As we walk daily in our faith and face issues in our lives, we must always remember that the God of all grace, who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself restore, protect, strengthen and call you as His child. Because of the true grace of God and by standing firm in it, we are able to face tomorrow.
Sunday, December 31, 2023
Evening Scripture Reading - 1 Peter 5:7 American Standard Version
Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 139:23-24 American Standard Version
Try me, and know my thoughts;
And see if there be any wicked way in me,
And lead me in the way everlasting.
Embracing the New Year with Hope and Purpose
This isn't just another Sunday; it's the culmination of a year that has been marked by both challenges and triumphs. As I write this message, I am reminded of the journey we've shared since March of 2009. Over these years, we've faced obstacles, celebrated victories, and, most importantly, witnessed the unwavering faithfulness of our God.
New Year's Eve, with its symbolic transition from one year to the next, offers us a unique opportunity for reflection. It's a designated moment in the calendar where we pause to look back at the chapters that have unfolded and, more importantly, to look ahead with hopeful anticipation.
As Christians, we embrace not the promise of a trouble-free journey but the certainty that, regardless of our circumstances, God is with us. His promise is not to shield us from adversity but to walk with us through it, lifting us up and, if necessary, carrying us when the burdens of life become too heavy.
Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 28:13 American Standard Version
But whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall obtain mercy.
Morning Bible Reading - Malachi 1:2 American Standard Version
Saturday, December 30, 2023
Evening Scripture Reading - Colossians 3:16 American Standard Version
Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 119:105 American Standard Version
And light unto my path.
Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 23:26 American Standard Version
And let thine eyes delight in my ways.
Morning Bible Reading - Hosea 11:4 American Standard Version
Friday, December 29, 2023
Evening Scripture Reading - Philippians 4:6-7 American Standard Version
Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 91:2 American Standard Version
My God, in whom I trust.
Illuminating the Path with Love and Light
Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 20:24 American Standard Version
How then can man understand his way?
Morning Bible Reading - Jeremiah 31:3 American Standard Version
Thursday, December 28, 2023
Evening Scripture Reading - 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 American Standard Version
Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 51:10 American Standard Version
And renew a right spirit within me.
Anticipating the Light of Christ on Advent's Fifth Candle
Morning Bible Reading - Isaiah 54:10 American Standard Version
Wednesday, December 27, 2023
Evening Scripture Reading - Romans 15:13 American Standard Version
Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 46:10 American Standard Version
I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.
Mid-Week Message - Looking Forward
"Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path." Psalm 119:105 (NIV)
Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 16:9 American Standard Version
But Jehovah directeth his steps.
Morning Bible Reading - Deuteronomy 7:9 American Standard Version
Tuesday, December 26, 2023
Evening Scripture Reading - John 14:27 American Standard Version
Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 34:18 American Standard Version
And saveth such as are of a contrite spirit.
Embracing Love as the Fourth Candle Flickers
Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 8:17 American Standard Version
And those that seek me diligently shall find me.
Morning Bible Reading - Exodus 34:6 American Standard Version
Monday, December 25, 2023
Evening Scripture Reading - Matthew 11:28 American Standard Version
Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 23:1 American Standard Version
A Divine Symphony of Love
On this day, the echoes of that divine promise resound in the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. In the Gospel of Matthew 1:23 (NLT), we witness the fulfillment of this prophecy: "Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel, which means 'God is with us.'"
Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 3:5 American Standard Version
And lean not upon thine own understanding:
Morning Bible Reading - Genesis 15:6 American Standard Version
Sunday, December 24, 2023
The Gift of Light and Love
In the quietude of this evening, we stand at the threshold of a divine moment. The story unfolds in the hushed whispers of Bethlehem, where a humble stable cradles the most extraordinary gift the world has ever known. In John 1:4, we read, "The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone."
Tonight, the world is bathed in the radiance of that life-giving light. The very essence of Christmas lies not just in the twinkling lights or the festive decorations but in the extraordinary love encapsulated in the birth of Jesus Christ. In Isaiah 9:6, we find the prophecy fulfilled: "For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
As we exchange gifts and share in the warmth of this festive season, let us not forget the greatest gift of all—the gift of God's love, wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger. In embracing this gift, we are invited to reflect on the transformative power of love, compassion, and unity. In the stillness of this night, may our hearts echo the angelic proclamation in Luke 2:14, "Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased."
