Resolutions You Can Keep (part 3)

Resolve

The second preparation step for the Holy Spirit's make-over is to resolve to make myself available to whatever the Holy Spirit wants to do in me. Transformation is not always easy, or comfortable, or even popular. Romans 12:1, 2 tells us to “... offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God-this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

Stepping out from what is socially acceptable or popular is hard, and it requires a willing determination and confidence that will not give up until the work is done. Real transformation requires an absolute certainty and commitment to the promise “... that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6(NIV). It means not giving up until that last day!

We need to consider:

1. How willing am I to prayerfully and honestly resolve to ask God to, “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you...” Psalm 139:27,28 (NLT) and to ask the Holy Spirit to show me any attitudes, motives or behavior that is getting in the way of His transforming work in my life?
2. How willing am I to prayerfully and honestly resolve to: “... throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and ... run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” Hebrews 12:1 (NIV) by confessing and turning away from the things that distract and impede the Spirit’s influence in my life?
3. How willing am I to prayerfully and honestly resolve to:“... fix [my] eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith” Hebrews 12:2 (NIV) by filling my mind and heart with the knowledge and understanding of Him through prayer and daily reading and study of the His Word?
4. How willing am I to prayerfully and honestly resolve to: no longer live for myself but for Him who died for me and was raised to life (See 2 Corinthians 5:15) and to be an “imitator of God ... and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God” Ephesians 5:1,2 (NIV)?

To be truly transformed this New Year we must prayerfully consider if we are truly willing to let go of all the things that are distracting my complete devotion to God -- our comfort, our attitudes, our past grievances and mistakes. We must honestly determine if we are willing to truly commit our attention and time to knowing and following Christ's will for our lives.

Holy Spirit, I want to be totally and completely available for You to work in my life. Help me to identify and deal with anything that is distracting or obstructing Your work in my life. Amen

Resolutions You Can Keep (part 2)

Reflect
What steps can we take that will help to prepare us for the Holy Spirit’s “make-over” work in our lives? The first step is to reflect on what we really believe about our faith.

No matter how long we have been “believers” in Christ, we need to seriously consider how fully committed we are to our relationship with Him. 2 Corinthians 13:5 tells us to examine ourselves to see whether we are in the faith. We must test ourselves. We need to take some time to seriously consider:

1. Am I taking my commitment to Christ seriously or have I become complacent in my faith?


2. Do I truly desire to live a life that shows the people around me how wonderful, good, and worthwhile it is to be a follower of Christ?


3. Am I living each day aware that the Spirit of Christ is in me, and that I represent Him in every situation and relationship I encounter?


4. Do I truly desire and welcome the changes God wants to make in me and my life?

Before the Holy Spirit can truly transform us, we must honestly reflect on and answer these questions. Allow God to show you where you lack the passion and commitment that transformation requires.

Lord God, I ask You to help me honestly examine myself. Show me where I am lacking in my faith. Help me to open that area to Your life-changing power. Amen

Resolutions You Can Keep (Part 1)

New Year’s Resolutions! They’re a tradition! January after January, year after year, we celebrate the beginning of the year by making our “New Year’s Resolutions.” Most of us have a list of bad habits we want to break, good ones we hope to start — ways to “improve” ourselves in the New Year! Maybe it is to “stop smoking,” “start exercising,” “lose ten pounds,” or “get that raise!”

Some of us even plan a strategy or map out a “game plan” for accomplishing these goals. We may start out strong, but by the end of January most of us have either begun falling behind or given up completely.

The problem is not our lack of self-control or discipline or even our goal-setting techniques; the problem is with the resolutions! We list things we want to do, instead of considering the person we want to become; we focus on improvement instead of transformation, and we attempt to change our conditions through willpower instead of spiritually altering our character. 2 Corinthians 3:18 says, "And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit." (NIV)

The Bible tells us that our goal, our “resolution,” is to show the world around us how wonderful God is by how we live and by becoming more and more like Christ Himself. But no amount of resolutions or goal setting can accomplish this kind of “change of character.” This kind of transformation can only be accomplished by allowing the Holy Spirit to alter the way we think, and feel, and act. WE can’t cause this change on our own, but we can take steps that help prepare us for the Holy Spirit’s “make-over” work in us! Over the next few days we will look at those steps and prepare for a new kind of New Year's Resolution ... a New Year's Transformation!

