Tuesday December 24th 

Christmas Eve - Preparing for Christmas 

 
Well – it’s nearly time... The time of waiting is nearly over, and our Advent calendar is nearly complete!
For our last time together let’s read Luke’s account of that first Christmas...
 
Luke 2: 1-7
“In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place whil] Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to their own town to register.  So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.”

Christmas is about “Making room” Getting the spare chairs out and “budging up” to welcome in family and guests. As our reading today says  “…there was no room…” for Jesus in that Bethlehem inn – but still, the Son of God WAS born! It seems that he was actually born into an ordinary poor Jewish village situation among very normal Jewish people.
 
We’ve seen the various responses to Jesus’ arrival over the past few days - and this morning we welcome him into our Christmas Eve preparations – or do we? How much room will we give to Jesus in your Christmas celebrations?
 
If Jesus is who we’ve seen him to be over these Advent Calendar days - then what’s your response going to be to him? Will you make room for him in your Heart and Life? It all comes back to the question Jesus asked Peter earlier on in our daily thoughts - do you remember… “Who do YOU say I am?” Well, tomorrow, as we celebrate his birth, he’s asking you the same question too! We will stop everything and celebrate. But... Why are YOU celebrating? “
 
Will you make room for Jesus tomorrow?”
 
If you’ve enjoyed these Advent thoughts or you’d like to discuss with someone from Trinity about something you’ve read – please contact us – the details are on our homepage.
 
One last thing – from all of us at Trinity – we wish you and your family a very “Happy Christmas!”
 
 

Monday December 23rd 

The Characters of Christmas - Simeon and Anna 

Our final two Characters of Christmas are a lovely pair of old saints called Simeon and Anna. We read all about them in Luke’s account Ch 2v25-38
 
“Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him…”
“There was also a prophet, Anna, the daughter of Penuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, and then was a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying.”
 
This pair of lovely godly people were among the few people who were still believing the promise of a Saviour that God had made so many years ago. Then one day – just like any other day – they were up at the Temple to worship and there was a young couple there – and Simeon and Anna’s hearts sang as they realised who the child in their arms was – none other than the Son of God – the Promised Messiah had come! God had kept his promise!
 
Look at how they welcomed Jesus… 
 
They were “WAITING” - Two people - holding on to their faith in the dark years. Simeon - “righteous and devout…” and Anna - “worshipped night and day… praying” - Their season of “advent” had gone on for years – but they had still waited… patiently and expectantly for Jesus to come…
 
They were “HOPING” - That they would see God fulfilling his promise of a Messiah - a Saviour for them and their people - They never stopped - Praying… Believing… Worshipping,
 
They “EMBRACED” God answered their prayers! They both “took Jesus in their arms…” - Simeon literally!
They welcomed him as their “Salvation… and redeemer…” - a “Light to the nations…”
Welcoming and receiving Jesus meant that they could both “Now… depart in peace…” Knowing that they were safe for eternity in their saviour’s care!
 
This Christmas, are you ready to welcome Him? Will you “take him in your arms?” and embrace him as your Saviour, Redeemer and follow him as he shines his light on this dark world?

Sunday December 22nd

The Characters of Christmas - King Herod 

Every good story has to have a “baddie” – and King Herod fits the bill perfectly! But what was going on with him? Let’s read something about him from Matthew 2 vs 3 and 16
 
“When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him… When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi.“
 
Herod was a “puppet king” for the Romans in Judea. He tried to impress them with huge building projects – but to do so he vastly overtaxed the local population – who hated him. Then…  out of nowhere Magi come from 1000 miles away to ask about a new King in Israel… Herod’s reaction to the news of Jesus’ birth was typically brutal…
 
He was “THREATENED” - He saw this as a terrible threat and obviously disruptive to his grand plans… “When Herod heard this he was disturbed…” He didn’t want Jesus to challenging his authority. He wanted to be master over his destiny and was prepared to do anything to get rid of this threat.
 
Herod’s reaction was to totally “REJECT” Jesus - He was brutal - He wanted to get rid of Jesus so badly that he eventually became a monster who slaughtered innocent babies.
 