Christmas is not merely a historical event but a living, breathing testament to the enduring love of God. As we celebrate the arrival of the Christ Child, may our homes be filled with the joy that only His presence can bring. Let us, in the spirit of this season, extend the love we have received to those around us, making every day Christmas by embodying the teachings of hope, peace, joy, and love. Wishing you all a blessed and Merry Christmas!
Evening Advent Reading - 1 Peter 1:8-9 American Standard Version
Mid-afternoon Advent Reading - Psalm 126:5 American Standard Version
The Candle of Love: A Christmas Reflection
In this sacred season of Advent, we find ourselves standing in awe before the glowing radiance of the Candle of Love. As we delve into the Scriptures, we're reminded of the profound significance of love in the divine narrative. The New Living Translation (NLT) guides us to 1 John 4:9-10, where the apostle John eloquently captures the essence of God's sacrificial love, stating, "God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him. This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins."
These verses encapsulate the heart of the Advent message — a narrative of divine love that transcends our understanding. The Candle of Love symbolizes the culmination of this love story, where God, in His infinite mercy, sent His Son as the ultimate sacrifice. It's a love that surpasses our human comprehension, a love freely given without condition, and a love that redeems and transforms. As we light the fourth candle, let us reflect on the great sacrifice made by God to demonstrate His profound love for each one of us. This love, embodied in the birth of Jesus Christ, becomes a guiding light, dispelling darkness and offering the promise of eternal life.
Mid-Morning Advent Reading - Proverbs 29:6 American Standard Version
But the righteous doth sing and rejoice.
Morning Advent Reading - Zephaniah 3:17 American Standard Version
Saturday, December 23, 2023
Prayer for Sustained Joy
Evening Advent Reading - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 American Standard Version
Mid-afternoon Advent Reading - Psalm 105:43 American Standard Version
And his chosen with singing.
Mid-Morning Advent Reading - Proverbs 27:9 American Standard Version
So doth the sweetness of a man’s friend that cometh of hearty counsel.
Morning Advent Reading - Jeremiah 15:16 American Standard Version
Bible Study: The Fourth Candle - Love
The Advent season is a journey of anticipation and reflection, and as we light the fourth candle, we focus on the profound theme of love. Love is at the heart of the Christmas story, embodied in the gift of God's Son, Jesus Christ.
1. Read: 1 Corinthians 13:1-7 (NLT)
"If I could speak all the languages of earth and of angels, but didn’t love others, I would only be a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal..."
Discussion
- What is the central message of these verses regarding love?
- How does love surpass other virtues and actions?
"For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life."
- How does this verse highlight the connection between God's love and the gift of Jesus?
- In what ways does the concept of giving characterize love?
"Love does no wrong to others, so love fulfills the requirements of God’s law."
- How does love relate to fulfilling God's law?
- In what practical ways can we express love to others?
"But the angel reassured them. 'Don’t be afraid!' he said. 'I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David!'”
Discussion
- How does the birth of Jesus exemplify God's love for humanity?
- In what ways is Jesus described as a manifestation of God's love?
"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control..."
- How does love play a role in the fruit of the Spirit?
- Reflect on times when you've experienced or witnessed the transformative power of love.
Take time to pray, thanking God for the gift of love through Jesus Christ. Ask for guidance in expressing love to others and for a deeper understanding of the significance of Christ's love in your life.
Friday, December 22, 2023
Evening Advent Reading - Philippians 4:4 American Standard Version
Mid-afternoon Advent Reading - Psalm 47:1 American Standard Version
Shout unto God with the voice of triumph.
Weekend Wishes: Joy Overflowing
Mid-Morning Advent Reading - Proverbs 23:24 American Standard Version
And he that begetteth a wise child will have joy of him.
Morning Advent Reading - Isaiah 61:10 American Standard Version
Thursday, December 21, 2023
Prayer for Joyful Reflection
Evening Advent Reading - Galatians 5:22-23 American Standard Version
Mid-afternoon Advent Reading - Psalm 35:9 American Standard Version
It shall rejoice in his salvation.
Finding Joy Beyond Challenges
Mid-Morning Advent Reading - Proverbs 17:22 American Standard Version
But a broken spirit drieth up the bones.
Morning Advent Reading - Isaiah 52:9 American Standard Version
Wednesday, December 20, 2023
Prayer for Joy in Waiting
Evening Advent Reading - Romans 15:13 American Standard Version
Mid-afternoon Advent Reading - Psalm 32:11 American Standard Version
And shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart.
