Commentary: Millennials Are OVER Church

by Bosco Peters

Millennials, those people aged from their late teens to their mid thirties, are “the least likely to be religious“. Furthermore, a United Kingdom poll is probably typical in finding ‘41% thought religion was “the cause of evil” in the world more often than good.’

A recent blog post by Sam Eaton gave 12 Reasons Millennials Are OVER Church.

Hard hitting, for me, was the Millennials’ weariness with mission and vision statements, the endless groups, the ineffectiveness of preaching, and the lack of actually doing stuff for the last, the lost, and the least.

Jesus has given us a mission statement and a vision statement. We don’t need to have more endless meetings and processes to create yet another (particular) community mission statement. We need to get out and DO it!

We don’t need yet another meeting, yet another program, yet another study group. Time is precious – and we have inherited a pre-TV, pre-digital way of being church where church was our social experience and our source of news. Well the social-media generation won’t play that game.

Preaching just doesn’t reach our generation like our parents and grandparents… We have millions of podcasts and Youtube videos of pastors the world over at our fingertips. For that reason, the currency of good preaching is at its lowest value in history. Millennials crave relationship, to have someone walking beside them through the muck. … We’re looking for mentors who are authentically invested in our lives and our future. If we don’t have real people who actually care about us, why not just listen to a sermon from the couch (with the ecstasy of donuts and sweatpants)? (point 7)

Jesus’ mission would have us be the hands, feet, eyes, and mouth of caring for the lost, the last, the least – oh, and caring for the environment, the planet. Are we actually doing that? Or are people outside the church often actually doing this better? (point 3)

[Those who use the Daily Eucharistic Readings will have read yesterday (or for some that’s still today) Matt 21:28-32 about those who say they will do God’s will and don’t, and those who say they are not interested in doing God’s will and yet actually go and do what God wants.]

This is where I part company with the introduction to Sam Eaton’s post (clearly this introduction is written by somebody else):

Only 4 percent of the Millennial Generation are Bible-Based Believers. This means that 96 percent of Millennials likely don’t live out the teachings of the Bible, value the morals of Christianity…

Let’s leave the discussion about “Bible-Based Believers” (what are “nonBible-Based Believers”?) – but I’m going to strongly disagree that 96% of Millenials “don’t live out the teachings of the Bible”. In my experience, they often live out these teachings at least as well if not better than church-goers (the blog post editor’s “Bible-Based Believers”). And, to suggest that 96% of Millenials “don’t value the morals of Christianity” is prejudicial arrogance, just the sort of prejudices and arrogance that (rightly?) keeps Millenials from coming to church.

Two last points:

There is no mention of worship style. OK – preaching is mentioned, and it’s clear that preaching is overrated. But other than that, I’m going to stick my neck out and say that Millenials seek authentic worship – not just a show (and the hollow show-likeness can happen in every part of the Christian spectrum).

There was also no mention of a church’s online presence. Again, I’m going to stick my neck out – I think that is just taken for granted. Online is where Millenials live. They grew up with computers in their homes. “Millennials use social networking sites, such as Facebook, to create a different sense of belonging, make acquaintances, and to remain connected with friends.”

What do you think?

The Daily Readings for WEDNESDAY, December 14, 2016

First Reading
from the Old Testament

The Lord sent a word against Jacob, and it fell on Israel; and all the people knew it-- Ephraim and the inhabitants of Samaria-- but in pride and arrogance of heart they said: "The bricks have fallen, but we will build with dressed stones; the sycamores have been cut down, but we will put cedars in their place." So the LORD raised adversaries against them, and stirred up their enemies, the Arameans on the east and the Philistines on the west, and they devoured Israel with open mouth. For all this his anger has not turned away; his hand is stretched out still. The people did not turn to him who struck them, or seek the LORD of hosts. So the LORD cut off from Israel head and tail, palm branch and reed in one day-- elders and dignitaries are the head, and prophets who teach lies are the tail; for those who led this people led them astray, and those who were led by them were left in confusion. That is why the Lord did not have pity on their young people, or compassion on their orphans and widows; for everyone was godless and an evildoer, and every mouth spoke folly. For all this his anger has not turned away, his hand is stretched out still. (Isaiah 9:8-17, NRSV)

Second Reading
from the Epistles

But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive opinions. They will even deny the Master who bought them-- bringing swift destruction on themselves. Even so, many will follow their licentious ways, and because of these teachers the way of truth will be maligned. And in their greed they will exploit you with deceptive words. Their condemnation, pronounced against them long ago, has not been idle, and their destruction is not asleep. For if God did not spare the angels when they sinned, but cast them into hell and committed them to chains of deepest darkness to be kept until the judgment; and if he did not spare the ancient world, even though he saved Noah, a herald of righteousness, with seven others, when he brought a flood on a world of the ungodly; and if by turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah to ashes he condemned them to extinction and made them an example of what is coming to the ungodly; and if he rescued Lot, a righteous man greatly distressed by the licentiousness of the lawless (for that righteous man, living among them day after day, was tormented in his righteous soul by their lawless deeds that he saw and heard), then the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trial, and to keep the unrighteous under punishment until the day of judgment -- especially those who indulge their flesh in depraved lust, and who despise authority. Bold and willful, they are not afraid to slander the glorious ones, (2 Peter 2:1-10, NRSV)

The Holy Gospel
according to St Mark, the 1st Chapter

The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. As it is written in the prophet Isaiah, "See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way; the voice of one crying out in the wilderness: 'Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight,'" John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. And people from the whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem were going out to him, and were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. Now John was clothed with camel's hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. He 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 his sandals. I have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit." (Mark 1:1-8, NRSV)

Morning Psalms

Psalm 119: Zayin Memor esto verbi tui
49   Remember your word to your servant, because you have given me hope.
50   This is my comfort in my trouble, that your promise gives me life.
51   The proud have derided me cruelly, but I have not turned from your law.
52   When I remember your judgments of old, O LORD, I take great comfort.
53   I am filled with a burning rage, because of the wicked who forsake your law.
54   Your statutes have been like songs to me wherever I have lived as a stranger.
55   I remember your Name in the night, O LORD, and dwell upon your law.
56   This is how it has been with me, because I have kept your commandments.

