Tuesday, December 21st, 2021

Verse of the Day

“The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”).”
— Matthew 1:23 —

In Matthews’s gospel, he included forty-three Messianic quotes from the Old Testament, which includes our verse of the day. Matthew used the quotes to link Jesus’ life to the Old Testament prophecies. Matthew also wanted to show God’s provision for His people and His faithfulness.

It is through the physical birth and life of Jesus that God wants to be near His people, His creation. Have you ever really tried to imagine the day man was created? God created man out of the dust of the ground and breathed His life into man, the breath of life. He didn’t stop there, God placed within man a soul, so that man could commune with God. Wow!! That’s a lot more complex than placing a silk hat on the ground and having a man come to life! I just watched “The Legend of Frosty the Snowman” last night. I know we are not made from magic but we are made pretty cool and we have souls. We were each created and have been given a purpose.

Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

Isaiah 43:7
“Everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made.”

Hopefully, I did not lose you with the Frosty picture and video. It’s fun to relive childhood memories. As I was viewing video clips I found myself thinking of some similarities of Frosty coming to life and my own experience of accepting Jesus as my Savior, that feeling of being alive, really alive. Feeling of weights being lifted and a driving sense of purpose. Frosty was just a pile of snow, in the shape of a snowman just being-there, but that silk hat made all the difference. We humans often go through life doing the expected and following some pattern of a routine, but when we surrender ourselves to Jesus life looks completely different. Our sense of purpose and direction takes on a life of its own, not our own but the life we were created for. We are called to a higher purpose, one of heavenly proportions. This journey is filled with a plethora of adventures and the best part is Immanuel, is with us every step and millisecond of the journey.

“And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
— Matthew 28:20 —

Maybe it’s not about having a beautiful day, but about finding beautiful moments. Maybe a whole day is just too much to ask. I could choose to believe that in every day, in all things, no matter how dark and ugly, there are shards of beauty if I look for them.

—Anna White, Mended: Thoughts on Life, Love, and Leaps of Faith

CHALLENGE

It’s crunch time Christmas, it’s the busy season of last minute touches on all things Christmas…take time to be with God, He longs for you and waits for you. Be mindful this season is difficult for some, show kindness and grace. Thank God for all the times you were afforded grace and mercy for your difficult times. Share love and spread peace. ✝️❤️🧡💛💚💙💜🖤🤍🤎💝💖❤️‍🩹💟🛐🤗🌟✨🙏🏻🕯

Prayer ~

Immanuel, thank you for wanting to be with us. Forgive us for not making time for you. Help us to slow down and make the little things count. Life is about the small things and making the best of what we have. You created mankind and breathed life into us, you gave us a soul to commune with you. Help us to always remember how magnificent and amazing you are. You love us with an everlasting love. In the Precious name of Jesus we pray, Amen.

➡️ • ➡️ • ➡️ • FOR FURTHER STUDY

Genesis 2:1-25 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Genesis%202:1-25&version=NIV

Exodus 13:21 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Exodus%2013:21&version=NIV

Exodus 24:15-17 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Exodus%2024:15-17&version=NIV

1 Kings 8:10-13 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20Kings%208:10-13&version=NIV

Isaiah 7:14 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Isaiah%207:14&version=NIV

John 1:14 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%201:14&version=NIV

Colossians 1:27 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Colossians%201:27&version=NIV

~Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

Monday, December 20th, 2021

Verse of the Day

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” —John 10:11

Responsibilities of Being a Shepherd Written by: Marjorie J. Kinnee, Apostolic Writers’ Digest, June 1999

1. Day-to-Day Care of the Flock – A shepherd provides the basics; food, water, shelter, and protection. He knows what food is best for his flock in every season and where to find it. He can find water even in drought. He plans the construction of the sheepfold and erects short-term shelter while in the field. He daily lays his life on the line in defense of the sheep.