Mid-Week Message - The First Gift of Christmas
"When they saw the star, they were filled with joy! They entered the house and saw the child with his mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasure chests and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh." Matthew 2:10-11 (NLT)
Time for shopping is almost at an end for the holiday season and in most homes there are brightly colored packages beneath trees that are decorated in various styles. In just a few days families will gather, gifts will be distributed, wrapping will be torn off and the mysteries of the packages will be revealed.
I can remember that time in my life when I thought Christmas would never come. As most children do, I loved the anticipation leading up to that special day of the year. Actually, I still do. There is still the little girl part of me that finds the season magical although for different reasons than when I was a child.
One of the most loved songs of the season is "The Little Drummer Boy." Among the pa-rum-pa-pum-pums is the story of a little boy with a drum who finds himself before the manger where Jesus is lying. He sees the gifts that are given and wants to offer something himself but has nothing but his drum. So, he begins to play for the baby. The lyrics tell us that Mary nodded, the ox and lamb kept time and then Jesus smiled at him.
What gift would you give the King of Kings if you found yourself before Him? The wise men gave him gold, frankincense and myrrh. Not only were they costly, they held symbolic meaning for the life of the Savior. Gold was a symbol of kingship on earth. Frankincense symbolized deity and myrrh, which was used as an embalming oil, referred to death. Can you give Him anything as valuable?
The very first Christmas gift was a baby that was born to a young girl in a stable. This child, the foretold Messiah, slept in a feeding trough rather than a gilded crib in a grand castle. Word of His arrival was announced to shepherds, not nobility. Rather than living as a rich man, He lived a humble life and died a cruel death. And He did it all for you and me so that we could have the ultimate gift of the forgiveness of sins, the restored relationship with the great I Am and eternal life with Him in Heaven.
We don't know the actual date of the birth of Jesus. In all likelihood it was sometime in the spring rather than winter, but we celebrate it on December 25th. We give gifts to those we love because of what He gave to and for us. The greatest gift we can give to Him is receiving Him as our Savior and sharing His good news with all we come in contact with. There is no other gift that carries as much love as the Gospel.
As we gather to share in the wonder of Christmas, let's first acknowledge the most wonderful gift of all and ask Him to be the center of our day. Merry Christmas and God bless!
Mid-Morning Advent Reading - Proverbs 15:23 American Standard Version
And a word in due season, how good is it!
Morning Advent Reading - Isaiah 51:11 American Standard Version
Tuesday, December 19, 2023
Evening Advent Reading - John 15:11 American Standard Version
Mid-afternoon Advent Reading - Psalm 30:5 American Standard Version
His favor is for a life-time:
Weeping may tarry for the night,
But joy cometh in the morning.
Prayer for Spreading Joy
Mid-Morning Advent Reading - Proverbs 12:20 American Standard Version
But to the counsellors of peace is joy.
Morning Advent Reading - Isaiah 12:3 American Standard Version
Monday, December 18, 2023
Prayer of Radiant Joy
Evening Advent Reading - Luke 2:10-11 American Standard Version
Mid-afternoon Advent Reading - Psalm 16:11 American Standard Version
In thy presence is fulness of joy;
In thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.
Embracing Joy in the Ordinary
Mid-Morning Advent Reading - Proverbs 10:28 American Standard Version
But the expectation of the wicked shall perish.
Morning Advent Reading - Isaiah 9:2 American Standard Version
Sunday, December 17, 2023
Prayer of Anticipation
Evening Advent Reading - Gospel of John
Mid-Afternoon Advent Reading - Psalm 29 American Standard Version
Yea, Jehovah sitteth as King for ever.
Jehovah will give strength unto his people;
Jehovah will bless his people with peace.
Christmas Joy Unveiled
In the hustle and bustle of the world around us, Advent calls us to pause, to wait, and to prepare our hearts for the coming of the Light of the World. It is a season of hopeful waiting, a spiritual pilgrimage that allows us to connect with the ancient yearning of God's people for the promised Messiah. Just as the Israelites waited with bated breath for the fulfillment of God's covenant, we, too, find ourselves in a season of expectant hope.
In reflecting upon the joyous narrative of the Christmas story, I am reminded of a personal connection to the season. In the tapestry of my own life, there is a thread woven in the form of a childhood memory. As an youngster at Eastwood Baptist Church in Gatesville, Texas, I was bestowed the role of Joseph in the Christmas play. Yet, in my youthful desire for grandiosity, I secretly yearned to be one of the Wise Men, adorned in regal attire.
