Perfect Love

 Perfect Love

Let's consider the miracle of Christmas.

Because of God's mercy and amazing grace,

in His perfect love His promise was fulfilled

one night in Bethlehem as God's glory spilled

across the night sky when an angel announced to the shepherds

news of a Savior born - the most incredible news ever heard.

The promise of salvation for all.

Forgiveness from sins now possible.

The miracle of forgiveness alone was bliss

but now eternal life was also promised.

Forgiveness of sins and eternal life offered for free.

This miracle of God's mercy and amazing grace for you and me.

Not through anything we have done

but because of God's love which had come

one night long, long ago

in a stable where cattle lowed

as God provided shelter

in a town helter-skelter.

God's provision – a miracle at the 11^th hour -

proving that He is our rock, our strong tower.

And God still performs these 11^th hour miracles today.

Miracles that build our faith and trust as we journey on our way

through God's mercy and amazing grace

faithfully sustaining the human race.

God's promise fulfilled by the birth of a baby

which was God's perfect love personified, truly.

Perfect love that offers forgiveness and eternal life also.

Perfect love that from the heart of God to ours continuously flows.

Christmas signifies the gift of God's perfect love

when the Savior came down from heaven above.

May you realize the incredible love God has for you

not only at Christmastime but the whole year through

as you recall God's promise of a Savior who came to earth -

announced by angels, witnessed by shepherds - with a birth

nothing less than a miracle:

God's gift of love to all peoples.

* * * * *

God's love is perfect because it is unconditional

based on God's continuous mercy and amazing grace to all.

Unfathomable from the human mind,

this perfect love that God has for mankind.

God's mercy and grace though undeserved

always lovingly bestowed

for God desires everyone come to repentance -

to receive his free gift of salvation through forgiveness.

I pray that you have received this free gift.

A gift that will bring peace and joy to your spirit.

Receive God's gift of love to us -

the gift of Jesus – this Christmas.

The name of the Lord is a strong tower;

the righteous run to it and are safe.

Proverbs 18:10

You have been my refuge,

a strong tower.

Psalm 61:3

There is no fear in love.

Perfect love drives out fear,

because fear has to do with punishment.

The one who fears is not made perfect in love.

I John 4:18

Every good and perfect gift is from above,

coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights,

who does not change like shifting shadows.

James 1:17

Be imitators of God, therefore,

as dearly loved children

and live a life of love,

just as Christ loved us.

Ephesians 5:1-2

Dear friends, Let us love one another,

for love comes from God.

Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.

I John 4:7

God's kindness leads you toward repentance.

Romans 2:4

If we confess our sins,

he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins

and purify us from all unrighteousness.

I John 1:9

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Names

 Names

Take time to read the story of Jesus' birth

which you'll find in Matthew and in Luke.

Take note of the names used to describe

this one of whom was prophesied.

You'll find God's one and only beloved Son has many names.

The New Testament tells us that the holy child will be named:

the Lord saves or "Jesus";

"Immanuel", meaning God with us.

The wise men called Him

the "king of the Jews" when they sought Him.

The angel referred to Him as "the Son of the Most High"

when Mary was told she was the one chosen from on high.

The angel also called Him the "Son of God"

when Mary learned of her destiny from God.

The angel told the shepherds He would be known as "Savior"

as He was sent to earth as our needed deliverer.

The title of "Christ " or the Anointed One

was another name for his earthly mission.

The name "Christ the Lord" gives Him reign

over the universe supreme.

Isaiah in the Old Testament speaks of this child-to-come by other names.

Contemplate the awesome characteristics of God's Son as described in these names.

In part, these names demonstrate that God is approachable, sustainable, available, peaceable,

and the ups and downs of everyday life attest that He is undeniably able.

Wonderful Counselor

Mighty God

Everlasting Father

Prince of Peace

As "Wonderful Counselor", God is approachable,

assuring us that our concerns are manageable.

As "Mighty God" he will sustain us

no matter what may come to pass.

