Advent 2023: My Annual Christmas Post--The Mystery of Christmas

 Hello everyone:

I started this blog many years ago, and every year since I have posted a piece I wrote around Christmas in 2003. It kind of sums up for me what is the "Mystery of Christmas" as I meditate on the Incarnation and its implications for humanity (and perhaps for God as well!). The very idea of God becoming "one of us among us" (Immanuel) still fascinates and overwhelms me. 

God, the creator of all things, humbled himself, became of no reputation, and entered his own creation so as to renew and to redeem and to rescue us (and, ultimately, to do these things for all of creation as well). God, the Creator of all things, became flesh so that he might accomplish the plan to make his grace and glory known in humans and in all of creation. 

The One who had no beginning would now have a birthday. The creator would now be like the creature. The One who never knew death would die for sinners. The God who never knew sin would become sin for us. He would break the power of sin, condemn sin in his own flesh, and provide for all of us the rescue we need to become the people God always intended us to be. 

What amazing love! Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! As you celebrate the advent of our King, Jesus the Messiah, I hope you enjoy this rerun. Feel free to make comments if you'd like.

A little over 2000 years ago, a tiny child was born in some pretty bleak conditions. Oh, he wasn’t the only one born in less than optimal conditions. In fact, in some ways, he was one of the lucky ones. He and his mother actually survived childbirth. Still, this story is unique and amazing on several levels.

First, the life of this child would literally change the way time is reckoned in the world. His life and abilities would have such an impact on generations of others that a brand new movement would be created, one that would radically change the very face of the earth (sometimes for good, sometimes not). His name would become recognized among the names of the greatest of humans, yet he never forgot his own humble beginnings or lost a sense of who he was.

The second thing about this child is tied to the first in that this baby, this helpless lad full of spittle and mush, was born as the very Son of God. When Mary held his little head to her breast, he drank human milk. Yet, he was (and is) the God of the universe. Can you picture this simply ridiculous yet somehow poetic scene? God, who calls the stars by name, pressed to the human breast for sustenance. Humble yet awesome, this is how some folks would no doubt recall this child.

A little over 2000 years ago, God proposed that the only remedy for the human condition of sin would be if he humbled himself, stepped out of eternity and into human flesh, and suckled at Mary’s breast in preparation for the greatest, most impressive conversion of all. God, in Mary’s arms, toddling around Joseph’s home, learning to talk, learning to walk, tasting food, and touching things with human hands! As the Psalmist says in Psalm 139, “Such knowledge is too wonderful for us, we cannot attain to it!”

God knew that the only way to redeem us was if he did it himself. Haven’t you ever had that thought? You know, the one where you say, “If I want something done right, I’ll just have to do it myself?” Imagine God having that thought about bringing us to proper relationship with him. Imagine again that the only way he knew he could do that is if he came to earth as a baby. Think of it—-how vulnerable the almighty God was at that moment, how paradoxical that the God of all creation had to learn to walk! And why did he put himself in this situation? Out of his divine sense of justice and righteousness and mercy, out of his incredible love he acted in this manner.

God humbled himself, even to the point of death on a cross! The living God, incarnate as the Word, would know what it means to die. In a sense, he took on our insanity so that we may be sane. He became flesh so that we might walk in his Spirit. He took our sin so that we might be righteous. He became poor so that we might be rich. He who had the reputation of Creator became a humble servant with no reputation. He became a toddling, dribbling, helpless babe so that we could become mature humans in the image of the almighty Son of God. What wondrous love! What humility and service! How then can anything he asks of us be too difficult?

Father, during this Christmas season, remind us of your sacrifice and love so that we might be a light shining in darkness to others. Teach us to live a life of humble service like your Son did on our behalf so many years ago. As we celebrate the babe in the manger, may the glory he revealed in his life shine through us towards others that they may know God. May the grace of God and the peace of Christ rule in our families and our lives. Amen. 

Thanks for reading! Remember, God became one of us to reach us. He served humbly, what more can he ask of us? To love one another calls for humble service. It is enough.

May you all enjoy a very blessed Christmas!  May you know the blessings of the God who humbled himself and served! 

Advent 2022: My Annual Christmas Post--The Mystery of Christmas

 Hello everyone:

I started this blog many years ago, and every year since I have posted a piece I wrote around Christmas in 2003. It kind of sums up for me what is the "Mystery of Christmas" as I meditate on the Incarnation and its implications for humanity (and perhaps for God as well!). The very idea of God becoming "one of us among us" (Immanuel) still fascinates and overwhelms me. 

God, the creator of all things, humbled himself, became of no reputation, and entered his own creation so as to renew and to redeem and to rescue us (and, ultimately, to do these things for all of creation as well). God, the Creator of all things, became flesh so that he might accomplish the plan to make his grace and glory known in humans and in all of creation. 

The One who had no beginning would now have a birthday. The creator would now be like the creature. The One who never knew death would die for sinners. The God who never knew sin would become sin for us. He would break the power of sin, condemn sin in his own flesh, and provide for all of us the rescue we need to become the people God always intended us to be. 

What amazing love! Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! As you celebrate the advent of our King, Jesus the Messiah, I hope you enjoy this rerun. Feel free to make comments if you'd like.

A little over 2000 years ago, a tiny child was born in some pretty bleak conditions. Oh, he wasn’t the only one born in less than optimal conditions. In fact, in some ways, he was one of the lucky ones. He and his mother actually survived childbirth. Still, this story is unique and amazing on several levels.

First, the life of this child would literally change the way time is reckoned in the world. His life and abilities would have such an impact on generations of others that a brand new movement would be created, one that would radically change the very face of the earth (sometimes for good, sometimes not). His name would become recognized among the names of the greatest of humans, yet he never forgot his own humble beginnings or lost a sense of who he was.

The second thing about this child is tied to the first in that this baby, this helpless lad full of spittle and mush, was born as the very Son of God. When Mary held his little head to her breast, he drank human milk. Yet, he was (and is) the God of the universe. Can you picture this simply ridiculous yet somehow poetic scene? God, who calls the stars by name, pressed to the human breast for sustenance. Humble yet awesome, this is how some folks would no doubt recall this child.

A little over 2000 years ago, God proposed that the only remedy for the human condition of sin would be if he humbled himself, stepped out of eternity and into human flesh, and suckled at Mary’s breast in preparation for the greatest, most impressive conversion of all. God, in Mary’s arms, toddling around Joseph’s home, learning to talk, learning to walk, tasting food, and touching things with human hands! As the Psalmist says in Psalm 139, “Such knowledge is too wonderful for us, we cannot attain to it!”

God knew that the only way to redeem us was if he did it himself. Haven’t you ever had that thought? You know, the one where you say, “If I want something done right, I’ll just have to do it myself?” Imagine God having that thought about bringing us to proper relationship with him. Imagine again that the only way he knew he could do that is if he came to earth as a baby. Think of it—-how vulnerable the almighty God was at that moment, how paradoxical that the God of all creation had to learn to walk! And why did he put himself in this situation? Out of his divine sense of justice and righteousness and mercy, out of his incredible love he acted in this manner.

God humbled himself, even to the point of death on a cross! The living God, incarnate as the Word, would know what it means to die. In one sense, he took on our insanity so that we may be sane. He became flesh so that we might walk in his Spirit. He took our sin so that we might be righteous. He became poor so that we might be rich. He who had the reputation of Creator became a humble servant with no reputation. He became a toddling, dribbling, helpless babe so that we could become mature humans in the image of the almighty Son of God. What wondrous love! What humility and service! How then can anything he asks of us be too difficult?

