READ Luke 13-16
When a baby is born, the parents have great hopes for the child’s future but rarely any idea what will happen. Mary had a few clues, but as her child’s life unfolded, she must have been as amazed as I am at the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Today, we celebrate His birth, but I also rejoice in the activities of this man who is God. In these chapters He . . .
· Made repentance the entrance to His kingdom for everyone, not just the worst of sinners but all of us. We all have sinned and fallen short.
· Made a fruitful life proof of genuine repentance and a right relationship with Him.
· Healed people, whoever, whenever, and wherever He encountered those in great need.
· Used stories to explain spiritual realities to help us understand His kingdom.
· Made a distinction between being ‘religious’ and being His people.
· Knew what would happen to Him yet determined to do the will of God.
· Did good, even when others rebuked and criticized Him.
· Clearly illustrated that: “Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” (Luke 14:11)
· Clearly illustrated that everyone, no matter their social status or the size of their bank account, is welcome to come to Him and feast on His goodness!
· Did not say “come and I’ll make your life perfect” but clearly told that being His disciple means renouncing all that we have.
· Also said that being His disciple means making others thirsty as well as adding a preservative nature to this unpalatable world.
· Told the importance of seeking those who are lost and how heaven rejoices over just one person who repents!
· In the story of the prodigal, explained that those who stay home can be just as guilty of sin as those who run away and waste their lives, yet the Father welcomes both.
· Explained how being faithful in small ways or with that that belongs to others is prerequisite to being blessed with more.
· Clearly tells that serving God is not compatible with self-serving and shocks those who hear Him with “What is exalted among men is an abomination in the sight of God.” His value system is far different than ours!
· Defends the sanctity of marriage.
· Eternity is vital and nothing in this life matters as much. Not only that, after death, it is too late to change our minds about Him or to tell others about Him. Read the Word and believe it — NOW!
I go to put a turkey in the oven, to prepare other yummy things, to welcome family, to enjoy this day of unwrapping gifts, listening to and singing carols, but most of all, my heart is filled with joy — Jesus was born. Jesus became a man who did wonderful things and was beloved by His Father then crucified by our sin, buried and risen from the dead. He is with us, in our home and in our hearts. And for that — we celebrate Christmas!
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