The Daily Lectionary Readings for WEDNESDAY, December 25, 2019 — Christmas Day — Nativity of Our Lord

The Daily Lectionary Readings

December 25, 2019 — Christmas Day — Nativity of Our Lord

(Revised Common Lectionary Year A)

A CHILD IS BORN!

Isaiah 9:2-7; Psalm 96; Titus 2:11-14, Luke 2:1-14 [15-20]

Opening Statement

The message of God’s incarnate love is so powerful in the familiar Luke story that even the once-a-year church folks get it time and time again. We are called to make sure that visitors and regulars alike hear the compelling invitation to live in the light that God has shined into the darkness. This means not just hearing the Christmas story, but telling its good news to others until we ourselves become reflections of Christ’s light throughout the year.

Opening Prayer (Isaiah 9)

God of light and love, shine upon us this Christmas Day and in the year ahead. Guide us out of darkness and into your joyous light. May our lives reflect your glorious love,
that others may see your Christmas Spirit in us, each and every day of our lives. Amen.

The Collect (Book of Common Prayers)

O God, you make us glad by the yearly festival of the birth of your only Son Jesus Christ: Grant that we, who joyfully receive him as our Redeemer, may with sure confidence behold him when he comes to be our Judge; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Prayer of Confession (Isaiah 9, Psalm 96, Titus 2, Luke 2)

God of Joy, we come to celebrate again the arrival of Love Incarnate here in our very midst. Your glorious arrival is enough to cause the forests to sing for joy, yet we still find reasons to complain and sigh. Your light of salvation is bright enough to illuminate every corner of our lives, yet we still find ourselves shrouded in worry and doubt. Your gift of Love is big enough for the whole world, yet we still find ourselves resentful that your love extends to those whom we deem to be unworthy. God, you invite us into the light of the stable where the overlooked and forgotten have gathered to celebrate the miracle of your love. Give us the strength and courage to join you at the manger. Amen.

Words of Assurance (Luke 2)

Do not be afraid! Hear the good news of great joy for all people: a savior has been born this night for you!

Prayer of the Day

Almighty God, you made this holy night shine with the brightness of the true Light. Grant that here on earth we may walk in the light of Jesus' presence and in the last day wake to the rightness of his glory; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

First Reading

Isaiah 9:2-7

2  The people who walked in darkness
     have seen a great light;
   those who lived in a land of deep darkness—
     on them light has shined.
3  You have multiplied the nation,
     you have increased its joy;
   they rejoice before you
     as with joy at the harvest,
     as people exult when dividing plunder.
4  For the yoke of their burden,
     and the bar across their shoulders,
     the rod of their oppressor,
     you have broken as on the day of Midian.
5  For all the boots of the tramping warriors
     and all the garments rolled in blood
     shall be burned as fuel for the fire.
6  For a child has been born for us,
     a son given to us;
   authority rests upon his shoulders;
     and he is named
   Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
     Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
7  His authority shall grow continually,
     and there shall be endless peace
   for the throne of David and his kingdom.
     He will establish and uphold it
   with justice and with righteousness
     from this time onward and forevermore.
   The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.

Psalm 96

Praise to God Who Comes in Judgment
1  O sing to the Lord a new song;
     sing to the Lord, all the earth.
2  Sing to the Lord, bless his name;
     tell of his salvation from day to day.
3  Declare his glory among the nations,
     his marvelous works among all the peoples.
4  For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised;
     he is to be revered above all gods.
5  For all the gods of the peoples are idols,
     but the Lord made the heavens.
6  Honor and majesty are before him;
     strength and beauty are in his sanctuary.

7  Ascribe to the Lord, O families of the peoples,
     ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.
8  Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name;
     bring an offering, and come into his courts.
9  Worship the Lord in holy splendor;
     tremble before him, all the earth.

10 Say among the nations, “The Lord is king!
     The world is firmly established; it shall never be moved.
     He will judge the peoples with equity.”
11  Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice;
     let the sea roar, and all that fills it;
12   let the field exult, and everything in it.
   Then shall all the trees of the forest sing for joy
13   before the Lord; for he is coming,
     for he is coming to judge the earth.
   He will judge the world with righteousness,
     and the peoples with his truth.