Psalm 119: Heth Portio mea, Domine
57   You only are my portion, O LORD; I have promised to keep your words.
58   I entreat you with all my heart, be merciful to me according to your promise.
59   I have considered my ways and turned my feet toward your decrees.
60   I hasten and do not tarry to keep your commandments.
61   Though the cords of the wicked entangle me, I do not forget your law.
62   At midnight I will rise to give you thanks, because of your righteous judgments.
63   I am a companion of all who fear you and of those who keep your commandments.
64   The earth, O LORD, is full of your love; instruct me in your statutes.

Psalm 119: Teth Bonitatem fecisti
65   O LORD, you have dealt graciously with your servant, according to your word.
66   Teach me discernment and knowledge, for I have believed in your commandments.
67   Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I keep your word.
68   You are good and you bring forth good; instruct me in your statutes.
69   The proud have smeared me with lies, but I will keep your commandments with my whole heart.
70   Their heart is gross and fat, but my delight is in your law.
71   It is good for me that I have been afflicted, that I might learn your statutes.
72   The law of your mouth is dearer to me than thousands in gold and silver.

Evening Psalms

Psalm 49 Audite haec, omnes
1   Hear this, all you peoples; hearken, all you who dwell in the world, you of high degree and low, rich and poor together.
2   My mouth shall speak of wisdom, and my heart shall meditate on understanding.
3   I will incline my ear to a proverb and set forth my riddle upon the harp.
4   Why should I be afraid in evil days, when the wickedness of those at my heels surrounds me,
5   The wickedness of those who put their trust in their goods, and boast of their great riches?
6   We can never ransom ourselves, or deliver to God the price of our life;
7   For the ransom of our life is so great, that we should never have enough to pay it,
8   In order to live for ever and ever, and never see the grave.
9   For we see that the wise die also; like the dull and stupid they perish and leave their wealth to those who come after them.
10   Their graves shall be their homes for ever, their dwelling places from generation to generation, though they call the lands after their own names.
11   Even though honored, they cannot live for ever; they are like the beasts that perish.
12   Such is the way of those who foolishly trust in themselves, and the end of those who delight in their own words.
13   Like a flock of sheep they are destined to die; Death is their shepherd; they go down straightway to the grave.
14   Their form shall waste away, and the land of the dead shall be their home.
15   But God will ransom my life; he will snatch me from the grasp of death.
16   Do not be envious when some become rich, or when the grandeur of their house increases;
17   For they will carry nothing away at their death, nor will their grandeur follow them.
18   Though they thought highly of themselves while they lived, and were praised for their success,
19   They shall join the company of their forebears, who will never see the light again.
20   Those who are honored, but have no understanding, are like the beasts that perish.

Psalm 53 Dixit insipiens
1   The fool has said in his heart, "There is no God." All are corrupt and commit abominable acts; there is none who does any good.
2   God looks down from heaven upon us all, to see if there is any who is wise, if there is one who seeks after God.
3   Every one has proved faithless; all alike have turned bad; there is none who does good; no, not one.
4   Have they no knowledge, those evildoers who eat up my people like bread and do not call upon God?
5   See how greatly they tremble, such trembling as never was; for God has scattered the bones of the enemy; they are put to shame, because God has rejected them.
6   Oh, that Israel's deliverance would come out of Zion! when God restores the fortunes of his people Jacob will rejoice and Israel be glad.

New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The New Revised Standard Version Bible may be quoted and/or reprinted up to and inclusive of five hundred (500) verses without express written permission of the publisher, provided the verses quoted do not amount to a complete book of the Bible or account for fifty percent (50%) of the total work in which they are quoted.

Lutheran Hour Ministries - "Magnify the Lord"

And Mary said, "My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior" (Luke 1:46-47, ESV)

Read Luke 1:46-55.

One year in early December our old black-and-white console television conked out on us. Mom covered it with a white cloth and set up the manger scene on top. On Christmas morning my parents lifted the white cloth from the front of the set and suddenly we had a brand new color television. Seeing all the programs in color for the first time was amazing.

Mary had an experience something like that. First, the angel's message, and now Elizabeth's greeting. In response, she bursts out in praise, "My soul magnifies the Lord!"

What a curious thing to say. She obviously doesn't mean her soul or spirit has made God greater than He already is. She means her mental image of God has grown significantly. Previously, she thought God would have sent His angel to the high priest's daughter in Jerusalem or to a girl from a powerful, influential and wealthy family. She surely didn't think God would send an angel to a girl like her with no fame, wealth or influence.

But God had noticed her -- a young, unknown girl from an insignificant, little town that is never mentioned throughout the entire Old Testament. God chose her to be the mother of His Son.

When we recognize our unworthiness, our sin, our failings, then God is ready to magnify Himself in our eyes too. That's the secret of Christmas: the Christ Child came to our world to take away our sin and the punishment we deserve for it. Today He comes to your house to live with you, give meaning to your life, guard your ways, and even lead you through death to life everlasting.

THE PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I am amazed You would concern Yourself with someone like me. Thank You for sending Your Son to save me and promising me eternal life for His sake. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Use these devotions in your newsletter and bulletin! Used by permission; all rights reserved by the Int'l LLL (LHM).

Devociones de Adviento - La hora del gozo

 Isaías 12:2-6

Y con gran gozo sacarán ustedes agua de las fuentes de la salvación. (Is 12:3, RVC)

¿Qué cosas nos producen gozo en esta vida? ¿Con cuánta frecuencia lo experimentamos? ¿Dónde lo buscamos? El verdadero gozo es un don del Espíritu Santo, junto con la paz, la paciencia, la fe y otros regalos. Correr detrás del placer, el confort o el consumo, no necesariamente nos conducirá al gozo. A veces esa búsqueda, casi desesperada, nos dejará secos, vacíos o frustrados.

El verdadero gozo es una experiencia vibrante en nuestro espíritu. No tiene que ver con lo que nosotros hacemos por ser más o menos felices; es el resultado de lo que Dios nos hace experimentar por gracia, por ser un Dios bueno y misericordioso.