Holy Spirit, I welcome your make-over for me this next year. Help me to grow more and more like Christ. Amen

Day 25 (December 25)

For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. And the government will rest on his shoulders. These will be his royal titles: Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

The holy child is born for us, the son of God, given from heaven to us – not because we deserve Him, but because we need Him. The gifts He gives, the power He wields, the authority He carries, are for our benefit. He and He alone will be the head and ruler of His eternal Kingdom. His royal titles are identifiers of His never-changing characteristics. He is:

Wonderful – He performs and executes feats of wonder.
Counselor – He is our adviser, comforter, and guide.
Mighty God – He is above everything else, and no-one can ever usurp His power.
Everlasting Father – He will never abandon us or leave us unattended. We are His beloved children forever.
Prince of Peace – He brings reconciliation to mankind: man to man, and man to God. He can restore the peace that we were intended to live in.

This, this is Christ the King
Whom shepherds guard and angels sing.
Haste, haste to bring Him laud,
The Babe, the Son of Mary.

Lord Christ, You gave Yourself for me. You left Your place in heaven to come to earth and offer me a wonder-filled, purpose-filled, peace-filled life and an eternity in Your Kingdom. Thank you. Amen

Advent Day 24 (December 24)

Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. Luke 2:11

This angelic proclamation was more than a birth announcement; it was a full description of exactly who was born than night in Bethlehem. THE Savior, Messiah, Lord, and promised King from the lineage of David whose reign would never end.

Every word the angel used was intentional and meaningful:

Today in the town of David: at the foretold place, from the promise lineage, at a specific time in History, God fulfilled His promise to send a restorer whose reign would never end. (See Isaiah 9:7; Luke 1:32-33)

a Savior: in Greek, ‘soter’, the translation of the Hebrew word ‘ý su’a’, meaning God as Savior; a protector and deliverer in whom we can have full confidence and faith.

has been born to you: who was this baby born for? For YOU! He is a personal gift from God.

the Messiah: In Greek, ‘Christos,’ meaning The Christ, or anointed one, who comes with the full power and authority of the Holy Spirit.

the Lord: in Greek, ‘Kurios’, the translation of the Hebrew ‘Yahweh’, meaning the supreme and eternal ruler of heaven and earth.

Tonight as we prepare to celebrate this holiday, let’s not forget to spend a few moments reflecting on the meaning of this incredible birth announcement, and acknowledging that we are celebrating a truly Holy Day!

Jesus, we celebrate YOU tonight. We acknowledge the miracle of Your birth, and eagerly look forward to Your return. We give all glory and honor and praise to You, Lord Christ our Savior. Amen

Advent Day 23 (December 23)

... when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. Galatians 4:4-5

God sent His one and only son from the heavenly realms, to step down in time, into a human life, for one reason and one reason only: to show us how much He loves us. God created us from His love, for the purpose of loving us and having a relationship with us; but mankind broke that relationship – back in Genesis, back in the Garden of Eden, When Adam and Eve chose to listen to the tempting of the evil one to take the forbidden fruit from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, (see Genesis 2-3), their sin broke the perfect relationship they had with our Holy God. God in His holiness could no longer intimately commune with His children – their sin caused a barrier between them. But God was not satisfied with punishment or separation. He did not desire that His children come to Him by following rules or performing rituals. He knew that ceremony and compliance was not a true relationship. So, at just the right time, in His perfect plan, God showed how much He loved us by sending His one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal reconciliation through Him. This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away the separation between man and God caused by sin. (See 1 John 4:9-10) Only a perfect sacrifice could atone for mankind’s sin, and only God’s own Son could pay that price.

This Christmas as we follow our own traditions and rituals, let us remember that relationships are based on love and giving, and we can love this way only because God loved us first. (See 1 John 4:19)

Lord Jesus, I thank You for coming to this earth and paying the ultimate price for me. I know that it is only by Your sacrifice that I am able to be restored to a perfect relationship with God. Lord Christ, this Christmas I acknowledge and accept Your gift of eternal life.