Our "Everlasting Father" is always available

as through prayer He is assessable and attainable.

The "Prince of Peace" tells us He is peaceable

as recorded over and again in the Bible.

* * * * *

Whatever you call this King

He will be your everything

when to Him you continually bring

in daily heart-felt prayer offering

your big and little concerns, unconfessed sins,

your gratitude and attitude within.

This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about...

Matthew 1:18

She will give birth to a son,

and you are to give him the name Jesus,

because he will save his people from their sins.

Matthew 1:21

The virgin will be with child

and will give birth to a son,

and they will call him Immanuel -

which means, "God with us."

Matthew 1:23

Where is the one who has been born

king of the Jews?

Matthew 2:2

You will be with child and give birth to a son,

and you are to give him the name Jesus.

He will be great and will be called

The Son of the Most High.

Luke 1:31-32

So the holy one to be born

will be called the Son of God.

Luke 1:35

Today in the town of David

a Savior has been born to you;

he is Christ the Lord.

Luke 2:11

For to us a child is born,

to us a son is given,

and the government will be on his shoulders.

And he will be called

Wonderful Counselor,

Mighty God,

Everlasting Father,

Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6

Therefore God exalted him to the highest place

and gave him the name that is above every name,

that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,

in heaven and on earth and under the earth,

and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,

to the glory of God the Father.

Philippians 2:9-11

There are many more names attributed to God's Son.

Sometime take time to make an ABC... list. It'll be fun.

A = Almighty, B = Bread of Life, C = Comforter

D = Deliverer, E = Eternal, F = Friend, and more...

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Manger

 Manger

Have you ever considered the manger?

Some crudely cut wood pieced together

used as a feed box for barnyard animals

was nothing extraordinary after all.

A lowly, humble, crude trough

made out of wood cut rough

to serve a purpose -

to hold hay was its use.

Nothing fancy about it, probably quite plain.

Perhaps not even chiseled with a plane.

Nothing that would garner attention -

except when dinner time came.

But maybe there was something quite remarkable.

One, it was accessible and two, available.

It made a convenient bassinet or crib

for it would cradle a baby, it did.

The manger, a word heard once a year

when reading the first Christmas story dear.

Though humble, this lowly manger,

would cradle the promised Savior.

It's purpose glorified that night

brought the shepherds delight

for just as the angel said

it was the Savior's bed.

In fact, “the King's bed”,

it could be said.

God had a plan to turn what was humble, yet available,

into something extraordinarily wonderful!

* * * * *

Have you ever thought

you could never do that?

Is it because you feel insecure or inferior?

Perhaps lowly like the forgotten manger.

Do your anxieties hold you back?

Maybe it's confidence you lack?

Perhaps not speak in front of a crowd

because your knees would be knocking too loud.

Do you know God uses what's available

and He will give you grace that enables.

Do you suppose God could use someone like you

if you had the courage to ask him to?

The Bible shows us God doesn't look at the outward stuff,

so if you think you're not thin enough or educated enough

be aware God is more concerned about the attitude of your heart

then he is about status that you think might set someone apart.

Ask God to give you a testimony bold

and he will refine you as the choicest gold.

Notice God didn't chose the most gifted speakers

for God's Word records tongue-tied orators/preachers.

Moses and Jeremiah tried to bow out

when God surprisingly chose them to shout out

His message to His people -

their excuses being feeble.

God has a wonderful plan and purpose just for you.

All you need is to see yourself through God's loving view.

Like the manger, God has something wonderful waiting for you.

Ask God for his holy boldness then go out and share the Good News.

This will be a sign to you:

You will find a baby wrapped in cloths

and lying in a manger.

Luke 2:12

Moses said to the Lord,

“O Lord, I have never been eloquent,

neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant.

I am slow of speech and tongue.”

The Lord said to him,

“Who gave man his mouth?

Who makes him deaf or mute?

Who gives him sight or makes him blind?

Is it not I, the Lord? Now go;

I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.”

