Category: Devotionals

Scripture: “Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.” – Matthew 1:18

Observation: While Mary was the biological mother of Jesus, Joseph was not the biological father. Jesus’ divine conception was by the Holy Spirit, not by Joseph. However, recognizing Jospeh as the legal father is important in the Jewish culture. Here in Matthew, we see the genealogy of Joseph, while the genealogy of Mary is chronicled in the 3rd chapter of Luke.

Application: Joseph’s ancestry is critical in the lineage of Jesus because, according to Jewish law, it proves the legal connection of Jesus to the line of David. This also reflects a covenant that God established with David in 2 Samuel 7:16, “And thine house and thy kingdom shall be established for ever before thee: thy throne shall be established for ever.”  It is a divine promise that the Messiah, who will set up the kingdom, will be a descendant of King David.

The problem arises when we read in the Scriptures of a wicked king by the name of Jeconiah. This king is a direct descendant of David, but he was cursed by God due to his wickedness. Jeremiah 22:30 states in reference to Jeconiah, “Thus saith the LORD, Write ye this man childless, a man that shall not prosper in his days: for no man of his seed shall prosper, sitting upon the throne of David, and ruling any more in Judah.” How does this work with God promising a descendant of David’s would have an eternal kingdom? Since Joseph was not biologically related to Jesus, the covenant was not broken by Jeconiah’s disqualification. However, Joseph’s lineage is critical to the kingship of Jesus because Joseph provided the legal royal claim to the throne, which will be important in the future Israel.

Now we see the importance of Mary’s ancestry listed in Luke 3. Jeconiah is not in her family history. However, in Luke 3:31, we find the biological connection to David in Mary’s line as well. “Which was the son of Melea, which was the son of Menan, which was the son of Mattatha, which was the son of Nathan, which was the son of David,”. It is clearly seen that the covenant God made with David continued through the bloodline of Mary.

Thus, we read in the Bible that Jesus will fulfill the Davidic covenant in the future when He comes again to establish His kingdom on the earth. He will be the “legitimate” royal ruler as well as the biological one, but more importantly is who He is today… the Saviour of the world! The best Christmas gift we could ever receive!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, Your Word is so precious, but I’ll admit there are places that are difficult for me to follow. However, I understand the importance of genealogies, especially for Your chosen people, and I am grateful that You show me specific sections that are meaningful for me as well. Help me understand more of Your Word each time I read it. I ask this in the name of my sweet Saviour, amen.

Jesus shall reign where'er the sun
Does its successive journeys run,
His kingdom stretch from shore to shore,\
Till moons shall wax and wane no more.

Let every creature rise and bring
The highest honors to our King,
Angels descend with songs again,
And earth repeat the loud amen.

(from “Jesus Shall Reign Where’er the Sun” by Isaac Watts)

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“And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed.” – Daniel 7:14

Scripture: “And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)” – Luke 2:4

Observation: Caesar Augustus proclaimed a census upon all the people in his empire for several reasons. The three primary reasons were to determine the number of taxable individuals, identify citizens for military service, and demonstrate Roman control over all regions of the empire regardless of their distances from Rome. To conduct the census, people were required to return to their places of their ancestral family homes to be counted. Joseph was a descendant of David, thus he and his betrothed, Mary, traveled to Bethlehem, the city of David, to register for the census.

Application: God often uses human government to bring His plans to fruition. As the Lord orchestrated the arrival of His beloved Son, He employed the Roman leadership to bring about His perfect will, fulfilling centuries of Messianic prophecies. While it is exciting to read the prophecies that lead up to the birth of our Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ, it is even more exciting to read about the fulfillment of those prophecies. Here are three amazing prophecies about the coming of Jesus!

• Prophecy: A Saviour – “And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.” (Genesis 3:15)
  • Fulfillment:
    • “And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:21)

• Prophecy: The virgin birth – “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” (Isaiah 7:14)
  • Fulfillment:
    • “And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.” (Luke 1:31)
    • “Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?” (Luke 1:34)

• Prophecy: The birthplace – “But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting.” (Micah 5:2)
  • Fulfillment: “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:11)

This Christmas is a time to reflect on how incredibly awesome God is! He has never made a promise that He has not kept! He has never made a prophecy that was not fulfilled in its time. Not one single prophecy that God made about the first advent of Jesus went unfulfilled! Every one happened exactly as God said it would! In Genesis, we read where He first promised us a Saviour, and at Christmas, we celebrate the fulfillment of that promise! Best Christmas present ever!