Advent Day 22 (December 22)

They entered the house where the child and his mother, Mary, were, and they fell down before him and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasure chests and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Matthew 2:11

For months, maybe years, the wise men had been searching for this child. Now, at long last they will see Him. What awe and wonder these men must have felt as they walked into that house. They had carefully selected the gifts they would give the Messiah. Gold signifying and honoring His kingship; frankincense signifying and honoring His divinity; and finally myrrh – used for embalming, foreshadowing His sacrificial death. But, before they offered Him their gifts, they offered themselves first. Upon entering the house, they fell down before Him, and worshipped Him. Not a simple greeting or a formal introduction. No! These respected Magi prostrated themselves in humble adoration for the Messiah.

Worship must precede offering. Our gifts mean nothing to Jesus if they do not flow from our heart’s devotion to Him. The Bible tells us that what God wants most from us is that we love Him with all our heart, all our understanding, and with all our strength, and to love our neighbors as ourselves (See Mark 12:28-34). This is the first and most important gift we have to give Jesus.

Lord Christ, I come to You this season not with gold or incense but with my heart, my mind, and my strength. Like the wise men, I am searching for You so that I might worship You more and more each day. Amen

Advent Day 21 (December 21)

And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. Matthew 2:9-10

From searching, to following, to rejoicing! Rejoicing – a release of joy! What excitement, and sense of fulfillment and accomplishment we feel when we reach our destination! Can we imagine the sight of the wise men "rejoicing" (scripture never tells us that there were three – but somehow after decades of singing "We Three Kings" our minds usually envision three "kings" on their camels!) Did these respected and dignified Sages "high five" each other? Did the Magi let out a "whoops" of glee, or do a "happy dance"? Scripture doesn't say they were relieved, or pleased, or satisfied at their arrival... no, it says, "they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy"!

Some scholars tell us that their journey may have taken over two years! Two years of dusty camel travel! Their travels may have taken them through desert, mountain, and wilderness; through rain, heat, and cold; encountering welcoming towns, hostile villages, and at least one interrogation by a Government official. But finally, they stood at the threshold of their purpose and all they could do is "rejoice exceedingly with great joy"!

The journey is worth it! God's purpose in our life, regardless of where it might lead us is worth it. When we stand on the threshold of our destination, it will be worth the journey; and that assurance should cause us to begin rejoicing exceedingly with great joy even now!

Father, thank You for my life journey. Whether I am in good times or hard times, I know that You have a purpose for my life, and that my destination will end in celebration. Amen

Advent Day 20 (December 20)

And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. Matthew 2:9

The journey that began with seeking progressed with following. The wise men had been searching for a sign, and at first sight of it, they began to follow it: "...they had seen when it rose" and it "went before them until it came to rest over the place..."

How often do we search for an answer or a direction, but then when the answer comes, when the pathway is revealed, we either keep searching -- not recognizing the answer we've been given -- or we give up before the journey reaches its intended destination? The wise men's journey took them on at least one detour that we know of. Matthew 2:7 tells us that in the midst of their pilgrimage they were secretly summoned by Herod who intended to use them for his purposes, his own ulterior motives. But, when they left Herod and "went on their way" (Matthew 2:9) the star once again began to lead them to the destination God had intended for them.

Following the star, and not being detoured or distracted by other agendas, motives, or enticements, not stopping until we arrive at our destination. Only then will we reach the fulfillment God has designed for us!

Lord, I know that You have a direction for my life. Help me to follow that pathway until it reaches completion. Help me to stay on track and not give up until I have arrived. Amen

Advent Day 19 (December 19)

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." 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 …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 2:1-5, 7-8

News of the wise men’s search stirred up great distress for Herod and the religious leaders in Jerusalem. Under the pretense of wanting to go and worship the newborn, Herod set a private meeting with the wise men to ascertain details about the star’s appearance. But he had an ulterior motive. Herod’s desire was to find the child and destroy him. What was it about this baby that caused such distress to Herod and the priests and teachers of religious law in Jerusalem? Why had they not been looking forward to the promised Messiah? Why subterfuge instead of celebration?

Very simply, Jesus was upsetting their status quo. They liked things just the way they were – and they didn’t want a Messiah messing up their agenda or threatening their positions of power. Yet, there is no agenda or power greater than God’s. Matthew 2:12 tells us that after the wise men left Jesus, they returned to their own country by another route, for God had warned them in a dream not to return to Herod. God’s plans will survive victoriously; He cannot be thwarted no matter how hard men try.

