The Original Christmas Playlist Simeon s Song December 17, 2017
|
|
- Damian Gaines
- 6 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 The Original Christmas Playlist Simeon s Song December 17, 2017 I want to begin with a Christmas confession I m not a very Christmassy guy. I m not one to decorate much, if at all. I don t put up lights outside. I don t put wreaths on my front door. I don t sing carols. I DO though eat Christmas cookies. And I also don t listen to Christmas music on my own. My wife Tammy however, is a Christmassy person especially when it comes to music. A couple weeks ago she was preparing for her daughter to come over and make Christmas cookies, and part of the preparation was the making of a Christmas music playlist on Spotify for them to listen to. Of course I was of no help in this, so I continued to get myself ready to leave and let the ladies have free reign of the house. I had other manly things to do, like play cards with my friends. So, as I prepared to leave I heard 10 second snippets of various songs that she was putting on her playlist. She d have a song in mind, but had to listen to the beginning of every version of that song before you placed on the playlist. And so, without realizing what was happening, I was getting brainwashed into the Christmas music spirit. How did I know? Well, I m glad you asked. You see, an hour later as I was sitting around the table with seven other guys I caught myself humming this Christmas song that I had heard just before I left. See if you know it. [Frank Sinatra Jingle Bells 50 seconds] Kinda catchy huh? Christmas and music just go together. They re like peas and carrots, peanut butter and jelly, shoes and socks, nerds and Star Wars they are just meant to go together. And it s been that way since the beginning. Over the last three weeks we ve been looking at the original Christmas playlist of songs recorded in the Gospel of Luke and today we are going to look at the last of them, the song of a man named Simeon, which can be found in Luke Chapter 2. Now, there are some important things that set the stage for what we re looking at today. One thing we ve got to take into account is that Jesus parents, Mary and Joseph were devout Jews, and they lived by the Jewish laws and customs. And one of those laws was that after a woman gave birth she had to purify herself by making sacrifice at the Temple in Jerusalem 40 days after a baby boy born. So the story we re looking at today happened when Jesus was about 6 weeks old. Well after the Christmas day. So Mary and Joseph make the journey from Bethlehem to Jerusalem, about 6 miles, probably on foot carrying their baby with them. But they were also probably carrying their sacrifice with them. Luke tells us that Mary and Joseph came bringing two doves to present to God. By the way that s the designated sacrifice of a poor family. [PICTURE: Mary and Joseph at Temple] So I picture Mary walking into the Temple courts holding her six-week-old son. And Joseph is by her side holding a little wooden cage with two doves in it. The place where this scene unfolds is in the Temple Courts. There would have been hundreds, if not thousands, of people coming and going that day. Dozens of parents would have been there with their six-week-old babies and their sacrifices. Some people were at the Temple to make special thank offerings, and guilt offerings, and all kinds of other things. Some were there from far away making a yearly pilgrimage to Jerusalem. Some were there to learn from a famous Rabbi, or teacher, who would have had a spot in the Temple courts to gather students. So Mary and Joseph walk into this swarm of people and animals with their baby and their little wooden cage looking for the place where they need to go to make their sacrifice. They re on a mission, and I imagine that they want to do what they have to do and get out, but as they are 1
2 making their way through the crowd their mission is interrupted by an elderly man that they don t know. Simeon. Aside from what we are told in Luke 2, we know nothing about Simeon. We don t know his background, his hometown, his education, or even his occupation. We assume he was a priest because of his devoted time in the temple. We also assume he was an old man but even that is not a certain fact. He simply appears on the stage of history as a small player in the events surrounding the birth of Christ. After his part is over, he fades from the scene, never to be heard from again. Here comes Mary, here comes Joseph, and here comes Simeon. Simeon has never seen Joseph or Mary before, and they ve never seen him before. But a divinely-planned encounter is about to take place. Luke tells the story this way: At that time there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon. He was righteous and devout and was eagerly waiting for the Messiah to come and rescue Israel. The