Father, during this Christmas season, remind us of your sacrifice and love so that we might be a light shining in darkness to others. Teach us to live a life of humble service like your Son did on our behalf so many years ago. As we celebrate the babe in the manger, may the glory he revealed in his life shine through us towards others that they may know God. May the grace of God and the peace of Christ rule in our families and our lives. Amen. 

Thanks for reading! Remember, God became one of us to reach us. He served humbly, what more can he ask of us? To love one another calls for humble service. It is enough.

Merry Christmas!  May you know the blessings of the God who humbled himself and served! 

Advent 2021: My Annual Christmas Post--The Mystery of Christmas

 Hello everyone:

I started this blog many years ago, and every year since I have posted a piece I wrote around Christmas in 2003. It kind of sums up for me what is the "Mystery of Christmas" as I meditate on the Incarnation and its implications for humanity (and perhaps for God as well!). The very idea of God becoming "one of us among us" (Immanuel) still fascinates and overwhelms me. 

God, the creator of all things, humbled himself, became of no reputation, and entered his own creation so as to renew and to redeem and to rescue us (and, ultimately, to do these things for all of creation as well). God, the Creator of all things, became flesh so that he might accomplish the plan to make his grace and glory known in humans and in all of creation. 

The One who had no beginning would now have a birthday. The creator would now be like the creature. The One who never knew death would die for sinners. The God who never knew sin would become sin for us. He would break the power of sin, condemn sin in his own flesh, and provide for all of us the rescue we need to become the people God always intended us to be. 

What amazing love! Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! As you celebrate the advent of our King, Jesus the Messiah, I hope you enjoy this rerun. Feel free to make comments if you'd like.

A little over 2000 years ago, a tiny child was born in some pretty bleak conditions. Oh, he wasn’t the only one born in less than optimal conditions. In fact, in some ways, he was one of the lucky ones. He and his mother actually survived childbirth. Still, this story is unique and amazing on several levels.

First, the life of this child would literally change the way time is reckoned in the world. His life and abilities would have such an impact on generations of others that a brand new movement would be created, one that would radically change the very face of the earth (sometimes for good, sometimes not so much). His name would become recognized among the names of the greatest of humans, yet he never forgot his own humble beginnings or lost a sense of who he was.

The second thing about this child is tied to the first in that this baby, this helpless lad full of spittle and mush, was born as the very Son of God. When Mary held his little head to her breast, he drank human milk. Yet, he was (and is) the God of the universe. Can you picture this simply ridiculous yet somehow poetic scene? God, who calls the stars by name, pressed to the human breast for sustenance. Humble yet awesome, this is how some folks would no doubt recall this child.

A little over 2000 years ago, God proposed that the only remedy for the human condition of sin would be if he humbled himself, stepped out of eternity and into human flesh, and suckled at Mary’s breast in preparation for the greatest, most impressive conversion of all. God, in Mary’s arms, toddling around Joseph’s home, learning to talk, learning to walk, tasting food, and touching things with human hands! As the Psalmist says in Psalm 139, “Such knowledge is too wonderful for us, we cannot attain to it!”

God knew that the only way to redeem us was if he did it himself. Haven’t you ever had that thought? You know, the one where you say, “If I want something done right, I’ll just have to do it myself?” Imagine God having that thought about bringing us to proper relationship with him. Imagine again that the only way he knew he could do that is if he came to earth as a baby. Think of it—-how vulnerable the almighty God was at that moment, how paradoxical that the God of all creation had to learn to walk! And why did he put himself in this situation? Out of his divine sense of justice and righteousness and mercy, out of his incredible love for humanity he acted in this manner.

God humbled himself, even to the point of death on a cross! The living God, incarnate as the Word, would know what it means to die. In one sense, he took on our insanity so that we may be sane. He became flesh so that we might walk in his Spirit. He took our sin so that we might be righteous. He became poor so that we might be rich. He who had the reputation of Creator became a humble servant with no reputation. He became a toddling, dribbling, helpless babe so that we could become mature humans in the image of the almighty Son of God. What wondrous love! What humility and service! How then can anything he asks of us be too difficult?

Father, during this Christmas season, remind us of your sacrifice and love so that we might be a light shining in darkness to others. Teach us to live a life of humble service like your Son did on our behalf so many years ago. As we celebrate the babe in the manger, may the glory he revealed in his life shine through us towards others that they may know God. May the grace of God and the peace of Christ rule in our families and our lives. Amen. 

Thanks for reading! Remember, God became one of us to reach us. He served humbly, what more can he ask of us? To love one another calls for humble service. It is enough.

Merry Christmas!  May you know the blessings of the God who humbled himself and served! 

My Annual Christmas Post: The Mystery of Christmas (Advent 2020)

Hello everyone:

I started this blog several years ago, and every year I have posted a piece I wrote around Christmas 2003. It kind of sums up for me what is the "Mystery of Christmas" as I meditate on the Incarnation and its implications for humanity (and perhaps for God as well!). The very idea of God becoming "one of us among us" (Immanuel) still fascinates and overwhelms me. God, the creator of all things, humbled himself, became of no reputation, and entered his own creation so as to renew and to redeem and to rescue us (and, ultimately, to do these things for all of creation as well). God, the Creator of all things, became flesh so that he might accomplish the plan to make his grace and glory known in humans and in all of creation. The One who had no Beginning would now have a birthday. The creator would now be like the creature. The One who never knew death would die for us. The God who never knew sin would become sin for us. He would break the power of sin, condemn sin in his own flesh, and provide for all of us the rescue we need to become the people God always intended us to be. What amazing love! Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! As you celebrate the advent of our King, Jesus the Messiah, I hope you enjoy this rerun. Feel free to make comments if you'd like.

A little over 2000 years ago, a tiny child was born in some pretty bleak conditions. Oh, he wasn’t the only one born in less than optimal conditions. In fact, in some ways, he was one of the lucky ones. He and his mother actually survived childbirth. Still, this story is unique and amazing on several levels.

First, the life of this child would literally change the way time is reckoned in the world. His life and abilities would have such an impact on generations of others that a brand new movement would be created, one that would radically change the very face of the earth (sometimes for good, sometimes not so much). His name would become recognized among the names of the greatest of humans, yet he never forgot his own humble beginnings or lost a sense of who he was.

The second thing about this child is tied to the first in that this baby, this helpless lad full of spittle and mush, was born as the very Son of God. When Mary held his little head to her breast, he drank human milk. Yet, he was (and is) the God of the universe. Can you picture this simply ridiculous yet somehow poetic scene? God, who calls the stars by name, pressed to the human breast for sustenance. Humble yet awesome, is how some folks would no doubt recall this child.

A little over 2000 years ago, God proposed that the only remedy for the human condition of sin would be if he humbled himself, stepped out of eternity and into human flesh, and suckled at Mary’s breast in preparation for the greatest, most impressive conversion of all. God, in Mary’s arms, toddling around Joseph’s home, learning to talk, learning to walk, tasting food, and touching things with human hands! As the Psalmist says in Psalm 139, “Such knowledge is too wonderful for us, we cannot contain it!”

God knew that the only way to redeem us was if he did it himself. Haven’t you ever had that thought? You know, the one where you say, “If I want something done right, I’ll just have to do it myself?” Imagine God having that thought about bringing us to proper relationship with him. Imagine again that the only way he knew he could do that is if he came to earth as a baby. Think of it—-how vulnerable the almighty God was at that moment, how paradoxical that the God of all creation had to learn to walk! And why did he put himself in this situation? Out of his divine sense of justice and righteousness and mercy, out of his incredible love for humanity he acted in this manner.