Second Reading

Titus 2:11-14

2:11 For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all, 12 training us to renounce impiety and worldly passions, and in the present age to live lives that are self-controlled, upright, and godly, 13 while we wait for the blessed hope and the manifestation of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. 14 He it is who gave himself for us that he might redeem us from all iniquity and purify for himself a people of his own who are zealous for good deeds.

Gospel Acclamation

Alleluia. I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. Alleluia. (Luke 2:10-11)

The Gospel

Luke 2:1-14 [15-20]

The Birth of Jesus
2:1 In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3 All went to their own towns to be registered. 4 Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. 5 He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. 6 While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. 7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

The Shepherds and the Angels
8 In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: 11 to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.” 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying,

14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven,
     and on earth peace among those whom he favors!”

[15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger. 17 When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them. 19 But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.]

Here ends the Lessons

Click HERE to read today’s Christmas message

The Nicene Creed

We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen.

We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father. Through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven; by the power of the Holy Spirit he became incarnate from the Virgin Mary, and was made man. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end.

We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son. With the Father and the Son he is worshiped and glorified. He has spoken through the Prophets. We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen.

Closing Prayer

Dear Lord, don't let us miss You this Christmas season.

Help us to simplify our activities and traditions so we can focus our celebration on Your birth.

You have come to us as a small child, but you have brought us the greatest of all gifts, the gift of eternal love.

As we celebrate your birth, may we begin to see the world in the light of understanding you give us.

As you chose the lowly, the outcasts, and the poor to receive the greatest news the world had ever known, so may we worship you in meekness of heart.

May we also remember our brothers and sisters less fortunate than ourselves in this season of giving.

Thank You for being the Prince of Peace, and I ask You for that supernatural peace to reign in our hearts.

Thank You for the simple but life-changing message of Your love for us.

In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Optional parts of the readings are set off in [square brackets.]

The Bible texts of the Old Testament, Epistle and Gospel lessons are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989 by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Church of Christ in the USA, and used by permission.
The Daily Lectionary for December 24, 2019 — Christmas Eve — Nativity of Our Lord
ON THIS EVE A CHILD IS BORN!
Isaiah 9:2-7; Psalm 96; Titus 2:11-14, Luke 2:1-14 [15-20]

“The Word Became Flesh” The Sermon for WEDNESDAY, December 25, 2019 — Christmas Day — Nativity of Our Lord

Our Gospel message comes to us today from the 1st chapter of John, beginning with the 1st verse.

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.

There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world.

He was in the world, and the world came into being through him; yet the world did not know him. He came to what was his own, and his own people did not accept him. But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God, who were born, not of blood or of the will of the flesh or of the will of man, but of God.

And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth.”

—John 1:1-14

All mighty God, we thank you for your word and the way that you in it revealed to us who you are and what you've done for us in Christ. Now as we open that word we pray that your spirit may be present, that all thoughts of worry or distraction may be removed and that the Spirit will allow us to hear your voice. And so, oh God, fill us with your spirit through the reading and proclamation of your word this day. We pray in Jesus name. Amen.

“The Word Became Flesh”

Grace be unto you and peace, from God our Father and from our Lord, Jesus Christ. Amen.

In the Christmas gospel, we are given a word picture of that first Nativity Scene in the stable in Bethlehem. It’s a picture that has been burned into the minds of Christians and non-Christians alike. Some of you might even have one set up in your yard or in your home. We have one set up over the TV cabinet in our house. No doubt, you have some sort of favorite Nativity Scene you picture in your mind when you hear the Christmas Gospel read each year.

For many, it’s merely a seasonal decoration to be taken down come December 26th. For us as Christians, we recognize there’s something special about that Nativity Scene. What is it? What might those people in that scene be thinking about as they gaze upon the Christ child? What was it really like to be there that first Christmas night? That’s what I want to explore with you this year. So with the eyes of faith, let’s go back in time to the first Nativity Scene.

The first thing that is going to stand out is the environment you’re standing in. Watch where you step, you might get an unpleasant surprise. After all, remember, this is a stable. Not the nice, cleaned up, pristine type you usually see in Nativity Scenes today, but a real stable, a barn, a place used to house animals. So that means, yeah, you have all the smells and everything else a stable usually has. This doesn’t look like the place where you’re going to find anything glorious. Finding glory in this scene is going to be like, well, finding a needle in a haystack. As we make our way through the stable, we see a young couple, and a baby. Let’s go see what they’re up to.