While most people would not be anywhere near as brutal as King Herod, there is a danger in rejecting Jesus. Herod went into a dark spiral of depression and eventually died a terrible death. There is a warning in this! Only King Jesus can offer us hope and security – we won’t find it anywhere else. If we reject him, we will inevitably face life – and death – alone.
 
BUT – as we have seen from all the other Characters of Christmas so far… if we embrace the babe of Bethlehem… everything changes! All our insecurities and fears can be taken to the only true King – Jesus. Only he has the power to bring true freedom, hope, joy and peace.

Saturday December 21st

The Characters of Christmas - The Wise Men 

The Three Wise Men – or were there more than three? No-one really knows! But... do we know what these guys actually did? Were they the horoscope writers of their era?
 
These mystic stargazers from the east were actually very trusted advisers to rulers and royalty. As well as the stars, they also studied historical records. They knew about “Balaam’s star” – you can read about it in the Old Testament part of the bible. Balaam was a prophet who said that… 
 
“A star will come out of Jacob - a sceptre will rise out of Israel…”
 
Whatever it meant, these Magi thought it was worth investigating! We can read about them in Matthew 2:1-2
 
“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 when it rose and have come to worship him.”
 
How did they react to the star’s message about the “new king rising out of Israel?”
 
They “SAW and FOLLOWED” Drawn by the enormity of its significance.

They “SEARCHED DILIGENTLY” In order to find out for themselves and see the promised King from heaven.

They “BOWED and WORSHIPPED” Immediately the understood who Jesus was - a King - Gold - a High Priest – Frankincense and a Sacrifice - Myrrh.
 
Once again there is a challenge to us here about how we should respond to the arrival of Jesus. As we sing the familiar songs and Carols and hear again the story surrounding his birth will we “SEE & FOLLOW” And if we’re not sure what to make of it, will we "SEARCH DILIGENTLY" to find out more? But, if we’ve already “met” Jesus will we once again “BOW & WORSHIP” at his feet?

Friday December 20th 

The Characters of Christmas - The Shepherds 

Middle eastern shepherds practically lived with their sheep. This explains why “there were shepherds out in the fields at night…”
 
Let’s read a bit more about them… Luke 2: 8-12

“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 Saviour 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.”

So, there they were Just going about their business as usual… was this all going to pass them by? What has the coming of the Messiah got to do with the likes of them? Burdened with taxes and oppression of Roman occupation… and then out of nowhere... BOOM!
 
How did these humble shepherds react to the Angelic announcement?
 
“SHOCK” – Actually… “they were terrified!” They can’t quite believe what’s happening before their eyes! Whatever else – this shows us that God will never be short of a way to grab our attention!
 
“CURIOSITY” - “Let’s go and see…” Let’s check if it’s true. They’re not yet really quite sure they can believe it… but in any case, they hurried!
 
“CONVINCED” – “when they had seen him…” They met Jesus and were convinced - so much so that they “spread the word…”
 
We’ll all “meet” Jesus again this Christmas – What will your reaction be? SHOCK… CURIOUS – or CONVINCED?

Thursday December 19th 

The Characters of Christmas - The Angelic Host 

 Angels – the stars of every nativity service! They are God’s messengers in the Christmas accounts – but what did they make of it all? Let’s read Luke 2:13-14

“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 favour rests.”

These heavenly messengers responded to the news of the Saviour’s birth with:

A SONG - for the ages… This was a momentous time, A Life changing moment…
A MESSAGE – That this is all God’s doing – and it’s for HIS glory!
A CELEBRATION - in heaven! Joy is unrestrained as they celebrate in song!
A PROMISE - of peace… “on earth…” There doesn’t seem to be much sign of that happening any time soon does there?
 
Were they right? How will this baby – Jesus - bring peace? He will do it by completing HIS mission - His death & resurrection will bring us…
 
PEACE - with myself - Forgiveness, Security & hope…
PEACE - with God - My debt - the consequences of my rejection of God - is paid for…
PEACE - with others - as we display the Love Jesus gives to us for each other…
 
Only the baby born in Bethlehem is able to do this!

