BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” Luke 2:12 NKJV

It is interesting that “historian” Luke provides the special detail of the baby Jesus being wrapped in swaddling cloths as well as “lying in a manger.” In his description of the birth he simply says, “And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger…” (Luke 2:7 NKJV) Then to the shepherds the angels said, “You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”

The description of a baby in a manger would be more unusual than a baby swaddled in cloths. I found it interesting that when my daughter’s children were born, she was very intent on them being “swaddled” in their cribs. The tight wrapping of an infant in a blanket is to provide a sense of security and to provide the familiar feel of the womb.

Mary showed her “mothering care” in providing for her newborn son a customary practice. We don’t know if there was another woman around or midwife to assist with the birth. It is interesting that Mary was visiting Elizabeth when John was born, so she would have seen the birth process and care given to a newborn.

Strips of cloths were used when a child was born and then when a body was prepared for burial. Certainly the imagery is not lost on the “Son of God, slain from the foundation of the earth.”

A baby in a manager would certainly be an unusual occurrence. Once again the imagery of the One who would be declared, the “bread of life” being in a feeding trough, on display for all to see, would speak of the destiny of this child.

Consider the “signs” of Jesus birth, to the first visitors and the world. There was the giving of His name, there was the star the wise men followed; there was a baby in a manger for the shepherds. We see foreshadowed in these signs the life and work of Jesus as the Christ and Savior of the world. In our “natural” world, we can find the signs of the “supernatural” if we look for them.

Prayer for today…. Lord, help us to have open eyes to see the “supernatural” in our “natural” world. Thank You that heaven invaded earth on that first Christmas morning and it still does in our world today.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him.”                      Matthew 2:3 NIV

Christmas as a modern holiday season is filled with nostalgia, cheerful songs, anticipation, gifts and family gatherings. As the words of one holiday song put it, “it’s the most wonderful time of the year.” I have to admit, I like that aspect of the season. However, our sense of Idyllic thoughts and reflections can cloud the realities of the season for many and the actual events of the first “Christmas.”

For many, Christmas can be filled with more misery than feelings of being “merry.” For those people there is a reason for pondering the Bible’s account of the “first Christmas.”

The story of Jesus’ birth in its reality is filled with trauma, troubles and challenges. Angels appearing with unusual messages. A husband finding his wife is expecting a baby and is troubled by the news, finds himself considering the most graceful way to exit the relationship.

The couple during the most inopportune time in the pregnancy is forced to make an unplanned journey to Bethlehem. When they arrive there are no suitable accommodations. There is no sympathetic member of the town, or distant relative that offered a place of refuge. So, the couple ends up in a cave protected by the elements but surrounded by sheep, donkeys and camel. It is hard to get around the crude surroundings and smells of that kind of environment.

The story doesn’t just have a “happy ending.” There are eastern mystics who come to Jerusalem with news of seeking a new “King of the Jews” (which was the title attached to Herod). Scripture is clear that the concern echoed from the chambers of the palace to the homes of the people. It could be said, “if Herod is upset, everyone is upset.”

In time we see the trouble escalates when Herod in his jealous rage, has hundreds of innocent baby boys slaughtered. The weeping far overshadowed and was remembered far longer than word of the angels song and the worship of the magi. Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus become “political refugees” seeking asylum in Egypt in order to escape the edict of King Herod. Did they experience “survivor’s guilt”?

This review of the reality of the events surrounding Jesus’ birth is not intended to put a damper on the wonder and the miracles that were taking place; but to point out that God’s plan often comes with misery, as well as miracles. There can be rejoicing for some and weeping for others.

Remember this Christmas, in the “midst of the mess” we find Jesus. It is there in our strife-filled life we can encounter the “Prince of Peace.” It is in our confusion and seeking direction, we can know the calm of Him who is the “Wonderful Counselor” and we can have assurance that our life and our world is under the control of a “Mighty God.”

Prayer for today… Lord, thank You that in the midst of the “misery” of life we can find You. May our hearts be open in the midst of the struggles and disappointments of life, to find you providing exactly what we need.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary, and Mary was the mother of Jesus who is called the Messiah.” Matthew 1:16 NIV

Many people have interest in exploring their “family tree.” Some find a connection to a famous person of the past and discover all kinds of interesting connections to the past.

Jesus’ “family tree” is found in both Matthew and Luke’s gospels. As Matthew writes to Jews with a focus on Jesus as King, he establishes Jesus connection to David and the Kings of Judah. The conclusion is the Jesus is the rightful heir of David’s throne. God’s word declares, “and of his kingdom there shall be no end.” (Isaiah 9:7; Luke 1:33)

Only in Matthew’s record of Jesus genealogy do we find a reference to women. In addition to Mary there are four women mentioned by name. Tamar, Rahab, Ruth and “Uriah’s wife.” The common connection of these four women, is that they all figured prominently into the lineage of the Messiah and they had some “questionable” history and (except for Tamar) were gentiles.