God humbled himself.  In one sense, he took on our insanity so that we may be sane. He became flesh so that we might walk in his Spirit. He took our sin so that we might be righteous. He became poor so that we might be rich. He who had the reputation of Creator became a humble servant with no reputation. He became a toddling, dribbling, helpless babe so that we could become mature humans in the image of the almighty Son of God. What wondrous love! What humility and service! How then can anything he asks of us be too difficult?

Father, during this Christmas season, remind us of your sacrifice and love so that we might be a light shining in darkness to others. Teach us to live a life of humble service like your Son did on our behalf so many years ago. As we celebrate the babe in the manger, may the glory he revealed in his life shine through us towards others that they may know God. May the grace of God and the peace of Christ rule in our families and our lives. Amen. 

Thanks for reading!

Merry Christmas!  May you know the blessings of the God who humbled himself and served! 

Annual Christmas Post: The Mystery of Christmas (Advent 2019)

Hey y'all:

I started this blog several years ago, and every year I have posted a piece I wrote around Christmas 2003. It kind of sums up for me what is the "Mystery of Christmas" as I meditate on the Incarnation and its implications for humanity (and perhaps for God as well!). The very idea of God becoming "one of us among us" (Immanuel) still fascinates and overwhelms me. God, the creator of all things, humbled himself, became of no reputation, and entered his own creation so as to renew and to redeem and to rescue us (and, ultimately, to do these things for all of creation as well). God, the Creator of all things, became flesh so that he might accomplish the plan to make his grace and glory known in humans and in all of creation. The God who never knew death would die for us. The God who never knew sin would become sin for us. He would break the power of sin, condemn sin in his own flesh, and provide for all of us the rescue we need to become the people God always intended us to be.  What an amazing love! Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! As you celebrate the advent of our King Jesus the Messiah, I hope you enjoy this rerun. Feel free to make comments if you'd like.

A little over 2000 years ago, a tiny child was born in some pretty bleak conditions. Oh, he wasn’t the only one born in less than optimal conditions. In fact, in some ways, he was one of the lucky ones. He and his mother actually survived childbirth and thrived. Still, this story is unique and amazing on several levels.

First, the life of this child would literally change the way time is reckoned in the world. His life and abilities would have such an impact on generations of others that a brand new movement would be created, one that would radically change the very face of the earth (sometimes for good, sometimes not so much). His name would become recognized among the names of the greatest of humans, yet he never forgot his own humble beginnings or lost a sense of who he was.

The second thing about this child is tied to the first in that this baby, this helpless lad full of spittle and mush, was born as the very Son of God. When Mary held his little head to her breast, he drank human milk. Yet, he was (and is) the God of the universe. Can you picture this simply ridiculous yet somehow poetic scene? God, who calls the stars by name, pressed to the human breast for sustenance. Humble yet awesome, is how some folks would no doubt recall this child.

A little over 2000 years ago, God proposed that the only remedy for the human condition of sin would be if he humbled himself, stepped out of eternity and into human flesh, and suckled at Mary’s breast in preparation for the greatest, most impressive conversion of all. God, in Mary’s arms, toddling around Joseph’s home, learning to talk, learning to walk, tasting food, and touching things with human hands! As the Psalmist says in Psalm 139, “Such knowledge is too wonderful for us, we cannot contain it!”

God knew that the only way to redeem us was if he did it himself. Haven’t you ever had that thought? You know, the one where you say, “If I want something done right, I’ll just have to do it myself?” Imagine God having that thought about bringing us to proper relationship with him. Imagine again that the only way he knew he could do that is if he came to earth as a baby. Think of it—-how vulnerable the almighty God was at that moment, how paradoxical that the God of all creation had to learn to walk! And why did he put himself in this situation? Out of his divine sense of justice and righteousness and mercy, out of his inexpressible love for humanity he acted in this manner.

God humbled himself.  In a sense, he took on our insanity so that we may be sane. He became flesh so that we might walk in his Spirit. He became sin that we might be righteous. He became poor so that we might be rich. He who had the reputation of Creator became a humble servant with no reputation. He became a toddling, dribbling, helpless babe so that we could become mature humans in the image of the almighty Son of God. What wondrous love! What humility and service! How then can anything he asks of us be too difficult?

Lord, during this Christmas season, remind us of your sacrifice and love so that we might be a light shining in darkness to others. Teach us to live a life of humble service like your Son did on our behalf so many years ago. As we celebrate the babe in the manger, may the glory he revealed in his life shine through us towards others that they may know God. May the grace of God and the peace of Christ rule in our families and our lives.

Thanks for reading!

Merry Christmas!  May you know the blessings of the God who humbled himself and served! 

The Results of the Incarnation

Jesus came to destroy the works of the devil—flesh, sin, the grave, death.

In the incarnation, Jesus met flesh, and flesh lost (it will be transformed by resurrection).

In the wilderness temptation, Jesus met sin, and sin lost (the Tempter was met and overcome).

In the cross, Jesus met death, and death lost (death is waiting its ultimate destruction).

In the resurrection, Jesus destroyed the grip, fear, pain, and power of death (the power of death is sin, and sin has lost).

If Jesus met it, it has been overcome. God will put all things under his feet.

Victory is found in Jesus and in Jesus alone. No other foundation will suffice, and no other person can truly save us.

Advent 2018: Humble Service and Christmas Love

In the spirit of Hebrews 10:24, I offer the following words to incite others to love and good works. May we in this Christmas season find ourselves like our Lord wrapping a towel of humility around our collective waists as we pursue the greatest job ever—loving those God has loved in a way that they do not expect.

Remember, Jesus came as a child—a seemingly defenseless, helpless babe. He lived among us as a “normal” person—he worked with his hands, he talked to people, and he showed them love. He was human (in the “flesh” as John and Paul tell us), and in community with us he revealed to us the character of God: selfless love, humble service, and unmerited grace. Jesus also encouraged and admonished his followers to serve one another, to outdo one another in being kind and in service. "The one who serves is the greatest" says Jesus.

Do we really believe it? Often I don’t think so.

I am reminded of my call as a Christ-follower--I am to offer debt-free love and service to others with no expectation of reward. I am to love as Christ loves. I am to lay down myself so that someone else may live. I am to live simply so that others may simply live. That isn't the American dream, now is it. What person in our community has gone days without a hot meal? Who are the "little ones" in our neighborhoods who are wounded, hurt, dispossessed? Will we love Jesus enough to love them?

Steve Camp used to sing a song that said something like "Can we taste the tears that they cried?" The song deals with loving the unlovable, embracing those others avoid, touching the untouchable. Jesus did that. He walked right up to people with leprosy. He put his clean hands on their decaying flesh. He touched them. He loved them.

Remember when Jesus took a child and set the child in the midst of his disciples? He encouraged his disciples to develop a child-like tendency to trust God (see Matthew 18:1-6). He says to them "Whoever humbles himself as this child, he is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me, but whoever causes one of these little ones to stumble . . ." Well, you probably remember the rest.

Earlier Jesus had told his disciples that to offer others even a "cup of cold water" in the name of Christ was considered a good thing to do.

Jesus also encouraged and admonished his followers to serve one another, to outdo one another in being kind and in service.

"The one who serves is the greatest" says Jesus.

Do we really believe it?

Who are the "little ones" in our areas who are wounded, hurt, dispossessed?

Will we love Jesus enough to love them?

Who are our modern day lepers? Are they the drug addicts? The alcoholics? The divorcees? The liberal democrats? The conservative republicans? The victim of cancer, aids, etc.? Are they the orphans of war? The ones left behind by our refusal to care?

Finding them isn't hard--they are out there.

Loving them is harder. They may even share a home with us.