Wednesday December 18th 

The Characters of Christmas - Zechariah 

 Earlier in our look at the Characters of Christmas we met Elizabeth – Mary’s cousin. Today we meet Zechariah – Elizabeth’s husband and a devout and faithful local Priest. It had come about that it was his turn to enter the holiest place with the sacrificial offering – this was a big deal and a special day for Zechariah! We can read about what happened in Luke Ch 1
 
“…an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right side of the altar of incense. When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and was gripped with fear. But the angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John.”
 
As we have already heard – Elizabeth was unable to have children, and they were both “very old” – but God was bringing about his plan to send his long promised Messiah – and he wanted Elizabeth and Zechariah to bear the son who would prepare the way for him! What a day! So how does Zechariah respond?
 
First of all: “DOUBT”. Although he was a devout servant of God it seems that at this time Zechariah had stopped believing God’s promise… God prevented Zechariah from speaking - but God was also working…
 
Some time later – when John was born - Zechariah’s mouth was opened once again by God. He had been given plenty of time to reflect on God’s word to him while John was in Elizabeth's womb. The result of this was “PROCLAMATION” When his mouth was opened, he told everyone who would listen the good news! – God’s promise was coming to pass, Jesus – the Messiah was coming!
 
Finally, Zechariah burst forth with “PRAISE” - A song of Joy and thanksgiving because God was fulfilling His promise! 
 
DOUBT to PROCLAMATION to PRAISE – It was quite a journey! What about you? Have you stopped believing God’s word? 

Tuesday December 17th 

The Characters of Christmas - Joseph 

Yesterday we thought about Mary’s part in the account of Jesus’ birth. This morning, we turn to her husband Joseph… How did he deal with this incredible thing that was happening to him and his wife-to-be?

Matthew records Joseph’s part in the story in Ch 1: 18-25 of his gospel. Joseph had some choices to make… 
 
”…Because Joseph … was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her (Mary) to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.’ When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife.“
 
As we saw yesterday, in the culture of that day what had happened to Mary would have brought disgrace and shame to both her and Joseph. He had every right to be angry, disappointed and betrayed. Imagine Mary telling him of her meeting with an Angel? How would you have felt?
 
However, God spoke to Joseph too – in a dream! Did he dare believe it? No-one else would!!
In order to obey God’s voice, he would have to risk being alienated by the people who knew him best. This was going to cost him – and there would be nothing he could do about it. 
 
But… Joseph was “OBEDIENT”. He didn’t have too many other options - Divorce or shaming Mary publicly were possible - to clear his name but… his chosen option was to "BELIEVE" God’s word and OBEY Him - even though it brought shame on him too! 
 
Whenever we encounter Jesus, whether it’s for the first time or not, we have a choice to make.
Will we choose to believe and obey Him – like Joseph? No matter what the cost… Trusting him for the outcome – even when the going gets tough?

Monday December 16th 

The Characters of Christmas - Mary 

Today we meet probably the most famous woman in the Bible – Mary. She was just an ordinary young woman looking forward to the future with her betrothed husband-to-be Joseph. And then, out of nowhere God sends a messenger to tell her that she has been chosen to take on the most important job anyone has ever been given – to bear the promised Messiah – God’s Son – who would be the Saviour of the world!
 
What a privilege – but what a responsibility! Luke records the moment she was told the news in his gospel - Ch1:26-38 - and her reaction to it… 
 
”‘I am the Lord’s servant,’ Mary answered. ‘May your word to me be fulfilled.’ Then the angel left her.“
 
Mary - a betrothed woman – was to become pregnant and would have to bear all the shame and disgrace that this would bring in the culture of the day. What would Joseph think? What about her parents – her wider friends & family? Would they believe her when she told them what had happened?
 
We are told by Luke that Mary’s first reaction was, not unexpectedly “SURPRISE” - “How WILL this be?” She could hardly believe the Angels’ message herself – she was shocked! How was this to be accomplished…? Like many of us when we encounter Jesus - she had many questions… “What’s going to happen to me? Am I going to be OK?”
 