However, all these women were also women of faith, strategically used by God. Tamar was the wife of two of Judah’s sons and was promised to his third son; when he became of age. Judah failed to keep his commitment and Tamar lured him into a relationship and became pregnant with twins. When all was revealed, Judah declared,  “She is more righteous than I, since I wouldn’t give her to my son Shelah.” And he did not sleep with her again.” (Genesis 38:26 NIV)

Rahab, was the prostitute in Jericho who hid the spies and by her actions saved her family from destruction. The Bible declares, “By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies, was not killed with those who were disobedient.” (Hebrews 11:31 NIV)

Ruth was the Moabite widow of Naomi’s son. She followed Naomi as she returned to Bethlehem and married a relative of her husband and became the great-grandmother of King David.

Then there is a reference to the woman who became King Solomon’s mother, who is referred to as the “wife of Uriah.” This reference is a bold reminder of one of King David’s greatest failures in his adultery with Bathsheba.

The final woman is Mary, the husband of Joseph and mother of Jesus. I am sure for years there was some on-going controversy over Mary’s pregnancy and Jesus’ birth. The shepherd’s visit and the wisemen’s journey almost two years later, would not have been subject to the media coverage that we are use to in our day. Along with the wonder, there would have been great controversy as well.

If you are researching your family history, I’m not sure there would be great joy to find women like Tamar, Rahab and Bathsheba. Even with Ruth’s integrity she was still a gentile, a group from whom Jewish men were not to intermarry.

When we look at Jesus’ lineage we are reminded that families are more “messy” than perfect. But God’s Word doesn’t skip “the mess.” It is there for all to see and even made to stand out. We are reminded that the One who came to redeem mankind and restore them to God, is the One who redeems histories and takes what would look like tragedies and turns them into triumphs.

Prayer for today… Lord, thank You for using the imperfect, tarnished and questionable. We are reminded that the God of history redeems personal histories for Your glory and purposes. 

Today I returned to Morning Star Assisted Living for two chapel services. We sang Christmas songs and I shared a devotional, along with communion. I will return on next Saturday for a Christmas Eve service.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.” 2 Timothy 1:9,10 NIV

“Are you ready for Christmas? Have you made all of your plans?” As Paul begins his second letter to Timothy he reminds him of the work of the gospel and its purpose in our life. “He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace…” (2 Timothy 1:9 NIV)

Paul then shares how from before the “beginning of time” this plan of salvation by grace through Christ had in the mind and plan of God. Throughout the centuries it had been the “mystery” that had been hidden for generations, but now was revealed through the person and work of Christ.

Paul alludes to the birth of Christ, in saying this grace, “has now been revealed through the appearing of…Jesus Christ…” The prophet Isaiah declared, “Unto you a child is born, unto you a Son is given…”  (Isaiah 9:6) To both Mary and Joseph the angel Gabriel instructed them to “name the baby Jesus, for he shall save his people from their sin.” (Matthew 1:21) To the shepherds the angels declared, “for unto you this day a savior has been born….”  (Luke 2:11)  When Jesus appeared on the banks of the Jordan, John the Baptist declared, “behold the lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world.” (John 1:29)

During His ministry Jesus revealed Himself as Savior in speaking forgiveness of sin to numerous individuals that He encountered. In the natural it would look like the wait for the promised and anticipated salvation from the Messiah was 33 years. But Paul says, it was even before time began and when Jesus was born it marked the “beginning of the end” of that wait.

As Jesus hung on the cross and breathed His last breathe, the centurion standing guard declared, “surely this man was the Son of God.” (Matthew 27:54) As a result, in His death, He defeated death for all who place their faith and hope in Him and gives them eternal life. “…..Christ Jesus…has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.”

Christmas celebrations require a lot of planning. But no plan has been longer in its preparation and fulfillment than God’s plan for the “first Christmas.”  This week before Christmas Day, the most asked question will be, “are you ready for Christmas.” The more important questions is “have you received the gift of Christmas?”

Prayer for today… Lord, it is hard to comprehend Your grand plan of bringing salvation to the world. It was not an afterthought, but was all part of Your plan “A.” Allow us to embrace fully the grace of Christmas that reminds us through the cross You have destroyed death and brought life and light through the gospel. 