Jesus, the Good Shepherd provides for our every need which includes; food, water, shelter and protection. Jesus laid down His life on the cross to provide an atonement for all sin, once and for all. (1 John 2:2)

2. Dealings with the Outside World on Behalf of the Flock – The shepherd is first responsible to the owner of the sheep. The owner has the master plan for the flock. The shepherd is entrusted with the details; additions to and subtractions from the flock, the time and place for fleecing and wool sales, and selects and trains assistants and helpers, and discharges them if they create harmful situations or cause any harm to come to the flock.

Jesus being born human, came into this world to do His Father’s Will, not his own. Jesus was entrusted by the Father to teach and lead His sheep. (John 6:38)

3. Foresees Danger – The shepherd trains the flock to know and follow his voice. This is his first line of defense. To wayward sheep, he administers discipline and takes preventative measures to correct fatal tendencies. He researches and develops methods and measures to improve the present flock and prepares for future flock needs.

Jesus became human and experienced the same temptations you and I are faced with, not only did Jesus face them; He was able to do so without sinning. Jesus came to earth where he loved, lead and taught; He conqueror sin; He rose from the grave and returned to Heaven to preparation a place for His sheep. (Hebrews 4:15/John 14:3)

4. Leads and Guides the Flock – Because sheep tend to overgraze, the shepherd moves them on to fresh pasture. To do this, he may have to lead them through danger; enemies – within (pests) and without (marauders), hazards wind and weather, and obstacles – mountains and gorges. Here his experience is a prime factor. He’s been this way before and is not surprised by danger. He knows what to do and how to proceed in dangerous situations.

Jesus is the gate for all sheep that follow Him, all those who enter in will be saved. Jesus calls His sheep by there names. His sheep know His voice. Jesus cares for His sheep and carries them close to His heart. (Isaiah 40:11/John 10:1-18)

5. Oversees – The flock is the focus of the shepherd. He is responsible for their physical well-being. So he sets the pace, aware of the particular needs of each sheep. There are ewes. – heavy with new life, lambs – inexperienced and frisky, young rams – stubborn and territorial (always pushing), the aged and sickly – those needing extra attention, and the wayward – who oppose everything (even their own best interests). Shepherds study the breed. He learns the strengths, weaknesses, and personality of each one. A thriving, peaceful flock is his blessing and reward.

Jesus is ever mindful of each sheep in His flock, if one goes astray, He will leave the flock and return the lost to the flock. Jesus know the smallest of details for each of us, right down to the number of hairs on our heads. (Matthew 18:12-14/Matthew 10:30/Luke 12:7)

Whether his flock is few or thousands, his responsibilities never let up. Twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, year in and year out; the shepherd cares and shares the life of the sheep. It is a lonely occupation. He must be gentle, but he must also be confident, resourceful, and decisive. He dare not be nervous or flighty if the flock is to flourish.

Jesus, the Good Shepherd is always near to His flock. “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.“ —Ephesians 2:13

CHALLENGE

Today our challenge is the be mindful that no matter what circumstances or obstacles might be in our way, trust in Jesus, the Good Shepherd. Jesus will never leave us. As we navigate through the day let us share with Jesus our fears, our hopes and our passions, He wants to hear from us. Remember, Jesus cares, knows, leads and will protect us with His own life.

Prayer ~

Jesus, thank you for love me. I know I often wander off and need to be rescued. Help me to listen to your voice and follow your leading. I am grateful to be a sheep of your flock. Help me to learn your ways, to love the way you love. I pray this prayer in the name of the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ. Amen.

➡️ • ➡️ • ➡️ • FOR FURTHER STUDY

Psalm 23:1-6 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2023:1-6&version=NIV

Matthew 2:6 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Matthew%202:6&version=NIV

Luke 15:1-7 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Luke%2015:1-7&version=NIV

John 10:1-18 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2010:1-18&version=NIV

Romans 8:31 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Romans%208:31&version=NIV

1 Peter 2:25 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20Peter%202:25&version=NIV

~Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://biblehub.com/

https://www.apostolic.edu/

The Job Description Of A Shepherd

Sunday, December 19th, 2021

Prayer ~

Lord Jesus, you are our Hope and we give thanks to you for the gift of salvation. You poured out your love for us on the cross, sacrificing and paying the debt of sin for all mankind. Help us to learn from your great love and teach us to love others as you do. Be with us this week as we prepare for your birth and celebration of this Advent season. In Jesus Holy Name, Amen.