In this season of Advent, may the story of the Savior's birth in Bethlehem resonate with the childlike wonder that still resides within us. As we anticipate the joyous celebration of Christmas, let us carry this joy into the world, sharing the love and hope that emanate from the manger in Bethlehem.
Imagine, for a moment, stepping into the timeless scene of the Nativity. Picture the humble stable, the hushed gathering of people, and the palpable anticipation in the air. As you approach the manger, let the wonder of the Christ child captivate your heart anew. Share this imaginative experience with loved ones, weaving a tradition of reflection and awe-inspired joy.
Mid-Morning Advent Reading - Proverbs 12 American Standard Version
And whoso trusteth in Jehovah, happy is he.
Morning Advent Reading - Isaiah 40 American Standard Version
Saturday, December 16, 2023
Evening Advent Reading - Gospel of John
Mid-Afternoon Advent Reading - Psalm 29 American Standard Version
And strippeth the forests bare:
And in his temple everything saith, Glory.
Pursuing Peace in the Midst of Chaos
Bible Study
To explore the biblical concept of peace, understand its significance in the Advent season, and reflect on how we can experience and share God's peace in our lives.
Verse 1: Isaiah 9:6 (NLT)
"For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
Reflect on the title "Prince of Peace" given to Jesus in Isaiah 9:6. What does it mean for Jesus to be the Prince of Peace, and how does this title bring comfort and hope?
"I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid."
In John 14:27, Jesus promises a unique kind of peace. How is the peace Jesus offers different from the peace that the world offers? How can this peace impact our lives in moments of trouble or fear?
"Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand."
Discussion
According to Philippians 4:6-7, what is the connection between prayer and experiencing God's peace? How can cultivating a prayerful attitude contribute to a more peaceful life?
Verse 4: Colossians 3:15 (NLT)
"And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body, you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful."
Colossians 3:15 emphasizes the idea of letting the peace of Christ rule in our hearts. What role does gratitude play in maintaining this peace, especially in the context of living in harmony with others?
In your own life, how can you actively pursue the peace that Jesus offers? Consider practical steps, habits, or attitudes that align with the principles of peace found in the discussed verses.
Think about someone in your life who may need God's peace. How can you be an instrument of peace in their journey?
Heavenly Father, we thank You for sending Jesus, the Prince of Peace, into our lives. As we reflect on the promises of peace in Your Word, help us to actively seek and share the peace that surpasses understanding. May our hearts be ruled by the peace that comes from Christ, and may we be instruments of Your peace in the world. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Mid-Morning Advent Reading - Proverbs 12 American Standard Version
Yea, to get understanding is rather to be chosen than silver.
Morning Advent Reading - Isaiah 40 American Standard Version
Friday, December 15, 2023
Evening Advent Reading - Gospel of John
Mid-Afternoon Advent Reading - Psalm 29 American Standard Version
The voice of Jehovah shaketh the wilderness;
Jehovah shaketh the wilderness of Kadesh.
Serene Moments with the Second Candle's Flame
Morning Advent Reading - Isaiah 40 American Standard Version
Mid-Morning Advent Reading - Proverbs 12 American Standard Version
And they love him that speaketh right.
Thursday, December 14, 2023
Evening Advent Reading - Gospel of John
Mid-Afternoon Advent Reading - Psalm 29 American Standard Version
Lebanon and Sirion like a young wild-ox.
Tranquil Joy in the Second Candle's Glow
Mid-Morning Advent Reading - Proverbs 12 American Standard Version
But Jehovah directeth his steps.
Morning Advent Reading - Isaiah 40 American Standard Version
Wednesday, December 13, 2023
Evening Advent Reading - Gospel of John
Mid-Afternoon Advent Reading - Psalm 29 American Standard Version
Yea, Jehovah breaketh in pieces the cedars of Lebanon.
He maketh them also to skip like a calf;
Lebanon and Sirion like a young wild-ox.
Mid-Week Message - The Gift That Matters Most
"And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger." Luke 2:10-12 (KJV)
This is a busy time of year. People are shopping, planning, decorating and wrapping. It is the time of getting together with friends and family, exchanging gifts and sharing memories. Stores are watching their bottom line and hoping that the sales for the season will be high. Employees in every field are hoping for a Christmas bonus to help pay for all they have spent to make the holiday a happy one.
As adults are rushing to get everything ready, children are making lists and writing their letters outlining what they want the jolly old man in red to bring them on Christmas Eve. Images of elves and flying reindeer fill their minds as they hang their stockings by the fireplace and help in hanging ornaments. And as they dream of waking up on that special morning, their hearts are full of anticipation and their minds focused on how much fun they are going to have.
