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Archive for the ‘Christmas’ Category

Morning Star and King of Peace

Posted in Blessings, Christmas, Encouragement, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Presence, God's Salvation, Hope, Jesus, Joy, Meditation, Peace, Praise, Prayer, Salvation, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged , , , , , , on December 21, 2023| 28 Comments »

Three weeks ago we embarked upon a reflection of one of the most important songs in the history of the Christian faith: “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.”

The lyrics beautifully weave together the Old and New Testaments, telling the story of our Messiah, “the chosen One”—who would come to deliver his people from the consequences of their sins and establish his kingdom forever [1].

Each verse helps us place our eyes on Jesus’ return by remembering his first coming and then expressing hope and yearning for his second coming [2].

As noted before, the unknown lyricist (from the eighth or ninth century) carefully based each stanza on scripture. You’ll find references for further reflection listed at the end of this post.

One fact not mentioned thus far: the poet constructed the Latin lyrics in the form of a seven-sentence acrostic. When the first letter of the second word of each sentence (the names of Jesus) are put together, they spell SARCORE.

Read that word backwards, and the letters form two words of sublime hope: Ero cras, which means, “I will be present tomorrow.”

Whatever the future may hold, our Emmanuel will see us through. What a faith-stirring surprise the lyricist created for us [3]!

Now let’s turn our attention to the last two verses [4].

VERSE SIX

I praise you, Lord Jesus, that just as the morning star shines brightly against the darkness of night, you are the glorious Light of the world, shining brightly against the darkness of evil [5].

Just as the morning star glows steadily without a flicker, you shine in our lives with unwavering faithfulness and love [6].

Just as the morning star is a promise of coming day, your light provides hope and assurance that you will come again, to usher in The Day of the Lord, when a new heaven and a new earth will be established and righteousness will dwell [7].

Finally, just as the morning star can guide those at sea, your light guides our way through life. “In your light we see light”—the light of wisdom and discernment [8].

Such truths do bring us comfort, dispelling shadowy thoughts and flooding our spirits with the light of your perfection.

I praise you, Lord Jesus, for turning the darkness of sin, anxiety, discouragement, and more, into the light of your forgiveness, peace, hope, and joy [9]!

VERSE SEVEN  

I praise you, Lord Jesus, our King! How comforting to know that Someone all-wise and supremely gracious is the Ruler of all nations, all things [10].

Yet you are also a respecter of persons. You’ve bestowed upon us the gift of choice, the ability to determine our own way. And what have we accomplished? Our world is tainted by selfishness, pride, and contention [11].

How we need you, Lord Jesus! You are our only hope for our selfishness to be transformed into selflessness, pride into humility, and contention into unity.

So we boldly pray that every person on earth would come to faith in you [12].

Is that an unattainable dream? No, because you also are unwilling that anyone should perish. And all things are possible with you, our sovereign God and Savior [13].

After all, you:

  • Created all things everywhere
  • Maintain order in the entire universe
  • Control the course of human history
  • Depose kings and raise up others
  • Exist in all places at the same time [14]

I praise you, Lord Jesus, that nothing can prevent you from accomplishing your purpose [15].

And I praise you, Lord Jesus, that you’ve given us the wherewithal to experience harmony with one another, as we demonstrate love and compassion with humility [16].

May we be examples to the world, whetting their appetite for what we experience: the joy of living in the presence of the King of Peace [17]!

[1] Ace Collins, Stories Behind the Best-Loved Songs of Christmas,127; Isaiah 59:20; John 1:40-49; Romans 6:23; Revelation 11:15.

[2] https://www.danielim.com/2017/12/19/the-hidden-theology-and-history-of-o-come-o-come-emmanuel/

[3] https://www.ligonier.org/learn/articles/o-come-o-come-emmanuel

[4] From www.hymnary.org. (Lyrics vary depending on source.)

[5] Revelation 22:16

[6] Psalm 100:5; John 8:12

[7] 2 Peter 3:12-13

[8] Psalm 36:9b; Ecclesiastes 2:13-14

[9] Psalm 18:28

[10] Revelation 19:16

[11] Proverbs 5:23

[12] 1 Timothy 2:1-4

[13] 2 Peter 3:9; Mark 10:27b

[14] Colossians 1:16-17; Daniel 2:21; Jeremiah 23:23-24 GNT

[15] Psalm 115:3

[16] 1 Peter 3:8

[17] Psalm 16:11

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Branch and Key

Posted in Christmas, God, God's Faithfulness, God's Grace, God's Love, God's Salvation, Hope, Jesus, Meditation, Praise, Salvation, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , on December 14, 2023| 22 Comments »

Two weeks ago we embarked upon a reflection of one of the most important songs in the history of the Christian faith: “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.”