🌟 • 🕯 • ✨ • 🪔 • 🕯 • ✨ • 🪔 • 🕯 • 🌟

“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.” —Isaiah 9:2

Why Do We Light The Fourth Candle?

The fourth candle reminds us that God demonstrated His love by sending His Son Jesus to be born in a manger and suffer and die for our sins, so we may live forever with Him.

✝️ 🤍 🛐 🤍 ✝️ 🤍 🛐 🤍 ✝️ 🤍 🛐 🤍 ✝️

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” — John 3:16

🌟 • 🕯 • ✨ • 🪔 • 🕯 • ✨ • 🪔 • 🕯 • 🌟

The Story of Christmas: Luke 2:8-20

“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.”

Verse of the Day

“This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.”
— 1 John 4:10 —

Discussion Questions:

1. God could have wiped out all humans and started over, but He chose to sacrifice Jesus so He could rescue us. What does this tell us about God?

I actually have two answers, the first is God did this in the Old Testament with Noah and the Ark. It did not work then and it would not have worked a second time. My second answer, I believe God knew we would always make bad choices. As humans, we are born into sin from the original sin with Adam and Eve. The flood did destroy everyone except for those God saved, Noah and his family but…they too were of the same original sin and so that line continues today. I know that God loves His creation; you and I, along with every living thing and person, the only way to save us was by a single event of heavenly proportions. A gateway to God, Jesus is that gateway, Jesus’ sacrifice made it possible for us to be in relationship with the Father.

2. How does the birth of Jesus show us God’s love?

I see God’s love through the individuals He chose to announce the birth to; shepherds, wise/learned men who studied stars; Joseph to parent and teach Jesus his craftsmanship and how to be a good man; Mary to be his mother, to care for him and love him from infant to adulthood to Jesus being her Savior. The place where Jesus was born shows us that money, power and social status are not important and have nothing to do with how good or bad a person is. Love, humility, and patience are some of the qualities of being Christlike. Jesus became one of us, in order to save us. He lowered himself and loved the least of mankind, He traveled with the unpopular, He dined with tax collectors and talked with prostitutes; He loved the unloveable. “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” —Romans 5:8

3. In what ways can we allow God’s love to pour out through us into the lives of others?

I am firm in my belief that the best way for us to share God’s love and to allow His love to flow through us is by simply being real and meeting people where they are as opposed to where I may be or think that I am. Simply by being KIND to others is allowing the Spirit of God to flow freely to all we meet. Notice people, made eye contact, smile, hold doors and say please/thank you. Kindness can be infectious, when we think of self less and others more. Life was never meant to be survival of the fittest, richest, prettiest….blah, blah, blah. We are all God’s children, we are brothers and sisters! Practice mindful kindness upon yourself and then to others.

The Lighting of the First Four Candles of Advent.

🌟 • 🕯 • ✨ • 🪔 • 🕯 • ✨ • 🪔 • 🕯 • 🌟

Week One • HOPE

This candle reminds us of the promise that a Messiah would come, bringing peace and love to the world.

Week Two • PREPARATION

This candle reminds us that the prophets waited for a Messiah to come and save the people.

Week Three • JOY

This candle reminds us that Jesus’ birth brings joy to all who believe in Him, so we join all creation in celebrating Him.

~Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

Saturday, December 18, 2021

“After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.”
— Matthew 2:9-10 —

Today, we review the past week and our “unwrapping the names of Jesus” I hope you have learned something new or was surprised by joy.

JOY IN ACTION

🎼 • 🎵 • 🎶 • 🎵 • 🎶 • 🎼 • 🎶 • 🎼

🌟 Go caroling in your neighborhood, nursing homes, police stations, hospitals and homeless shelters.