Holy Spirit was upon him and had revealed to him that he would not die until he had seen the Lord s Messiah. (Luke 2:25-26) So, from this we know that Simeon was a righteous man, he was a devout, he was waiting for the Messiah to come. He was also a Spirit-filled man, and most importantly, he was eagerly awaiting the imminent appearance of the Messiah. But the last part of this verse is fascinating. The Holy Spirit had told him, You will not die before you see the Messiah. What a promise that was. If Simeon is now an old man, as we assume, then he s been waiting in the Temple for many years. Day by day he had prayed for the Lord s Christ to finally appear. Year after year his prayers were to no avail. As he grew older, his anticipation grew stronger because he knew he couldn t live forever. Perhaps he is now 70 or 75 or even 80 years old. Perhaps he has a long gray beard, stooped shoulders, wrinkled face, bushy eyebrows, and trembling hands. If so, then he knows it can t be long. The Lord s Messiah must be coming at any moment. Can you imagine the scene? Early every morning Simeon goes to the Temple, watching and waiting for the Messiah to come. How would he know him? What should he look for? Did he know to look for a baby? Or was he looking for a teenager or a strong young man? No one knows the answer to those questions. Day by day he kept watch over the people coming into the Temple. Each time a young couple came in with a baby, he whispered, Lord, Is that the one? If he saw a teenager, he would say, Is that the one, Lord, or is it someone else? Each day he watched, and looked, and questioned. Each day the answer came back, time and again, No, that s not the one. Keep looking. Keep watching. Keep waiting. Here comes Mary holding the baby in her arms with Joseph by her side carrying some birds in a wooden cage. Jesus is only forty days old. Never was there a more unlikely couple. They are obviously from the country. They obviously don t have much money. If you were people-watching, you wouldn t give them a second glance. They re not college educated. Not from the upper-crust. There just from a small town of Nazareth. And on this day they ve traveled to the cosmopolitan city of Jerusalem. Timidly they walk into the Temple courts. And when Simeon sees them, he asks his question for the 10,000th time, Is this the one? And the Holy Spirit says, Yes. This is the one Simeon. Suddenly Simeon s heart leaps within him. The long days of waiting are finally over. The Lord s Christ is before him. Here is the One for whom the nation has been waiting. He walks over, introduces himself, and says, Do you mind if I hold your child? As Mary gives the infant Jesus to Simeon, the thought hits him, I am holding the salvation of the world in my arms. 2
3 At that point Simeon breaks out into a song of praise, a song that is so beautiful that it has come down through the centuries to us as the final and climactic song of Christmas. We don t know the melody to this song, or how Simeon sang it. Maybe he was into country music, so he had a twang in his voice or maybe he was more of a Motown soulful singer, or maybe he sang more like old blue eyes himself. But regardless of how he sang it, the words the lyrics are want matter. Check this out. Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace, as you have promised. I have seen your salvation, which you have prepared for all people. He is a light to reveal God to the nations, and he is the glory of your people Israel! (29-32) Simeon s first thought is that he is now ready to die in peace. The long wait is over, the years of anticipation are over, his duty is finished, for he has seen and personally held the Lord s Messiah. Sometimes we hear stories of terminally ill patients who say, Doctor, I d like to stay alive until Easter. Then when Easter comes, they quietly slip away. Or they say, I d like to stay alive until my granddaughter gets married. My grandfather had believed that God had told him he d live ten more years after the death of my Grandma Vi. And so, when he was days away from dying, he kept asking about what day it was. Finally his last morning came and he began to say, today is the day. I made it didn t I? And, even though it was still a week or so away, my aunt loving told him yes, today is ten years, you can go now. Later that day he breathed his last breath. This happens often. People live long enough to see her down the aisle, or see the birth of a grandchild, or make it to a special anniversary and then they are gone. Doctors see it happen all the time. Once the goal is reached, life is complete and death comes quickly. That s exactly how Simeon feels. He won t live to see the Lord grow up. He won t witness any of the great miracles. He won t see Jesus walk on water, feed the 5,000 or raise the dead. Simeon will be long gone when Jesus stands before Pilate. The crucifixion is