Prayer:  Dearest heavenly Father, what an awesome God You are! I praise Your name and offer You my heartfelt worship and adoration! Thank You for Your faithfulness! Because You have always kept Your promises and fulfilled every promise that needed to be fulfilled before Jesus came, I can know for sure that You will be faithful to do the same with every other prophecy that has yet to be fulfilled! Thank You for that blessed assurance! In the name of Your precious holy Son, I pray with great thanksgiving. Amen.

O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie!
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep, the silent stars go by.
Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting light;
the hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.

How silently, how silently, the wondrous gift is giv'n!
So God imparts to human hearts the blessings of His heav'n.
No ear may hear His coming, but in this world of sin,
Where meek souls will receive Him still, the dear Christ enters in.

(from “O Little Town of Bethlehem” by Phillips Brooks)

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“And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world.” – 1 John 4:14

Scripture: “But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.” – Matthew 1:20

Observation: At the end of this chapter, we find Joseph deciding to end his betrothal to Mary. However, during the night, God sends a message to Joseph in a dream. An angel reminds Joseph of the prophecies that he had heard all his life, and explains that the time for the Messiah to come is here. Joseph is told that Mary has been true to him, and that she has been chosen by God to be the mother of the promised Messiah, and he has been chosen to be the earthly father.

Application: Not much is written about Joseph, but he plays a pivotal role in the birth and life of Jesus. First, he had a huge hurdle to overcome. Imagine how you might feel if the one to whom you were engaged was found to be unfaithful. That is what Joseph was facing, but the Bible tells us that Joseph was “a just man”. Matthew 1:19 states, “Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily.”  Due to his great love for Mary, he had decided to not publicly accuse her, which could result in her death, but would end their betrothal privately. His heart surely must have been breaking.

Secondly, we know that Joseph was a godly man. No doubt, he had been raised hearing of the prophecies of the Messiah all of his life, and now God had chosen him to be the earthly father of His beloved Son. As Joseph dreamed, God laid out His incredible plan to this young man, and Joseph believed! When he woke, he was confident that his dream was from God, and he chose to obey the Lord.

Lastly, from that moment on, Joseph pledged to protect Mary and her unborn child. He would assist Mary in the delivery, protect his family by fleeing to Egypt, and follow God faithfully. He would teach Jesus the trade of carpentry and raise Him according to the laws of God. God chose Joseph just as He had chosen Mary. And like Mary, Joseph did not doubt once God had spoken.

Christmas is a time when God often speaks to our hearts in unique ways: the silence of the night, the warmth of a crackling fire, the shining of a distant star, a baby’s soft cry. No matter how you hear His voice this season, be like Joseph. Believe!

Prayer: Dearest heavenly Father, what a glorious time of year to remember the sweet couple that You chose to bring Your beloved Son into the world. How their faith encourages me! They had only each other as they set out in obedience to You, following the path You had prepared for them. Their devotion to You and Your Son is an example of how I should be. Please help me to obey You without hesitation, trusting You in all things for all outcomes. You are so faithful! In Your precious Son’s holy name, I pray. Amen.

How could it be, this baby in my arms, Sleeping now, so peacefully,
The Son of God, the angel said, How could it be?

Lord, I know He's not my own, not of my flesh, not of my bone
Still Father let this baby be the son of my love

Father show me where I fit into this plan of yours
How can a man be father to the Son of God?
Lord, for all my life I've been a simple carpenter
How can I raise a King? How can I raise a King?

He looks so small, His face and hands so fair 
And when He cries, the sun just seems to disappear
And when He laughs, it shines again, How could it be?

(from “Joseph’s Song” by Michael Card)

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“Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife:”- Matthew 1:24

Scripture: “To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.” – Luke 1:79

Observation: Upon the restoration of his voice, Zacharias immediately begins to praise the Lord. He did not praise Him for the birth of his son, John, but instead, he praises God for who He is and for His faithfulness.