Exodus 4:10-12

The word of the Lord came to me, saying,

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you,

before you were born I set you apart;

I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”

“Ah, Sovereign Lord,” I said,

“I do not know how to speak;

I am only a child.”

But the Lord said to me,

“Do not say, 'I am only a child.”

You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you.

Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you.

Then the Lord reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me,

“Now, I have put my words in your mouth.”.

Jeremiah 1:4-9

Man looks at the outward appearance,

but the Lord looks at the heart.

I Samuel 16:7

Enable your servants to speak your word

with great boldness.

Acts 4:29

I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord,

plans to prosper you and not to harm you,

plans to give you hope and a future.

Jeremiah 29:11

As for you, the anointing your received from him remains in you,

and you do not need anyone to teach you.

But as this anointing teaches you about all things

and as that anointing is real, not counterfeit -

just as it has taught you, remain in him.

I John 2:27

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Leaders

 Leaders

The first Christmas story mentions the leaders of that day

though the focus is on the angel's message, the baby,

the shepherds, the manger, Mary, Joseph,

a bright star and wise men bearing gifts.

There are political leaders

and unnamed religious leaders.

The political leaders were Caesar Augustus

and the governor of Syria named Quirinius.

Another leader was King Herod, a malicious fellow,

who issued an edict for the wise men to follow.

The wise men were very astute, quite true to their name, it seems,

as they heeded an opposite instruction from a dream.

There were also religious leaders well versed in Old Testament law.

These were the chief priests, or Sadducees, and other teachers of the law.

These priests ensured that the order of worship was adhered to,

obeying the law, but in their hearts they didn't have a clue.

Even the teachers of the law practiced a legalistic religion,

one lacking relationship, following rules vs. heart application.

Gaining head knowledge, obeying the law which is right,

but lacking heart knowledge leading them to the Light.

When Herod inquired of them where Christ was to be born

they knew the answer based on scripture – in Bethlehem.

Old Testament prophesy was being fulfilled right then, in their lifetime,

but these leaders seemed to be too preoccupied to take time to seek and find.

So all these leaders learned that the king of the Jews, as prophesied, was born.

Did any of them jump on their chariots or donkeys creating a dust storm?

It seemed to be just another day in the neighborhood.

Perhaps if they had heart knowledge they would have understood.

Were they too busy to even set an hour apart?

Or maybe not interested because of calloused hearts?

No one interrupted their schedules from their daily duties

to go see a newborn baby whom everyone thinks is a cutey.

Not just any baby adored.

He was the Savior, Christ the Lord,

of whom the heavenly host did joyfully sing

and of whom the wise men called a newborn king

Quite the opposite from the shepherds and the wise men who

sought the promised Christ-child until he was at last found.

The shepherds hurried off to see if the announcement was true.

The wise men persevered for weeks following the star westward bound.

The shepherds through their witness and testimony gave glory to God

telling everyone everything while glorifying and praising God.

Matthew records that when the wise men saw the child they worshiped him

recognizing that the Christ-child was God's promised one, the King of Kings.

Two totally different responses. The political and religious leaders were indifferent.

The shepherds and wise men testified of this One who was born to make a difference.

The shepherds and wise men wholeheartedly made time

while the leaders had indifference on their minds.

* * * * *

Who are we most like?

Do we search and find the Light?

Do we make the time for Bible study

or do we find we are too busy?

Do we make the time to make a difference

imitating Christ likeness

or do we often find ourselves indifferent

to our neighbor's trials and stress?

Be like the shepherds or wise men.

Do not be like these leaders, these men,

who were too busy, too preoccupied, too indifferent.

Study God's Word, imitate Christ. You'll see in yourself a difference.

After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea,

during the time of King Herod,

Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked,

"Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews?

We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him."

When King Herod heard this he was disturbed,

and all of Jerusalem with him.

When he had called together all the people's chief priests

and teachers of the law,

he asked them where the Christ was to be born.

In Bethlehem in Judea, they replied,

"for this is what the prophet has written".