hidden to him, as is the resurrection. But it doesn t matter that he won t see the end because SIMEON HAS SEEN THE BEGINNING, AND THAT IS ENOUGH. What is something so important for each of us that, even if we were just in on the beginning of it, it would be enough? For followers of Jesus, our mission is to lead people to an active faith in Jesus Christ; loving God, loving others, and serving the world. What does it look like to be a part of that mission, and be joy-filled to see and contribute to only the beginning of that? Would you be the one standing at the door or in the lobby, offering a genuine, grateful welcome to someone who is new? That might be your only contact ever with that individual, but you could be at the beginning of that person realizing that the way you welcomed him or her represents the welcome of Jesus. You might be preparing a gift for our, planning to spend half of what you would spend on presents for others, and giving the rest, or sacrificing as much as you would spend on gifts. You ll never see what that offering will do. But what you give could be the gift that helps awaken faith for a college age person or helps a family in Los Rosas, Nicaragua start a business that changes their very existence. Is that important enough that you d be content to be only a part of the beginning? To what beginning in love of God, love of others, and service to God s world is God calling you right now? For Simeon he had seen the messiah, the beginning, and it was enough. Now, look at the end of the song at what Simeon says about Jesus. Jesus will be a light to reveal God to the nations, and he is the glory of your people Israel! LOOK AT THE LAST ONE FIRST JESUS IS THE GLORY OF ISRAEL. In this baby, Simeon sees the fulfillment of all the hopes and dreams of the Jewish people across the centuries. To call Jesus the glory of the people of Israel takes us back to the time of 3
4 Abraham when the Lord said, I will make your name great, and make of you a great nation, and through you all the nations of the earth shall be blessed. After that came the reaffirmation to Abraham s son Isaac, and then to Jacob. Still later God told Moses that one-day a great prophet would come who would be unlike any other prophet before him. Still later God promised David a son who would reign on his throne forever. Still later God spoke through Isaiah and promised that a son would be born of a virgin, and that his name would be called Immanuel God With Us. Still later, Micah predicted that Messiah would be born in Bethlehem. For generations the promises were repeated from father to son, from mother to daughter, from family to family, from the older to the younger, and Jewish children were taught to pray for the Messiah s appearance. By the time you get to the first century, you have all these centuries of expectation built up. And now, after all these years, all God s promises are coming true. That s what Simeon means when he calls Jesus the glory of Israel. Simeon has the one, the beginning of the changing of the world. He has seen Jesus, who will forever altar the soundtrack of all mankind. Simeon saw the beginning, and the beginning was good enough. Simeon also calls Jesus a light to reveal God to the nations. And right here, Simeon declares a new idea. You won t find this in the other songs of Christmas. Mary s song is completely Jewish. She thinks in Jewish terms and expresses her thoughts in Jewish ways. The nations or as other Biblical translations say it, the Gentiles are nowhere in view. The same is true of Zechariah. The angels song broadens the viewpoint by mentioning, Peace on earth, goodwill toward men. But nowhere in any of the previous songs are the Gentiles mentioned by name. But Simeon s song explicitly says that this baby will not only be the glory of his own people Israel. He will also be the light of revelation for the Gentiles. He s not just for Israel. He didn t come just for their benefit. He came to shine a light of the revelation of God into every nation, every tribe, every kindred and every tongue. The Jews couldn t say, He belongs to us and you can t have him. Nor could they say, You have to become a Jew to enjoy Messiah s benefits. No! He s the Savior of the whole world. He came to shine the light to be THE LIGHT to the whole world. And that means there is hope for you at Christmastime. 