Seasonal music is something I look forward to. There is something about it that touches me like no other tunes I listen to. And I never miss the television specials, even if I have seen them every year since I was a child. I allowed my daughter to believe in Santa Claus when she was young. It had been magical for me and I wanted her to experience that. However, I also made sure she knew that Christmas was about Jesus' birth and that without Him there would be no Christmas. When she asked if Santa was real, I told her this, "Santa is real as long as you choose to believe in him. When you stop believing, he stops existing. Jesus, on the other hand, is real whether you choose to believe in Him or not. Jesus is not just a story. He is living and with us all the time. He is the one that stays with us and loves us and forgives us when we do something wrong."
I, like any parent, have made many mistakes. It is sometimes difficult to make the perfect choices for your child. Many moms and dads choose never to allow their young ones to believe in a man from the North Pole who makes toys for good girls and boys and delivers them by coming down the chimney. Personally, I don't find fault either way. The most important thing we can do for our offspring is to teach them what the Bible says and introduce them to the Savior. They will outgrow fairy tales but the Truth will stay with them all their lives.
It is our job to make sure they know the difference between fantasy and reality. Of course, the very best way to do that is by modeling what we teach them by living authentic Christian lives. They need to attend church with their parents and they need to hear them praying at home. They need to witness us reaching out to those in need and to know that we rely on the Lord for our own needs to be met. They need to be shown what gratitude truly is and to know the difference between charity and greed. Scripture should be a regular part of their daily intake. Just as they need a healthy diet physically, so they need to be raised spiritually healthy.
When I became a parent I experienced love greater than I had ever dreamed possible, and I have felt pain much more deeply as well. No matter what gifts I put under that tree for my daughter each year, the greatest legacy I can leave her with is the knowledge that her mother loved Jesus with her whole heart, mind and soul and to have done everything possible to develop that in her as well. To point our sons and daughters to the Lord and equip them as best we can to live a sincere Christian life is undoubtedly the greatest gift we can bestow. God bless.
Mid-Morning Advent Reading - Proverbs 12 American Standard Version
He maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.
Morning Advent Reading - Isaiah 40 American Standard Version
Tuesday, December 12, 2023
Evening Advent Reading - Gospel of John
Mid-Afternoon Advent Reading - Psalm 29 American Standard Version
The God of glory thundereth,
Even Jehovah upon many waters.
The voice of Jehovah is powerful;
The voice of Jehovah is full of majesty.
Radiant Joy in Your Day
Peace Illuminated by the Second Candle
Hello, beloved community! Today, we illuminate the second candle—the Candle of Peace. Reflect on the transformative power of Christ's peace that fills this season with love. If the message of peace resonates with you, express it tangibly through your support. Click the "Buy Me a Cup" button on our website and let the light of peace shine through your generous contribution.
Mid-Morning Advent Reading - Proverbs 12 American Standard Version
And by the fear of Jehovah men depart from evil.
Morning Advent Reading - Isaiah 40 American Standard Version
Monday, December 11, 2023
Evening Advent Reading - Gospel of John
Mid-Afternoon Advent Reading - Psalm 29 American Standard Version
Ascribe unto Jehovah glory and strength.
Ascribe unto Jehovah the glory due unto his name;
Worship Jehovah in holy array.
Finding Peace in the Second Candle's Glow
Mid-Morning Advent Reading - Proverbs 12 American Standard Version
Yea, even the wicked for the day of evil.
Morning Advent Reading - Isaiah 40 American Standard Version
Sunday, December 10, 2023
Prayer for the Second Week of Advent: Peace
As we enter the second week of Advent, we turn our hearts toward the flickering flame of the Candle of Peace. In the gentle glow of this symbolic light, we seek the tranquility that only You can provide.
Evening Advent Reading - Colossians 3:15 American Standard Version
Mid-afternoon Advent Reading - Psalm 147:14 American Standard Version
He filleth thee with the finest of the wheat.
In the Light of His Peace
In the quiet moments of contemplation, consider the impact of hope on our lives. The hope encapsulated in the birth of Christ is not a mere wishful thinking but a profound assurance—an anchor that steadies our souls in the ebb and flow of life's uncertainties. As we shared our personal stories last week, I was deeply moved by the collective strength found in our hope in Christ. It is a hope that endures trials, a hope that defies despair, and a hope that radiates even in the face of adversity.