We see the new mother, Mary, laying her newborn Son into his first bed, a manger, a feeding trough for animals. No doubt, this is not how she envisioned giving birth to her first child. And we’re not just talking about her surroundings either. You see, the last nine months have been quite a journey for this young woman. She was going about what up to that point had been a pretty ordinary life for a young woman in Nazareth, and had even become betrothed, or engaged, to Joseph, the local carpenter. Things were going pretty well for her, and it seemed as if she’d just live her life anonymously, until an angel showed up. “Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.” (Luke 1:28) With that announcement, the angel declared to Mary that she would not only become a mother, but she would be the mother of the long promised Savior of the Nations. Being a virgin, Mary asked how this would work, and the angel told her “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be holy; he will be called Son of God.” (v. 35) It was clear from that moment that this was not going to be an ordinary pregnancy. Not only that, but she would have to face the ridicule and scorn of the community. And of course, what would Joseph think of all of this?

Speaking of Joseph, there he is, next to his bride and the newborn child. He’s not rich by worldly standards. He’s certainly not a king, or someone with a lot of power and stature in the world, or even in Nazareth for that matter. He’s also been through quite an emotional roller coaster. Things were going along as planned, he had been preparing his home so that he could take Mary fully as his wife, and then, she has some bad news. “Joseph, I’m pregnant.” Joseph knows it can’t be his child. What has Mary done? Why him? Mary tries to tell him what happened, about the angel, about the conception by the Holy Spirit, and that she had done nothing wrong, but he just can’t believe it. He considers what to do about the situation. He could turn Mary in, after all, in those days, adultery was an offense punishable by stoning to death. But he cares too much for Mary to have that happen, so he decided to just simply divorce her quietly and wash his hands of the situation. That is, until he received a visit from an angel himself. In a dream, an angel tells him: “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:20-21) Indeed, Mary was telling him the truth. The prophecy from Isaiah was true: “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Look, the young woman is with child and shall bear a son, and shall name him Immanuel.” (Isaiah 7:14) Joseph is now charged with the task of being the step-father to the long promised Messiah. What an awesome responsibility, knowing that his savior from sin, death, and the devil is entrusted to his care. There’s a lot of joy in that man’s face that night; he, a humble, ordinary carpenter, is among the first to look into the face of his Savior.

Off in the distance, we see some shepherds making their way into this scene. Yeah, those same shepherds we passed by out in the fields outside of Bethlehem that you probably ignored on our way into town. They’re not the cleanest people in the world. Their occupation is among the lowest on the totem pole of the day. They are among the last people you would expect to be the first ones to pay homage to the newborn King. How do they know about this event? An angel appeared to them with this message: “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:10-12) An angel, sent from the presence of God himself, told them this! That this baby was the sign that God had kept His promise of a Savior from sin, death, and the power of the devil. So here these shepherds come, to see their Savior for themselves, to see that promise from God be fulfilled.

Now as we look at those who are looking in at the Child in the manger, what do they all have in common? They were told what this Child was destined to do by an angel, a messenger sent directly from God. Quite often, you’ll see an angel depicted in a Nativity Scene. You’ll see one hanging toward the top of the nativity scene outside. The Greek word for angel is literally translated as “Messenger”. The shepherds, Mary, and Joseph were all visited by a messenger from God Himself, who told them what this Child was destined to do. In the hymn “What Child is This”, we hear a hymn version of what this child will do, especially in the 2nd verse where we sing: “Why lies he in such mean estate, where ox and ass are feeding? Good Christian fear, for sinners here the silent word is pleading. Nails, spear shall pierce him through, the cross be borne for me, for you. Hail, hail the Word made flesh, the babe, the son of Mary!” This Child was no ordinary child, He is Immanuel, God with us in human flesh. This is the long promised Messiah, who would go to the Cross to win forgiveness, eternal life, and salvation for all people. This is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords! This is God Himself! Today, through the reading of the Word, you have had a visit from an Angel, in this case, a called and ordained Messenger of God, who is bringing you the same message that the Angels gave to Mary, to Joseph, and to those Shepherds that first Christmas so many years ago. That message points you to the manger, where your peace, goodwill, and salvation are!