❄️ 🤍 ❄️ 🤍❄️ 🤍❄️ 🤍❄️ 🤍❄️

🌟 Make snow angels, outside or inside using watercolors to paint angels. Reflect on Luke 2:14, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

🌟 Ask friends or relatives, grandparents if available about what Christmas was like when they were kids. Share family memories, give into all the emotions of the season. Share stories of Jesus’ birth and reflect upon Alpha and Omega, Jesus the beginning and the end. “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.” ~Revelation 1:8

🌟 Listen to international Christmas music and even dance joyfully in worship to our King.

🌟 Cheer whenever you drive by a nativity scene on display remembering the reason for the season. You might even take notice of business or homes that have nativity displays and send them a thank note for sharing the birth of Christ.

🌟 Watch a movie 🎥 about the nativity and remember all the names we have unwrapped during this Advent season.

🌟 Take cookies (bought or homemade) to your Children’s ministry leader or Sunday school teachers, thanking them for sharing the Bread of Life with children. You could also include your Church leaders as they too share the Bread of Life with all.

“I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.”
— Luke 15:7 —

Thank you for stopping by my blog space today, it is my hope and prayer that you experienced God is a special way. I appreciate your support, comments are welcomed and I do read them all and respond. My journey is to share the love of God. ~Peace

~Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

Friday, December 17th, 2021

Verse of the Day

“Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.”
— John 6:35 —

CHALLENGE

Filling ourselves with stuff. I am guilty of this offense, just like many others have. I have also been a repeat offender, filling my life with stuff, the need for more…more food, more friends, more money, more shopping, more…more…more. This idea or issue with wanting and getting more is; it is never satisfying. We become satiated and the compulsion is to keep getting more to satisfy. It is a never ending cycle of emptiness. The things of this life are temporary.

“You do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away” — James 4:14

What Jesus offers us, is the true, “Bread of Life” that will fill, sustain and give eternal life. When we feast upon the “Bread of Life,” it satisfies all the desires of our soul. As Christmas draws near, let us examine our hearts and our desires? Do we crave more stuff with no substance, or do we crave more of Jesus? Yes, Jesus…The One who can fill us and sustain us with goodness and mercy all the days of our lives, earthly and eternal.

Prayer ~

Jesus, I pray for the life sustaining nutrition that can only be satisfied by immersing myself in you. Teach me your ways oh, Lord. I want to feast on your word and I want to grow in your ways. Thank you Jesus for your willingness to save me, to save us all. Please forgive me as I will stumble and fall, help to to rise after each mistake, seeking your forgiveness and the opportunity to continue serve you. In Jesus name, Amen.

➡️ • ➡️ • ➡️ • FOR FURTHER STUDY

Leviticus 24:5-9 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Leviticus%2024:5-9&version=NIV

Matthew 5:6 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Matthew%205:6&version=NIV

John 6:25-27 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%206:25-27&version=NIV

John 14:6 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2014:6&version=NIV

Thank you friends for stopping by today! I hope you return tomorrow for a wrap-up of this weeks, unwrapping the names of Jesus! I am honored and humbled by your support.

~Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

Sieger Köder https://g.co/kgs/Xa5seV

https://artandtheology.org/tag/sieger-koder/

Thursday, December 16th, 2021

Verse of the Day

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end.”
— Isaiah 9:6-7a —

Welcome to another unwrapping of the names of Jesus. Jesus is the Prince of Peace! The prophet Isaiah called the coming of the Messiah the “Prince of Peace” in Isaiah 9:6. Jesus came into the world to bring peace, perhaps not the peace the Jews were expecting. Jesus’ peace is multidimensional, he began a process in His first coming to restore peace between us and God. The peace that was fractured in the Garden of Eden, when woman and man disobeyed God. God banished them from Eden and their relationship was changed. Jesus’ second coming will bring about wholeness just as He had intended when He first set the universe into motion.

“God cannot give us a happiness and peace apart from Himself, because it is not there. There is no such thing.”