The lyrics beautifully weave together the Old and New Testaments, telling the story of our Messiah, “the chosen One”—who would come to deliver his people from the consequences of their sins and establish his kingdom forever [1].

As noted before, the unknown lyricist carefully based each stanza on scripture. You’ll find references for further reflection listed at the end of this post.

Today we turn our attention to verses four and five [2]:

VERSE 4

I praise you, Lord Jesus, for fulfilling all the Messianic prophecies in the Old Testament—at least 300 of them (!), proclaimed long before your birth. The one referenced here offers such glorious hope, as I’m reminded that:

Jesse was the father of King David, and the prophet Jeremiah foretold you’d be a descendant of this king, a man loyal to the Lord. But as the centuries passed, the nation of Judah turned their backs on God. Again and again he urged them to return to him [3].

Isaiah (another prophet) painted a word picture of the events that would occur. He compared the kingdom of Judah and the throne of David’s descendants to a tree that would be cut down. All that would remain would be a stump–a remnant of the people [4].

Eleven years later, events unfolded just as Isaiah and four others prophets had foretold. Jehoiachin, the last legitimate king of Judah, was removed from his throne by the Babylonian king, Nebuchadnezzar.

Thousands of Judeans were taken captive so they’d see the error of their ways, seek forgiveness, and follow God once again [5].

But I praise you, Lord Jesus, that Isaiah’s word picture didn’t end there. He proclaimed that out of that hopeless, rotting stump would come a strong sapling.

Six centuries later, you came to earth, the only Righteous One of God, fulfilling that prophecy [6].

Not only were you from the lineage of David on your earthly father Joseph’s side, but also on your mother Mary’s side. This fulfilled the prophecies proclaiming you are the descendant of David that the Jewish people longed for: their Messiah [7].

I praise you, Lord Jesus, for coming to save your people–Jews and Gentiles alike. Because of your great mercy, you rescued me from the specter of hell, taking the punishment I deserved.

And now, the grave has no power over anyone who acknowledges you as their Rescuer [8]!

VERSE 5  

I praise you, Lord Jesus, for possessing the Key of David. That’s significant because a key indicates authority over a domain.  

King David was given authority to rule over all Israel; you rule over all mankind. In fact, God has seated you at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, all power and dominion [9].

Out of your magnificence and perfection, you’ve prepared heaven for your people—a place of utter tranquility, blissful and continual joy, eternal and lavish love—beyond what we can imagine.

I praise you, Lord Jesus! You’ve opened wide the gates of heaven; you hold open the door of opportunity for all to enter [10].

As you’ve promised, one day you’ll return and take your children home along “the heavenward road.” Then you will shut the door upon death once and for all [11].

REFRAIN

In all of this and more I REJOICE! You are my Rescuer, saving me from the greatest enemy of all: death.

I praise You, Lord Jesus, for graciously providing the way heavenward. I REJOICE in you, my Savior, my Lord, my King!

[1] Ace Collins, Stories Behind the Best-Loved Songs of Christmas,127; Isaiah 59:20; John 1:40-49; Romans 6:23; Revelation 11:15.

[2] From www.hymnary.org. (Lyrics vary depending on the source.)

[3] Jeremiah 23:5; 1 Samuel 13:14; Isaiah 3:8-9; 55:7

[4] Isaiah 11:1, 10

[5] 2 Kings 24:8-17; 25:21; Isaiah 55:7; Joel 2:12-13

[6] Acts 22:14; 3:18

[7] Matthew 1; Luke 3; Jeremiah 23:5-6

[8] Psalm 86:13 GW; 56:13; Ephesians 1:17; Romans 8:11

[9] Revelation 3:17; Matthew 28:18; Ephesians 1:20—22

[10] Isaiah 22:22; Revelation 3:7

[11] John 14:1-3; Hebrews 2:14; Revelation 21:4

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The Radiance of God’s Glory

Posted in Christmas, God's Power, God's Wisdom, Jesus, Meditation, Praise, Uncategorized, Wisdom, tagged , , , , , , , , on December 7, 2023| 24 Comments »

Last week we embarked upon a reflection of one of the most important songs in the history of the Christian faith: “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.”

The lyrics beautifully weave together the Old and New Testaments, telling the story of our Messiah, “the chosen One”—the One who would come to deliver his people from the consequences of their sins and establish his kingdom forever [1].

Each verse of “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” directs our spiritual eyes toward Christ’s return by remembering his first coming, and then expressing hope, anticipation, and yearning for his second coming [2].