May we learn today to offer debt-free love and service. Like Jesus may we learn to take joy in the smiles and laughter we receive. May we (like Jesus) even be willing to be killed by those we love and yet love them anyway. May we learn that humble service is greater than power, prestige, or position. May we love as Jesus loves us. May we humble ourselves to serve others in his love. Merry Christmas! 

Thanks for reading!

Advent 2018: Are We Ready for Hope? Reasons for Hope in Troubling Times

Three weeks ago I had the privilege of preaching on the first Sunday of Advent at Clover Baptist Church in Clover, VA. You may find the notes for my sermon below. Merry Christmas! 

Are we ready for Hope? Reasons for Hope in Troubling Times: Jeremiah 33:14-16; Luke 21:25-36

Introduction: 

Today marks the first Sunday in the Advent season. For those churches who celebrate by following a liturgical calendar, the first Sunday of Advent is a time for lighting the first candle on the Advent wreath and discussing the idea of Hope. The concept of Advent as a season is established on the idea of expectation and preparation for the celebration of Christmas, the birth of Jesus, the Incarnation of God in flesh—that is, the first coming of Jesus as a baby in Bethlehem. In the West we celebrate this day as December 25, Christmas day. Our American culture is skilled at anticipating Christmas. In fact, some may say we enter into a bit of overkill in that “anticipation”! We so engorge ourselves on Christmas spirit that we are bloated with the stress of the season, and nearly sick of Christmas music by the time the twelve days of Christmas actually arrive. Part of that is because this first “coming” of Jesus has already come, and we have attached a date to it. We know when to expect it, so we build up anticipation as we count down the days (maybe even the hours) until the event happens.

It was not always so. The first of our two texts (from Jeremiah) represents a time prior to this blessed first coming. The prophet Jeremiah had been imprisoned (33:1). The armies of Babylon, were advancing on Jerusalem. The streets of Jerusalem would soon be filled with the corpses of her people (33:4-5). Jeremiah's prophecies of judgment that put him in prison were coming true. For nearly 400 years, descendants of David had occupied the throne of Judah. God promised David's house and kingdom would endure before Him forever (2 Samuel 7:16). But soon the Babylonians would destroy David's city, burn Solomon's temple, and take David's heirs into exile. It was a time of trouble and distress, but not one without some hope. In the midst of catastrophe, Jeremiah spoke words of hope. He spoke of a restoration, which included the line of David. To a people soon to be devastated by loss, Jeremiah's prophecy offered promise, an anticipation of the hope of rescue. God was still faithful. The house of David might be cut down, but God can bring life out of death. A branch would sprout. God would send the Messiah. (READ Jeremiah 33:14-16)

The time of Jeremiah isn’t really unfamiliar to us. Although we get ready to celebrate the first coming of Messiah prophesied by Jeremiah, we also face times of trouble. Our world is not always a safe place. In fact, if you read the news it seems to get worse every day. In the spirit of those “end” times or troubled times, our second passage resounds like a thunderclap. In the middle of bows, ribbons, lights, cheery Christmas music, and the ongoing reminder that God sent his Son and became one of us, we also find ourselves in trouble or trials, a little distressed, feeling a bit like things are quickly falling apart. In Luke's Gospel, we find words from Jesus that we may pair up with the words of Jeremiah. Rather than speaking of a coming Messiah, a babe in a manger, or a “holy night” in which angles sing and shepherds and wise men rejoice, Jesus speaks of a time of shaking and judgment. This is an apocalyptic second coming of Messiah that will resound with God’s justice and holiness. When Messiah returns a second time, things will be a bit different. (Read Luke 21:25-36)

Both of these passages are delivered in a context of troubled times (current for the Jews in Jeremiah’s day and somewhat more distant for the recipients of Jesus’ words). Yet both passages also remind us that there is “hope”. That in this season of Advent (first or second), we can find reason for hope in spite of the trouble. Are we ready for hope?

Our passages today point us to three reasons for hope: 1) God’s timing is right, 2) God’s Word is reliable, and 3) God will rescue his people. If you are ready for some hope in troubled times, then let’s take a closer look at these.

Are we ready for hope? Hope can be found in reliance on God’s timing.

Point 1—God’s Time is Right: Days are coming (Jer)/there will be signs (Luke)

"But when the completion of the time came, God sent His Son, . . ." - Galatians 4:4 (HCSB)

"Jesus’ arrival during the Roman Empire’s Pax Romana (the peace of Rome) was perfect timing. The known world was united by one language of commerce. A network of global trade routes provided open access to the whole world. All of this guaranteed that the gospel could move rapidly in one tongue. No visas. No impenetrable borders. Only unhindered access to help spread the news of the Savior whose crucifixion fulfilled the prophecy of the Lamb who would be slain for our sins. All in God’s perfect timing!" - Joe Stowell (President of Cornerstone University, Grand Rapids, Michigan)

"All history is in God's hand. He knows the best season for sending help to His church and new light to the world. Let us not be anxious about the course of events around us, as if we knew better than the King of kings what time relief should come." J. C. Ryle

If we think God has forgotten us, we need to think again. When the time is right, He’ll show up, and when He does, we’ll be amazed at His timing!

When the Jews faced exile in Babylon, God sent Jeremiah to prophesy not only doom and gloom, but also to speak of a future and a hope. In the time of Jesus, God fulfilled the prophecy of Jeremiah to send a branch. In the future, he will send this Son to establish an eternal kingdom based on the promise to David that seemed to end so long ago. In other words, the times are in his hands. What are we waiting for to which we think God is late in responding? Where are we thinking God is “missing the mark” in our lives? If his timing was right in all these things, why do we think he will be late now? Where is our hope?

Are we ready for hope? Hope comes from trusting God’s timing. God is on time and reliable. Hope also comes from a realization that God’s Word is reliable. He does what he says he will do! Are we ready for hope?

Point 2—God’s Word is Reliable: Fulfill the good word (Jer)/none of his words will pass away (Luke)

These verses remind us that God had not forgotten His promise or His people.

"The Bible is full of God’s promises to provide for us spiritually and materially, to never forsake us, to give us peace in times of difficult circumstances, to cause all circumstances to work together for our good, and finally to bring us safely home to glory. Not one of those promises is dependent upon our performance. They are all dependent on the grace of God given to us through Jesus Christ." - Jerry Bridges

Adoniram Judson: "The future is as bright as the promises of God."

The passages from Jeremiah and Luke represent a promise and a proclamation of what will last forever: Heaven and earth will pass away, but God’s words and promises will never pass away. These are the words of Messiah Jesus, the Incarnate Word of God.  Even though the world may be cast into oblivion, the word of God remains. Jesus not only says what God wants us to hear, Jesus’ very life is the revelation and expression of what we need to know about God (John 1:18). Jesus explains God (and his plan) by both his Words and his life. Where is our hope placed? Do we rely on what God has said, or are we confused and conflicted by the terrifying “signs of the times” that take our minds off of jingling bells and Christmas wreaths and cause us to worry that things are going horribly wrong?

Are we ready for hope? Hope is found in trusting what God has said, but it also recognizes that God isn’t finished yet. If God’s Word is reliable, then we can count on the fact that God will rescue those who trust him. Are we ready for hope?

Point 3—God will Rescue his people: Justice and Righteousness (Jeremiah)/redemption draws near (Luke)

God will fulfill his Word, he will keep his promise. One part of that promise is rescue for those who trust in him. God will provide justice, righteousness, and redemption for all those who welcome the first coming of Jesus and look forward to his second coming!

What does it mean to live in hope and expectation?  It means we build ourselves up with hopes of what can be in the redemption promised in Jesus.  It involves making preparations and plans.  It involves living in particular ways so that we find ourselves prepared for what will happen when Messiah returns.