~C. S. Lewis, Source “Mere Christianity, 1953

We know what peace is because we know what hostility looks and feels like. We know what war looks like and how it feels. We know what peace looks like and how it feels. “Know Peace/No Peace.”

Why would anyone choose no peace, it is our human nature and our sinfulness that keeps us tethered to the chaos of our broken world. But Jesus tells us, to take heart “I have overcome the world!”

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
—John 16:33 —

When reading Isaiah 9, the prophet describes the shift from gloom and darkness to the Messianic Age, and Malachi describes a time when the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings. (Malachi 4:2). Jesus’ rule will store well-being to individuals and to society as a whole and He brings worldwide peace in His future kingdom. This peace can begin with all those who love and follow Him. The Prince of Peace, brings us peace with God. Even in the midst of strife and troubles, we can rest assured in our fellowship with God, we can bring about a ripple effect in all our relationship when we trust in God. True peace comes only from God.

CHALLENGE

As we look forward to family and friends gathering during this season, can we help usher in peace? Holidays can be difficult for some individuals for a variety of reasons, let’s strive to peacefully interact in these settings, keeping our focus of Jesus. After all, that’s what we are celebrating, the birth of Jesus, His arrival into the world to save us. Leave pettiness at the door, practice the age old advice, “if you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.” Graciously accept and give gifts, act humbly and say thank you. I love this line from a song, but I believe it can be more widely utilized, “All gave some, some gave all.” The song speaks to our service men and women, I for one am proud and grateful for all who answer the call to serve. In regards to Christmas, Jesus gave His all to save us all.

Let’s be ambassadors of peace this Advent Season.

Prayer ~

Jesus, the Prince of Peace! We shout your name on high. Guide us to be your ambassadors of Peace. Help us extend peace, that you so freely give us. Help us to be mindful of others in all of our interactions, family gatherings , friend gatherings, while shopping and while driving. Many people are under stress and tension during the holidays, we just never know what someone else is dealing with, grant us patience and humility. In your Holy Name, Amen.

➡️ • ➡️ • ➡️ • FOR FURTHER STUDY

Judges 6:20-24 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Judges%206:20-24&version=NIV

Isaiah 8:21-9:7 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Isaiah%208:21-9:7&version=NIV

Isaiah 11:1-9 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Isaiah%2011:1-9&version=NIV

Luke 2:14 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Luke%202:14&version=NIV

Acts 3:15 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Acts%203:15&version=NIV

Romans 5:1 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Romans%205:1&version=NIV

Ephesians 2:13-18 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Ephesians%202:13-18&version=NIV

Philippians 4:7 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Philippians%204:7&version=NIV

Revelation 1:4 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Revelation%201:4&version=NIV

~Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

Wednesday, December 15, 2021

Verse of the Day

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener…you are the branches.”
— John 15:1,5a —

Hello & Welcome —

Today we unwrap a new name for Jesus, the True Vine. Have you ever tried to plant something and it didn’t grow or prosper? I am not good at gardening or keeping house plants alive, it takes lots of patience, lots of time and tending to. The Bible uses the term vine and branches in both the New and Old Testament’s to explain the relationship of God and God’s chosen people. We know from history in the Bible that the Israelites had a hot/cold/lukewarm relationship with God. The were rebellious, impatient, and disobedient. God carefully tended His vine (the Israelites) protected them and provided for them and they still rebelled time and time again. God is a just God, He judged them harshly when needed, but gracious provided another Vine.

In sharp contrast with Israel, Jesus is the True Vine. He fulfilled all the Israel failed to do. They were wild and rebellious; Jesus was submissive and obedient. Israel yielded bad fruit and Jesus produced only good fruit. Jesus was in every way the epitome of all God called His people do. God calls us to be in relationship, in union with Him so that we may produce good fruit.

When we are left on our own, we cannot produce good fruit anymore than the Israelites could remain faithful. God, the gardener of our souls provides the needed snipping and grafting of our branches so that we become part of His family through Jesus Christ. He creates the most opportune environment for each of us to flourish.