What’s amazing as we take one last look at this scene is how humble it is. The Word made flesh is born not in the powerful city of Jerusalem, but lowly Bethlehem. His parents are not of the family of Caesar Augustus, the Emperor of the day, but a humble carpenter and a young maiden. His first visitors are not rulers, military leaders, or the rich and mighty of society, but humble, lowly shepherds, among the lowest of society. His first bed is not the comfortable cradle one would expect to find in the palace, but an old wooden feeding trough filled with some straw. While angels sing “Glory to God in the Highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men” that night in the sky, it’s hard to find the glory, because it’s hidden in simple human flesh.

For most of our world today, when they gaze upon a Nativity Scene, the true Glory of God gets passed by. That’s the blindness of sin at work. You see, if we’re going to talk about that baby in the manger, we have to talk about him being a Savior. And when we talk about Him being a Savior, we have to talk about being saved from something, in particular, our own sin of thought, word, and deed. And on a day where the world wants to talk about peace and joy and just being happy, they want to keep that part of Christmas quiet. But, God has sent you a messenger today, who has shared His Word with you; so now, you see that this picture in Bethlehem for it’s true glory. You see your Savior looking up at you in that manger. The One who was born to save you from sin, death, and the devil! And that’s good news!

When one thinks about it, just as His life begins in a humble, seemingly un-glorious way, His life will also end in a similar way. His glory will be hidden then when that same flesh we see in the manger is pierced by nails driven into His hands and side, and that same blood is shed on a cross outside of Jerusalem. To the eyes of the world, it’s one of the least glorious scenes one will ever see. But through the eyes of faith, we see the true Glory of this Man as our Savior suffers the punishment of our sin on that cross. That’s how He brings us peace with God. That’s what He was destined to do from his birth in this stable!

For the world, Christmas is a time of peace, joy, and happiness. Yet, that doesn’t change the fact that we live in a sinful, fallen world, and there are many people, some even reading this today, who have a hard time seeing it, or feel that their “Christmas Joy” has been ripped out from under them. Some this Christmas worry about their future, will they still have a job next year? How will we provide for our family’s needs? Others will sit down for family gatherings today, and there will be an empty place because a loved one in the family has died. Others suffer through pain, suffering, and loneliness this Christmas Day, caused by the actions and words of others who intended to cause that hurt, that leaves them ripped of any sense of joy and happiness, and they wonder if they will ever experience joy again. For them, a sentiment of peace and joy this Christmas is next to impossible to find, or some sort of a cruel joke.

But with the eyes of faith, we look into the manger, and find our true peace. That peace that the angels spoke about is not a worldly peace that can be easily disturbed, but a peace we have with God. Because of what His Son will do for us, our sins of thought, word, and deed are forgiven! For those of us who worry about what the future will bring, we find peace this Christmas day because of the Baby in the manger! For those who have lost a loved one who has died in the faith, they can be comforted at the thought of their loved one spending this Christmas festival with that Baby forever, where they no longer know tears, sorrow, or pain. It’s all because of that baby in a manger.

He’s the greatest Gift ever given! Lots of gifts are going to be exchanged today. Some of them will be great gifts, things you’ve always wanted. Yet, toys break, electronic gates go on the fritz, or quickly become outdated. That new sweater you got will get snagged on the filing cabinet and become unraveled. Gifts of this world wear out or break. This gift in the manger from God to us, the gift of His Son in human flesh to save us from our sin, death, and the devil is the perfect gift. It never stops giving. It never comes in the wrong size. It never wears out or breaks. And in the Christmas Gospel, you see this Gift face to face!

As you look at that scene today, let your eyes of faith transport you back to that day in Bethlehem. Take in the humbleness of the scene. Reflect on the fact that the almighty God of heaven and earth has chosen this humble scene to begin His life of service to you. Remember that this scene was necessary to win the forgiveness of your sins and eternal life. This scene, and what this Baby is born to do, is where you will find your true joy and peace this Christmas day and this Christmas season! Amen.