Christians should be a people yearning to keep hope alive, to see beyond what we see, to perceive something higher, and deeper and richer than what we can merely observe with our eyes. We are called as beloved children of God to push beyond just what we can see, into the things for which what we can hope. Paul reminds us, “Now in this hope we were saved, yet hope that is seen is not hope, because who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with patience.” (Romans 8:24-25)

The hope that we are to have as Christians pushes us into some apparent yet wonderful absurdities—like the idea that God became one of us, he became a helpless baby. God became one of us and took on our sin and suffering. God even died for our sins, but then he got up out of the grave.

Christians who look at Jesus in the manger and say “Yes, that is what God looks like,” or gaze at Jesus hanging on the cross and declare, “There is God too,” may seem simply absurd, but at least our faith encompasses birth and death, life and suffering, and declares that none of it is outside of God.

Everyone in the human race wants a life that is fulfilling, a life that is full of purpose and complete. In Jeremiah’s time, the people were using the promise of the Davidic dynasty as an excuse to pursue what they wanted by looking everywhere but to God. Today we use technology or prosperity or even trouble as an excuse to look for fulfillment in things that do not honor our Creator. But that which we want will never be ours until we recognize that we need a right relationship with our creator that has been provided through the sacrifice of the Messiah Jesus. That is our rescue; that is our hope!

Christian hope is standing right in the middle of life, the middle of the signs of the end of the times, and raising our heads because even in the middle of it all we get a sense that our redemption, our rescue is drawing near. That is a powerful image—in the midst of the chaos, standing on our tiptoes to catch a glimpse of what is promised beyond what we can see.  In the midst of the madness leaning towards redemption, towards rescue, moving toward hope like the sun flower moves towards the sun as it travels across the sky. Our hope is in God’s ability to keep his promises in his time.

Are we ready for hope? Are we recognizing that God’s timing is right, his Word is reliable, and his rescue is sure? Are we ready for hope?

It is interesting to discover that for the Jews in the pre-Christian era hope in the coming of the Messiah—the one who was to restore the fortunes of Israel—was dependent on God, but also place a requirement his people to act, to respond to his promise. God required, even demanded, human action. God's promised people were not to wait passively for God to bring justice to the widow and the orphan, they were to make sure that the widow and the orphan were taken care of in real time.

As we prepare our hearts to welcome the incarnate Word, the new born babe in Bethlehem . . . as we get ready to celebrate the birth of Salvation and Hope . . . are we also preparing ourselves for his second coming? Are we anticipating his second advent with the same expectation and hope as we celebrate the first? Are we ready for hope to appear in the sky? Are we working with God to act as his agents until he returns?

Conclusion: How should we respond to these things?

Rely on God--trust him for our rescue, for our redemption, for our salvation

Respond with obedience—we should imitate Jesus, be the hands and feet of God

Find our hope in God’s right timing, God’s reliable Word, and God’s rescue.

Thanks for reading! 

Victory in Jesus

Jesus came to destroy the works of the devil—flesh, sin, the grave, death.

In the incarnation, God met flesh, and flesh lost.

In the wilderness temptation, God met sin, and sin lost.

In the cross, God met death, and death lost.

In the resurrection, God destroyed the grip, fear, pain, and power of death (the power of death is sin, and sin has lost).

In Messiah Jesus all these things have been overcome. God will put all things under his feet. 

Victory is found in Jesus and in Jesus alone. No other foundation will suffice, and no other person can truly save us.

Thanks for reading!

Advent 2017: The Mystery of Christmas (Annual Post)

Hey y'all:

I started this blog several years ago, and every year I have posted a piece I wrote around Christmas 2003. It kind of sums up for me what is the "Mystery of Christmas" as I meditate on the Incarnation and its implications for humanity (and perhaps for God as well!). The very idea of God becoming "one of us among us" (Immanuel) still fascinates and overwhelms me. God, the creator of all things, humbled himself, became of no reputation, and entered his own creation so as to renew and to redeem and to rescue us (and, ultimately, to do these things for all of creation as well). God, the Creator of all things, became flesh so that he might accomplish the plan to make his grace and glory known in humans and in all of creation. The God who never knew death would die for us. The God who never knew sin would become sin for us. He would break the power of sin, condemn sin in his own flesh, and provide for all of us the rescue we need to become the people God always intended us to be.  What an amazing love! Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift! As you celebrate the advent of our King Jesus the Messiah, I hope you enjoy this rerun. Feel free to make comments if you'd like.

A little over 2000 years ago, a tiny child was born in some pretty bleak conditions. Oh, he wasn’t the only one born in less than optimal conditions. In fact, in some ways, he was one of the lucky ones. He and his mother actually survived childbirth and thrived. Still, this story is unique and amazing on several levels.

First, the life of this child would literally change the way time is reckoned in the world. His life and abilities would have such an impact on generations of others that a brand new movement would be created, one that would radically change the very face of the earth (sometimes for good, sometimes not so much). His name would become recognized among the names of the greatest of humans, yet he never forgot his own humble beginnings or lost a sense of who he was.

The second thing about this child is tied to the first in that this baby, this helpless lad full of spittle and mush, was born as the very Son of God. When Mary held his little head to her breast, he drank human milk. Yet, he was (and is) the God of the universe. Can you picture this simply ridiculous yet somehow poetic scene? God, who calls the stars by name, pressed to the human breast for sustenance. Humble yet awesome, is how some folks would no doubt recall this child.

A little over 2000 years ago, God proposed that the only remedy for the human condition of sin would be if he humbled himself, stepped out of eternity and into human flesh, and suckled at Mary’s breast in preparation for the greatest, most impressive conversion of all. God, in Mary’s arms, toddling around Joseph’s home, learning to talk, learning to walk, tasting food, and touching things with human hands! As the Psalmist says in Psalm 139, “Such knowledge is too wonderful for us, we cannot contain it!”

God knew that the only way to redeem us was if he did it himself. Haven’t you ever had that thought? You know, the one where you say, “If I want something done right, I’ll just have to do it myself?” Imagine God having that thought about bringing us to proper relationship with him. Imagine again that the only way he knew he could do that is if he came to earth as a baby. Think of it—-how vulnerable the almighty God was at that moment, how paradoxical that the God of all creation had to learn to walk! And why did he put himself in this situation? Out of his divine sense of justice and righteousness and mercy, out of his inexpressible love for humanity he acted in this manner.

God humbled himself.  In a sense, he took on our insanity so that we may be sane. He became flesh so that we might walk in his Spirit. He became sin that we might be righteous. He became poor so that we might be rich. He who had the reputation of Creator became a humble servant with no reputation. He became a toddling, dribbling, helpless babe so that we could become mature humans in the image of the almighty Son of God. What wondrous love! What humility and service! How then can anything he asks of us be too difficult?

Lord, during this Christmas season, remind us of your sacrifice and love so that we might be a light shining in darkness to others. Teach us to live a life of humble service like your Son did on our behalf so many years ago. As we celebrate the babe in the manger, may the glory he revealed in his life shine through us towards others that they may know God. May the grace of God and the peace of Christ rule in our families and our lives.

Thanks for reading!

Merry Christmas!  May you know the blessings of the God who humbled himself and served! 