Luke’s account goes on to say that she was “TROUBLED”. She was Just an ordinary devout girl from a small Galilean village going about her daily business - how was this going to affect her life? What will people think? Is it really true? When we encounter God it can often be troubling - change is coming - it’s a wonderful feeling to be chosen and called by God – but it can also be deeply unsettling - nothing is ever going to be the same again…
 
But finally, Luke records that Mary was “FAITHFUL” - “Let it be to me…“ Mary was happy to trust in God’s will for her life. She hadn’t chosen this - God had chosen her! She didn’t know how it would all work out but although it seemed unbelievable to some - she would still trust God!
 
As we encounter Jesus again this Christmas, we may be “Surprised” or perhaps “Troubled”. What does Jesus want from me? What will people think? How’s it going to affect me? Mary’s reaction challenges us to to be “Faithful” and to say with Mary: “I am the Lord’s servant… may your word to me be fulfilled.”
believing and trusting in God’s promise and purpose for our lives.

Sunday December 15th 

The Characters of Christmas - Elizabeth 

 As we enter the last few days before Christmas let’s take some time to look at some of the Characters who were involved in that first Christmas – and examine their reactions to everything that happened.
 
Up first today is Elizabeth – Let’s read about her in Luke 1: 39-45
 
“At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favoured, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfil his promises to her!”
 
Meet Elizabeth - devout, praying… and serving quietly. She’s married to a small-town Priest called Zechariah. Elizabeth & Zechariah sadly couldn’t have Children. Not only was this desperately sad for them, but in their culture at that time this was seen as a terrible disgrace – perhaps even a sign of God’s Judgement on them. However, Elizabeth continued to be faithful despite all this and had the joy of meeting the baby Jesus – albeit still in the womb of her cousin Mary!
 
It's very interesting to note Elizabeth’s reaction to Mary’s news – it was one of complete JOY!
But note that this came as she was “filled by the holy spirit.” Not only was she Joyful but the Holy Spirit also enabled her to declare that the baby in her cousin’s womb was her “Lord!”
 
Elizabeth’s joy at meeting Jesus in Mary’s womb was also due to her FAITH. She had never stopped believing that God was going to send his promised Messiah. She was now convinced that the baby Mary was carrying was the fulfilment of that promise.
 
Despite the darkness and disappointment she had faced in her own life, Elizabeth responded to Jesus’ coming with Joy and Faith because she knew that God was keeping his promise.
 
Whatever your circumstances – ask the Holy Spirit to help you to respond to Jesus’ birth like Elizabeth – with Joy and Faith.

Saturday  December 14th 

The Mission of Jesus - "Jesus - The Saviour!" 

Over the past few days we’ve been looking at the Mission of Jesus. The angel’s message to Joseph was that he should “call his name Jesus for he will save his people from their sins.” We mentioned a few days ago that “Jesus” means “The Lord Saves”. This Christmas child Jesus is born to be our Saviour!
 
As the early followers of Jesus in the New Testament went about talking about him, they spoke about his mission as Saviour. Let’s look at one of those occasions recorded in Acts 4:11-12…
 
“Jesus is ‘the stone you builders rejected, which has become the cornerstone.’  Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”

There is “No other name”. In other words, there is no other way to be saved from the darkness of the effects of sin we see in this fallen world every day. Only If we turn back from our rejection of him, and trust in his death in our place will we be able to be saved from the righteous judgement God will one day bring. Once again we are reminded of this incredible mission of Jesus – He literally is the Saviour of the World!
 
But before we finish, let’s go back again 800 years before Jesus’ birth to hear our friend Isaiah’s prophecy sum it all up – we can read it in Isaiah Ch 53v5-6
 
“But he (Jesus) was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.”

This is Jesus - born in a manger in Bethlehem. His Mission - which he chose to accept – now perfectly accomplished! He is truly the Saviour who brings “Joy to the World!”

Friday December 13th 

The Mission of Jesus - "Jesus - The Intercessor"

 We’ve been thinking about Jesus’ Mission all this week. Although now Jesus has ascended into heaven, his Mission still goes on. The bible tells us that this Christmas child came to earth - returned victorious to heaven - and now lives  - and prays for us constantly! The apostle Paul writes in his letter to the Roman Christians in ch 8v34:
 
“Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.”
 
That word “Intercede” can be translated to “rush, bombard or plead on behalf of another.” Every day Jesus is praying for us as we live to serve him. When we make mistakes – he prays for us; when we are in trouble – he’s praying for us! He pleads for us especially when we sin and turn again to him for forgiveness.
 
