2 AMP) God, I need a blog post to publish. What’s on your mind? Nothing really important to pray about. It’s snowing and blowing. I ate delicious potato-cheese-ham soupContinue Reading
Two years ago I wrote this post, thinking about a cousin of mine. This year I repost this story and prayer, thinking of others in our church who have lost loved ones this year. This Advent and Christmas season, let us pray for those who grieve. Sorrow and mourning willContinue Reading
When evening came, many who were demon-possessed were brought to him, and he drove out the spirits with a word and healed all the sick. (Matthew 8:16 NIV) There are times in life when you feel powerless to change a situation, and all you can do is offer support to thoseContinue Reading