Do we dare ignore God’s plans for our times? Do we dare challenge them or suppose that any political, cultural, or personal agenda is more important than God’s? How much pain and suffering has been caused by our refusal to accept God’s good plans for mankind? Herod’s refusal to let go of his own agenda caused the death of countless children (See Matthew 2:16-18). God tells His people; “Today I have given you the choice of death or life; curse or blessing.” (See Deuteronomy 30:19) Let us in our time choose life! Let us choose the blessing of the Savior!

Father, You have set before us a choice: to choose our own agendas which will one day fade and die, or to choose Your way which leads to life and peace and eternity. Help us to choose You. Amen

Advent Day 18 (December 18)

Jesus was born in the town of 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 have seen his star as it arose, and we have come to worship him.” Matthew 2:1-2

Amazing! The wise men from the eastern lands saw the star when it rose. That must mean that they had been looking for it before it had even appeared! Their journey began with seeking something that hadn't even happened yet. Studying the skies, searching for something they had yet to experience, but were sure would happen. Had they been searching for days, months, years, maybe decades... or longer? What amazement they must have felt when at long last that star arose in the Eastern sky.

I wonder if we really know what it is like to truly search for God's signs in our lives? To wait – really wait – on His direction and guidance. The wise men did not dare begin their journey until they saw that star… where would they have gone without its navigation? They would not even have known which direction to head. Would they have thought to look for the King, the Messiah, in a barn? Sometimes the best thing we can do is wait. The Bible tells us to be still, to know that God will answer us in His time, when it is just the right time – even if it seems a long time coming (see Psalm 27:14; Isaiah 30:31; Habakkuk 2:3)

Don’t rush off in your own direction – wait for the sign.

Father Almighty, Creator of all the universe, we look to You for a sign, for direction and guidance. In this busy, noisy world, help us to be still and wait, and know that You will show us the right way at just the right time. Amen

Advent Day 17 (December 17)

And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them. Luke 2:20

After seeing the baby Jesus lying in a manger just as they had been promise, the shepherds returned to their jobs – but they returned changed. Anyone who has truly had an experience with Jesus goes away changed. They had encountered the glory of God, and their only response was to praise Him for what they had heard and seen. God does not disappoint. He is always true to His Word and Character. How does it feel to have a personal encounter with God’s glory? For the shepherds it was terrifying, motivating, exhilarating, and no doubt, reassuring. Everything they had been told was true. Everything foretold was happening. The day to day necessities of life were unaltered – the sheep still needed tended, their lives would follow the pattern of human lives everywhere: joy and sorrow, good times and hard times, days of birth, days of death, times of prosperity and need – yet there would be a difference. For these men had encountered the Living God, they had witnessed the fulfillment of God’s promise to all men, that a Messiah, a redeemer would come. God was not a theory or idea – He was alive, and personal.

God wants to be alive and personal in our lives today. This year, when we return to our normal routine after the holidays, let’s not forget the wonder of this season. Like the shepherds, let us remember to glorify God by holding on to the joy, hope, and message of Christmas and praising Him for all we have heard and seen.

Lord, we praise You for the truth of Your Word, for the power of Your promises, and for the change You bring into our lives. Thank You for showing us the wonder of Your love. Amen

Advent Day 16 (December 16)

When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Come on, and let’s go to Bethlehem! Let's see this wonderful thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” They ran to the village and found Mary and Joseph. And there was the baby, lying in the manger. Then the shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child. All who heard the shepherds' story were astonished. Luke 2:15-18

Can you imagine the electricity – and quiet – that was left in the air when the angels left the shepherds? Can you imagine them standing there, wondering what in the world had just happened to them? Immediately they began to encourage each other, urging each other on, “Come on, let’s go see this thing that has happened! Let’s check it out.” The Bible commends those who check out what they have heard and recommends that we spur each on to action based on love (See Acts 17:11-12 and Hebrews 121:1-2). So leaving their posts, without argument or debate, or considering the consequences or what others may think of them, the shepherds ran to the village to find the child. And they were not disappointed, for there He was, the baby, lying in the manger just as the angels had said.

Their story doesn’t end there. The scripture tells us that when they left, the shepherds told everyone what had happened to them and what the angels had said about this child. And the people who heard their story were amazed. Listen, go quickly, tell. The model for enthusiastic, experiential faith that will amaze and delight and change lives.