Y es por eso que el gozo puede brillar incluso en medio de las sombras del dolor, el sufrimiento y la muerte. Es una convicción que nos eleva, asociada con el perdón, la salvación, la seguridad de que lo terrible de nuestra vida no tiene la palabra final. Es como el caminante perdido en el bosque que de repente vislumbra el sendero de salida, o el sediento en el desierto que de pronto descubre el oasis.

No hay mayor gozo que la experiencia de la salvación. Es la certeza que brota de la palabra divina de que Dios ya no nos acusa, sino que nos consuela... de que ya no es nuestro enemigo, sino nuestro salvador. Cuando nuestra vida parece ser un laberinto sin salida, podemos elevar nuestra mirada y confiar en Aquel que se manifiesta como nuestro salvador en el pesebre y en la cruz. El profeta nos invita diciendo: ¡Vean a Dios, mi Salvador! Jesús es la fuente inagotable de esa salvación. Aferrémonos a Él con fe, para experimentar el favor divino.

Dios de misericordia: renueva en mí el gozo de tu salvación. Alimenta mi débil fe. Por Jesús, mi Salvador. Amén.

© Copyright 2016 Cristo Para Todas Las Naciones

Our Daily Bread - Living in the Light

By Jennifer Benson Schuldt

Read: 1 John 2:3–11 | Bible in a Year: Joel 1–3; Revelation 5

The darkness is passing and the true light is already shining. 1 John 2:8

It was a dark morning. Low, steel-colored clouds filled the sky, and the atmosphere was so dim that I needed to turn on the lights in order to read a book. I had just settled in when the room suddenly filled with light. I looked up and saw that the wind was pushing the clouds to the east, clearing the sky and revealing the sun.

As I went to the window to get a better look at the drama, a thought came to mind: “The darkness is passing and the true light is already shining” (1 John 2:8). The apostle John wrote these words to believers as a message of encouragement. He went on to say, “Anyone who loves their brother and sister lives in the light, and there is nothing in them to make them stumble” (v. 10). By contrast, he equated hating people with roaming around in darkness. Hatred is disorienting; it takes away our sense of moral direction.

Loving people is not always easy. Yet I was reminded as I looked out the window that frustration, forgiveness, and faithfulness are all part of maintaining a deep connection with the love and light of God. When we choose love instead of hate, we are showing our relationship with Him and reflecting His radiance to the world around us. “God is light; in him there is no darkness at all” (1 John 1:5).

Dear God, help me to experience Your love more fully so that I can share it with others. I want to live in the light of Your grace and mercy.

Choosing to love people well shows the world what God is like.

© 2016 Our Daily Bread Ministries

Nuestro Pan Diario - Vivir en la luz

Por Jennifer Benson Schuldt

Leer: 1 Juan 2:3-11 | La Biblia en un año: Apocalipsis 5

… las tinieblas van pasando, y la luz verdadera ya alumbra (1 Juan 2:8).

Era una mañana oscura. El cielo estaba cubierto de nubes bajas y grises, y la atmósfera estaba tan sombría que tuve que encender las luces para leer. Acababa de sentarme, cuando, de repente, la habitación se iluminó. Levanté la mirada y vi que el viento estaba llevando las nubes, y el cielo se había limpiado y aparecido el sol.

Mientras iba hacia la ventana para contemplar la escena, me vino a la mente un pensamiento: «las tinieblas van pasando, y la luz verdadera ya alumbra» (1 Juan 2:8). El apóstol Juan escribió estas palabras a los creyentes para transmitirles ánimo. Y agregó: «El que ama a su hermano, permanece en la luz, y en él no hay tropiezo» (v. 10). Por contraposición, equiparó el odiar a las personas con deambular en la oscuridad. El odio desorienta; nos quita el sentido de rumbo moral.

No siempre es fácil amar a las personas. Sin embargo, mientras miraba por la ventana, recordé que, tanto la frustración como el perdón y la fidelidad, forman parte del proceso de mantenerse en comunión plena con el amor y la luz de Dios. Cuando decidimos amar en vez de odiar, demostramos nuestra relación con el Señor y reflejamos su fulgor ante quienes nos rodean. «Dios es luz, y no hay ningunas tinieblas en él» (1 Juan 1:5).

Señor, ayúdame a reflejar tu luz de gracia y misericordia.

Decidir amar a las personas muestra al mundo cómo es Dios.

© 2016 Ministerios Nuestro Pan Diario

Unser Täglich Brot - Im Licht leben

Von Jennifer Benson Schuldt

 Lesen: 1.Johannes 2,3-11 | Die Bibel In Einem Jahr: Joel 1–3; Offenbarung 5

Die Finsternis vergeht und das wahre Licht scheint jetzt. (1.Johannes 2,8)

Es war ein trüber Morgen. Tiefe, stahlgraue Wolken bedeckten den Himmel und es war so finster, dass ich das Licht anmachen musste, um etwas lesen zu können. Ich hatte es mir gerade bequem gemacht, als das Zimmer plötzlich von Licht erfüllt wurde. Ich sah auf und entdeckte, dass der Wind die Wolken nach Osten trieb, so dass auf einmal die Sonne zu sehen war.

Ich trat ans Fenster, um das Spektakel genauer zu betrachten. Dabei kam mir das Wort in den Sinn: „Die Finsternis vergeht und das wahre Licht scheint jetzt“ (1.Joh. 2,8). Der Apostel Johannes schrieb es zur Ermutigung an Gläubige und führte aus: „Wer seinen Bruder liebt, der bleibt im Licht, und durch ihn kommt niemand zu Fall“ (V.10). Im Gegensatz dazu, erklärte er, tappen Menschen, die hassen, in der Finsternis umher. Hass verwirrt und raubt uns auch moralisch gesehen den Orientierungssinn.

Menschen zu lieben ist nicht immer einfach. Aber, als ich zum Fenster hinaussah, ging es mir durch den Kopf, dass Enttäuschung, Vergebung und Treue dazugehören, wenn wir im Licht Gottes und in seiner Liebe Beziehungen pflegen wollen. Wenn wir Liebe statt Hass wählen, spiegeln wir für unsere Umgebung etwas von unserer Beziehung zu ihm wider. „Gott ist Licht, und in ihm ist keine Finsternis“ (1.Joh. 1,5).

