Monday, September 29, 2008

Christmas in September

Matthew 1:18-25, Luke 2:1-20, Matthew 1:1-17, Luke 3:23-38, Luke 2:21-40

Yesterday was a fantastic day for several reasons:

First, I started the New Testament yesterday!  After nine months in the Old Testament, I am excited to read about the fulfillment of all of the Messianic prophecies - the realization of all of the Old Testament symbols. 

Second, in addition to our regular Sunday morning Bible study and corporate worship, we went out to a local public park and celebrated in the baptism of one of our Bible Life Group members.  Following the baptism, we celebrated Communion together.  It was a beautiful day at the park - perfect for celebrating the work of Christ!

Third, we went to see the movie Fireproof.  It was really good!  The film highlights several very important principles in marriage and other relationships.

This morning I read about the birth of Christ, His genealogies, and His presentation at the Temple.  There are several truths that I was reminded of, but also a few things that popped out.  First, the angel told Mary and Joseph independently that Christ's name would be "Jesus."  The angel told Mary before Jesus was conceived, and he told Joseph after Mary was pregnant.  The other thing I thought was so fascinating was that the angels and infant prophecies emphasized a global perspective of Christ's salvation:

Luke 2:10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. ...
 28Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying:
 29"Sovereign Lord, as you have promised,
      you now dismiss your servant in peace.
 30For my eyes have seen your salvation,
    31which you have prepared in the sight of all people,
 32a light for revelation to the Gentiles
      and for glory to your people Israel."

Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of Jesus Christ.  He was born of the line of King David - the true Messiah.  He was also born of the line of Adam - truly man and truly God.  The breadth of His Salvation is limitless, because you loved the world so much that you sent Christ to redeem us from our sins so that WHOSOEVER believes into Christ may experience redemption and life!  Father, may my food be the same as that of Christ Jesus - to do the will of the Father.  May you use me to share the light of the Gospel among the nations!  I pray this in the name of Jesus Christ, who was born of a virgin and laid in a manger wrapped in graves clothes.  Amen.

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