We have had our first “winter snow.” Frigid cold and about four inches of snow here in Northern Colorado. Debbie has been on call today, so I was able to get out and get the driveway cleared of snow. My power wheelchair still comes in handy, although I may need to get tire chains for when it snows.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith.” 1 Timothy 6:11,12 NIV

The country and western song says, “you need to know when to fold’em and when to hold’em.” As Paul in just a two sentences tells Timothy to “flee” and to “fight” the context is completely different.

Paul begins his first letter to Timothy warning about false teachers and ends still warning about false teachers and those who would threaten the integrity of the gospel and the steadfast faith of believers. It seemed whatever Paul taught there were those who taught the opposite or contradicted his teaching.

Paul condemns these false teachers with these words, “…they are conceited and understand nothing. They have an unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels about words that result in envy, strife, malicious talk, evil suspicions  and constant friction between people of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth and who think that godliness is a means to financial gain.” (1 Timothy 6:4,5 NIV)

In contrast to the character and interests of false teachers and their corrupt view of money Paul tells Timothy, to “flee from all this….” Flee from all the controversies and the false teachings that can be so common and instead pursue “righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness.”

Then Paul charges Timothy to “fight the good fight of faith.” The godly character that Paul promotes and the sound teaching of the gospel is something worth fighting for. Times change, cultures change, the world changes, but there are some basic, timeless, qualities and truth that is to be contented for in all times.

There were those in Paul’s day that were causing fights and division and controversies that came from impure motives and their twisted views. But Paul wanted Timothy to know that there is a “fight” that is worth taking on. It is the “good fight of faith.”

Timothy was given some significant instructions from Paul. He was counting on Timothy to be a wise and faithful spiritual leader. The end of his first letter is somewhat direct, he tells Timothy to, “guard what has been entrusted to your care.”

Spiritual matters are important. Truth matters. We need to know that there are some things we just need to avoid. There are some things we need to “run from.” There are other things we need to pursue with all of our energy. there are some things we need to be willing to “fight” for.

Prayer for today… Lord, help us to remember that the truth matters. In our “post-modern” world of relativism empower us to stand for the truth; to avoid empty arguments and to pursue godly character.  

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY... “Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.” 1 Timothy 4:15,16 NIV

Paul writes to Timothy about his responsibility as a Christian leader. His duties were not just to teach, but to warn and caution as well.

Paul calls Timothy to be diligent about some specific issues. The first was to keep watch for false and misleading teachers that destroy the genuine faith of followers of Christ.

“The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron.” (1 Timothy 4:1,2 NIV)

Timothy was not only to be on guard, but to point out the error of others. “If you point these things out to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished on the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed.” (1 Timothy 4:6 NIV)  This is challenge of ministers in our present day. There are few who are willing to “go there.”  However, warning and pointing out false teaching can be as important as proclaiming the truth. This certainly calls for wisdom and a proper attitude.

Just as physical exercise keeps the body in shape, spiritual discipline keeps the Christian disciple in good spiritual “condition.” “Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly.” (1 Timothy 4:7 NIV)

Paul challenges Timothy to lead by example. Just as Paul was to Timothy, so Timothy was to be to others. Paul did not just “tell” but also “showed” Timothy how to honor Christ and be a faithful minster of the gospel. He wrote in his second letter to Timothy, “You, however, know all about my teaching, my way of life, my purpose, faith, patience, love, endurance, persecutions, sufferings…” (2 Timothy 3:10,11 NIV)

With this in mind Paul calls Timothy to, “…set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity. Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching.” (1 Timothy 4:12,13 NIV)

As Paul summarizes his challenge to Timothy he emphasizes the importance a personally being on guard “watching his life and doctrine.” While keeping “an eye” out for false teachers, teaching accurately God’s Word is of great importance. The work of the ministry results a disciplined life, and spiritual growth that becomes evident to all.

What is true for “Pastor Timothy” is true for all believers. Be on guard against those who will deceive with false teaching; train yourself in godliness; lead by example and stay focused on God’s Word.

Prayer for today…  Lord, thank You for the instructions of Your Word that guides our lives in the direction that promotes spiritual life and stability. Keep us true to Your truth, help us to keep our spiritual life strong and allow our lives to be an example to others.

Last night I attended the Centennial Institute Christmas and awards dinner. It was a delightful event. The institute honored Archbishop Samuel Aquila, in recognition of his fight for the sanctity of life. He gave an excellent message and it was an honor to get a picture with him along with Sosamma Samuel-Burnett, President of G.L.O.B.A.L. Justice.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…  ^“The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” 2 Timothy 4:18 NIV

As I read once again the final chapter of 2 Timothy, these final words of Paul in what is viewed as his final letter arrested my attention. Perhaps it is because Paul is telling Timothy about those who have betrayed, opposed or abandon him. All of this makes him value Timothy’s faithfulness and companionship that much more.