In the first letter that John wrote to struggling Christians is the first century he writes:
 
“…if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.”

Paul tells the Philippians that he is convinced that God will complete the work he began in us – It’s his mission! The reason Paul is so sure about this is because we have an “advocate” in heaven and his mission is to bring us home! Today – and every day – this Jesus, born in Bethlehem on that first Christmas morning, is seated in heaven pleading for us! His mission continues…  

Thursday December 12th 

The Mission of Jesus - "Jesus - The Good Shepherd" 

 One of the most famous passages in the bible is Psalm 23 – and it’s all about Jesus and his mission! It describes the journey of life we all will take – sometimes through “green pastures” and other times through “the darkest valley” – yet the Good Shepherd is always with us – leading, providing and protecting. The climax to the Psalm is the “table spread before me” – a wonderful picture of the destiny for those who follow “the Shepherd” and let him lead them home.
 
Jesus is the “Good shepherd” of the Psalm. John, in his gospel, quotes Jesus talking about his Mission as the Good shepherd in Chapter 10 v 27:
 
“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.”
 
Jesus tells us that those of us who follow him are his “flock” and as he speaks to us – we recognise his voice and because we know him - we follow Him. Jesus, the baby In the manger, becomes our “Good shepherd” and promises to lead us like the Shepherd in Psalm 23. Earlier in the conversation that John records for us  he also says this:
 
“I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep”
 
Jesus – our Good Shepherd - is on a mission. He has come from heaven into our world. He lays down his life for us his sheep. He gives everything… as he leads us - through life and death – and on to eternal life with him!
 
Some famous shepherds on a hillside above Bethlehem responded to the news of the Good Shepherd’s arrival with the following well-known words...
 
“O come let us adore him – Christ the Lord!”

Wednesday December 11th 

The Mission of Jesus - "Jesus - The King" 

 We ‘re still thinking about the Mission of Jesus this morning.
 
The three great offices of God’s people in bible times were the Prophet, the Priest and – the most powerful office of all – The King. The bible tells us that Jesus – the baby born in Bethlehem - fulfiled all three roles, bringing them all together under one head.
 
Jesus was born to become King – and to inaugurate his new Kingdom. He came to call all of us to enter his new Kingdom through repentance and faith in him – see his words in Mark’s Gospel Ch1:15
 
“The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!”

In the Bible, the Kings office carried absolute power and authority. But as fallen human beings those kings often got things wrong or misused their power. Jesus – as we have already seen – is our “Servant King” as well as being our Leader and Champion, He has absolute power to pronounces God’s Judgement on sin – which he does – but then he takes its punishment upon himself. This is the Mission of Jesus in a nutshell!

But… The mission is not complete yet! - as the season of advent reminds us - we wait with anticipation for his return to finally pronounce God’s righteous judgement on those who oppose him; establish his perfect heavenly Kingdom, and reign forever as it’s glorious king!

Tuesday December 10th

The Mission of Jesus – “The Great High Priest” 

Yesterday we heard that Jesus came to be The Prophet – the true word of God. Today we will see that Jesus was also “The Great High Priest”.
 
The office of The High Priest in the bible came with great responsibility. His job was to represent God’s people before God and also represent God to His people. The Priests in the Temple would take the daily offerings from God’s people and sacrifice them on their behalf as God had commanded. However, once a year on the Day of Atonement the High Priest would enter the most Holy Place to offer the sacrifice on behalf of the sins of all the people to God – again as God had commanded. The writer to the Hebrews tells us in Chapter 4v14ff that Jesus has come to be our "Great High Priest…":
 
“Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God,… 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.”

Jesus is God the Son – God’s perfect representative. But he is also born as a human being – a perfect representation of our humanity. He is uniquely qualified to be the perfect “once for all” High Priest who doesn’t just present a sacrifice to God – but he is the most complete of sacrifices – fulfilling God’s righteous demands by giving his own life on the cross and doing it as humanity’s perfect representative.
 