Our needs here in the present are also addressed as we look to him–our Emmanuel (God with us), our Wisdom from on high, our great Lord of might, and more.

As noted last week, the unknown lyricist carefully based each stanza on scripture. You’ll find a number of references listed at the end of this post for further reflection.

This week we meditate on verses two and three [3]:

VERSE 2

I praise you, Lord Jesus, that you are the wisdom of God from on high, and have become for us wisdom. In you are hidden all the treasures of discernment and knowledge—more profitable than silver, yielding better returns than gold, and more precious than rubies [4].

Through you, God Almighty made the universe, and he appointed you heir of all things. Your wisdom is on display in the order of everything: the orbits of planets, the balance of ecosystems, the cycle of seasons, and more [5].

I praise you, Lord Jesus! You are the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being. You wisely, actively, and expertly sustain all things by your powerful word [6]!

The Milky Way Galaxy is just one of approximately 200 billion galaxies in the universe–a conservative estimate.

It measures about 100, 000 lights years in diameter. Our whole planetary system occupies one tiny spot of the galaxy.

During your earthly life you exemplified the epitome of wisdom in what you taught and how you lived.

As if that wasn’t enough, you provide wisdom to those who trust you as their Lord and Savior and simply ask.

You know exactly when to give, how to give, what to give, and what to withhold [7].

We can trust you to show us the best path to follow, so that we may enjoy the abundant life you offer [8].

VERSE 3

I praise you, Lord Jesus, that you are our Lord of might, sovereign over all. You are leading everything to the conclusion you ordained before time began, by the same power, wisdom, and love with which you made it. Nothing can be amiss [9].

You will not fail to do your pre-ordained, unerring part, which is ultimately the only part that matters [10].

I praise you that just as the people of Israel saw the radiance of your glory on Mount Sinai as Moses received the law, we too can see evidence of your majesty and splendor. In fact, it’s all around us in:

  • The wonders of your creation
  • The truths in scripture
  • The love and compassion evident in your generous blessings
  • The beauty of your attributes on display—your knowledge, wisdom, power, goodness, and more
  • The scriptural prophecies fulfilled; the promises kept
  • The miracle of your grace that meets us where you find us but doesn’t leave us where you found us [11]

Who among the gods is like you, Lord? Who is like you—majestic in holiness, awesome in glory, working wonders?

Exodus 15:11 NIV

REFRAIN:

In all of this and more we REJOICE!

You have come to be with us, our Emmanuel. You support us with your perfect wisdom, omnipotent might, and more.

Hallelujah!

[1] Ace Collins, Stories Behind the Best-Loved Songs of Christmas, 127; Isaiah 59:20; John 1:40-49; Romans 6:23; Revelation 11:15

[2]  https://www.danielim.com/2017/12/19/the-hidden-theology-and-history-of-o-come-o-come-emmanuel/  

[3] From www.hymnary.org. The lyrics of this hymn vary depending on the source.

[4] 1 Corinthians 1:24, 30; Colossians 2:3; Proverbs 3:13-15

[5] Hebrews 1:2; Jeremiah 51:15

[6] Hebrews 1:3; Colossians 1:16-17

[7] Charles Spurgeon, Morning by Morning, 84.

[8] Proverbs 3:5-6

[9] Daniel 7:13-14. Last two sentences based on Julian of Norwich quote

[10] Based on Elisabeth Elliot quote

[11] Based on Anne LaMott quote

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Come, Emmanuel!

Posted in Christmas, Hope, Jesus, Praise, Salvation, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , on November 30, 2023| 44 Comments »

Earlier this week I greeted a store clerk with “Merry Christmas” and in return received a beaming smile.

“You’re the first person to say that to me this year!” she enthused. “Merry Christmas to you too!”

Technically, this woman and I were rushing the season by several weeks. According to the centuries-old church calendar, the Christmas celebration only extends from December 25 to January 6.

In these three to four weeks (depending on the year) leading up to Christmas, we ought to be offering one another a different greeting: “Happy Advent.”

And what exactly is Advent? The word comes to us from Latin, adventus, which means coming. It’s a season not just of waiting for Christmas, but also a time to anticipate the second coming of Christ.

For that reason, many churches will sing the ancient Advent hymn, “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” perhaps this Sunday. Dating from the eighth century, it’s probably the oldest song of the season that we still sing today.

It’s also considered one of the most important songs in the history of the Christian faith [1]. The lyrics beautifully weave together the Old and New Testaments, telling the story of our Messiah, “the chosen one,” who would come to deliver his people from the consequences of their sins and establish his kingdom forever [2].