Lord, help me to act on Your message with enthusiasm and delight, and help me to tell others what You have shown me to true. Amen

Advent Day 15 (December 15)

Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others--the armies of heaven--praising God: “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to all whom God favors.” Luke 2:13-14

“Armies of heaven – praising God,” what an incredible sound that must have been. What an awesome sight! “Glory to God in the highest heaven” – there is NO one, thing, or power higher than our God! And “peace on earth to all whom God favors” – the peace which surpasses all understanding is the gift from God made possible through Christ (see Philippians 4:7) These armies of heaven who lit up the sky outside of a small, insignificant village two thousand years ago appeared not to kings, or priests, or even prophets, but to a band of shepherds tending over their flock at nighttime. How often God saves His best surprises for the meek, and the lowly. I can imagine the Shepherds awe and wonder, “Why us? Why would God send this great blessing for us to see and hear? We are nobodies.” God’s favor rests on those who are meek enough to be awed by His greatness.

Oh Lord, don’t let me miss the angel voices in my life. Don’t let me lose my sense of awe at Your mighty wonders. And help me to hold on the gift of peace You brought in Christ. Amen

Advent Day 14 (December 14)

That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord's glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the angel reassured them. "Don't be afraid!" he said. "I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger." Luke 2:8-12

How unexpectedly the glory of God can interrupt our life! Shepherds nearby the stable in Bethlehem, watching their flock on the late shift. Just another night’s work. But their lives where about to be invaded by God’s Kingdom come! Suddenly! How suddenly our lives can change – our focus and priorities sent spinning in new directions. When we least expect it our routine is upset, our sense of reality is jarred. Without warning God’s Kingdom comes crashing into our lives, and we are never the same again. Terrifying! Yes, the shepherds were terrified – the unexpected can do that, leave us shaken and cowering. But the messenger of God is always reassuring, because the message from God is always one of hope, “fear not, for I bring you good news that brings joy to all people.”

Even in these troubled times of ours, God’s message is bringing us good news of hope and joy – are you listening? God’s message is waiting to invade our lives and motivate us to action. “You will recognize him,” the angel said. Listen to God’s message today. Look for the signs of Him in our world. Let your life be invaded by the Good News! A Savior, yes, the Messiah, is born today into your life!

O Come Lord Jesus into my life. Invade my heart, my mind, and my actions. Lord, upset my routine, refocus my priorities, help me to see Your glory and recognize Your Presence in my life me today. Amen

Advent Day 13 (December 13)

And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. Luke 2: 6-7

“The time came” – not a moment too early, not a moment too late. A young couple alone, in a strange, crowded city, with no place to stay, Mary and Joseph find themselves giving birth to the Messiah in a stable. In this lowliest of places, at just the right time, the Word of God became a human baby so that we could be redeemed and restored to a full relationship with God our Father. (See Galatians 4:4-5) Did it seem “just the right time” for Mary, in the late stages of pregnancy to travel, probably on foot or by donkey, from Nazareth to Bethlehem? Did it seem “just the right time” for her to go into labor with no shelter, no midwife, no appropriate accommodations for birthing? Probably not, yet God was there with them, orchestrating events and time for the perfect outcome of His good will.

Sometimes in our lives, God’s timing seems out of sync with our hopes and desires, or our convenience and comfort. He seems slow to act or reluctant to speak to us. But when we gaze at a lowly stable in Bethlehem two thousand years ago, we can be assured that God knows what is happening, and His timing will be perfect.

Father, You are the author and creator of time. Help us to see Your perfect plan unfolding through all the times of our lives. Teach us to rely on Your timing, and trust in Your plans. Amen

Advent Day 12 (December 12)

In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered… And all went to be registered, each to his own town. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. Luke 2:1-5

There are no random acts in God’s Kingdom. The events of our time, the seemingly incidental movements of our life from one place to another – they have all been orchestrated by God for the fulfillment of His greater purposes. God used a political action by Caesar Augustus to initiate the movements of Joseph and Mary from Nazareth to Bethlehem, because the Messiah had to be born there. Why didn’t God just chose a couple from Bethlehem to parent the Christ? Because God’s Ways are known only to Him, and it is only through His mercy and for our benefit that He empowers us to participate in them.