Application: A few days ago, I attended the memorial service for my cousin, Pam. She and I were of the same age, and for a short time, I lived with her and her family. I was very young, perhaps 5 or 6 years old, and during that time, Pam was not only my cousin, but my sister. The Bible tells us in Romans 8:28 that “… all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” As a little girl, it was a very scary time for me, but God knew that during this time, Pam would become the friend and the sister that would help ease my heartache and fears. He truly worked out this situation for good in my life!

Her nephew, Grayson, officiated at her service, and he shared a lot about Pam, but most importantly, he spoke of Pam’s faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Accepting Christ’s forgiveness of sins and becoming a child of God is much more than just an assurance of going to heaven; it’s the ability to praise God in all circumstances, good or bad. It’s the assurance of knowing that you’ll never walk alone as Jesus promised to always be with us.

Grayson mentioned about facing death… walking in its shadows… and how David wrote that he had no fear about that. Why? Psalm 23:4 has the answer. “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.” From the moment Pam accepted Christ as her Saviour, she never walked alone. Even when her passing was imminent, Jesus was right there with her, guiding her feet to the next chapter of her life… eternity in His presence! There was no fear as her Saviour was at her side as He had been ever since she called on Him to save her from her sins.

Pam had placed her faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ a long time ago, and as His child, He gave her the light of His sweet salvation and the promise of eternal life. When her time on earth was nearing an end, and she was in the shadows of death, it was the Son of God who guided her feet along the way of peace into her heavenly home just as Zacharias had praised the Lord for centuries ago.

Like Zacharias, I am able to praise the Lord simply for Who He is and for the saving grace He has shown me! The Christmas season focuses on the birth of Jesus. However, His miraculous birth began His own personal walk on the road to Calvary where He would die on an old rugged cross. Matthew 20:28 states, “Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.” So while it may seem strange to think about death during the holiday season, it is the very death of Jesus that gave Pam eternal life. Jesus’ death and subsequent resurrection illuminated the path to everlasting life for all of us. This is what we celebrate at Christmas… a love that is incomprehensible from God, who is unfathomable, to save a people so unworthy, yet Jesus came!

So today, while reflecting on my cousin and her impact on my life, I will rejoice in God my Saviour, who gives “… light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.” Pam has taken that journey ahead of me, but one day, should the Lord tarry, I will walk that same path to peace alongside my Jesus.

Take time to rejoice in all that God is and all that He has done! He is the light of the world and the Prince of peace who came to save all of mankind from their sins.

• “Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” – John 8:12
• “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” – Isaiah 9:6

Again, I say, rejoice!

Prayer: O heavenly Father, how I praise Your holy name! You, who created all things, sustains all things, know each star by name… You know ME by name too! What an amazing thought to think you are mindful of me! Thank You! Thank You for sending Your beloved Son, Jesus to be the Saviour of the world! Thank You for loving me as You do and for loving my sweet cousin, Pam. I rejoice that she is with You now, and her faith has become sight! Praise the Lord! In Jesus’ precious name, I pray with thanksgiving! Amen!

Wonderful, merciful Savior, Precious Redeemer and Friend
Who would have thought that a Lamb could rescue the souls of men
Oh, You rescue the souls of men

You are the One that we praise, You are the One we adore
You give the healing and grace, our hearts always hunger for
Oh, our hearts always hunger for.

(from “Wonderful, Merciful Saviour” by Dawn Rodgers & Eric Wyse )

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“Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:” – John 11:25

Scripture: “And his mouth was opened immediately, and his tongue loosed, and he spake, and praised God.”  – Luke 1:56

Observation: This section of Luke chapter 1 details the events surrounding the birth of John the Baptist. Elisabeth is rejoicing with her family and friends at God’s mercy and grace for her new son. 8 days later, she and Zacharias go to the priests for the circumcision and official naming of their baby. It is at this time that Zacharias formally names his son, John, and at that moment, his muteness is healed. Zacharias’ his first response is to lift his voice in praise to God.