Matthew 2:1-5

"Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened,

which the Lord has told us about."

So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby,

who was lying in the manger.

When they had seen him,

they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child.

Luke 2:15-17

On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary,

and they bowed down and worshiped him.

Matthew 2:11

I am the light of the world.

Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness,

but will have the light of life.

John 8:12

I have hidden your word in my heart

that I might not sign against you.

Psalm 119:11

Pharisees and Sadducees

The Pharisees were a legalistic and separatist group who strictly, but often hypocritically, kept the law of Moses and the unwritten "tradition of the elders". The Sadducees were more worldly and politically minded, and were theologically unorthodox – among other things denying the resurrection, angels and spirits.

Chief priests - Sadducees who were in charge of worship at the temple.

Teachers of the law – The Jewish scholars of the day, professionally trained in the development, teaching and application of OT law.

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Joy

Joy

What joy

that day

when angels sang

sweet anthems.

Songs of jubilation

and glad exultation

with much rejoicing

come down from heaven.

That day when angels came to earth

to announce the Savior’s birth

delightful music filled the air –

heavenly music they did share.

Singing for all they were worth

with jubilation and mirth

filled the shepherd's ears

sung loud and clear.

A song never before heard

was sung to the shepherd’s herd

but still rings true today

lighting our weary way.

A melody singing "glory"

bringing God praise and glory

today we sing in a hymn of bliss –

it’s “glory to God in the highest”.

This song of joy and rejoicing

gives glory to God in heaven.

Glory to God in the highest

and on earth peace and new found rest.

* * * * *

As the angels promised

we can find peace and rest

with joy and gladness

when we simply trust.

The angel’s joy is found

in Christ and can abound

in you when you believe

and in prayer receive.

You’ll be glad

you did

believe

and receive.

Do it now.

This is how:

Dear Jesus, I believe you came to earth to die for my sins.

Please forgive me and help me to live a new life within. Amen.

Give God glory

in melody

or thankful delight

each day and night.

Joy is yours!

God has in store

so much more

than you can wish for.

And if you're weighed down with worry,

stop, and start giving God glory.

Joy will abound

when worry is gone.

You'll find constant worry

is Satan's territory

and robs us of joy.

God's plan is to bring joy.

So with a joyful heart

give God glory, just start.

You'll see life differently

when joy replaces worry.

The joy of the Lord is my salvation (deliverance).

Nehemiah 8:10

Glory to God in the highest

and on earth peace to men.

Luke 2:14

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Gifts of Faith

Gifts of Faith

Christmas, a time of giving to others,

to show our love for one another.

Christmas, though a time for giving and receiving presents,

is oftentimes forgetting to include Christ's presence.

Busyness with many festivities,

recapturing childhood memories,

yet the reason for the season is oft forgot

though it's the reason we exchange gifts we brought.

So how about we make a conscious effort

this year to give Christ heartfelt, faith-filled gifts.

What would you give to Christ this Christmas?

What would you freely give if someone asked?

Let's start with the three gifts the wise men brought to Christ.

These gifts will also make a difference in our lives.

As you know, these gifts were gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

Precious, meaningful gifts meant for a king, they were.

Gold is the symbol of royalty, a gift fit for Jesus Christ,

as the wise men acknowledged Jesus was King of the Jews.

When we acknowledge and confess Jesus as Lord of our life

we agree His way is best and give Him the right to rule.

So we faithfully follow God's commands

written in God's Word for His children.

We know that obedience shows God we love Him

so we endeavor to live our lives to please our King.

Frankincense is a symbol of Christ's purity, His sinless perfection,

being God's provision to guarantee our sins are forgiven.

To be pure is to be "set-apart" from the influences of this wicked world.

To live in this world as ambassadors being obedient to God's Word.

Striving to be pure in word, thought, and deed;

living a life of love instead of greed.

Having the Holy Spirit who enables us

to remain strong when sin attracts us.

Myrrh is a symbol of Christ's death and suffering

used at that time in burial preparations.

