Scripture: Luke 2:1 In those days Caesar Augustus declared that everyone throughout the empire should be enrolled in the tax lists. Thought for the Day: Over the next five days, I plan to have us look at the first seven verses of Luke 2 – the basic Christmas Story. This opening verse sets the stage for the drama. It begins with Caesar Augustus making a degree. The word
Scripture: Luke 1:78-79 Because of our God’s deep compassion, the dawn from heaven will break upon us, to give light to those who are sitting in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide us on the path of peace. Thought for the Day: Yesterday, I spoke about John the Baptist’s mission as revealed in his father’s (Zechariah’s) prophecy. In this prophetic song, Zechariah goes on to
Scripture: Luke 1:77 You will tell his people how to be saved through the forgiveness of their sins. Thought for the Day: In Zechariah’s prophecy (after the birth of his son, John), he puts forth John’s mission and purpose – all contained within this single verse. Two word stand out: saved and forgiveness. It is interesting how both of them have rich meanings – both describing liberation and
Scripture: Luke 1:66 All who heard about this considered it carefully. They said, “What then will this child be?” Indeed, the Lord’s power was with him.” Thought for the Day: These words are referring to the one who will grow-up to be John the Baptist. In the above Common English Translation of the scriptures, it says, “…the Lord’s power…” but many other translations say, “…the hand of the
Scripture: Matthew 1:21 “She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” Thought for the Day: Joseph had an encounter with an angel, and in that experience he was told what to name the child that Mary carried. The name Jesus is the Greek form of the Hebrew name Joshua which means: ‘Yahweh is salvation’. A
Scripture: 1 John 4:7 Dear friends, let’s love each other, because love is from God, and everyone who loves is born from God and knows God. Thought for the Day: I have used this verse in many weddings as a reminder that God commands us to love each other, though 1st John is not speaking exclusively of the love found in marriage. We are commanded to love, and
Scripture: 2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word. Be ready to do it whether it is convenient or inconvenient. Correct, confront, and encourage with patience and instruction. Thought for the Day: Looking at the date, I realize we are just a little over two weeks left in 2016. I’m not ready for 2017. Oh sure, there are a few things I will be glad to leave behind, but I
Scripture: Luke 1:46-49 And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name…” Thought for the Day: Mary makes an astonishing realization about her God.
Scripture: Mark 1:7 He [John the Baptist] proclaimed, “The one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to stoop down and untie the thong of this sandals.” Thought for the Day: We struggle with humility in today’s world. With Reality TV, people are searching for their 15 minutes of fame…or they perceived it as fame. Of course, it is more like
Scripture: Philippians 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Thought for the Day: Yesterday, I preached on these words and talked about the need for us to practice joy. We do so, not to perfect it, but to make it possible. Joy, especially in times of difficulty, does not come easy. There is so much negativity in our world attempting to limit our perception