Application: When Zacharias first heard the news from the angel Gabriel, he was doubtful that he and Elisabeth could have a child in the old age and as a consequence, he was struck dumb. This inability to speak lasted for the duration of Elisabeth’s pregnancy and until obedience of Zacharias in the formal naming of the baby. Once Zacharias confirmed the name of John for his son, his voice was restored, and he immediately began to praise the Lord! Zacharias went against tradition, choosing to obey the Lord instead in giving the baby the name of John. This act of obedience resulted in God’s forgiveness and restoration for Zacharias.

Being saved is not a “fire insurance” policy as some say. While true believers have the assurance of not going to hell, it remains important to strive for a godly lifestyle. The Scriptures are clear that salvation is not a gift on which God reneges, but nowhere does the Bible state that Christians can continue to live sinfully as the world does. In fact, we are to be different from the world in how we live. Romans 12:2 states, “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Additionally, we must remember that sin does have its consequences, and those who have placed their faith and trust in Christ are not immune to those consequences as Zacharias discovered.

Like Zacharias, we make choices constantly regarding what we are going to say or do. They should be aligned with God’s will, but many times, they are not, and we suffer the consequences of choosing our flesh over the Lord’s will. Remember, God is a gentleman. He never forces anything upon us. Salvation is a gift IF we choose to accept it. His blessings are given IF we obey Him. His favor is upon us IF we choose to walk in His ways.

When we choose to sin… choosing our will over His… there are often dire consequences, some lasting a lifetime, but God is ready to forgive and restore our relationship with Him whenever we repent and return to Him. It is important to remember that forgiveness does not eliminate the consequences of our actions or the guilt associated with our sinful choices. However, we must remember 1 John 1:9, where God promises, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Zacharias could have rebelled against God and name his son after himself or a family member, but he chose to obey the Lord. When he did, God restored the priest’s voice and blessed both Zacharias and Elisabeth greatly. When we choose to obey, expect God to bless! Luke 11:28 records Jesus as saying, “… blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.” Let us purpose to be trusting in and obedient to God’s Word!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, how great You are! Your Word is truth; Your counsel is perfect. You have always promised to do what is best for me. Strengthen my faith, O God, and help me to hunger for Your will. Empower me by Your Spirit to follow in the footsteps of my Saviour, and please order my steps daily that I might walk worthy of whatever You desire for me to do each day. Help me to be faithful to You in all things. In Jesus’ precious and holy name, I pray. Amen.

When we walk with the Lord in the light of His Word,
What a glory He sheds on our way;
While we do His good will, He abides with us still,
And with all who will trust and obey.

Trust and obey, for there’s no other way
To be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.

(from “Trust and Obey” by John H. Sammis)

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“Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart.” – Psalm 119:2

Scripture: “And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned to her own house.” – Luke 1:56

Observation: Chapter 1 of Luke is rich with amazing experiences. In the verses just prior to today’s verse, the song of Mary is recorded. She is rejoicing in all that God is and praises Him gloriously while she is visiting her cousin. Three months later, her visit with Elisabeth terminates with the birth of John.

Application: During biblical times, there were professional midwives and family members who attended the births of babies. While the Bible doesn’t specifically state that Mary was present at the birth of John the Baptist, it seems quite plausible that she was there providing support for her elderly cousin, Elisabeth. In verse 36, the angel Gabriel told Mary that Elisabeth was ending her second trimester, and in verse 56, we are told that Mary’s visit lasted an additional 3 months. This would place Elisabeth at the end of her pregnancy. Therefore, it is highly possible that Mary attended the birth of John the Baptist.

It would be during this time that God was preparing Mary for the birth of her own baby. He knew that Mary and Joseph would be alone, and for Mary to be present at the birth of John, she would gain a great deal of knowledge in birthing a child, not fully realizing how reliant she would be on that experience when it would be her time to deliver.

When it came Mary’s time to deliver her own child, she only had her beloved husband at her side. No doubt, this was his first birthing experience, and while both he and Mary knew God was with them, they must have had some apprehension about what was about to happen. Their faith in the Lord enabled them to put aside their fears and trust God for the outcome that He had promised.