Each verse of “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” directs our spiritual eyes toward Christ’s return by remembering his first coming, then hoping, anticipating, and yearning for his second coming [3], expressed in the soulful tune of the verses.

In contrast, the assertive “Rejoice! Rejoice!” of the refrain conveys the joy of assurance: Our Emmanuel has come, he is with us now in spirit, and he will come again “in the same resurrected, glorified body in which He ascended to heaven” [4].

The unknown lyricist carefully based each stanza on scripture. You’ll find a number of references listed at the end of this post for further reflection.

Please join me over the next few weeks as we delve into the meaning of this grand hymn.

Today we’ll consider verse one and the refrain that put us in the first century with those who ached for the Messiah to come. And yet the lyrics also speak to us today as we long for him to return.

I praise you, Lord Jesus, for being my Emmanuel (“God with us”) [5].

You are with me when:

  • Frustrations build
  • Fear begins to rise
  • Circumstances overwhelm
  • Disappointments deflate my spirit
  • My heart aches

You are with me to:

  • Help in every situation
  • Supply guidance, strength, comfort, provision, and more
  • Fill my heart with your fullness of joy as I focus on who you are and what you’ve done
  • Grant me peace of mind as I trust in you
  • Give me hope based on your fail-proof promises

I praise you, Lord Jesus, for these facets (and many more) of the abundant life you offer, when I avail myself of your enduring influence.

Even so, like the captive Jews in Babylon centuries ago, many mourn in exile here [6]. This world is a painful place as self-centeredness, greed, injustice, rage, war, lust and more create havoc. We long for your kingdom of righteousness, justice, peace, love, joy, and prosperity.

Yet I still praise you, Lord Jesus! When the time was right, you came to pay the ransom for our souls and release us all—Jew and Gentile alike–from the bondage of sin and Satan [7].

Then you invite us to dwell in your spiritual kingdom with you. And those of us who accept your invitation will one day dwell in your wondrous heaven.

Even now as we grieve the suffering caused by sin and imperfection, we rejoice that when the time is right, you will return to earth, Lord Jesus, to end all suffering and receive us into your flawless and glorious kingdom.

Thank you, dear Christ, for making it possible.   

[1] Ace Collins, Stories Behind the Best-Loved Songs of Christmas, 127.

[2] Isaiah 59:20; John 1:40-49; Romans 6:23; Revelation 11:15

[3] https://www.danielim.com/2017/12/19/the-hidden-theology-and-history-of-o-come-o-come-emmanuel/  

[4]  https://carm.org/about-jesus/will-the-second-coming-of-jesus-be-a-literal-bodily-return/

[5] Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:23

[6] Psalm 137:1-4; Psalm 119:136-138

[7] Luke 4:18; Romans 2:11-21

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Immanuel, God with Us

Posted in Christmas, God's Presence, Praise, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged on December 22, 2022| 26 Comments »

Who better to expound on the wonder of God’s presence with us than the eloquent Charles Spurgeon:

“Immanuel, God with us.”

Satan trembles at the sound of it . . .

Let him come to you suddenly,

and do you but whisper that word, “God with us,”

back he falls, confounded and confused . . .

“God with us” is the laborer’s strength.

How could he preach the gospel,

how could he bend his knees in prayer,

how could the missionary go into foreign lands,

how could the martyr stand at the stake,

how could the confessor own his Master,

how could men labor if that one word were taken away?

“God with us” is eternity’s sonnet,

heaven’s hallelujah,

the shout of the glorified,

the song of the redeemed,

the chorus of the angels,

the everlasting oratorio of the great orchestra of the sky.

-Charles Spurgeon

The Treasury of the Old Testament, III:430

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

Oh, for words to praise you rightly, Heaven Father, for the glory of “God with us!” Thank You, Lord Jesus, for coming to earth to be our Immanuel, for gracing us with your ceaseless presence.

We stand in awe of what Immanuel means. In addition to the strength Spurgeon mentions here, you provide comfort, encouragement, peace, joy, and more.

May we never take for granted this precious reality!

Photo credit: http://www.dailyverses.net

 

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Hail the Sun of Righteousness!

Posted in Blessings, Christmas, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Provision, God's Salvation, Jesus, Joy, Meditation, Praise, Renewing the Mind, Salvation, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged , , , , , on December 15, 2022| 31 Comments »

For the last two posts I’ve shared journal-contemplations from the first two stanzas of “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.” As with most hymns and praise songs, it’s easy to sing through the lyrics and miss their full significance.