Advent 2016: The Mystery of Christmas

Hey y'all:

I started this blog several years ago, and every year I have posted a piece I wrote around Christmas 2003. It kind of sums up for me what is the "Mystery of Christmas" as I meditate on the Incarnation and its implications for humanity (and perhaps for God as well!). The very idea of God becoming "one of us among us" (Immanuel) still fascinates and overwhelms me. God, the creator of all things, humbled himself, became of no reputation, and entered his own creation so as to renew and to redeem  and to rescue us (and, ultimately, to do these things for all of creation as well). God, the Creator of all things, became flesh so that he might accomplish the plan to make his grace and glory known in humans and in all of creation. The God who never knew death would die for us. The God who never knew sin would become sin for us. He would break the power of sin, condemn sin in his own flesh, and provide for all of us the rescued we need to become the people God always intended us to be.  What amazing love! Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift! As you celebrate the first advent of our King Jesus the Messiah, I hope you enjoy this rerun. Feel free to make comments if you'd like.

A little over 2000 years ago, a tiny child was born in some pretty bleak conditions. Oh, he wasn’t the only one born in less than optimal conditions. In fact, in some ways, he was one of the lucky ones. He and his mother actually survived childbirth and thrived. Still, this story is unique and amazing on several levels.

First, this child would literally change the way time is reckoned in the world. His life and abilities would have such an impact on generations of others that a brand new movement would be created, one that would radically change the very face of the earth (sometimes for good, sometimes not so much). His name would become recognized among the names of the greatest of humans, yet he never forgot his own humble beginnings or lost a sense of who he was.

The second thing about this child is tied to the first in that this baby, this helpless lad full of spittle and mush, was born as the very Son of God. When Mary held his little head to her breast, he drank human milk. Yet, he was (and is) the God of the universe. Can you picture this simply ridiculous yet somehow poetic scene? God, who calls the stars by name, pressed to the human breast for sustenance. Humble yet awesome, is how some folks would no doubt recall this child.

A little over 2000 years ago, God proposed that the only remedy for the human condition of sin would be if he humbled himself, stepped out of eternity and into human flesh, and suckled at Mary’s breast in preparation for the greatest, most impressive conversion of all. God, in Mary’s arms, toddling around Joseph’s home, learning to talk, learning to walk, tasting and touching things with human hands! As the Psalmist says in Psalm 139, “Such knowledge is too wonderful for us, we cannot contain it!”

God knew that the only way to redeem us was if he did it himself. Haven’t you ever had that thought? You know, the one where you say, “If I want something done right, I’ll just have to do it myself?” Imagine God having that thought about bringing us to proper relationship with him. Imagine again that the only way he knew he could do that is if he came to earth as a baby. Think of it—-how vulnerable the almighty God was at that moment, how paradoxical that the God of all creation had to learn to walk! And why did he put himself in this situation? Out of his divine sense of justice and righteousness and mercy, out of his inexpressible love for humanity he acted in this manner.

God humbled himself.  In a sense, he took on our insanity so that we may be sane. He became flesh so that we might walk in his Spirit. He became sin that we might be righteous. He became poor so that we might be rich. He who had the reputation of Creator became a humble servant with no reputation. He became a toddling, dribbling, helpless babe so that we could become mature humans in the image of the almighty Son of God. What wondrous love! What humility and service! How then can anything he asks of us be too difficult?

Lord, in this Christmas season, remind us of your sacrifice and love so that we might be a light shining in darkness to others. Teach us to live a life of humble service like your Son did on our behalf so many years ago. As we celebrate the babe in the manger, may the glory he revealed in his life shine through us towards others that they may know God. May the grace of God and the peace of Christ rule in our families and our lives.

Thanks for reading!

Merry Christmas!  May you know the blessings of the God who humbled himself and served! 

Advent 2016: God's Word of Love at Christmas--Do you hear what I hear?

A few years ago I preached a Christmas sermon on John 1. The history of this sermon is interesting. In college (and in seminary) I was challenged by my preaching professors to do a Christmas sermon on John 1. In both classes I wrote just such a sermon. It was not until I moved to Virginia, however, that I decided to share these thoughts.  I borrowed the name of a popular Christmas song, and the notes below are the result.  As I've been thinking about the story of Christmas, I kept coming back to these thoughts on John 1.  So, I decided to reprint these sermon notes (with some changes).  Feel free to leave some comments, I hope these notes are a blessing to you!  Merry Christmas!

God’s Word of Love at Christmas: Do You Hear What I Hear?  

John 1:14-18

What’s the good word? Our world seems obsessed with communication. We have phones that are not for making calls only, but are also used to surf the internet, to send text messages, to even read books and watch movies!  All around us we are bombarded by some sort of communication—and yet we have never seemed so disconnected, even so lacking in genuine love or depth of relationships.

We are a people drowning in information who at times seem to be longing for meaningful communication. We are people who are desperate to be loved. We want to hear a “good word,” something that is helpful or communicates hope and grace. We want to hear some good news.

Have you ever noticed how often “words” play a role in Scripture?

1. In the beginning, God “said” or “spoke” and there was ______________

2. God spoke to Adam and Eve in the morning

3. God spoke through prophets (Hebrews 1)

4. God speaks to us today through his Son the Word and through his written Word—Scripture

Whenever God wants to make something known, he speaks.

God likes to communicate, he wants us to know what he is doing.

He takes a personal role in this communication, and through it he shows us what true love looks like.

This Christmas, God offers us a Word—that Word is his self-disclosure, his speaking of himself through his Son. In Jesus, God offers us a communication and a gift, and both of these speak of his great mercy and love.

When God speaks, we should listen

Do you hear what I hear?

John 1:14-18

In this passage I hear three things:

1. I hear that the Word is among us and reveals God’s true character, vv. 14, 18 (The Word Among Us)

2. I hear that The Word is Before Us, v. 15 (The World Before Us)

3. I hear that The Word is full of Grace, vv. 16-17 (The Word of Grace)

First, I hear that the Word is among us, vv. 14, 18 (The Word Among Us)

a. The Word became “flesh”—when God spoke, it was personal and a bit messy. God spoke in these last days to us through his Son (Heb. 1:1-3). This “Word” takes on flesh (Romans 8:3). The word “flesh” here is not a pretty word. God doesn’t say that his “Word” became simply “human.” No, Jesus became “flesh,” he took on our situation; he identified with us; he was tempted like us (yet without sin—cf. Heb. 2:14-18; 4:14-16; 2 Cor. 5:20-21). Jesus got involved in our messy existence and by doing so offered a means to clean up our mess. He came to offer God’s mercy and grace, and he came to deal with our sin. By being one of us, Jesus healed and redeemed our situation. Do you hear what I hear?

b. The Word dwelt among us—When God spoke, he didn’t do it from a distance. He came among us. In the OT, God’s presence among his people was signified by the tabernacle and its three chambers. The inner chamber (where God’s glory dwelt) was only accessible once a year by one person on the Day of Atonement. Jesus’ coming as God’s Word makes that glory accessible to all of us by making his dwelling among us. He lives with us, he lives among us. He has not left us nor forsaken us. God is not distant, he comes to us in our situation to show us his character, to reveal his love. God loves us by being among us. He is here to rescue us by that grace. Do you hear what I hear?

c. The Word is full of glory—When God spoke, he made his glory known. When Jesus came, we saw God’s glory. In the OT, God’s glory was sometimes hidden, but with the birth of Jesus God’s glory now becomes obvious to all. God makes himself known in Jesus. The full character of God is explained in Jesus. All of God’s holiness, justice, mercy, grace, faithfulness and love are in the Incarnate Word. Jesus is here, so the full character of God is here as well. Do you hear what I hear?

d. This Word was never seen before, but now we see him—He who was invisible has now become visible (Colossians 1:15-17; cf. Rom. 1:18-20). In Jesus we see the invisible attributes of God. Jesus makes God visible and known. God’s character and love is clear. It is not hidden to us. Jesus has made it known. Do you hear what I hear?

e. The Word has explained God—Jesus showed the way to God, he “exegeted” God. He explained God. Jesus made God understandable. What was inexplicable now is explained. What was inscrutable is now “scrutable.” In Jesus humanity can now see God’s character in a way they can understand. God’s person is now made known in the words and actions of Jesus. God’s incredible grace and love to rescue condemned people has been made know. We can know God. He is not a distant Father. He is here, and Jesus makes him known. Do you hear what I hear?