When situations in life seem overwhelming, and we start to fear, we must remember that our heavenly Father has promised to take care of us always. Whatever comes our way, God will enable us to get through it. He is our Protector, our refuge, our Saviour. Psalm 28:7 states, “The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.” Let us be like Elisabeth and Mary, fully trusting in God to prepare us and see us through any challenge we face.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, how wonderful to know that nothing happens in my life that You are not fully aware of. Nothing catches You by surprise! You have promised to help me to face any situation, and You will always be with me. You have also promised to fight the battles that I cannot do on my own, and empower me to fight those that I can. You have promised to give me wisdom to make decisions and take actions that align with Your will and bring You honor and glory. Thank You that I am always in Your care. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Great is thy faithfulness, O God, my Father;
There is no shadow of turning with thee.
Thou changest not, thy compassions, they fail not;
As thou hast been, thou forever wilt be.

Great is thy faithfulness, great is thy faithfulness,
Morning by morning new mercies I see.
All I have needed thy hand hast provided;
Great is thy faithfulness, Lord unto me.

(from “Great is Thy Faithfulness” by Thomas O. Chisholm)

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“Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” – Isaiah 41:10

Scripture: “And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost:” – Luke 1:41

Observation: When Mary arrives at her cousin Elisabeth’s home, the Scriptures record a beautiful happening… the yet-to-be-born baby developing within Elisabeth (who will be John the Baptist) leaped for joy!

Application: It is amazing to realize that the first person to recognize the as-of-yet unborn Son of God was another child in utero! There is no record that Mary announced to Elisabeth that she was carrying the Messiah, yet unborn John knew! That is so awesome to me!

Every life that God creates begins in His mind. He told the prophet that in Jeremiah 1:5, “Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.” Imagine that! God thought about you and me even before we were physically conceived! We were mentally conceived in the mind of God before our conception ever occurred! The Lord decided that we were so important to Him, so loved by Him, that He planned our births so we could be cherished by Him forever! Wow! He loves us with an everlasting love! (Jeremiah 31:3).

When John leaped for joy in the womb of Elisabeth, it was in recognition of the promised Messiah, the sinless Son of God, developing within Mary. May our hearts and souls leap for joy this Christmas season as we recognize the Lord Jesus Christ as the sinless Son of God who came to live among us, paying the price for our sins and becoming the Saviour of the world!

Prayer: Dearest Lord Jesus, You are the Prince of Peace, the Blessed Redeemer, the Living Word! Thank You for saving my soul and loving me with an everlasting love! I am overwhelmed by Your goodness, Your mercy, Your grace, and Your love! Thank You for giving me a reason to celebrate throughout this season especially! I love You! In Your precious name, I pray! Amen!

O come, O come, Immanuel,
And ransom captive Israel
That mourns in lonely exile here
Until the Son of God appear.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Immanuel
Shall come to you, O Israel.

(from “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” by J. M. Neale)

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“For, lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy.” – Luke 1:44

Scripture: “And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.” – Luke 1:35

Observation: This chapter details the message delivered by the angel Gabriel to Mary, the soon-to-be mother of the Lord Jesus Christ. She is a young teen with whom God has found great favor, and she chooses to surrender herself to the will of God the Father. The road ahead for both her and her betrothed, Joseph, will be a hard one as they are not yet married, but Mary has the faith that God will see her, Joseph, and the precious child she is carrying through it all.

Application: Life is full of surprises! Some are sweet and wonderful; some are difficult to endure, and when they cause apprehension, we must remember a few key lessons from Mary.

The first lesson is that questioning God is not a sin. Sometimes when we face situations that are unwanted and difficult to comprehend, we ask God, “Why?” The problem is that Christian culture has taught that we are not to question God, and if we do, it’s a terrible sin. This is not what Scripture indicates. Luke 1:34 shows Mary’s question to God, “Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?” A question to God doesn’t mean a lack of faith; it is a desire to understand. Mary was trying to grasp how this could happen since she was a virgin. At this time, Gabriel explains the conception would be divine, and Mary’s question was answered.

We must, however, remember a few things about questioning God. First, if we ask, we must be willing to listen to the answer and accept it whether we like it or not. Secondly, sometimes God chooses not to answer right away. God’s timing is often not the same as ours. In Habbakuk 2:3, God speaks to the prophet saying, “For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.” I know when I pray and ask God something, I want a response immediately. That’s not how God usually works. Waiting on God grows our faith and trust in Him. Isaiah 40:31 states, “But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.”