Lieber Gott, hilf mir, deine Liebe immer tiefer zu erleben, damit ich sie an andere weitergeben kann. Ich möchte im Licht deiner Gnade und Barmherzigkeit leben.

Wenn wir bereit sind, andere zu lieben, zeigen wir der Welt, wie Gott ist

© 2016 Unser Täglich Brot

Хлеб наш насущный - Жизнь во свете

автор: Дженифер Бенсон Шульдт

Читать сейчас: 1 Иоанна 2:3-11 | Библия за год: Иоиль 1-3; Откровение 5

...Тьма проходит, и истинный свет уже светит. — 1 Иоанна 2:8

Утро было сумрачным. Низкие серые тучи укутали небо. Картину довершал туман, так что мне пришлось включить свет, чтобы почитать книгу. Только я уселась, как вдруг комната озарилась светом. Я подняла глаза и увидела, что ветер разогнал тучи на востоке, небо прояснилось и выглянуло солнце.

Идя к окну полюбоваться этой картиной, я вспомнила слова: «Тьма проходит, и истинный свет уже светит» (1 Ин. 2:8). Апостол Иоанн написал их верующим с целью ободрения. Дальше он говорит: «Кто любит брата своего, тот пребывает во свете и нет в нем соблазна» (1 Ин. 2:10). В противоположность этому он сравнивает тех, кто ненавидит, с блуждающими во тьме. Ненависть ослепляет, лишает нас здравого смысла и нравственных ориентиров.

Любить бывает непросто. Однако, глядя в окно, я напомнила себе, что прощение и верность развивают крепкую связь с Божьим светом. Выбирая любовь и отказываясь от ненависти, мы отражаем Его свет. «Бог есть свет, и нет в Нем никакой тьмы» (1 Ин. 1:5).

Боже, помоги мне более полно испытывать Твою любовь, чтобы распространять ее на других. Я хочу жить во свете Твоей благодати и милости.

Решение любить людей показывает миру Божий характер.

© 2016 Хлеб Наш Насущный

Notre Pain Quotidien - Vivre dans la lumière

par Jennifer Benson Schuldt

Lisez : 1 Jean 2.3‑11 | La Bible en un an : Joël 1 – 3 et Apocalypse 5

[Les] ténèbres se dissipent et la lumière véritable paraît déjà. (1 Jean 2.8)

Par une sombre matinée, des nuages bas et couleur acier remplissaient le ciel et tout était si diffus que j’ai dû allumer pour lire un livre. Or, je venais de m’installer lorsque la pièce s’est soudain remplie de lumière. Levant les yeux, j’ai vu que le vent chassait les nuages vers l’est, dégageant le ciel et laissant apparaître le soleil.

Tandis que je me rendais à la fenêtre pour mieux voir la scène, une pensée m’est venue à l’esprit : « [Les] ténèbres se dissipent et la lumière véritable paraît déjà » (1 JN 2.8). L’apôtre Jean l’a écrit aux croyants pour les encourager. Puis il a ajouté : « Celui qui aime son frère demeure dans la lumière, et aucune occasion de chute n’est en lui » (V. 10). Pour les mettre en contraste, il a fait l’équation entre le fait de haïr des gens et celui de rôder dans les ténèbres. La haine est déconcertante ; elle nous prive de notre compas moral.

Il n’est pas toujours facile d’aimer. Je me suis souvenu, en regardant par la fenêtre, que la contrariété, le pardon et la fidélité font cependant tous partie du maintien d’un lien profond avec l’amour et la lumière de Dieu. Lorsque nous choisissons l’amour au lieu de la haine, nous démontrons notre relation avec Dieu, qui irradie sur notre entourage. « [C’est] que Dieu est lumière, et qu’il n’y a point en lui de ténèbres » (1 JN 1.5).

L’amour vrai d’autrui montre au monde à quoi ressemble Dieu.

© 2016 Ministères NPQ

Girlfriends in God - How to Shrink Your Problems

by Sharon Jaynes

Today’s Truth

Give thanks in all circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:18 NIV).

Friend to Friend

I want to see God today. Don’t you? What I’ve discovered is that there is nothing that will shut my eyes to seeing God’s presence and working in my life than ingratitude.

Ingratitude leaves us groping about in the dark for what will never satisfy the longings of the soul. The cure comes in capsules of praise, thanksgiving, and a grateful heart. Gratitude is the antibiotic of the soul to cure a variety of the world’s ills and restore a sense of intimacy with God.

Take a look at today’s truth. Notice the Bible doesn’t command us to feel thankful in all circumstances. Instead it commands us to “give thanks in all circumstances.” When I begin to praise God in a difficult situation, even if I don’t feel like it, my perspective changes. That was a lesson Corrie ten Boon learned from her sister Betsie as they suffered together in a German concentration camp during World War II. They lived in Barracks 28 in overcrowded filthy conditions and nauseating stench. Reeking straw. Rancid beds. Overflowing toilets. And fleas. Everywhere fleas.

On their first day in the barracks, as Corrie was fighting the nausea from the reeking straw, and the fleas were biting her one after another, she cried out, “Betsie, how can we live in such a place!” And Betsy remembered a Bible verse they had read that very day. First Thessalonians 5:18: “Give thanks in all circumstances.”

“That's it, Corrie!” Betsie exclaimed. “That's His answer. Give thanks in all circumstances!’ That's what we can do. We can start right now to thank God for every single thing about this new barracks!”

Corrie stared at her sister; then around the dark, foul-aired room and wondered what in the world they had to be thankful for. With Betsie’s help, she agreed to give thanks for the fact that they were together, that they snuck a Bible into the camp, and that the overcrowded conditions made it possible for more women to hear the Scriptures when they read each day. But she could not see clear to thank God for the fleas.

"The fleas!” she cried. “This is too much Betsie. There’s no way even God can make me grateful for a flea.”

"'Give thanks in all circumstances,'” Betsie quoted. “It doesn't say, 'in pleasant circumstances.' Fleas are part of this place where God has put us.”