But when we put pen to paper and delve into word meanings, explore implications of the lyrics, and ponder the impressions God brings to our spirits, wonderful blessings emerge: increased understanding of God and his Word, renewal of the mind, and augmented intimacy with God.

Contemplations become worship.

With those thoughts in mind, let’s savor the third stanza:

Hail, the heav’n-born Prince of Peace!

I praise You, Lord Jesus, the only One who can mediate reconciliation between the sin-prone people we are and the righteous God of heaven. Without You, we’d have no hope of eternal life.

I praise You also for the peace of mind you provide as we affirm Your attributes. By Your omnipotent strength you will uphold, and by Your omniscient wisdom You will guide, until our days on earth are complete. We are safe in Your hands (1).

Hail, the Sun of Righteousness! Light and Life to all He brings

I praise You, Lord Jesus, that Your radiant presence brings comfort, joy, and prosperity of soul.

Your Light of truth obliterates the lies of our enemy and brings us closer to You.

From Your Light shine beams of blessing such as these:

  • The variety of wholesome pleasures in this world, benefiting us in mind, body, and spirit
  • The love of family and friends, increasing our joy
  • The ability to read and learn, providing knowledge and wisdom
  • The delight of hands, allowing us to pursue a myriad of satisfying activities (2)

Risen with healing in His wings

I praise You, Lord God, for raising Jesus from the dead. Because He’s alive, we who believe in Him can be confident of eternal life also.  

One day Your Son will come on swift wings, ready to bestow perfect healing upon all who’ve come to Him. Our healing from the sickness of sin that causes so much woe will finally be complete. There will be no more pain and suffering, no more harm and brokenness, no more sorrow or death!

But even now, Lord Jesus, just as beams from the sun bring health to every living thing, You bring health to our spirits—a deep-down contentment only You can provide (3).

Mild he lays his glory by, born that man no more may die

I praise You, Lord Jesus, for laying aside Your glory as the Son of God. You left Your celestial throne, the unceasing adoration of angels, and all the splendors of paradise to be born a helpless baby.

During your earthly life, few praised You as You deserved; many found fault with Your glorious perfections.

Nevertheless, You see worth in every human being; you desire that everyone accept God’s gift of eternal life, that “man no more may die.”

I praise You for saving us from the death-sentence of our sin (4).

    

Born to raise the sons of earth, born to give them second birth.

I praise You, Lord Jesus, for the transformed life You offer, raising each believer out of his plight of eternal death and into the pleasure of eternal life with You–pleasures that begin the moment we say yes to You.

Those gifts include:

  • Security, because our final destiny is secure, and in the meantime You’re always with us, working toward our best good
  • Provision of guidance, strength, help and more
  • Rest for our souls, as Your Spirit of counsel and power takes up residence in our spirits
  • Gladness, as we celebrate Your work around us and in us

One day, Lord God, You will raise all Your children into the magnificence of Your heaven! With joyful expectation we anticipate the wonders You’ve planned for us.

Thank You for making possible this second birth into Your family. All the amazing blessings highlighted in this carol come to us when we choose adoption into Your family (5).

I praise You, Lord Jesus, for providing reconciliation with God, ultimate victory over death, over-arching peace and joy, healing for the wounds of our spirits, and more.

Glory to You, my magnificent, sovereign King!

Notes:

  1. Acts 4:12; 2 Timothy 4:18
  2. Psalm 23:4; John 15:11; Philippians 4:11-13; Hebrews 4:12
  3. John 6:40; Revelation 21:4; Psalm 23:1-3
  4. Philippians 2:6-7; Revelation 5:11-12; 2 Peter 3:8; Romans 6:23
  5. John 11:26; Matthew 28:20; Romans 8:28; Isaiah 11:2; 1 Corinthians 6:19; Psalm 92:4; John 14:3; 2 Corinthians 4:14; John 14:3

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Christ the Everlasting Lord

Posted in Blessings, Christmas, Encouragement, God's Goodness, God's Salvation, Jesus, Meditation, Praise, Salvation, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged , , , , , on December 8, 2022| 34 Comments »

Last week I shared with you journal-contemplations from the first verse of “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.” As with most hymns and praise songs, it’s easy to sing through the lyrics of this carol and miss their full significance.  

By putting pen to paper, we slow our thinking and wonderful blessings begin to emerge—like increased understanding of God and his Word, renewal of the mind, and augmented intimacy with God.

Contemplations can become worship.

With that in mind, let’s savor the second verse:

“Christ by highest heaven adored”

How glorious the music in heaven must be! Rich, clear voices, every note perfectly pitched. Intricate harmonies and faultless instrumentation.