We imitate this by "dying to self ", daily to aspire.

Seeking God's ways instead of our own selfish desires.

Dying to self is a daily battle,

one in which God will enable.

To say "no" to ungodliness,

as we acknowledge God's way is best.

Three gifts to give to Christ every day of the year:

l acknowledging Jesus is Lord keeps His presence near,

2 being pure or set apart from the world,

3 daily dying to self by saying 'no'.

* * * * *

These three gifts of abiding faith

we give to Christ who by His grace

was the very first Christmas present.

Don't forget to acknowledge His presence.

Lord, may I seek to please you

in all I say, think, or do

so that my life is a testimony

giving you praise, honor, and glory.

Then they opened their treasures and presented him

with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh.

Matthew 2:11

Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked,

"Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews?"

Matthew 2:1-2

Let us acknowledge the Lord;

let us press on to acknowledge him.

Hosea 6:3

And this is love:

that we walk in obedience to his commands.

2 John 6

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just

and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

I John 1:9

Whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable -

if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.

Philippians 4:8

For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men.

It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions,

and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age,

while we wait for the blessed hope -

the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ,

who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness

and to purify for himself a people that are his very own,

eager to do what is good.

Titus 2:11-14

You are worthy, our Lord and God,

to receive glory and honor and power,

for you created all things,

and by your will they were created

and have their being.

Revelation 4:11

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Countdown

 Countdown

The countdown to another Christmas begins

with many decorations displayed within

and festive lights outside

announcing the yuletide.

The Christmas tree is decorated

with special ornaments collected

year after year

from far and near.

There's Christmas cards to again write

occupying many a night

as friends and family are remembered

each year in the month of December.

Christmas songs are heard on the radio

about reindeer and Santa Claus – ho, ho, ho!

You'll hear Christmas trees sung about

and songs about "you'd better not pout".

Presents are wrapped

in festive gift wrap

to be given to someone

before January comes.

Christmas cookies are baked

or maybe a yuletide cake

to share with loved ones.

Have another one.

Christmas parties are planned

for men, women and children

or maybe a Christmas play

as parents mouth the words to say.

Maybe an impromptu choir

will sing carols that will inspire

as they walk from door to door

as snowflakes quietly soar.

"Over the river and through the woods"

much laughter is heard in neighborhoods

as families gather together again

when Christmastime comes around again.

Amidst much hurry and scurry

Christmas is over in a hurry.

The countdown to Christmas is over then the year comes to a close.

What happened to the 'reason for the season', do you suppose?

* * * * *

When the countdown to Christmas begins,

please take time to read the story about the inn

where the innkeeper said "there's no room"

one night under the midnight moon...

though he did offer his stable

in the midst of the rabble

of the census being taken

in the town of Bethlehem.

Expectant

parents

Mary and Joseph were relieved

when this announcement was received...

for any minute Mary would deliver

a baby boy, to be named Jesus, the Savior,

who would save us from our sins

when we ask Him to dwell within.

So there in the stable one night

under the stars shining bright

this baby was born that would change the world

becoming the greatest story ever told.

At the same time this announcement

was made by angels who were sent

from heaven above

with a story of love...

to shepherds that first Christmas night,

though they were terrified with fright,

to see the glory of the Lord shine round

as they fell to their knees there on the ground.

The shepherds then hurried to Bethlehem to see

this miracle which was too amazing to believe

and there they found Jesus Christ the Lord, a baby,

just as the angel said, in a manger lying, so wee.

This baby who was promised

longed ago by the prophets

would one day be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,

Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace – to guide us on the path we trod.

It seems God chose the shepherds

to be his good news heralds

for they told everyone

that the Savior had come.

This good news passed down through generations

celebrated by men, women and children

each December 25^th

now know to us as Christmas.

On the countdown to Christmas did you take a few minutes to read

this story in Matthew and Luke which established our nation's creed?

Please don't leave Christ out of your Christmas.

You'll find with Christ in your life, you'll be blessed.

And he will be called

Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,

Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6

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