Good things come in small packages. The gist of this cliché reveals that value is not measured by the size of the box, and true treasure is often disguised in small ways.
For of His fullness we have all received, and grace upon grace.
In this short verse from John 1, rich treasure is relayed in 12 simple words. Uncontainable worth in a small package—this is the one gift we really need.
Everything we could every need is provided for in this one sentence. Every lack, every problem, every resistance, and every emptiness we’ll ever experience is filled in Christ. Let’s back up just a verse or two:
And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth.
Continue Reading »
Most of us read Luke’s account of the Christmas story, but a fascinating detail about the birth of Jesus is found in Matthew’s gospel.
After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked,
“Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him.” ~Matthew 2:1-2 (NIV)
It’s such familiar part of the story that it’s easy to overlook something interesting: why on earth wise men from the east would travel so far to see a Jewish king?
Continue Reading »
Advent is the season of waiting expectantly and preparing our hearts for the arrival of Baby Jesus. We reflect on the miraculous conception, the birth in lowest of conditions, and the fulfillment of the prophecy…
…the Lord himself will give you the sign. Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel (which means ‘God is with us’). Isaiah 7:14 (NLT)
We rejoice on Christmas morning—Christ is born!
And then…Christmas is over. Or at least that’s how it feels. We put the Christmas decorations away and go back to our busy lives as usual.
Continue Reading »
I often wonder why He came the way He did. I know it was the will of the Father to send Him. But why in such a lowly, humbled manner? He could have come as a King, wearing a crown, walking with authority for all to see. He could have come in a spectacular display of power which would have sent the kings of this earth to their knees. He could have come wealthy, holding the riches of this world, and heaven, in the palm of His hand.
Yet He came lowly. He came gentle. He came helpless. He came small.
Continue Reading »
Can you hear it?
The gentle cadence of everyday marvels: the plink of the first quarter into a tin bucket at the lemonade stand; the buzz of the doorbell announcing a friend’s arrival; the beep of the timer in an oven with chocolate chip cookies inside.
Can you feel it?
The rhythmic beat sweet baby kisses on your cheek; knit socks hugging your feet; streams of sunlight on your face.
Can you see it?
The harmony of a rainbow spectrum in a rain puddle; a toddler’s extra long eyelashes; a fresh dusting of snow.
He’s singing over you.
He will quiet you with His love.
Continue Reading »
For unto us a Child is born,
Unto us a Son is given;
And the government will be upon His shoulder.
And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6
I’ve had it memorized since Kindergarten. No matter the translation or way it’s sung, I can tell you where it’s originally found. And I’ve found comfort in its familiarity.
But friends, it wasn’t until this last week that I finally understood the significance. And I can now say, it’s become personal to me.
“Unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given.”
Continue Reading »
At each crossroad in life, there is a road chosen and a road not taken. Sometimes we actually do the choosing and sometimes the way is chosen for us. I am thankful that although I have turned down a few roads that were rocky, in the end God smoothed the path and brought me to the next pass, better able to discern His direction and to trust Him better, either way. All roads bring us closer to Him who guides our path. I am grateful for His faithfulness; thankful to know He is Sovereign over all my paths.
Thank you Lord:
1.
Continue Reading »
“For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose.” (Philippians 10:13)
Thankful that God created a purpose for me.
Thankful that He gives me the desire to complete that purpose.
Thankful that He gives me the skills & abilities needed to fulfill my purpose.
Thankful for family & friends who encourage me to walk in that purpose.
Thankful that He will complete that purpose in ways far beyond what I can ask or think!
Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever!
Continue Reading »