Those of us who claim to follow Christ should seek to imitate Jesus in making God clearly known to others, but like Jesus that means we must engage a hurting world lost in the destruction of sin and death. That engagement requires us to be humble and to serve. In the spirit of Hebrews 10:24, I’d like to incite my fellow Christians to love and good works today.

May we in this Christmas season find ourselves like our Lord wrapping a towel of humility around our collective waists as we pursue the greatest job ever—loving those God has loved in a way that they do not expect. Remember, Jesus came as a child—a seemingly defenseless, helpless babe. He lived among us as a “normal” person—he worked with his hands, he talked to people, and he showed them love.

He was human (in the “flesh” as John and Paul tell us), and in community with us he revealed to us the character of God: selfless love, humble service, and unmerited grace. Jesus also encouraged and admonished his followers to serve one another, to outdo one another in being kind and in service. "The one who serves is the greatest" says Jesus. We have to go where they are if we want to serve as Jesus serves. Will we go? We will be examples of Jesus’ grace by giving our own lives to help others find life in him? Will we hear God’s Word of love to us today? Will we “explain” God to others by our service of love?

When God speaks, we should listen

Do you hear what I hear?

When God “spoke” in Jesus, he became one of us (flesh), he pitched his tent among us (tabernacle), he made visible his invisible glory (we saw his glory which no one had seen), he offered an explanation of God’s grace, love, and truth, and our response is to witness his glory/character and to proclaim it to others.

Second, I hear that The Word is Before Us, v. 15 (The World Before Us)

a. He is superior to us because he existed before us (John 1:1-3; Phil 2:5-8)

Jesus’ superiority is explained in detail in the letter to the Hebrews. Although the author of that letter dwells on Jesus’ superiority to many things and people (i.e., angels, Moses, Aaron, the Levites, the sacrifices, etc.), he also goes out of his way to remind us that Jesus is one of us (cf. Heb. 2:14-18; 4:14-16). He is not an alien. He is superior, yes, but in his humanity the child in the manger brings God’s glory to all people (remember the angels, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased."—Luke 2:14). God, in his great mercy and love, came among us to rescue us from condemnation. God’s love is made clear in the life and words of Jesus.

Jesus is “before” us

Do you hear what I hear?

Because of his position, we are called to testify of all that relates to him, and this is what John does here.

b. Jesus is “before” us in his superiority, but he is also “before” us in the sense of presence. He is there—in front of us and before our very eyes. He is the revelation of God’s character. His coming is an expression of God’s amazing humble love. God loved, and he showed that love by means of the birth of Jesus. He showed that love in the life and death and resurrection of Jesus. This is the scene “before” us this Christmas; an amazing scene of self-sacrificing grace, amazing holiness, and wonderful, giving, humble love. Remember, what was unseen is now visible. The babe in the manger makes the glory of God known to all humanity. Jesus’ very existence has explained God to us all. He is right in front of us. Will we pay attention?

When God speaks, we should listen

Do you hear what I hear?

When God reveals himself, he sometimes uses the testimony of others (John), he reveals his character (he is before us, existed without us, and makes himself known to us), as a result he is worthy of our worship and our testimony.

Third, I hear that The Word is full of Grace, vv. 16-17 (The Word of Grace)

a. We have all received from his fullness (full of grace and truth—cf. John 1:14; Col. 1:5-6)

Jesus is the fullness of God (Col 2:9-10). Christ is the ultimate expression of grace and truth. He is grace in that he was freely given for us all—He is the expression of God’s love for humanity (John 3:16; 1 John 2:1-2). He is truth in that he reveals clearly who God is and how to get to God (John 14:6).

b. Grace stacked up on grace (cf. Heb. 4:16)

Like a warehouse with an unending supply of boxes stacked up against each other, so Jesus offers an ongoing and seemingly never exhaustible warehouse of grace. He is grace beyond measure, He is grace yesterday, today, and forever. His grace is never shallow and is always trustworthy.

c. We all receive his grace

1 John 2:1-2 reminds us that Jesus is the propitiation for the sins even of the whole world (i.e., in 1 John 5, the “whole world” is described as those in the hands of the devil). The grace of God is available to all people by means of the incarnation as Jesus reveals and explains God’s grace. The grace of God is effective in the crucifixion as the blood of Jesus is applied to the sins of humans. The grace of God is sealed by the resurrection in which God declares his work completed and finished.

Followers of Christ are called to share the testimony of his mercy to others and to offer those wrecked by the destruction of sin the promise of rescue through Jesus. Who are these people? Who are our modern day "lepers"? Are they the drug addicts? The alcoholics? The divorcees? The liberal democrats? The conservative republicans? The victims of cancer, aids, etc.? Are they the orphans of war? The ones left behind by our refusal to care? They may be all around us.

Finding them isn't hard--they are out there.

Loving them is sometimes harder.

May we learn today to offer debt-free love and service to others. Like Jesus may we learn to take joy in the smiles and laughter we receive. May we (like Jesus) even be willing to be killed by those we love and yet love them anyway.

When God speaks, we should listen

Do you hear what I hear?

When God “spoke” the word of grace, he provided an unlimited storehouse of the gift of grace, he made it available to all (we “all” received it), and he makes grace and truth a reality in Jesus, our response is to live God’s grace and truth as a tangible example of God’s Word spoken to us—we (in a sense) “incarnate” God’s grace and truth in our own lives by living out what he has worked in us.

Application/Conclusion

a. Are we listening to God during this Christmas season? Are we paying attention to the “Word” he speaks in Jesus and the Incarnation? Do people see his “grace and truth” in how we live in response to God’s Word?

b. Have you experienced his grace? What a Christmas gift you could receive today if you yield yourself to God and receive his grace in Jesus Christ. John 1:11-13 reminds us that to those who receive him (i.e., put their trust in him) he gives authority to be called the children of God. (Give an overview of Gospel here, offer salvation to all).

c. For those of us who have experienced this wonderful gift, how can we respond to this “word” from God? Do you hear what I hear? If so, here are some suggestions for you:

i. This Christmas, testify of his glory in the “baby Jesus”

ii. Speak of his grace and truth, his character, his holiness, his love, etc.

iii. Show his love in service to others

iv. Take opportunity to share the truth of God’s Incarnation in Jesus

When God speaks, people ought to listen

Do you hear what I hear?

Thanks for reading!

Do You Hear What I Hear? A Christmas Sermon

A few years ago I preached a Christmas sermon on John 1 here in Lynchburg.  The history of this sermon is interesting.  In college (and later in seminary) I was challenged by my preaching profs to do a Christmas sermon on John 1.  In both classes I wrote just such a sermon.  It was not until I moved to Virginia, however, that I decided to share these thoughts.  I borrowed the name of a popular Christmas song, and the notes below are the result.  As I've been thinking about the story of Christmas, I kept coming back to these thoughts on John 1.  So, I decided to reprint these sermon notes (with some changes).  Feel free to leave some comments, I hope these notes are a blessing to you!  Merry Christmas!

Do You Hear What I Hear?
John 1:14-18

Introduction

What’s the good word?

Our world seems obsessed with communication. We have phones that are not for making calls only, but are also used to surf the internet, to send text messages, to even read books and watch movies!

All around us we are bombarded by some sort of communication—billboards, text messages, commercials, even pop up ads on-line.