Before Jesus’ death He had a conversation with His disciples and He shared these words with them, ““I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener…you are the branches.” ~John 15:1,5a. It was but only a few hours later, they denied Him. There was and still is HOPE; for anyone who walks away and returns with a repentant heart, the Vinedresser will prune so that our outward fruit demonstrates inner transformation. We are made new through Jesus Christ.

The one thing that we get wrong so often is this: Jesus does not call us to work hard to be more fruitful; instead, He calls us to ABIDE in Him, to WAIT on Him, Fruit will naturally follow for those who remain connected to Him, because His Spirit is the one who produced the fruit.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.” ~Galatians 5:22-25

We belong not because of what we do but because of WHO He Is, the TRUE VINE.

We need only to abide, and He will do the rest.

CHALLENGE

Today, read John 15:1-8 and reflect on the invitation to savor a close connection to the True Vine.

➡️ Are you as close to God as He invites you to be?

➡️ Take a few moments to rest before God. Be mindful of His presence in both deep moments of worship and in your dynamic movements throughout your daily life.

➡️ Pause during the day to recognize His life resonating in and through your life, providing needed energy for you for His work even as you learn to rest in Him.

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.”
John 15:1-8

🛐 • 🙏🏻 • ❤️ • 🙏🏻 • 🛐 • 🙏🏻 • ❤️ • 🛐

Prayer ~

Heaven Father, thank you for pruning us and teaching us. Jesus, your Son; our Savior is the True Vine. Help me to stay in connection to you so that I can spread the “Good News,” of Jesus. Help me to rely on you and not to be selfish thinking I can do for myself. Thank you for send “JOY” to this broken world. In Your Holy and Precious Name, Amen!

➡️ • ➡️ • ➡️ • FOR FURTHER STUDY

Psalm 80:8-16 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2080:8-16&version=NIV

Isaiah 5:1-7 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Isaiah%205:1-7&version=NIV

~Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

Tuesday, December 14, 2021

Verse of the Day

“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.”
— Revelation 1:8 —

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Dear friends —

Today we unwrap another name for Jesus, The Alpha and Omega. These two words are from the Greek alphabet, it consists of 24 letters and are the first and last letters.

The Bible makes references of Jesus being the Alpha and the Omega. But to simply say that Jesus is the beginning and the end would be over-simplification of who Jesus is.

“This is what the Lord says— Israel’s King and Redeemer, the Lord Almighty: I am the first and I am the last; apart from me there is no God.“. ~Isaiah 44:6

“Listen to me, Jacob, Israel, whom I have called: I am he; I am the first and I am the last.” ~Isaiah 48:12

“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.” ~Revelation 1:8

“When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. 18 I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.” ~Revelation 1:17-18

“He said to me: “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life. Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God and they will be my children.” ~Revelation 21:6-7

“I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.” ~Revelation 22:13

Jesus is —

— the beginning and end of all creation.

— the author and finisher of our faith.

— experienced the full range of human life alongside us, with no sin.

From the Jesus’ birth in a lowly stable to being persecuted by His own people and crucified on a cross life a criminal, Jesus lived the life of faith, placing His complete trust in His Father, always walking in obedience. Jesus’ final words upon the cross were, “It is finished.”

— the work of justification had its beginning and its end in Jesus.

Everything that Jesus did, he saw through eyes of faith, knowing “the JOY set before him.”

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.“. ~Hebrews 12:1-3

As we journey through our life, and grow in faith, we absolutely can take comfort in our Alpha and Omega, knowing we are never alone and that Jesus will see us safely to the end.

CHALLENGE

Faith. Trusting God’s character regardless of what our life circumstances look like.

Are there area in your life where you need to trust the Author and Perfector of your faith?

Surrender today, asking God to continue to work faith in that area of your life.