And so they stood between tiers of bunks and gave thanks for fleas. But this time Corrie was sure Betsie was wrong.

One evening Corrie got back to the barracks late from a wood-gathering foray outside the walls. Betsie was waiting for her, as always, so that they could wait through the food line together. Her eyes were twinkling.

"You're looking extraordinarily pleased with yourself,” Corrie told her.

"You know, we've never understood why we had so much freedom in the big room,” Betsie replied. “Well—I've found out. This afternoon, there'd been confusion in our knitting group about sock sizes and they'd asked the supervisor to come and settle it. But she wouldn't. She wouldn't step through the door and neither would the guards. And you know why?"

Betsie could not keep the triumph from her voice: “Because of the fleas! That's what she said. That place is crawling with fleas!"

Sometimes I don’t see God in difficult situations, but I still can praise Him because I know He is there. Gratitude changes the lens through which we see the circumstances in our little slice of time. Thanksgiving changes our perspective despite shattered dreams, broken relationships, and heart-rending circumstances. It changes our perspective in the accumulation of little nuisances in just plain old every day life.

Gratitude is one of the most significant aspects of our relationship with God. Looking back on all the ways God has blessed you will steady your feet in shaky times, no matter what you’re going through. As you praise God for who He is and thank Him for what He’s done, your perspective of Him grows larger and your problems grow smaller.

Let’s Pray

Heavenly Father, I enter Your gates with thanksgiving and Your courts with praise. I don’t understand the whys and what fors in the struggles of my life. But I do know the Who…the Who that is in control. I will praise You even when I don’t understand. I will praise You in the dark; I will praise You in the light. I will praise You in the good; I will praise You in the bad. I will praise You in seeming success; I will praise You in apparent failure. I will praise You because I know that You cause all things work together for my good.
In Jesus’ Name,
Amen.

Now It’s Your Turn

Read Habakkuk 3:17-19. What did Habakkuk say he was going to do, even though he didn’t see the answers to all his prayers?

Can you praise God with a grateful heart even if you do not see the answers to your prayers?

Do you trust that God has everything under His control and has your best interest at heart?

In what ways do your thoughts, words, and actions confirm your answer?

How are you doing with your list of 100 things you are grateful for?

More From the Girlfriends

Do you long for something more in your relationship with God? Do you have a “glory ache”—a hunger to experience God’s presence on a daily basis? The good news is that God wants that even more than you do. Right smack dab in the spin of the laundry and the sizzle of the bacon—as you live and more and have your being in Him. Dust for His fingerprints on the pages of your everyday life. My book, A Sudden Glory: God’s Lavish Response to Your Ache for Something More will show you how. Click on the link to read a sample chapter. I think you’ll be hooked. It also includes a study guide and free online Bible study videos.

Seeking God? Click here to find out more about how to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

Adapted from The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom (Old Tappan, NJ: A Bantam book published by Fleming Revell, 1971, 1974). 

Un Dia a la Vez - Oración por el lugar en Cristo

Dios puede hacer que toda gracia abunde para ustedes, de manera que [...] toda buena obra abunde en ustedes. 2 Corintios 9:8

Dios mío, gracias por este nuevo día que nos regalas. Hoy vengo delante de ti presentando a cada uno de tus hijos, a cada persona que hoy lee estas cortas líneas o que escuchan a través de la radio o la Internet esta pequeña, pero muy significativa oración.

Te pido, mi Dios, que estas palabras logren tener el efecto en las vidas de las personas que necesitan poner su vida por completo en tus manos.

Te ruego por cada uno de esas personas que no se aprecia, ni valora o que su autoestima está por los suelos, a fin de que pueda colocar su identidad en ti. Que con tu ayuda, salgan a conquistar el mundo, sientan el deseo de alcanzar metas y, lo más importante, sentir tu compañía.

Señor, rompe toda cadena de amargura y de depresión. Corta todos los lazos del pasado y en este momento infunde en sus corazones un nuevo soplo de vida cargado de deseos de vivir, de superarse, de olvidar y perdonar. Que de ahora en adelante, sin importar la situación que atraviesen, sepan que su lugar está en ti.

Acompáñanos, mi Dios, y ten misericordia de nosotros.

En el nombre de Jesús, amén y amén.

Verse of the Day - December 13, 2016

Matthew 2:4-6 (NIV) When he had called together all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born. “In Bethlehem in Judea,” they replied, “for this is what the prophet has written: “‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.

Read all of Matthew 2

Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica

The Daily Readings for TUESDAY, December 12, 2016

First Reading
from the Old Testament

Bind up the testimony, seal the teaching among my disciples. I will wait for the LORD, who is hiding his face from the house of Jacob, and I will hope in him. See, I and the children whom the LORD has given me are signs and portents in Israel from the LORD of hosts, who dwells on Mount Zion. Now if people say to you, "Consult the ghosts and the familiar spirits that chirp and mutter; should not a people consult their gods, the dead on behalf of the living, for teaching and for instruction?" Surely, those who speak like this will have no dawn! They will pass through the land, greatly distressed and hungry; when they are hungry, they will be enraged and will curse their king and their gods. They will turn their faces upward, or they will look to the earth, but will see only distress and darkness, the gloom of anguish; and they will be thrust into thick darkness. But there will be no gloom for those who were in anguish. In the former time he brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the latter time he will make glorious the way of the sea, the land beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations. (Isaiah 8:16-9:1, NRSV)

Second Reading
from the Epistles

Simeon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who have received a faith as precious as ours through the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ: May grace and peace be yours in abundance in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. His divine power has given us everything needed for life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Thus he has given us, through these things, his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may escape from the corruption that is in the world because of lust, and may become participants of the divine nature. For this very reason, you must make every effort to support your faith with goodness, and goodness with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with endurance, and endurance with godliness, and godliness with mutual affection, and mutual affection with love. For if these things are yours and are increasing among you, they keep you from being ineffective and unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. For anyone who lacks these things is nearsighted and blind, and is forgetful of the cleansing of past sins. Therefore, brothers and sisters, be all the more eager to confirm your call and election, for if you do this, you will never stumble. For in this way, entry into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be richly provided for you. (2 Peter 1:1-11, NRSV)