“He will save his people from their sins…” – that’s what the angels said to Joseph and Jesus the greatest High priest, accomplished this on that First Easter weekend. Jesus IS the sacrifice - “Once for all…”
 
At Christmas we remember – not just a baby in a manger - but that Jesus came to be the ultimate sacrifice, paying the price and redeeming us. That’s what it means when we sing “and fit us for heaven to live with thee there”. Another great carol puts it like this...
 
“Hark the herald angels sing
Glory to the new-born King
Peace on earth and mercy mild
God and sinners reconciled!”

Monday December 9th 

 

The Mission of Jesus - "Jesus - The Prophet" 

 We are looking at Jesus’ Mission again today.
 
Jesus came to be “The true Prophet” – someone who would speak the very words of God. Let’s read what the bible says about this in Hebrews 1:1…
 
“In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son,..”
 
We believe in a God who reveals himself – He communicates with us! This verse tells us that “in the past…” God had spoken in many and varied ways - but when Jesus came, He was God’s final WORD. Everything we NEED to know about God we can find in the baby born in Bethlehem!
 
So… what did this great prophet say? John 14:6:
 
“I am the way, the truth and the life…” – That HE was the ONLY way to God!
 
As C.S. Lewis famously said about this statement… it makes Jesus “either a Liar… a Lunatic… or if what he says is true then he must be LORD”
 
Because he said he was “The Way” – His mission was to call us to follow him.
Because he said he was “The Truth” – His mission was to call us to believe and trust him.
Because he said he was “The Life” – His mission was to enable us to live like him.

Because he is the Prophet who speaks the very words of God, he is therefore able to reveal God’s plan for mankind. We see it in these very well-known verses in John’s gospel 3:16-17:
 
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not die but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him!”

As we come towards Christmas once again we are confronted with what Jesus came to be and to do. As the true prophet he tells us that he is the only way anyone can know God – and we all have to decide what we are going to do with that! There’s no sitting on the fence here!

Sunday December 8th 

 

The Mission of Jesus – “The Light of the World” 

 Having spent some time looking at the Names of Jesus last week, I thought we could now turn to take a look at “The Mission of Jesus” – what did Jesus come to do?
 
We have seen how God has come to us as a baby - but not just any old baby! Jesus was a man on a mission!
 
So… What was it? Well, let’s start – like God did – at the beginning! In John’s Gospel he tells us right at the beginning that Jesus mission was to be the light in this dark world  - a light which would banish all the darkness… Let’s read Ch 8v12…

“When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life”
 
Jesus isn’t a neon sign or a lighthouse pointing somewhere else! HE IS the light! For this we can go back again 800 years to our friend Isaiah – remember him from last week? -  who was talking about Jesus when he said:
 
“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned…”
 
A Light has “dawned” - like a glorious sunrise! Back to John’s Gospel in Ch 1:4-5…
 
“In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
 
Jesus’ mission was to shine his light onto this world – exposing the darkness and effects of our rebellion against our creator. Not only in the world at large – but he also exposes the darkness in our own hearts too. However, having exposed the darkness he banishes it by lighting up the way of escape – as we choose to follow him. The Psalmist puts it very well in Psalm 119:105…
 
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path…”

Jesus’ mission then is to be the true light that will guide and lead us through our life here on earth - then all the way home!

Saturday December 7th 

 

Names of Jesus - "The Christ; Messiah; Anointed one" 

 
So... One day when Jesus was talking with his disciples, he asked them about what people were saying about him. Then he looked them all in the eye and asked a very pointed question – “Who do YOU say I am?”
 
We read about it all in Mark’s Gospel Ch 8:29

“But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” Peter answered, “You are the Messiah.”
 
I love Peter’s answer! Without hesitation he says: “You are the Messiah – the Christ!” You’re the anointed and chosen one we’ve been waiting for!

But Jesus’ question is a good one for all of us as we wait to celebrate Jesus’ birth. What do you believe? Who do YOU say he is?
 
For Peter this was a huge call - but was he right? Jesus - the baby from the manger - is he really “God with us”? Is he really the Christ - God’s chosen one? Will he really bring Peace and Hope; Love and Joy to a world that doesn’t believe and has mostly rejected him? Well, According to the Bible God has sent us an answer to this world’s problems - in the form of Jesus – the baby of Bethlehem. As we have seen he has been given many “titles” or names – but what about you? Who do you REALLY believe he is? Could it all really be true?

