Advent Meditations:
Week One:
Many at this time of the year struggle with depression and even despair. Jesus promises that He will be with you both in times of joy and in the valley of the shadow. Hope for the Christian is not simply wishful thinking, we have a certain hope. Jesus reigns now and Jesus is coming again. Read Luke 1:26-33.
Week Two:
Peace is something that we might not think is possible, but the Christmas season reminds us that nothing will be impossible with God. Indeed, it is not only possible – it is a present reality for those who are in Christ and we can give each other the greeting – “Peace from our Lord Jesus Christ!” or “The Peace of Christ be with you.” These are not empty words, these words perform an action like the pastor pronouncing a man and a woman husband and wife at a wedding. And they do this because the impossible happened – Jesus was born of a virgin. Read Luke 1:34-38.
Week Three:
The baby in the womb of Elizabeth leaped for joy when the unborn Jesus was near. How much more should we leap for joy now that Jesus lived a perfect life in our place, died for our sins, and risen from the dead now reigns in heaven for us? Remember as you prepare for Jesus to come again by putting your flesh to death that we can rejoice for He is working in us. 2012 is a leap year, resolve to make it a year that you will leap for joy. Read Luke 1:39-45.
Week Four:
Love. It is the word that sums up the one who is prepared for Jesus to come again. You love God and you therefore love all people because they have been made in His image. God has given us a love story in the Bible and He has written us love letters in the Bible and if we love God then we will glorify Him and praise Him and love one another. This is not the stuff of sentimental mush, but love that acts. The Father sent Jesus to the cross because He loves you and He has moved toward you in love. Give sacrificially for someone in need – take up your cross – and tell God how much you love Him. Read the epistle (love letter) of 1 John 4:7-21.
Christmas Week:
Mary’s response to the shepherd’s visit and the story they shared was to treasure up all these things, pondering them in her heart. Read Luke 2:1-19 and ponder these words in your heart. Remember, she gave birth to her firstborn son and laid him in a manger because there was no room for them in the inn. Do you welcome Jesus into your home? Do you welcome Jesus where you work or study? Is there any area of your life that you do not want Him to disturb? Wherever you go, Jesus promised that He will be with His disciples. How often do you hear Him speak to you where you are through His word?
Recent Comments