The Holy Gospel
according to St Luke, the 22nd Chapter

He came out and went, as was his custom, to the Mount of Olives; and the disciples followed him. When he reached the place, he said to them, "Pray that you may not come into the time of trial." Then he withdrew from them about a stone's throw, knelt down, and prayed, "Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me; yet, not my will but yours be done." Then an angel from heaven appeared to him and gave him strength. In his anguish he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down on the ground. When he got up from prayer, he came to the disciples and found them sleeping because of grief, and he said to them, "Why are you sleeping? Get up and pray that you may not come into the time of trial." While he was still speaking, suddenly a crowd came, and the one called Judas, one of the twelve, was leading them. He approached Jesus to kiss him; but Jesus said to him, "Judas, is it with a kiss that you are betraying the Son of Man?" When those who were around him saw what was coming, they asked, "Lord, should we strike with the sword?" Then one of them struck the slave of the high priest and cut off his right ear. But Jesus said, "No more of this!" And he touched his ear and healed him. Then Jesus said to the chief priests, the officers of the temple police, and the elders who had come for him, "Have you come out with swords and clubs as if I were a bandit? When I was with you day after day in the temple, you did not lay hands on me. But this is your hour, and the power of darkness!" (Luke 22:39-53, NRSV)

Morning Psalms

Psalm 41 Beatus qui intelligit
1   Happy are they who consider the poor and needy! the LORD will deliver them in the time of trouble.
2   The LORD preserves them and keeps them alive, so that they may be happy in the land; he does not hand them over to the will of their enemies.
3   The LORD sustains them on their sickbed and ministers to them in their illness.
4   I said, "LORD, be merciful to me; heal me, for I have sinned against you."
5   My enemies are saying wicked things about me: "When will he die, and his name perish?"
6   Even if they come to see me, they speak empty words; their heart collects false rumors; they go outside and spread them.
7   All my enemies whisper together about me and devise evil against me.
8   A deadly thing, they say, has fastened on him; he has taken to his bed and will never get up again.
9   Even my best friend, whom I trusted, who broke bread with me, has lifted up his heel and turned against me.
10   But you, O LORD, be merciful to me and raise me up, and I shall repay them.
11   By this I know you are pleased with me, that my enemy does not triumph over me.
12   In my integrity you hold me fast, and shall set me before your face for ever.
13   Blessed be the LORD God of Israel, from age to age. Amen. Amen.

Psalm 52 Quid gloriaris?
1   You tyrant, why do you boast of wickedness against the godly all day long?
2   You plot ruin; your tongue is like a sharpened razor, O worker of deception.
3   You love evil more than good and lying more than speaking the truth.
4   You love all words that hurt, O you deceitful tongue.
5   Oh, that God would demolish you utterly, topple you, and snatch you from your dwelling, and root you out of the land of the living!
6   The righteous shall see and tremble, and they shall laugh at him, saying,
7   This is the one who did not take God for a refuge, but trusted in great wealth and relied upon wickedness.
8   But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God; I trust in the mercy of God for ever and ever.
9   I will give you thanks for what you have done and declare the goodness of your Name in the presence of the godly.

Evening Psalms

Psalm 44 Deus, auribus
1   We have heard with our ears, O God, our forefathers have told us, the deeds you did in their days, in the days of old.
2   How with your hand you drove the peoples out and planted our forefathers in the land; how you destroyed nations and made your people flourish.
3   For they did not take the land by their sword, nor did their arm win the victory for them; but your right hand, your arm, and the light of your countenance, because you favored them.
4   You are my King and my God; you command victories for Jacob.
5   Through you we pushed back our adversaries; through your Name we trampled on those who rose up against us.
6   For I do not rely on my bow, and my sword does not give me the victory.
7   Surely, you gave us victory over our adversaries and put those who hate us to shame.
8   Every day we gloried in God, and we will praise your Name for ever.
9   Nevertheless, you have rejected and humbled us and do not go forth with our armies.
10   You have made us fall back before our adversary, and our enemies have plundered us.
11   You have made us like sheep to be eaten and have scattered us among the nations.
12   You are selling your people for a trifle and are making no profit on the sale of them.
13   You have made us the scorn of our neighbors, a mockery and derision to those around us.
14   You have made us a byword among the nations, a laughing-stock among the peoples.
15   My humiliation is daily before me, and shame has covered my face;
16   Because of the taunts of the mockers and blasphemers, because of the enemy and avenger.
17   All this has come upon us; yet we have not forgotten you, nor have we betrayed your covenant.
18   Our heart never turned back, nor did our footsteps stray from your path;
19   Though you thrust us down into a place of misery, and covered us over with deep darkness.
20   If we have forgotten the Name of our God, or stretched out our hands to some strange god,
21   Will not God find it out? for he knows the secrets of the heart.
22   Indeed, for your sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.
23   Awake, O Lord! why are you sleeping? Arise! do not reject us for ever.
24   Why have you hidden your face and forgotten our affliction and oppression?
25   We sink down into the dust; our body cleaves to the ground.
26   Rise up, and help us, and save us, for the sake of your steadfast love.

New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The New Revised Standard Version Bible may be quoted and/or reprinted up to and inclusive of five hundred (500) verses without express written permission of the publisher, provided the verses quoted do not amount to a complete book of the Bible or account for fifty percent (50%) of the total work in which they are quoted.

Lutheran Hour Ministries - "Christmas Trips"

In those days Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country, to a town in Judah, and she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth (Luke 1:39-40, ESV)

Read Luke 1:39-45.

Christmas trips were always so much fun. It was exciting to see the Christmas decorations as we walked up to the front door. I loved stepping inside and seeing the Christmas tree, along with all the toys my cousins or friends had gotten for Christmas. Then we'd pull out a few toys of our own that we had brought along.

A Christmas trip to her relative is the first step on Mary's new path. She sets out to see her cousin Elizabeth, who is miraculously pregnant in her old age. Mary quickly travels from the area of Galilee to Zechariah's home in Judea. Filled with excitement she walks up to Elizabeth's door. Beaming with joy she greets her aged cousin-and gets the surprise of her life.