Let us pray: Dear Lord, don't let us miss You this Christmas season. Help us to simplify our activities and traditions so we can focus our celebration on Your birth. You have come to us as a small child, but you have brought us the greatest of all gifts, the gift of eternal love. As we celebrate your birth, may we begin to see the world in the light of understanding you give us. As you chose the lowly, the outcasts, and the poor to receive the greatest news the world had ever known, so may we worship you in meekness of heart. May we also remember our brothers and sisters less fortunate than ourselves in this season of giving. Thank You for being the Prince of Peace, and I ask You for that supernatural peace to reign in our hearts. Thank You for the simple but life-changing message of Your love for us.  In Jesus' Name, Amen.

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Scripture taken from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)® Bible, copyright © 1989 the 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. Sermon contributed by Rev. Christopher Martin.
In the Christmas gospel, we are given a word picture of that first Nativity Scene in the stable in Bethlehem. It’s a picture that has been burned into the minds of Christians and non-Christians alike.

The Daily Prayer for WEDNESDAY, December 25, 2019

The Daily Prayer

WEDNESDAY, December 25, 2019

Leo the Great preached, “Truly wondrous is the whole chronicle of the incarnation. From the time when Christ came, the ancient slavery is ended, the devil confounded, demons take to flight, the power of death is broken, paradise is unlocked, the curse is taken away, sin is removed from us, error driven out, truth has been brought back, and the speech of kindliness diffused. A heavenly way of life has been implanted on the earth.”

Lord God, we adore you as the infant Christ. Teach us how to tend to you in your self-imposed vulnerability with us. Prepare us in these tender moments to see what incarnation means in our world. Amen.

Verse of the Day WEDNESDAY, December 25, 2019

Isaiah 9:6

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.

Read all of Isaiah 9

Listen to Isaiah 9

Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Un dia a la Vez - Miércoles 25 de Diciembre de 2019

No te sientas solo

Si puedes creer, al que cree todo le es posible.

—Marcos 9:23 (RVR1960)

El enemigo quiere hacerte sentir que estas solo, triste, que nadie se acuerda de ti y que no vales nada. Si miras a tu alrededor, a lo mejor si estás solito en un hospital, en una cárcel o en casa, pero no les des espacio a esos pensamientos que no vienen del Señor. Dios está tan cerca como tú lo quieras sentir. En su Palabra, lo dejó registrado en muchos versículos donde nos recuerda que nunca nos abandonará, que nos ha dejado la paz, que estará con nosotros hasta el fin del mundo.

Solo tienes que levantar tu mirada al Creador y decirle cómo te sientes y que deseas que te perdone y bendiga tu vida. La presencia la sientes en alegría y en unas ganas enormes de seguir adelante.

Recuerda que Dios cuida de ti y conoce tus necesidades. Aun así, debes confiar en Él. Cuando te invadan esos pensamientos de tristeza empieza a orar enseguida y declara: «Si Dios está conmigo, ¿quién contra mí?».

Un Día a la Vez Copyright © by Claudia Pinzón
El enemigo quiere hacerte sentir que estas solo, triste, que nadie se acuerda de ti y que no vales nada.

Standing Strong Through the Storm - Wednesday, December 25, 2019

THE COURAGE THAT MADE CHRISTMAS POSSIBLE

“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 (NIV)

Chinese evangelist, Brother Xi, was traveling one very cold Christmas Eve in the rugged province of Gansu. As he came to the next village he sensed something was wrong. He introduced himself as a bearer of good news. A small man interrupted, “Well we have only bad news here right now. A couple has just had their baby stolen.” In the poorer areas of China, where couples are restricted to one child, it is not uncommon to have child snatching, even stealing babies for wealthy childless couples in the cities.

He stepped inside the house to find both husband and wife staring quietly at him. The couple’s grief hung heavy in the air. He said, “I’m so sorry to hear about your plight, but I know someone who may help...God. Let me pray to Him.”

There was no reaction on the couple’s faces, so he went into prayer, feeling very uncomfortable indeed. “Dear Father, many years ago at this same time of year you sent a child into the world and rescued us all; we ask today that you will send back this child to us, and deliver this village from the sadness which grips it, Amen.”

Suddenly the young husband spoke, “Shut up and go away. We have prayed to our gods and nothing has happened. Why should yours be any different?” He was grabbed from behind by the other villagers and propelled out of the village. “Don't you dare come here again!” they bawled.