🛐 • 🙏🏻 • 💜 • 🙏🏻 • 🛐 • 🙏🏻 • 💜 • 🛐

Prayer ~

Jesus, thank you for going before us, nothing about us is unknown to you. You are the past, the present and the future. All that is, is so because of you. Help me to trust you on this journey of life, teach me to travel with JOY, as you did. You are ever present, I can call out to you at any time and you will be there. Thank you for creating me, thank you for saving me. I pray this prayer in Jesus name, Amen.

➡️ • ➡️ • ➡️ • FOR FURTHER STUDY

John 1:3 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%201:3&version=NIV

John 19:30 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2019:30&version=NIV

Hebrews 5:9 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Hebrews%205:9&version=NIV

Hebrews 12:2 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Hebrews%2012:2&version=NIV

Hebrews 13:8 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Hebrews%2013:8&version=NIV

Revelation 1:8,17 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Revelation%201:8,17&version=NIV

~Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://www.historyextra.com/period/ancient-greece/ancient-greek-alphabet-letters-symbols-how-pronounce-origin/

https://www.merriam-webster.com/

https://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/Alpha-And-Omega

Monday, December 13th, 2021

Verse of the Day

“Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess.”
— Hebrews 4:14 —

The Great High Priest is JESUS

The most important spiritual leader in Israel was the high priest. Of all the priests and rulers of the nations, the high priest was the only person that could enter the Holy of a Holies, he could only enter it once a year on the Day of Atonement. On that day, he would offer sacrifices for the sins of the people.

The high priest had special directions that had to be followed before he could go behind the thick veil that separated the Holy Place from the Holy of Holies. Prior to entering ceremonial cleaning of his own sins had to be completed. Upon entering he would offer the blood of a goat on the golden mercy seat that sat atop the Ark of the Covenant, this would cover the sins of Israel for another year.

This system of sacrifices and the old priesthood was not meant to last forever. God gave them to Moses and the Israelites to foreshadow their fulfillment in Jesus. Jesus’ death on the cross made final atonement for our sins and abolished the priesthood and sacrifice system once and for all.

When the high priest would disappear from people’s view when he entered the Holy of Holies, so Jesus passed through the heavens into sanctuary of God. Jesus is the One to hear our prayers because He entered the Holy of Holies in heaven.

Throughout history many high priests, death prevented them to continue in office, but because Jesus lives forever, he is the permanent priesthood. He remains to this very day the enduring High Priest who is alive and able to fulfill that role.

“Now there have been many of those priests, since death prevented them from continuing in office; but because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood.” ~Hebrews 7:23-24

Jesus is the blood sacrifice, he gave himself for the atonement of all. He sits on the great throne of grace, ready to hear our prayers and assist us in our time of need.

“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are —yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”
— Hebrews 4:15-16 —

Because Jesus is our High Priest, we have direct access to the Father through Jesus. Jesus is available to us at any time to help us in our hour of need.

“Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.” ~Hebrews 7:25

CHALLENGE

We are so very privileged to have direct access to God, this was not possible for the Israelites all those years before Christ was born in a manger, grew into adulthood and was crucified for our sins and rose again. Jesus is our High Priest, now and forevermore. The old priesthood may seem strange and unsanitary compared to todays standards; but understanding the priests’ role in offering sacrifices helps us rejoice in the finished work of Jesus. As we approach the throne of grace, let us do so in full confidence that we are able to pour our hearts out to God, knowing we will not be turned away.

Prayer ~

Dear Jesus, you came and became the High Priest for each of us. We have the privilege to come to you at any time, anywhere knowing you will always be there. You torn them curtain that separated us from the presence of God. Forgive us for neglecting this privilege, rekindle in us the desire to spend time with you. You desire connection with us, you love us unconditionally. In Jesus name, Amen.

➡️ • ➡️ • ➡️ • FOR FURTHER STUDY

Leviticus 16:1-34 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Leviticus%2016:1-34&version=NIV

1 Timothy 2:5 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20Timothy%202:5&version=NIV

Hebrews 4:14-16 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Hebrews%204:14-16&version=NIV

Hebrews 6:19-7:28 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Hebrews%206:19-7:28&version=NIV

1 John 2:1 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20John%202:1&version=NIV

~Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/