All these sublime elements come together to worship You, Lord Christ–the Anointed One–who left the magnificence of heaven to be the Savior of humankind.

Thank you, Father, for giving us a glimpse (in the book of Revelation) of the heavenly song that celebrates King Jesus. I can’t help but hear Handel’s majestic melody from Messiah for the lyrics:

I praise You, Lord Jesus, for Your splendor!

“Christ, the everlasting Lord!”

You, O Christ, existed throughout the infinite past and will prevail into the infinite future.

Though Son of God, You are also the Eternal Father, forever with us and LORD of all. Nothing is outside Your control (1).

Power often corrupts in the human realm. But You are perfect in all attributes and motivated by matchless love.

I praise You, O Christ, for the supreme grace of Your Lordship!

“Late in time behold Him come”

To those who waited for Your arrival, You must have seemed late! Centuries had passed since the last prophecy of Your coming.

“But when the time was right,” You, O God, sent Your Son to redeem us (2).

In retrospect we can see why You chose the time of Roman rule. They had established stability in their far-reaching empire, built thousands of miles of roads, and established a common language.

Such factors meant early Christians could spread the good news about You more easily than ever before (3).

I praise You, O God, for Your masterful orchestration

that’s always in operation for the benefit of Your children!

“Offspring of the Virgin’s womb”

You are the One and Only begotten Son of the God the Father, the only Man of heavenly origin who ever lived on earth.

You committed no sin. Without that absolute perfection in You, there would be no salvation for us. God made You, who never sinned, to be sin so we could be made right with Him (4).

I praise You, Righteous Savior, for Your perfection!

“Veiled in flesh the Godhead see”

You embodied all the magnificent attributes of God during Your time on earth, yet You were also human.

You dealt with exhaustion, frustration, temptations, and discomforts, just as we do. The fullness of Your glory was veiled behind the ordinariness of Your humanity (5).

How difficult that must have been to know Your full capabilities yet continually hold Yourself in check.

I praise You, Lord Jesus, for your fierce love

that compelled You to complete such an arduous mission.

“Hail th’incarnate Deity”

No one has ever lived a sinless life except You.

No one espoused wisdom as You did or performed miracles like You.

You are the radiance of God’s glory!

I praise your for your divine holiness.

“Pleased as man with men to dwell”

You chose to come to earth and dwell among us, in spite of our self-centeredness, pride, weakness, and brokenness.

Such an incredible reality!

I praise You, O Lord, for your mercy, for wanting to be with us.

“Jesus, our Emmanuel.”

You are Emmanuel—God with us (7). Once we invite You into our lives we’re never left to our own feeble devices; we’re never without Your attentive care.

In Your presence we experience joy, refreshment, help, and pleasure (8). You enhance every moment of life with Your radiant attributes!

I praise You, O Christ, for choosing to veil Yourself in flesh that we might behold You.

I praise You for dwelling with us that might enjoy You!

Notes:

  1. Isaiah 9:6; Matthew 28:20; Philippians 2:9-11
  2. Galatians 4:4-5 CEV
  3. See “The Appropriate Time” for further details
  4. John 3:16; 1 Peter 2:22; 2 Corinthians 5:21
  5. Daniel Ruben, http://www.fbccarson.org/harktheheraldangelssing
  6. John 10:17 and 1:14
  7. Matthew 1:23
  8. Isaiah 9:3; Acts 2:28 and 3:19; Psalm 42:5; Psalm 16:11

Art & photo credits: http://www.rawpixels.com; http://www.openclipart.com; http://www.pexels.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.worldhistory.org; http://www.canva.com; http://www.freebibleimages.org (2); http://www.wallpaper4god.com; http://www.hippopx.com.

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Glory to the Newborn King!

Posted in Christmas, Jesus, Praise, Salvation, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged , , , , on December 1, 2022| 28 Comments »

Some time ago, wise-and-insightful blogger Michele Morin (over at Living Our Days) shared that she was journaling through some of the old hymns. Isn’t that a brilliant idea?

I imagined her digging into the meaning of some of the rich language and theology, personalizing the truths, and/or using them as the basis for prayer.

Most often we sing through the lyrics so quickly we miss their full significance. But if we intentionally slow our thinking by putting pen or pencil to paper, we make room for wonderful blessings to emerge—blessings like increased understanding of God and his Word, renewal of the mind, and augmented intimacy with God.

Our contemplations can become worship.

So far I’ve journaled through seven hymns. For Advent I chose to contemplate a Christmas carol: Charles Wesley’s “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,” which offers both rich language and theology. (The story behind the song is also interesting. You can read it here: “Hark, the Herald Angels Sing.”)