He wandered the hills in a daze of humiliation, tears, and crying to God. Then he thought l went to that village expecting a hero’s welcome, or at the very least, I relied on being a curiosity, quizzed and entertained by people who live very dull and isolated lives. Instead, I had only been treated a little like Christ was treated.

Kneeling there in the snow, he knew what he had to do—go back to that village, knowing for sure he would be despised. This was to follow in the Master’s footsteps. With a pounding heart he turned and began to walk slowly back towards the village. Suddenly, across the still late afternoon air, he heard a baby’s cry coming from what appeared to be an old well shaft.

Sure enough six feet down was a little baby, wrapped in a thick blanket, lying at the bottom of the dry-well. He climbed down to hug some warmth back into it. It was a baby girl. Those who snatched it did not know it was a girl, and finding later that it was, left it in this old well to die.

He walked back to the village with the precious bundle of life. The villagers came running. They were amazed and overjoyed as they led him to the cottage of the poor couple, and the smile on the mother’s face as he placed her baby into her lap was unforgettable. “Come, warm yourself by the fire” said the husband. They drew up a chair for him, and as the other villagers crowded round, he asked, “Who was that God you prayed to?”

What an invitation. Here he was, the honored guest, looking at thirty eager people, waiting with bated breath to hear the Gospel. “Well,” he began, “He came to earth in the form of a little baby, just about this time 2000 years ago...”

RESPONSE: Today I will praise God that He is truly in control and can work out all situations for good.

PRAYER: Thank God today for the coming of His Son to earth in humble yet powerful glory!

Standing Strong Through The Storm (SSTS), a daily devotional message by SSTS author Paul Estabrooks. © 2011 Open Doors International. Used by permission.

LHM Daily Devotions - December 25, 2019 - THE BEST HE COULD OFFER

"THE BEST HE COULD OFFER"

Dec. 25, 2019

And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn Son and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths and laid Him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

—Luke 2:6-7 (ESV)

Mary loved her baby. You can see it in her actions. She wrapped Him in swaddling clothes—these were strips of cloth that mothers used to bind their babies so they would grow up straight and strong. And of course, she wanted the best for her baby. So she must have packed them, back in Nazareth, in case of need. They weren't silk or satin, but they were the best she could offer.

Joseph loved the baby, too. We can see that by all the hard work he went to, to keep Jesus and His mother safe. Was it he who brought over the manger so that Jesus could have a safe place to sleep and Mary wouldn't have to worry about Him? It seems likely. He couldn't provide Jesus with a crib or cradle, but he could at least get Him off the floor. It was the best he could offer.

And God the Father? Ah, His love was the best of all. For He also provided the best He could offer—Jesus Himself, our Savior. God did not send us an angel. He did not send a wise and holy man, or a great leader, or an epic hero. He sent His own Son Jesus into the flesh: God incarnate born as a human baby.

Jesus offered Himself up for our sakes—from the first day of His life to the last. He offered Himself at the cross in order to destroy the power of sin, death, and the devil. He brought the whole human race out from under those terrible powers. And when He rose from the dead, He guaranteed that whoever trusts in Him will have the best of the best—will become a child of God and enjoy His love, and deep, joyful, meaningful life, forever.

Who could offer anything more?

THE PRAYER: Father, thank You for Jesus. Take my heart and help me to trust in Your Son forever. Amen.

Reflection Questions:

• What kinds of things would you do for a baby to care for it?
• Name one thing God has provided for you this week that shows His love.
• What is one thing, big or small, you choose to offer to God because you love Him?

Advent Devotions were written by Dr. Kari Vo. Use these devotions in your newsletter and bulletin! Used by permission; all rights reserved by the Int'l LLL (LHM).
What kinds of things would you do for a baby to care for it?

CPTLN devocional del 25 de Diciembre de 2019 - Lo mejor que pudieron ofrecer

ADVIENTO—NAVIDAD 2019

Lo mejor que pudieron ofrecer

25 de Diciembre de 2019

Y mientras ellos se encontraban allí, se cumplió el tiempo de que ella diera a luz, y allí tuvo a su hijo primogénito; y lo envolvió en pañales, y lo acostó en un pesebre, porque no había lugar para ellos en ese albergue.