We are a people drowning in information who at times seem to be longing for meaningful communication.

We want to hear a “good word,” something that is helpful or communicates hope. We want to hear some good news.

Have you ever noticed how often “words” play a role in Scripture?

1. In the beginning, God “said” or “spoke” and there was ______________

2. God spoke to Adam and Eve in the morning

3. God spoke the Law to Moses

4. God spoke to the Jews through prophets (Hebrews 1)

5. On the first Christmas, God spoke through dreams and angels

6. God speaks to us today through his Son the Word and through his written Word—Scripture 

Whenever God wants to make something known, he speaks

God likes to communicate, he wants us to know what is going on

Three elements in communication—the speaker, the message, the hearer

For good communication to happen, all three have to function properly

What happens when God communicates?

God is the speaker, and he reveals himself to us by his message (i.e., his Word)

God is infallible, and his Word is perfect, so that puts the emphasis on the hearers

God speaks, but are we listening?

This Christmas, God offers us a Word—that Word is his self-disclosure, his speaking of himself through his Son

When God speaks, we should listen

Do you hear what I hear?

John 1:14-18

In this passage I hear God saying three things. Let’s see if we hear the same thing.

1. I hear that the Word is among us, vv. 14, 18 (The Word Among Us)

2. I hear that The Word is Before Us, v. 15 (The World Before Us)

3. I hear that The Word is full of Grace, vv. 16-17 (The Word of Grace)

First, I hear that the Word is among us, vv. 14, 18 (The Word Among Us)

a. The Word became “flesh”—when God spoke, it was personal and a bit messy. God spoke in these last days to us through his Son (Heb. 1:1-3). This “Word” takes on flesh (Romans 8:3). The word “flesh” here is not a pretty word. God doesn’t say that his “Word” became simply “human.” No, Jesus became “flesh,” he took on our situation; he identified with us; he was tempted like us (yet without sin—cf. Heb. 2:14-18; 4:14-16; 2 Cor. 5:20-21). Jesus got involved in our messy existence and by doing so offered a means to clean up our mess. By being one of us, Jesus healed and redeemed our situation. Do you hear what I hear?

b. The Word dwelt among us (tabernacle)—When God spoke, he didn’t do it from a distance. He came among us. In the OT, God’s presence among his people was signified by the tabernacle and its three chambers. The inner chamber (where God’s glory dwelt) was only accessible once a year by one person on the Day of Atonement. Jesus’ coming as God’s Word makes that glory accessible to all of us by pitching his tent (taking up his dwelling place) among us. He lives with us, he lives among us. He has not left us nor forsaken us. Do you hear what I hear?

c. The Word is full of glory—When God spoke, he made his glory known. When Jesus came, we saw God’s glory. In the OT, God’s glory was hidden (remember Moses and the Tabernacle), but with the birth of Jesus God’s glory now becomes obvious to all. God makes himself known in Jesus. Do you hear what I hear?

d. This Word was never seen before, but now we see him—He who was invisible has now become visible (Colossians 1:15-17; cf. Rom. 1:18-20). In Jesus we see the invisible attributes of God. Jesus makes God visible and known. Do you hear what I hear?

e. The Word has explained God—Jesus showed the way to God, he exegeted God. He explained God. Jesus made God understandable. What was inexplicable now is explained. What was inscrutable is now “scrutable.” In Jesus God is capable of being understood. Do you hear what I hear?

When God speaks, we should listen

Do you hear what I hear?

When God “spoke” in Jesus, he became one of us (flesh), he pitched his tent among us (tabernacle), he made visible his invisible glory (we saw his glory, that which no one had seen), he offered an explanation of God’s grace and truth, and our response is to witness his glory and proclaim it to others

Second, I hear that The Word is Before Us, v. 15 (The World Before Us)

a. He is superior to us because he existed before us (John 1:1-3; Phil 2:5-8)

i. Jesus’ superiority is explained in detail in the letter to the Hebrews

ii. Although the author of that letter dwells on Jesus’ superiority to many things and people (i.e., angels, Moses, Aaron, the Levites, the sacrifices, etc.), he also goes out of his way to remind us that Jesus is one of us (cf. Heb. 2:14-18; 4:14-16). He is not an alien. He is superior, yes, but in his humanity the child in the manger brings God’s glory to all people (remember the angels, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased."—Luke 2:14)

Jesus is “before” us

Do you hear what I hear?

Because of his position, we are called to testify of his superiority and glory (this is what John does here)

b. But Jesus also lives “before” us in the idea of being right in front of our eyes. God is not hidden, he is in our midst. Jesus is known to us. Remember, what was unseen is now visible. The babe in the manger makes the glory of God known to all humanity. Jesus’ very existence has explained God to us all. He is right in front of us. Will we pay attention?

When God speaks, we should listen

Do you hear what I hear?

When God reveals himself, he sometimes uses the testimony of others (John), he reveals his superior nature (he is before us and existed without us), as a result he is worthy of our worship and our testimony

Third, I hear that The Word is full of Grace, vv. 16-17 (The Word of Grace)

a. We have all received from his fullness (full of grace and truth—cf. John 1:14; Col. 1:5-6)

i. Jesus is the fullness of God (Col 2:9-10)

ii. Christ is the ultimate expression of grace and truth

1. He is grace in that he was freely given for us all (John 3:16; 1 John 2:1-2)

2. He is truth in that he reveals clearly who God is and how to get to God (John 14:6)

b. Grace stacked up on grace (cf. Heb. 4:16)

i. The idea here is an endless supply of grace

ii. Like a warehouse with an unending supply of boxes stacked up against each other, so Jesus offers an ongoing and never exhaustible warehouse of grace

iii. He is grace beyond measure, He is grace yesterday, today, and forever

iv. His grace is never shallow and is trustworthy

c. Law reveals God, but Jesus brings grace and truth to reality (grace and truth “became” through Jesus, same word as “became” flesh)

d. We all receive his grace

i. 1 John 2:1-2 reminds us that Jesus is the propitiation for the sins even of the whole world (i.e., in 1 John 5, the “whole world” is described as those in the hands of the devil)

ii. The grace of God is available to all people by means of the incarnation as Jesus reveals and explains God’s grace

iii. The grace of God is effective in the crucifixion as the blood of Jesus is applied to the sins of humans

iv. The grace of God is sealed by the resurrection in which God declares his work completed and finished

When God speaks, we should listen

Do you hear what I hear?

When God “spoke” the word of grace, he provided an unlimited storehouse of the gift of grace, he made it available to all (we “all” received it), and he makes grace and truth a reality in Jesus, our response is to live God’s grace and truth as a tangible example of God’s Word spoken to us—we “incarnate” God’s grace and truth in our own lives

Application/Conclusion

a. Are we listening to God during this Christmas season? Are we paying attention to the “Word” he speaks in Jesus and the Incarnation? Do people see his “grace and truth” in how we live in response to God’s Word?

b. Have you experienced his grace? What a Christmas gift you could receive today if you yield yourself to God and receive his grace in Jesus Christ. John 1:11-13 reminds us that to those who receive him (i.e., put their trust in him) he gives authority to be called the children of God. (Give an overview of Gospel here, offer salvation to all).

c. For those of us who have experienced this wonderful gift, how can we respond to this “word” from God? Do you hear what I hear? If so, here are some suggestions for you:

i. This Christmas, testify of his glory in the “baby Jesus”

ii. Speak of his superiority

iii. Speak of his grace and truth

iv. Take opportunity to share the truth of God’s Incarnation during the Christmas season

When God speaks, people ought to listen

Do you hear what I hear?

Thanks for reading!