Over the next three weeks we’ll savor the three best-known verses of this carol. No doubt you’re familiar with the first:  

My journaled prayer included the following.

“Hark!” the hymn writer begins, inviting me to listen with close attention. His lyrics take me back in time to that night when angels declared life-transforming news for those who embrace it:

A new King has been born—a king like no other (1)!

That’s YOU, Lord Jesus. You are the Prince of Peace, the One who offers inner tranquility to all who desire it (2), and universal, all-encompassing peace when the new heaven and the new earth are established (3).

I praise You, O Christ, for Your comforting peace

that steadies me and gives me hope.

You’re the One who bestows mercy—tender-hearted forgiveness—when I confess the wrongs I’ve committed. You’re the One who put ultimate mercy into action by “being obedient to God and dying a criminal’s death on a cross” (4).

I praise You, O Christ, for your unceasing mercy.

You have not punished me

the way I deserve, and You never will.

You’re the One who reconciled me to God (5). First, You chose to do the unthinkable, to die in my place and pay the penalty for every sin I commit.

Then You restored my broken relationship with God, as I put my trust in You and accepted Your free gift of eternal life. Because of You, I have right standing with God and access into His presence at any time.

I praise You, O Christ, for your unimaginable sacrifice,

making the impossible possible.

For all these blessings (and so much more) I rise up with Jesus-followers from around the world to sing joyful praise to You (6)!

Our voices join those of the angels to give you glory (7)–celebrating Your attributes, rejoicing in Your excellent works, and taking pleasure in the privilege of being sons and daughters of Almighty God.

I praise You, O Christ, for leaving the wonders of heaven

to be born in the humble village of Bethlehem

and live among ignoble humanity—

all for our benefit.

I praise You, O Christ, for the incredible FREE gift

of eternal ecstasy in paradise with You.

And I praise You for being my compassionate Christ,

my glorious Emancipator, and my powerful King!

Notes:

  1. Revelation 1:5-6
  2. Romans 5:1
  3. 2 Peter 3:13
  4. Philippians 2:8 TLB
  5. 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
  6. Psalm 67:4
  7. Psalm 148:11-13

Photo credits: http://www.pxhere.com; Nancy Ruegg; http://www.openclipart.com and http://www.canva.com; http://www.negativespace.com (3); http://www.publicdomainpictures.net.

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Christmas in the Psalms

Posted in Bible Study, Christmas, God's Promises, God's Salvation, Jesus, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , on December 23, 2021| 18 Comments »

For most of us, the words Christmas scriptures bring to mind the first two chapters of Matthew and Luke.  We may even remember the prophecies of Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Micah.

Rarely will we think of the psalms as part of the Christmas story, yet at least a dozen passages from the Book of Songs include references related to Christ’s birth. A few qualify as outright prophecies; other statements are less direct, but hindsight allows us to make delightful connections.

So for each passage quoted below, see if an aspect of the Christmas story doesn’t come to mind!  (To keep this post from getting too long, I’ve included just six examples. Answers appear below.)

1. “The Lord said, ‘I have made a covenant with My chosen one, I have sworn to David, My servant, I will establish your offspring forever and build up your throne for all generations” (Psalm 89:3-4 HCSB).

2. “[The Lord] himself will redeem Israel from all their sins” (Psalm 130:8).

3. “Light shines on the righteous and joy on the upright in heart” (Psalm 97:11).

4. “The heavens proclaim his righteousness, and all peoples see his glory” (Psalm 97:6).

5. “Send me a sign of your favor.  Then those who hate me will be put to shame, for you, O Lord, help and comfort me” (Psalm 86:17 NLT).

6. “Praise the LORD and pray in his name! Tell everyone what he has done” (Psalm 105:1).

7. “Because of your temple at Jerusalem, kings will bring you gifts (Psalm 68:29). 

(The second Jewish temple; a model in the Israel Museum)

Answers:

1. Jesus’ lineage and reign described in Matthew and Luke fulfill this prophecy perfectly (Matthew 1:1; Luke 1:32-33).

2. Psalm 130:8 sounds very similar to Matthew 1:21, doesn’t it?

3. The Light of the world began to shine that night in Bethlehem, and the angel of the Lord proclaimed great joy for all people (Luke 2:9-10).

(by Philip James de Loutherbourg, 1740-1812)

4. The psalmist may have thought he was writing about the stars, sun, and moon—all declaring the power and glory of God.  Little did he know his words foreshadowed events on the night Jesus was born, when the heavenly host proclaimed, “Glory to God in the highest heaven” (Luke 2:9) and the shepherds saw the glory of the Lord shining around them (v. 9, 13-14).