He says, “Do your best to come to me quickly,  for Demas, because he loved this world, has deserted me and has gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, and Titus to Dalmatia.  Only Luke is with me.” (2 Timothy 4:9-11 NIV)

When we are forsaken, we need those who we can count on. Paul even tells Timothy to bring Mark with him. Mark was the one who had left Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey. He later was the cause of a division between Paul and Barnabas. But Mark had redeemed himself over the years. Now at the end of his life Paul sought the fellowship of Mark along with Timothy.

But Paul throughout his years, had suffered much for the cause of Christ. He was not whining or complaining.  He quickly turns and ends with a statement of confidence. “The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack…” Paul had the assurance of who was on his side. He had already told Timothy about his sufferings, “Yet this is no cause for shame, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until that day.” (2 Timothy 1:12 NIV)

To the Corinthians Paul wrote, “He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us again. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us…” (2 Corinthians 1:10 NIV) The confidence Paul had toward the end of his life, was the same confidence he had throughout his ministry.

Paul was not just looking for the Lord’s strength and intervention in his present trials, but his eyes were on the prize before him, “…will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom.” Paul had written to the Philippians, “For to me to live is Christ and to die is gain.” (Philippians 1:21) Now his time was drawing near and he looked forward to it with anticipation and confidence.

“Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:8,9 NIV)

Paul in his life demonstrated obedience, faithfulness to a call and perseverance under trials. He showed how to live and now he shows how to die. It is all because of what Christ accomplished for him and though him, To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen.”

Prayer for today… Lord, thank You, for being faithful to deliver us from any and all troubles. May our confidence and faith be like Paul’s. You alone are the hope for this life and the next.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “Beyond all question, the mystery from which true godliness springs is great: He appeared in the flesh, was vindicated by the Spirit, was seen by angels, was preached among the nations, was believed on in the world, was taken up in glory.” (1 Timothy 3:16 NIV)

The Church throughout time has summarized the gospel and the life of Christ in “creeds.” There as several declarations of core Christian beliefs. In the “Apostle’s Creed” we find these words about Jesus,

“I believe in…Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord; Who was conceived by the Holy Spirit; Born of the Virgin Mary; Suffered under Pontius Pilate; Was crucified, dead and buried; He descended into Hell; The third day He rose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven; And sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; From thence He shall come to judge the living and the dead….” 

Paul’s declaration comes at the end of practical instructions about the qualifications and duties of elders and deacons. His concern is for the integrity of the Church. The Church was important to Paul and it should be to us, because it was established by Christ. Individuals must respond in faith and received Christ’s forgiveness of sin. But that new life brings people into the Church (God’s called out ones). It is a family with structure and responsibilities and accountability. This is because safeguarding the integrity of the Church is safeguarding the integrity of the One who established the Church.

So Paul ends these instructions with declaring how Christ’s Church was established. It was not in the mind of man, but in the divine plan of God. It was a “mystery” that motivates our godliness. Human thinking could not and would not have devised such a plan. God’s plan and mystery is beyond human comprehension.

Paul declares that Christ (The Messiah) appeared in the flesh. John declared in his gospel, “…the word became flesh and dwelt among us and we beheld His glory, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14)

The Holy Spirit provided the verification of Jesus as the Messiah, the eternal Son of God. Angels, saw Him and ministered to Him. Angels declared His birth to the shepherds. But we see two specific times angels “ministered” to Jesus. At the end of his fasting and temptation in the wilderness. “Then the devil left him, and behold, angels came and were ministering to him.” (Matthew 4:11 ESV) Then just before the cross as Jesus prayed in the garden. “An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him.” (Luke 22:43 NIV)

As Paul writes this letter to Timothy from a Roman prison, he declares the Christ had been “preached among the nations, and believed on in the world.” How much greater in our world today is the proclamation of the gospel and countless lives from around the world who have placed their faith in Him.

Finally, Paul declares, “Christ was taken up to heaven.” This reminds us that He is alive. The grave could not hold Him and His position at the “right hand of the Father” is where He belongs. Christ returned to the place from which He came. Christ’s position in heaven reminds us of His promise, “If I go away, I will return…that where I am, you may be also.” (John 14:3)

As we near the Christmas season, let us ponder and reflect on who Christ is and all that He has done to reveal the “mystery” of God, that we might live as His people.

Prayer for today… Lord, enable us to come and behold Him, who was born “Christ the Lord.” But we see Your life and all that You have accomplished and we fix our eyes on what You have planned for us in the future, may we commit our lives to Your plan for us as Your people in this present world.