—Lucas 2:6-7 (RVC)

María amaba a su bebé. Puedes verlo en sus acciones. Lo envolvió en pañales, que consistían en tiras de tela con las que las madres solían atar a sus bebés para que crecieran derechos y fuertes. Y, por supuesto, ella quería lo mejor para su bebé. Así que debe haberlos empacado antes de salir de Nazaret, en caso de necesidad. No eran de seda o satén, pero eran lo mejor que podía ofrecer.

José también amaba al bebé. Podemos verlo por todo el esfuerzo que hizo para mantener a Jesús y a su madre a salvo. ¿Fue él quien trajo el pesebre para que Jesús pudiera tener un lugar seguro donde dormir y María no tuviera que preocuparse por él? Parece probable. No podia proporcionarle a Jesús una cuna, pero al menos podía sacarlo del piso. Fue lo mejor que pudo ofrecer.

¿Y Dios el Padre? Ah, su amor fue el mejor de todos. Porque él también proporcionó lo mejor que podía ofrecer: Jesús mismo, nuestro Salvador. Dios no nos envió un ángel. No envió a un hombre sabio y santo, ni a un gran líder, ni a un héroe legendario. Envió a su propio Hijo Jesús a la humanidad, Dios encarnado, nacido como un bebé humano.

Jesús se ofreció por nosotros, desde el primer día de su vida hasta el último. Se ofreció a sí mismo en la cruz para destruir el poder del pecado, la muerte, y el diablo. Sacó a toda la raza humana de debajo de esos terribles poderes. Y cuando resucitó de entre los muertos, garantizó que quien confía en él tendrá lo mejor de lo mejor: será hecho hijo de Dios y disfrutará de su amor y de una vida profunda, alegre, y significativa para siempre.

¿Quién podría ofrecer algo más?

ORACIÓN: Padre, gracias por Jesús. Toma mi corazón y ayúdame a confiar en tu Hijo para siempre. En su nombre. Amén.

Dra. Kari Vo

Para reflexionar:

• Menciona una cosa que Dios te ha dado esta semana que muestre su amor.
• ¿Qué cosa, grande o pequeña, quieres ofrecerle a Dios porque lo amas?

© Copyright 2019 Cristo Para Todas Las Naciones. ¡Utilice estas devociones en sus boletines! Usado con permiso. Todos los derechos reservados por la Int'l LLL.
Menciona una cosa que Dios te ha dado esta semana que muestre su amor.

Ministérios Pão Diário - Tradições e Natal

Tradições e Natal


Leia: Lucas 2:1-10
 | A Bíblia em um ano: Sofonias 1–3; Apocalipse 16


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…Não temais; eis aqui vos trago boa-nova de grande alegria, […] nasceu, […] o Salvador…

—Lucas 2:10,11


Ao saborear um delicioso panetone neste Natal, diga grazie para os italianos, pois esta delícia foi criada pela primeira vez na Itália. Ao admirar a sua poinsétia ou flor do natal, diga gracias para o México, de onde a planta se originou. Diga merci para os franceses pelo termo Noel, e dê um viva para os ingleses pela tradição de beijar o seu amado ao passar por baixo de um ramo de viscos.

Mas, ao desfrutarmos de nossas tradições e festividades da época natalina, dos costumes que foram coletados de todo o mundo, guardemos os nossos mais sinceros louvores e agradecimentos ao nosso Deus bondoso, misericordioso e amoroso. Dele veio a razão de nossa celebração de Natal: o bebê nascido naquela manjedoura judaica há mais de 2 mil anos. Um anjo anunciou a chegada deste presente à humanidade, dizendo: “trago boa-nova de grande alegria […] nasceu, na cidade de Davi, o Salvador, que é Cristo, o Senhor” (vv.10,11).

Neste Natal, mesmo à luz da reluzente árvore de Natal e cercado por presentes recém-abertos, a verdadeira emoção virá quando voltarmos nossa atenção para o bebê chamado Jesus, que “salvará o seu povo dos pecados deles” (Mateus 1:21). Seu nascimento transcende a tradição: É o nosso foco central quando louvamos a Deus por este indescritível presente de Natal.

E o Deus da esperança vos encha de todo o gozo e paz no vosso crer… Romanos 15:13

por Dave Branon

© 2019 Ministérios Pão Diário
Ao saborear um delicioso panetone neste Natal, diga grazie para os italianos, pois esta delícia foi criada pela primeira vez na Itália.