5. This verse also brings to mind the lowly shepherds (whom others often despised) as well as the angel’s words, “This shall be a sign unto you . . .” The birth of the Messiah brought great help and comfort to all his people, but perhaps especially the marginalized. For everyone, the long wait for his appearing was over.

6. The shepherds followed this directive as they left Jesus’ birthplace and “spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child” (Luke 2:17).  They glorified and praised God for all the things they’d seen and heard, just as they had been told (v. 20).

7. That’s exactly where the Magi went first—Jerusalem—seeking the one born king of the Jews (Matthew 2:1-2.)  And of course they came bearing gifts–gold, frankincense, and myrrh (Matthew 2:10-11).

Isn’t it amazing–from the Book of Songs written eons ago, come the distant strains of the exquisite, eternal Christmas Song that we celebrate to this day:

All your works declare Your glory;

all creation joins to sing.

Praise resounds as earth rejoices

in the birth of Christ the King (2)!*

*the last four lines of “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee,” stanza 2)

Art & photo credits: Steve Ruegg; http://www.stockvault.net; http://www.pixabay.com; http://www.wikimedia.org (2); http://www.pixabay.com.

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A Personal Magnificat

Posted in Blessings, Christmas, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, Praise, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged , , , , on December 16, 2021| 38 Comments »

The first Christmas carol ever composed rarely appears in a collection of Advent songs.  But you will find it in the Bible, Luke chapter one.  It’s Mary’s song, shared with her cousin Elizabeth soon after she arrived at the older woman’s home.

Using much scripture, Mary artfully wove this prayer-song to praise God for his work in her life and in the world-at-large, especially now that the Messiah would soon be born.

Mary’s prayer is often referred to as the Magnificat, because in a number of translations it begins, “My soul magnifies the Lord,” as if Mary is holding up a magnifying glass to God’s attributes while she draws attention to each one.

I too have seen God’s attributes at work, and have experienced countless blessings.  While contemplating Mary’s song recently, I wondered: could I compose a Magnificat? What follows is the result.

My soul proclaims your greatness, O Lord . . . (Luke 1:46 HCSB)

. . . on display in the wonders of creation, events that defy explanation, and in the transformed lives of people—including my own. 

“You are the God who performs miracles; you display your power among the peoples”[1] as needs are met, disasters avoided, and the way forward provided. You alone are omnipotent, with all resources at your disposal.

My spirit rejoices in God my Savior (v. 47 NIV).

I praise you for saving me from the consequences of my sin through the sacrifice of your Son.  Upon my last breath, you will take me to heaven to live with you forever. In that moment I’ll be healed of all ailments and released from all adversity.

Until that day, you gladly save me from worry, fear, discouragement and stress when I trust you and follow your ways. Thank you, dear Father!

You have looked [with loving care] on the humble state of your maidservant (v. 48 AMP).

By the world’s standards I’m a nobody–no wealth, no fame, no power. Little do some know my true status, the daughter of the King of the universe, and the numerous delights I enjoy as a result:

  • glorious moments in your presence
  • generous gifts not even asked for
  • friendships with your other children (augmented by your involvement and influence)
  • your frequent intervention in difficult circumstances, as only a powerful King could arrange

From one generation to another you have demonstrated your mercy (v. 50 GNT).

I think of my grandparents, each of whom you sustained and helped through difficulty.  I think of my parents who also experienced your faithfulness as they were faithful to you.

And now we can testify of your gracious kindness. You have dealt compassionately, especially in times of distress.

Your mighty power has been on display (v. 51 GWT) . . .

 . . . through healings that doctors can’t explain, needs met in miraculous ways, monetary gifts arriving just in time, and moments of desperation turned around in an instant.

“You satisfy the hungry with good things” (v. 53, HCSB). 

The list is lavishly long: your undeserved love, comforting presence, inexplicable peace, fullness of joy, heartening encouragement, fulfilling purpose, undying hope, sure promises, abundant provision, generous blessings, wise counsel, abiding strength—to mention a few! “In your giving we have a sea without a shore.”[2]

My God, the King, I exalt you for your glorious attributes,

and will praise your name forever and ever.

 Your ways are absolutely holy—no one is like you. 

You are the God who performs miracles!

Your power is on display in glorious ways all over the earth,

yet you have chosen to do great things for me and those I love.

My heart is filled with joy!

(Psalm 145:1; 77:13-14; 126:3)

[1] Psalm 77:14

[2] Herbert Lockyer, Seasons of the Lord, 255.

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