Friday December 6th 

 

Names of Jesus - "The Servant" 

 
Do you remember the old TV series “Upstairs Downstairs?” It was a story of “posh” folks living in palatial surroundings “upstairs” while their servants lived out of sight “downstairs.” This morning, we’re still looking at the Titles or Names Jesus was given. Today’s title is “The Servant”.
 
Jesus came to this earth as King and Messiah - but he was also a Servant! Let’s look at what Matthew says in his Gospel - ch 20:28
 
“…the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
 
Why did Jesus the King become a servant? How did he serve? And... Who? Is he serving? John, in his Gospel - answers all these questions. In Ch 6:38 he records something Jesus said...
 
“For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me”

Jesus – because he was the Son of God - was fit and able to fulfil his Father’s plan. And to do this he was willing to give his life in our place to pay for our sin. By humbling himself to die for you and me – He chose to become a servant. Our friend Paul writes about this in his letter to the Philippians Ch 2.
 
But... Who was Jesus serving? Was it US?
 
Actually, He was serving his father by obeying his will - perfectly. Jesus, the King of heaven, gave up the glory and majesty of his heavenly home to come to this messed up world as a Suffering Servant - all In order to rescue us from the consequences of our sin. 

As the another familiar old Carol says…
 
“He came down to earth from heaven,
Who is God and Lord of all…
And He feeleth for our sadness,
And He shareth in our gladness.”

Thursday December 5th 

 

Names of Jesus - "Prince of Peace" 

 
Today we look for the final time at Isaiah’s prophecy – and the last of his “Names” for Jesus…
 
“And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
 
Isaiah tells us that Jesus will be the “Prince of peace. What does this mean?

In the bible the title of “Prince” was given to a ruler who had authority to dispense justice. The word we translate as “Peace” is the Hebrew word “Shalom” which means a “rest” a complete satisfaction and contentment. The apostle Paul writes to the church in Ephesus telling them that Jesus IS their peace and that:
 
“He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near.”
 
What is this “Shalom” he preached about? Ultimately, it is PEACE with God. Paul goes on to say that we were all once “enemies of God” because we rejected him - but Jesus came to bring us peace with God by taking the consequences of our rejection to the cross
 
Through the cross he also came to bring us PEACE with ourselves because we have been forgiven... and PEACE with others when we follow his example and forgive them!
 
This is what the angels meant when they sang:
 
“Glory to God in the highest heaven and on earth peace to those on whom his favour rests”
 
Isn’t this what we’re all hoping and waiting for this Christmas?

 

Wednesday December 4th 

Names of Jesus - "Everlasting Father" 

 
Once again we turn to Isaiah’s prophecy today – in Chapter 9 and verse 6:
 
“And he will be called “Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
 
We saw yesterday that Isaiah said that Jesus would be called “Mighty God” and today he carries on that theme with the title “Everlasting Father” But why is Jesus called “Father” Surely that IS a bit confusing – isn’t God the Father and Jesus is the Son? What’s going on here?
 
The title “father” in Hebrew literature implies “headship or the source” – perhaps even “the owner”

The term implies that the “Father” is the one who should take responsibility for protecting and providing for his family.
 
That’s who Jesus is! He has come to protect us from the works of the evil one – the devil – and to provide a way for us to be united once again with God – his father and ours – for eternity.

Speaking of eternity… Isaiah refers to him as an “Everlasting father…” This tells us that he will never stop protecting and providing for us! There is no-one greater – “None above him or before him...”

That’s why the bible tells us that no-one can ever take us away from him. Jesus reveals God to us - as the perfect Father who will keep us safe – forever!

Tuesday December 3rd 

Names of Jesus - "Mighty God" 

We are still with Isaiah today and his prophecy from ch 9v6…

“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 Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
 
As we saw yesterday, Isaiah wanted to encourage God’s people with news of a promised Messiah – a light in their darkness. In verse 6 we see the names that Isaiah gave to this coming Saviour… today’s title is “Mighty God” But why would Isaiah use that title? What did Isaiah mean? What does this title tell us about Jesus?
 