The second lesson is that God’s allowance of events in our lives serves a divine purpose. We don’t always know what that purpose is. This is a time when we must trust the Lord. Mary did just that. While she and all of Israel were praying for a Messiah, this news (on the eve of her marriage to Joseph) was definitely not expected. However, Mary chose to trust God, surrender to His will, and accept His divine will for her life. Luke 1:38 records her response, “And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.”

The third lesson is that God is a God of the impossible. While Mary hears everything the angel tells her, undoubtedly, it is a bit overwhelming. The angel then shares the miracle that God has done in the life of Zacharias and Elisabeth. Luke 1:36 are Gabriel’s words to Mary, “And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren.” This helps Mary remember that “…with God nothing is impossible.” (Luke 1:37). This comforts her heart and soul, and she humbly accepts the role that God has given her.

This time of year can bring unexpected happenings and a mixture of emotions as we are flooded with all the social gatherings, shopping, family get-togethers, times of solitude, financial worries, illnesses… the list goes on and on! It can certainly dampen the joy of the Christmas season. Let’s determine in our minds to be as Mary. We may ask God, “Why?”, but we must listen to His answer and trust Him to do the best for each one of us. His plan for our lives is perfect! We may not see where the road goes, but we certainly know Who walks with us!

With a heart determined to follow the Lord, we will be able to rejoice as Mary did after her visit with Elisabeth. “…My soul doth magnify the Lord,And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.” (Luke 1:46-7). As we go through this Christmas season, let us also magnify the Lord and rejoice in God our Saviour!”

Prayer: Dear Lord, what a wonderful example in Mary! She honored You, trusted You, and obeyed You, and You blessed her greatly! Thank You for her example in Your Word. Help me, O God, to not be afraid to ask You “Why?”, but give me also a heart that is willing to accept Your answers… even if I am to wait for them. Help me to trust You completely in the outcome of every unexpected and even unwelcome situations. I know You always do what is best for me. Thank You for being my Father and loving me as You do. In Your beloved Son’s name, I pray. Amen.

Mary, did you know that your baby boy
Is the Lord of all creation?
Mary, did you know that your baby boy
Will one day rule the nations?
Did you know that your baby boy
Was heaven's perfect Lamb?
And the sleeping Child you’re holding
Is the great I AM!

(from “Mary, Did You Know” by Mark Lowry)

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“And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.” – Luke 1:31

Scripture: “But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John.” – Luke 1:5

Observation:  Zacharias was one of the Levitical priests, and it was his time to go into the temple to burn incense to God. While he was by the altar of incense, an angel of the Lord appeared and told him that he and Elisabeth would have a son. This is unusual because both Zacharias and Elisabeth were elderly… well beyond childbearing years. However, their promised son, John, would be the cousin of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Application: God had a specific role for John beyond being just the cousin of Jesus. John, the forerunner of God’s precious Son, was tasked with preparing the people for the arrival of the Messiah. He knew the hearts of the people had to be receptive, and thus he preached repentance and baptism. He preached fervently, striving to prepare the people for the ministry of Jesus. John 1:23 records the Baptizer’s words, “He said, I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make straight the way of the Lord, as said the prophet Esaias.” John was called by God for this very special role in the coming of the Messiah.

John was also the fulfillment of prophecy. Malachi 3:1 states, “Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the LORD of hosts.”

We share two similarities with John the Baptist. First, like John, God has a specific plan for all of us. When we yield to His will, that plan unfolds, and God leads us through life accomplishing His purpose through us. Secondly, we are to tell others about Jesus. John did that constantly! Day after day, he preached, regardless of what others thought about him; he was focused on doing the will of God. He was completely surrendered to the will of God, and his focus was on the work God called him to do. Make ready the people!

This Christmas season is a time for us to reflect on the Lord Jesus Christ and what His birth means for us. Through prayer and Bible study, we can learn more of God, be drawn closer to Him, and daily surrender ourselves to His will for our lives. Christmas time is also the time to be ready to share Christ with others whenever God provides the opportunity because it is a time when the hearts of people are more receptive to the gospel. Let us determine to be more like John… proclaiming the good news of the gospel for it is the “power of God unto salvation” (Romans 1:16)! Let us boldly remind others that Jesus is coming again, and it might even be today! Let us make ready the people!!

Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, thank You for John the Baptist and the example he is to me. He was a very faithful servant of Yours and proclaimed the importance of repentance to everyone he encountered. O God, give me a boldness like John to share Jesus with others more faithfully. Use me as You will, and help me to be pliable clay in Your hands. In Jesus’ precious name, I pray. Amen.

We have heard the joyful sound: Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Spread the tidings all around: Jesus saves! Jesus saves!
Bear the news to ev'ry land, climb the steeps and cross the waves;
Onward! 'tis our Lord's command; Jesus saves! Jesus saves!

(from “Jesus Saves” by Priscilla J. Owens)

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“The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God.” – Isaiah 40:3

Scripture: “And when thy days be fulfilled, and thou shalt sleep with thy fathers, I will set up thy seed after thee, which shall proceed out of thy bowels, and I will establish his kingdom. He shall build an house for my name, and I will stablish the throne of his kingdom for ever.” – 2 Samuel 7:12-13

Observation: This passage contains the covenant that God makes with David. Here, the Lord promises that David’s son will be the one to build the temple, and that one of David’s descendants will have an eternal kingdom.

Application: One of the most remarkable things about our God is that He is a keeper of promises. When Adam and Eve sinned in the garden, breaking the sweet fellowship they had shared with the Lord, God immediately makes a promise to redeem them. Genesis 3:15 states, “And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.” This is the first promise in the Bible that God gives, and it is the promise of a Saviour.

If we continue to read through the Bible, we see promise after promise that God makes and keeps. Here are a few more examples that the Lord has made:

• God promised a son to Abraham and Sarah despite their old age.
  • “And God said, Sarah thy wife shall bear thee a son indeed; and thou shalt call his name Isaac: and I will establish my covenant with him for an everlasting covenant, and with his seed after him.” – Genesis 17:19
• God promised to free the Israelites from Egyptian tyranny and bring them to the Promised Land.
  • “And I have said, I will bring you up out of the affliction of Egypt unto the land of the Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Amorites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites, unto a land flowing with milk and honey.” – Exodus 3:17
• God promised that Cyrus (a Gentile king) would allow the Israelites to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple.
  • “That saith of Cyrus, He is my shepherd, and shall perform all my pleasure: even saying to Jerusalem, Thou shalt be built; and to the temple, Thy foundation shall be laid.” – Isaiah 44:28
• Jesus promised that He would be killed and then rise again.
  • “And they shall mock him, and shall scourge him, and shall spit upon him, and shall kill him: and the third day he shall rise again.” – Mark 10:34

Because God has never broken a promise, we can have the assurance that He will continue to fulfill the rest of the promises in His Word. Here are a few of my favorite promises that God has made:

• God promises us eternal life when we trust Christ as our Saviour.
  • “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” –  John 3:16
• God promises that He is preparing a place for us in heaven.
  • “In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.” – John 14:2
• God promises He will come again.
  • “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” – John 14:3
• God promises to keep me safe and secure in His hand forever.
  • “And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.” – John 10:28
• God promises forgiveness of sins.
  • “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” – 1 John 1:9

The incredible thing is that these are just a few of the promises yet to be fulfilled by God! There are so many more! Which promises are you excited about that are yet to be fulfilled by God?

Prayer: Dearest Father in heaven, how faithful You are! You are immutable, and Your Word endures forever! Thank You for giving us so many promises! Thank You for always keeping them! I can’t wait to see so many promises come to fruition through Your great love, grace, and mercy! I rejoice in God my Saviour! In Jesus’ precious name, I pray. Amen.

Standing on the promises of Christ, my King!
Through eternal ages let His praises ring.
"Glory in the highest!" I will shout and sing,
Standing on the promises of God.

Standing, standing,
Standing on the promises of God, my Savior;
Standing, standing,
I’m standing on the promises of God.

(from “Standing on the Promises” by Russell Kelso Carter)

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“For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us.” – 2 Corinthians 1:20