In a loud and excited voice Elizabeth proclaims, "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!" (Luke 1:42b). Mary is shocked and delighted. She hasn't even had the chance to say anything more than "hello," and immediately Elizabeth knows everything. The Holy Spirit has revealed to her that the Child just beginning to grow in Mary's womb is actually God's Son.

What a comfort for Mary! She won't face the awkward explanation of the circumstances concerning her pregnancy, or have to convince the priest's wife this was all God's doing. In an instant, before Mary can say anything, the Holy Spirit has done it all. God has led her to the one couple able to fully understand and appreciate the amazing things God has done for her.

THE PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank You for faithful people like Elizabeth who believe Your promises and share our faith. Bring us together this Christmas season that we may rejoice together and share our wonder at Your amazing love in Jesus Christ.

Use these devotions in your newsletter and bulletin! Used by permission; all rights reserved by the Int'l LLL (LHM).

Devociones de Adviento - El Edén restaurado

Isaías 35:1-10

El desierto... florecerá en abundancia, y también se alegrará y cantará con júbilo, pues le serán dadas la belleza del Líbano y la hermosura del Carmelo... (Is 35:1a-2)

La puna de Atacama, en Chile, es uno de los lugares más áridos del planeta. Debido a esto, es un lugar escogido para ubicar grandes observatorios astronómicos. Muy de vez en cuando ese desierto, en el que la vida parece imposible, se cubre totalmente de flores. ¡Increíble! Debido al fenómeno climático de "El Niño", lluvias inusuales transforman ese desierto en un maravilloso jardín.

La vida humana, con sus dramas a causa del pecado, puede ser comparada con un árido desierto. Allí donde debieran brotar la confianza, el amor y la justicia, vemos las ásperas piedras y arenas quemantes del egoísmo, la incredulidad y la inmoralidad. Muchos han perdido toda esperanza en que esto pueda revertirse; por eso se arrastran por la vida como serpientes astutas, dispuestas a dar caza a la primera presa distraída disponible.

Pero hay otra clase de personas: son quienes esperan con ansias "el fenómeno del niño", aquel que fuera prometido en el Edén. Su presencia en este mundo encenderá la esperanza de una completa renovación, algo posible para los que abrazan con fe su persona y su obra. Él viene a neutralizar en su cuerpo las fuerzas diabólicas que hacen del corazón humano un desierto.

La venida del Prometido abre la esperanza de una lluvia bendecida, un regalo de vida capaz de transformar el desierto de nuestra existencia en un Edén anticipado. Aquí y ahora, por fe, ya recibimos el maravilloso anticipo de esa existencia paradisíaca. En nuestro desierto podemos observar esperanzados al que brilla entre los astros. La estrella de Belén anuncia, brillante, que Él viene a hacer de nuestro desierto un jardín.

Amado Jesús, primogénito de la creación: derrama tu lluvia de gracia sobre la sequedad de nuestra vida, hasta que entremos en tu Edén. Amén.

© Copyright 2016 Cristo Para Todas Las Naciones

Our Daily Bread - Good News!

By David McCasland

Read: Nahum 1:7–15 | Bible in a Year: Hosea 12–14; Revelation 4

Look, there on the mountains, the feet of one who brings good news, who proclaims peace! Nahum 1:15

World news bombards us from the Internet, television, radio, and mobile devices. The majority seems to describe what’s wrong—crime, terrorism, war, and economic problems. Yet there are times when good news invades the darkest hours of sadness and despair—stories of unselfish acts, a medical breakthrough, or steps toward peace in war-scarred places.

The words of two men recorded in the Old Testament of the Bible brought great hope to people weary of conflict.

While describing God’s coming judgment on a ruthless and powerful nation, Nahum said, “Look, there on the mountains, the feet of one who brings good news, who proclaims peace!” (Nah. 1:15). That news brought hope to all those oppressed by cruelty.

A similar phrase occurs in the book of Isaiah: “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation” (Isa. 52:7).

Nahum and Isaiah’s prophetic words of hope found their ultimate fulfillment at the first Christmas when the angel told the shepherds, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord” (Luke 2:10–11).

The most important headline in our lives every day is the very best news ever spoken—Christ the Savior is born!

The birth of Jesus is the best news the world has ever received!

© 2016 Our Daily Bread Ministries

Nuestro Pan Diario - ¡Buena noticia!

Por David C. McCasland

Leer: Nahum 1:7-15 | La Biblia en un año: Apocalipsis 4

He aquí sobre los montes los pies del que trae buenas nuevas, del que anuncia la paz… (Nahum 1:15).

Internet, televisión, radio, dispositivos portátiles… todos nos bombardean con noticias que, en su mayoría, son malas: crímenes, terrorismo, guerras, problemas económicos. Pero también aparecen noticias buenas que alivian la tristeza y la desesperación: actos de abnegación, descubrimientos médicos y posibles acuerdos de paz.

Las palabras de dos hombres del Antiguo Testamento llevaron mucha esperanza a personas abrumadas por los conflictos. Nahum declaró en medio de un inminente juicio: «Ya se oyen sobre los montes los pies del que trae buenas nuevas, del que anuncia la paz» (Nahum 1:15 RVC). E Isaías expresa una frase similar: «¡Cuán hermosos son, sobre los montes, los pies del que trae buenas nuevas! Los pies del que anuncia la paz, del que trae buenas noticias, del que anuncia salvación» (Isaías 52:7 RVC).

Las palabras de esperanza de ambos profetas se cumplieron definitivamente en la primera Navidad, cuando el ángel les dijo a los pastores: «No temáis; porque he aquí os doy nuevas de gran gozo, que será para todo el pueblo: que os ha nacido hoy, en la ciudad de David, un Salvador, que es CRISTO el Señor» (Lucas 2:10-11).

El titular más importante cada día es la mejor noticia de todas: ¡Nació Cristo, el Salvador!

Dios, gracias por la buena noticia de la salvación en Jesús.

¡El nacimiento de Jesús es la mejor noticia que ha recibido el mundo!