The current events of today are not happening outside of God’s purposes or control. We are not helpless or hopeless in the face of the changing and sometimes frightening world around us. God’s Purposes can be found in and throughout the whirlwind events of our time. No matter how things may appear, like Mary and Joseph on their way to Bethlehem at what would seem an inconvenient time, we are right where God wants us to be, for what He is about to do in our lives.

Father, thank you for where You have put me at this time in my life. Whether I am in a place of stability, or a place of transition; a place of prosperity or a place of want; I know that You are in control. Lord, help me serve Your purposes for today, no matter what is happening around me. Amen

Advent Day 11 (December 11)

Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet... When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him: he took his wife, but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called His name Jesus. Matthew 1:18-25

Mary was not the only one whose plans were interrupted by God. Joseph, her fiancé, certainly found himself in an awkward situation. His betrothed – a virgin – was pregnant. Impossible! Being a fair man and not wanting to humiliate Mary, Joseph decided, after considering the facts and circumstances, that the only “right way” out of the situation was to quietly dissolve their relationship. But God had another idea. He showed Joseph another way of looking at the facts, from Heaven’s viewpoint. To his family and friends Joseph’s decision may have seemed unwise, but the scriptures tell us God makes the wisdom of this world look foolish. (See 1 Corinthians 1:24).

I have always been impressed with how quickly and decisively Joseph accepted and acted upon God’s instruction. Matthew’s Gospel tells us that as soon as he woke from his dream, Joseph did what he had been told to do. No questioning, no doubting, no wavering, no turning back. At some point Joseph determined that he would follow God’s instruction no matter how it would appear to the world. Are we brave enough to do the same? The adventure of our lifetime awaits our decision.

Lord, help me not to miss the adventure of my life. Help me to pay attention to the message You are bringing into my life. Give me the courage to decide without wavering, to obey without fear, and to act with enthusiasm. Amen

Advent Day 10 (December 10)

And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her. Luke 1:38

Can there be any more resolute words in all of scripture than these simple words of trust, faith, and commitment? Mary’s cousin Elizabeth, herself miraculously with child, recognized Mary as “blessed is she who believes in the fulfillment of God’s promises” (Luke 1:45). Only complete trust in God’s willingness and ability to fulfill what He has promised could motivate her to say “yes” to the frighteningly impossible.

Trusting in God’s promises necessitates knowing, understanding, and applying those promises to our lives. Mary did not open herself up to the winds of circumstances, or the waves of fashion; to the contrary, she submitted to the authority and reliability of God’s word. Her trust was not in Gabriel the angel, not in science or biology. No, her trust was in God’s Word. To Him only did she commit her life as a servant.

Father, help us to know the reliability of Your Word. Lead us to the knowledge and understanding of Your promises, and give us the wisdom and confidence to say, “Yes, let it be done to me according to God’s Word.” Amen

Advent Day 9 (December 9)

And Mary said to the angel, “How will this be, since I am a virgin?” And the angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy— the Son of God. And behold, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son, and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren. For nothing will be impossible with God.” Luke 1:34-37

Mary could not understand how God’s plan for her could possibly be accomplished. “Are you sure it’s me that God has chosen? I am not qualified. I’m not capable. I’m not ready!” But God’s ways are not about the possible. They are about the impossible. Through God, the impossible not only becomes possible, it becomes probable. How can a virgin conceive a child? The same way a barren woman does. Through the power of the Most High.

When we allow the Holy Spirit of God to “overshadow” us and fill our lives, we see miracles. But even more, we expect to see miracles. In today’s society, and sadly even in many of today’s churches, we don’t expect to see miracles. The Holy Spirit is barely recognized let alone welcomed and looked for. The Bible tells us that everyone who has accepted the gift of salvation through the sacrifice of Christ crucified is birthed into a new life, an eternal life with God, and receives the Holy Spirit into their very beings. Yet, we go about our daily existence relying on our own power, barely aware of the potential that lies within us.

For Mary to accomplish her purpose in life she was going to have to let go of her plans, dreams, and sense of control and allow God’s Holy Spirit to overshadow her. It was a big decision, a crossroads from which she could never return.

