Day 360 All to Jesus: A Year of Devotions Robert J Morgan
1 Timothy 3:14-16 (MSG) 14. “I hope to visit you soon, but just in case I’m delayed, I’m writing this letter so 15. you’ll know how things ought to go in God’s household, this God-alive church, bastion of truth. 16. This Christian life is a great mystery, far exceeding our understanding, but some things are clear enough: He appeared in a human body, was proved right by the invisible Spirit, was seen by angels. He was proclaimed among all kinds of peoples, believed in all over the world, taken up into heavenly glory.”
I’ve preached about Christmas each December for thirty years, and last year I was suddenly overwhelmed with wondering if there was anything new I could say. Humbly asking God for insight, I read through the accounts again, and I actually did see something new! I noticed everyone intimately acquainted with the coming of the Christ child responded with great worship and spontaneous thanksgiving. Indeed, there was a universality of praise among all involved. I then shared the following:
>When Elizabeth heard the news, she was filled with the Holy Spirit and exclaimed her wonderment with a loud voice. Even her unborn child leaped in the womb (Luke 1:41).
>When Zachariah finally spoke, he was filled with the Holy Spirit and proclaimed, “Praise the Lord, the God of Israel” (Luke 1:67-68).
>Mary’s response was: My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior” (Luke 1:46-47).
>The angels praised, “Glory to God in the highest heave!” (Luke 2:14).
>Simeon in the temple took the Christ child in his arms and praised God (Luke 2:28).
> Old Anna saw the Babe, thanking God and speaking about Him (Luke 2:38).
>The magi were “overjoyed beyond measure,” and falling to their knees, worshipped Him (Matt. 2: 10-11).
>And the shepherds glorified and praised God for ALL they had seen and heard (Luke 2:20).
BOTTOM LINE:
So, considering the above examples and the sweeping mandate of I Timothy 3:16, why are we on eggshells this year? If necessary & pertinent, contemplate that question today. Consider I Peter 3:15 “Honor Christ and let Him be the Lord of your life. Always be ready to give an answer when someone asks you about your hope.”