In the New testament, the apostle Paul wrote a letter to the Colossian church. In Ch 1v19 he gives us an insight into what Isaiah meant. He tells us that all of God’s “fullness” is in Jesus. The writer to the Hebrews says much the same thing. In Hebrews 1:3 he writes:
 
“The Son (Jesus) is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being.”
 
The amazing truth is that Jesus IS God in the flesh. It’s summed up beautifully in the words of a well-known carol:
 
“Veiled in flesh the Godhead see, hail the incarnate Deity.”
 
A child once said very perceptively – “Jesus Is God - with skin on!” At Christmas we welcome Jesus – who came to reveal GOD to US. Jesus has all of God’s attributes – and displayed them throughout his life.

But… the other side of this is that Jesus – the baby of Bethlehem - has also come to bring US to GOD!

Monday December 2nd 

 

Names of Jesus: "Wonderful Counsellor" 

Once again, this morning we go back 800 years before Jesus was born - to Isaiah the Prophet’s foretelling of his birth. Over the next few days we will concentrate on just one short verse of Isaiah’s prophecy - Ch 9v6:
 
“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 Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
 
As Isaiah speaks here, God’s people have been taken into captivity and are oppressed. They are referred to earlier in the chapter as:“a people walking in darkness…”.
 
In fact, much like today, the whole world seemed like a dark place then and people were desperately looking for the light of hope. The One promised to God’s people in their day was to be their Messiah – a Saviour and rescuer. He would be born as a child and grow up among them to rescue & restore them and then be their King forever! Isaiah was talking about Jesus!
 
In the verse we read above, Isaiah’s first “title” or “name” for this Messiah – was “Wonderful Counsellor…”
“Wonderful” here means “amazing, awesome…” almost incredible. Jesus is Wonderful! – He’s the Son of God… he came to us by a Virgin Birth… He performed many Miracles… His teaching and preaching had such authority… and when those who opposed him nailed him to a cross he accomplished the most wonderful thing of all – he rose from the dead!

The other half of the title - “Counsellor” – refers to a person’s wisdom, insight, and knowledge. A Wise counsellor speaks the TRUTH. Jesus said that HE was “the way the TRUTH and the life!” No-one ever spoke the truth so completely like Jesus!
He is still the “Wonderful Counsellor – He’s someone we can truly believe in! – a light of hope in a dark world.
 

Sunday December 1st 

 

Names of Jesus: "IMMANUEL"

 
Welcome to our online Video Advent Calendar for 2024!
 
The word "Advent" means "arrival" - or "coming". It's mostly used to relate to a time of waiting for someone special to arrive! That's what these advent daily thoughts are meant to help us with - as we wait for the day when we celebrate the arrival of Jesus!
So... while we wait here's a few good questions for you to think about... What is Christmas all about? Who is this Jesus - and why all the fuss?
 
Let’s start by going back - about 800 years before Jesus was born… with some words spoken by Isaiah - the ancient prophet. They’re recorded for us in the bible. Isaiah Chapter 7v14 says:
 
"Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: the virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel." 
 
Over the next few days, we’re going to try to answer the question “Who is this Jesus” by looking at some of the names or titles he was given. These words from Isaiah are our first inkling of who Jesus is to be. The title for Jesus used here is "Immanuel" - which means "God with us." Jesus - according to Isaiah - will be God Himself who is coming to the earth he created! 
 
The amazing truth about Christmas is that the God who created us came to our messed-up world in a manger.  But why?

The clue is in the name that was given to this extraordinary baby: "Jesus". It is translated "The Lord Saves."
In one of the bible’s accounts of Jesus' birth, Matthew writes that Joseph was told that:

"you shall call his name Jesus - because he will save his people from their sins."
 
God came to this earth to identify with our humanity – He was born as a BABY! - in order to save and rescue us. By becoming like us in our humanity, he could properly pay the penalty for our sin through his death as our true representative. In doing so he has rescued us from consequences of rejecting God’s rule in our lives. This is why we should look forward to celebrating his birth! As the old carol says
He was...
 
“pleased as man with man to dwell – He’s Jesus our Immanuel”
 
The wonder of Christmas is that God comes to us – in all our mess – and offers us hope of salvation!