© 2016 Ministerios Nuestro Pan Diario

Unser Täglich Brot - Gute Nachricht

Von David McCasland

Lesen: Nahum 1,7–2,1 | Die Bibel In Einem Jahr: Hosea 12–14; Offenbarung 4

Siehe auf den Bergen die Füße eines guten Boten, der da Frieden verkündigt! (Nahum 2,1)

Internet, Fernsehen, Radio und anderes bombardieren uns mit Nachrichten aus aller Welt. Die meisten berichten Negatives—Verbrechen, Terrorismus, Krieg und wirtschaftliche Probleme. Es gibt aber auch Momente, in denen gute Nachrichten das Dunkel von Hoffnungslosigkeit und Verzweiflung durchdringen—Geschichten von selbstlosem Handeln, einem Durchbruch in der Medizin oder erfolgreichen Friedensbemühungen.

Die Worte von zwei Männern aus dem Alten Testament brachten einem Volk, das müde war von den vielen Konflikten, große Hoffnung.

Nahum schilderte Gottes kommendes Gericht über ein mächtiges, grausames Volk. Doch mittendrin sagt er: „Siehe auf den Bergen die Füße eines guten Boten, der da Frieden verkündigt!“ (Nah. 2,1).

Ein ähnlicher Satz findet sich im Buch Jesaja: „Wie lieblich sind auf den Bergen die Füße der Friedensboten, die da Frieden verkündigen, Gutes predigen, Heil verkünden“ (Jes. 52,7).

Nahums und Jesajas prophetische Worte fanden ihre Erfüllung am ersten Weihnachten, als der Engel den Hirten die Botschaft brachte: „Fürchtet euch nicht! Siehe, ich verkündige euch große Freude, die allem Volk widerfahren wird; denn euch ist heute der Heiland geboren, welcher ist Christus, der Herr“ (Luk. 2,10-11).

Die wichtigste Schlagzeile an jedem Tag unseres Lebens ist die beste Nachricht, die es je gab—Christus, der Retter, ist geboren!

Herr, wir preisen dich für die gute Nachricht von Jesu Geburt und seine machtvolle Gegenwart in unserem Leben. Er ist unser Schutz vor allen Stürmen und unser ewiger Zufluchtsort.

Die Geburt Jesu ist die beste Nachricht, die die Welt je gehört hat!

© 2016 Unser Täglich Brot

Хлеб наш насущный - Хорошая новость!

автор: Дэвид Маккасланд

Читать сейчас: Наум 1:7-15 | Библия за год: Осия 12-14; Откровение 4

Вот, на горах – стопы благовестника, возвещающего мир. — Наум 1:15

Новости бомбардируют нас негативом через Интернет, телевидение, радио и мобильные устройства. Нам рассказывают о преступности, терроризме, войнах и экономических проблемах. И все же порой сквозь этот мрак тоски и отчаяния пробиваются лучи хороших новостей: сюжеты о бескорыстных поступках, медицинских открытиях или действиях по насаждению и укреплению мира в истерзанных войной регионах.

Слова двух авторов Ветхого Завета несут в себе великую надежду для уставших от плохих новостей людей.

Возвещая Божий суд на жестокий и могущественный народ, пророк Наум говорит: «Вот, на горах – стопы благовестника, возвещающего мир» (Наум 1:15). Эта новость принесла надежду всем угнетенным.

Похожие слова появляются в Книге пророка Исаии: «Как прекрасны на горах ноги благовестника, возвещающего мир, благовествующего радость, проповедующего спасение» (Ис. 52:7).

Пророческие слова Наума и Исаии исполнились в событиях Рождества, когда ангел сказал пастухам: «Не бойтесь. Я возвещаю вам великую радость, которая будет всем людям; ибо ныне родился вам в городе Давидовом Спаситель, Который есть Христос Господь» (Лк. 2:10-11).
Самым главным заголовком каждого дня должна стать самая лучшая из всех новостей: в мир пришел Спаситель!

Господь, мы славим Тебя за Благую весть о рождении Иисуса Христа и за Его могущественное присутствие в нашей жизни. Он – наше убежище от бури и наш вечный дом.

Рождение Иисуса Христа – лучшая весть из слышанных миром.

© 2016 Хлеб Наш Насущный

Notre Pain Quotidien - Annoncer la paix !

par David McCasland

Lisez : Nahum 1.8 – 2.1 | La Bible en un an : Osée 12 – 14 et Apocalypse 4

Voici sur les montagnes les pieds du messager qui annonce la paix ! (Nahum 2.1)

Les actualités internationales nous bombardent via Internet, la télévision, la radio et les appareils mobiles, décrivant le plus souvent ce qui ne va pas – crime, terrorisme, guerre et difficultés économiques. Par contre, de bonnes nouvelles envahissent parfois les heures sombres du désespoir – l’histoire de gestes altruistes, une percée médicale ou des pas vers la paix dans des endroits ravagés par la guerre.

Les paroles de deux hommes rapportées dans l’Ancien Testament ont procuré de grands espoirs aux gens las d’être captifs de conflits.

En annonçant le jugement divin à venir contre une nation impitoyable et puissante : « Voici sur les montagnes les pieds du messager qui annonce la paix ! » (NA 2.1), Nahum a ainsi donné de l’espoir à tous les opprimés.

Or, le livre d’Ésaïe y fait écho : « Qu’ils sont beaux sur les montagnes, les pieds de celui qui apporte de bonnes nouvelles, qui publie la paix ! De celui qui apporte de bonnes nouvelles, qui publie le salut ! » (ÉS 52.7.)

Les paroles prophétiques de Nahum et d’Ésaïe, porteuses d’espoir, se sont accomplies lorsque l’ange a déclaré aux bergers : « Ne craignez point ; car je vous annonce une bonne nouvelle, qui sera pour tout le peuple le sujet d’une grande joie : C’est qu’aujourd’hui, dans la ville de David, il vous est né un Sauveur, qui est le Christ, le Seigneur » (LU 2.10,11).

La une de notre vie quotidienne comporte la meilleure nouvelle jamais annoncée : Christ le Sauveur est né !

L’annonce de la naissance de Jésus est la meilleure jamais reçue !

© 2016 Ministères NPQ