Holy Spirit, we welcome you. We open our lives, our homes, our churches to Your Presence, to Your Power, and to Your Potential. Fill us today. Pour out from us today. Overshadow our lives today. Amen

Advent Day 8 (December 8)

“And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” Luke 1:31-33

The news that Gabriel had for Mary certainly must have filled her with amazement. The angel told her, look here, you are going to conceive a child who will not only be the son of God Himself, but will be the established King of God’s people, and His Kingdom will never end. Many of us living in America miss the importance of these words. We have never “bowed down” to a King. On the contrary, our independence and ability to choose who leads us and what laws govern us is the cornerstone of our great nation. But God’s Kingdom is not a democracy. It is a Kingdom, ruled by one King who will reign over His people forever. Forever! Of His Kingdom, there will be no end.

When we look around the world today, we may feel like God’s Kingdom has faded into the background… or perhaps has been over-thrown. But God’s Kingdom is not like those of this world. It is not subject to the rise and fall of monarchs, presidents, dictators, or Prime Ministers. There is no progression of leaders in God’s Kingdom, Christ Jesus is and has been and always will be the King of His people. He is the ruler, provider, protector, and governor we can always depend on because there is no end to His rule; no diminish of His power; and no deficit of His care for His people.

Come! Let us take a moment from our busy schedules this season to worship our King.

Dear Lord, we bow down before You. We are privileged to be Your people, and humbled by Your great love for us. Help us to remember that Your love never fades, never fails, and is never far from us. Amen

Advent Day 7 (December 7)

…the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin's name was Mary. And he came to her and said, "Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!” But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be. And the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. Luke 1:26-30

God chose Mary specifically. She was not a random recipient of circumstance. God dispatched a messenger, the angel Gabriel to bring her the good news; you have been favored by God for a great assignment! Mary was right to be troubled. It isn’t everyday that God has a special assignment for us… or is it?

Mary knew that she had been singled out. For a purpose. And that purpose was established in eternity, determined even before her existence. That purpose existed in and for God’s favor. How would we feel to know that God has chosen us specifically for a specific purpose? That we have received His favor? Mary’s life would never be the same again. Her plans would become secondary to whatever God had planned for her. In that one moment, that one greeting from the angel Gabriel, Mary would be changed forever.

How do we receive God’s favor? With enthusiasm? With complacency? With conditions? Or with fear and trembling? God’s favor usurps plans, upsets the status quo, and changes lives. God has a special assignment for each of us, we just need to have the eyes, ears, and heart to see and hear the messengers He has put in our lives to show us His plan for today. Don’t be afraid, for you have found favor with God!

Dear Lord, open my eyes to see the people and circumstances you have brought into my life so that I will be able to fulfill my purpose for today. Help me to remember that I do not need to be afraid to step out and do the work you have for me to do, because I have found Your favor, and I have been chosen by You. Amen

Advent Day 6 (December 6)

Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel--'God is with us.' Isaiah 7:14

The prophecy concerning the Messiah was cloaked in impossibility. A virgin, conceiving a child? How is that possible? Only those who were looking for the impossible would be able to truly accept and receive this miracle. In today’s world, with all of our scientific advancements and “evidences” our belief in the impossible has ironically diminished and all but disappeared. Ironic, because what is mundanely everyday in our lives today was absolutely impossible only decades ago. Telephones, TV, air travel, space travel. Strangely, we attribute this all to mankind – our own inventiveness. Could it be that far from “inventing new things” we are only uncovering the incredible imaginative uses of God’s commodities?

The miracle of a virgin birth is coupled with the miracle of His name, Immanuel -- “God is with us.” That God would come in human form to walk this life with us was impossibility! But it’s true! What impossibility of God’s presence are you looking for today? Don’t miss it! The impossible is God’s specialty, and here, “with us” is where He loves to do it!

Dear Lord, you are the inventor of “impossibilities.” Open my eyes to see the impossible happening all around me today. Give me a sense of wonder as I go through this day with you. Amen

Advent Day 5 (December 5)

In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." … Jerusalem and all Judea and all the region about the Jordan were going out to him, and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming for baptism, he said to them, "You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bear fruit in keeping with repentance. And do not presume to say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham as our father,' for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children for Abraham. Even now the axe is laid to the root of the trees. Every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Matthew 3: 1-2, 5-10

John recognized the hypocrisy of the Pharisees and Sadducees that were coming to him for baptism. John’s message was one of repentance… turning away from familiar, sinful, and harmful patterns and intentionally changing direction towards God. These leaders of religion felt that they were entitled to God’s blessings and favor based on their heritage and position. John knew that they were not sincerely searching for God. He admonished them to prove by the way they lived that they had repented of their sins and turned to God.

This season gives us opportunity to examine the “fruit” of our lives. Do we feel that we are entitled to God’s blessing and favor simply because of who we are, or because of what family or group we may belong to? The first step in receiving Jesus is recognizing how desperately we need Him!

Lord, help me to see the areas of my life where I still need to turn from my ways to Your Ways, from my agenda to Your Plans, from my preferences to Your Purposes. Thank you for having a better way for my life. Amen

Advent Day 4 (December 4)

Listen! I hear the voice of someone shouting, “Make a highway for the LORD through the wilderness. Make a straight, smooth road through the desert for our God. Fill the valleys and level the hills. Straighten out the curves and smooth off the rough spots. Then the glory of the LORD will be revealed, and all people will see it together. The LORD has spoken!” Isaiah 40:3-5

…this is [John the Baptizer] who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah Matthew 3:3

The prophet Isaiah records that before all people will see God’s glory, the curves, valleys, and hills that restrict our vision must be smoothed out, and made straight. This has always been the job of the prophets – to expose our hills, valleys, and curves… those things that obstruct a clear view of God’s Plan for our time and His Will for all eternity.

John was the “voice shouting” in the wilderness, to prepare the hearts and minds of the people to receive Christ. The leaders of religion in John’s time had perverted God’s message into a strict list of rules and regimens. They used their religion and their position for personal power and political jockeying. They had created curves, hills, and valleys that restricted and restrained the people from accessing God’s grace in their lives.

This season is a good time for us to take stock of our own lives. Have we created detours to God’s love for ourselves and others? It is time to “make smooth” the way for the Lord!

Dear Father, show us the curves, hills, and valleys that are obstructing our clear view and full access to your love. Help us to smooth out those obstacles in our lives, and prevent us from creating obstacles in the lives of others. Amen

Advent Day 3 (December 3)

“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 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.” John grew up and became strong in spirit. Then he lived out in the wilderness until he began his public ministry to Israel. Luke 1:76-80

John the Baptizer was the forerunner of Christ -- the preparer of hearts & minds to receive Christ and all He would bring with Him. John's message was that salvation is found not through rules, rituals, or religion but through forgiveness of sin. The light of heaven was about to break upon the people, like a glorious sunrise and bring hope and mercy to those whose lives were surrounded with darkness. The path of peace was on its way. John's message was one of preparation for that glorious day.

We also have a message of preparation. A message of hope, peace, forgiveness and light to those who are living in darkness around us. As well, we have a message of urgency. Like John, the time was coming soon -- the arrival of the Promised One! Luke says that John grew and became strong in the spirit in preparation for that time. We are entering the busiest time of year for many of us. Shopping, decorating, cooking, preparing... but preparing for what? Are we preparing ourselves for His coming arrival? His return in Victory? Are we intentionally taking steps to grow strong in the spirit?

Dear Lord, remind us that we have a message of hope and urgency to those around us. Holy Spirit, give us words of hope, peace and forgiveness that sheds light upon the people around us. Keep our focus on the preparations that matter, even while we prepare to celebrate your birth this Christmas. Amen

Advent Day 2 (December 2)

'O Bethlehem of Judah, you are not just a lowly village in Judah, for a ruler will come from you who will be the shepherd for my people Israel.' Matthew 2:6

No matter how insignificant a person, place, or event may seem to us, God has BIG purposes for them! From a poor, dusty, little town in Bethlehem would come the most earth shattering event in all of human history! To a village carpenter and a teenage girl would come the opportunity to change the world. Sometimes we feel unimportant, or unseen, but God knows who we are, and why we are in the place and events we are in. Each of us have a significant, and purposeful place in human history -- otherwise we wouldn't be here. God knows who we are, why we are here, and what is happening in our lives.

Lord, sometimes we feel like a dusty little spot on the map of this world, like nothing of importance or significance can come from our lives, but You have BIG plans for us. Help us to see You in the events of our lives, and be reassured that we matter not just to You, but we matter for the unfolding of Your plans and Your Kingdom come. Amen