2,000 years ago Simeon sang the words that have become the defining story of my life. I ve had my share of darkness. I ve let the darkness of failure cling to me for years when I wasn t a good father when I was 20. I ve lived in shame, carrying around lies of my past. I ve lived in fear facing a cancer diagnosis. I ve lived in hell going through divorce. I ve stayed awake at night with only the darkness to keep me company as I worried about my kids, about my career, about my future. I ve accepted the words inside my head that told me that I m worthless, that I m not good enough. The dark always has a way of reminding you of your worst. But the light, Jesus, THE LIGHT was born to overcome that darkness. HE overcame my darkness. Simeon saw the beginning in Jesus that day. He saw the child that would actually save me from my darkest times. And if Jesus could do that for me, I know he can do the same for you. If you are lonely this year, Simeon s song includes you. If your family has rejected you, Jesus means to include you. If you feel forgotten, depressed, discouraged, and down on your luck, be of good cheer, Christmas is for you! Whatever sins are holding you back this year, Christmas means that you can be forgiven, because Jesus came for you. It s true that our Lord was a Jew. But he didn t come just for the Jews. In all of this, Simeon is telling us something crucial. By sending his Son to the earth, he is not only fulfilling his promises to the nation. He is also bringing to the world a Savior for all people everywhere. That s what Christmas is about. It s seeing that the gift that you ve been waiting with anticipation is here. 4
5 The gift of a child messiah that changed the world can change your world. And that s something worth singing, now shouting about! But here s the thing about a gift. We often say it s better to give than to receive. But at Christmas, the opposite is true. Accepting this gift of The Light, the messiah to the world accepting this child as not just the savior of the world, but the savior of you story, your song, is the most important part of Christmas. Accepting this gift is the beginning, and to see that beginning today, is just enough. And so that s how we end our playlist. Simeon sings, Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace, as you have promised. I have seen your salvation, which you have prepared for all people. He is a light to reveal God to the nations, and he is the glory of your people Israel! (29-32) Prayer: Holy Spirit help me receive today, for the first time, or once again, The Light. Jesus, become a part of my story, my life s playlist, and let it begin today. 5
1 CHRISTMAS DEVOTIONAL SUMMARIZE IT
1 CHRISTMAS DEVOTIONAL The people of Israel had waited a very long time for their Messiah (or A LOOK AHEAD During the month of December there will be about 10 devotionals focusing on the birth of Jesus
More informationSermon for the 4 Sunday of Advent. Magnificat
1 th Sermon for the 4 Sunday of Advent Text: Luke 1: 46-47, 54-55 Mary said, My heart praises the Lord; my soul is glad because of God my Saviour. He has kept the promise he made to our ancestors, and
More informationLife of Christ. Beginnings to Baptism. NT111 LESSON 02 of 07. An Angel Brings Good News
Life of Christ NT111 LESSON 02 of 07 An Angel Brings Good News Christian University This course was developed by Christian University & Our Daily Bread Ministries. But the angel said to him, Do not be
More informationThe Christmas Story. Zechariah and Elizabeth. From Luke 1:1-25
The Christmas Story Zechariah and Elizabeth From Luke 1:1-25 In the days when Herod was king of Judea there was a priest named Zechariah. His wife s name was Elizabeth and they were both honorable and
More informationDECEMBER 1 ST GOD S PLAN FOR CHRISTMAS
Thank you for following the link to the answer sheet for A Jesus Christmas. The answers for this family devotional are below. If you want to have more copies of this sheet, you can download the pdf from
More informationChristmas Lesson Part 1: Simeon. Start a dialogue about the meaning of the word expecting :
Christmas Lesson Part 1: Simeon The focus of this lesson is to introduce Simeon and emphasize the fact that he lived his life expecting God s promises to be fulfilled. Start a dialogue about the meaning
More informationShepherds December 20, 2015 Luke 2:8-20. For hundreds of years before His birth, prophets foretold the coming of the Anointed One from
I. Introduction Shepherds December 20, 2015 Luke 2:8-20 For hundreds of years before His birth, prophets foretold the coming of the Anointed One from God the Messiah or, as He is called in Greek, the Christ.
More informationThe Promised One. Why is music such an important part of the Christmas season? What songs do you look forward to hearing during this time of the year?
Session 4 The Promised One Jesus is the promised Messiah, the One who provides salvation to all who trust Him. LUKE 2:25-38 Christmas just wouldn t be the same without music. Whether it s in restaurants,
More informationLighting the Advent Wreath 2007
Lighting the Advent Wreath 2007 About Advent Advent comes from the Latin word 'adventus' meaning 'Coming.' Advent begins the church year starting four Sundays before Christmas. The season of Advent has
More informationCHRISTMAS IS FOR ORDINARY DAYS
Luke 2:22-40 December 31, 2017 CHRISTMAS IS FOR ORDINARY DAYS There s a fairly well-known Christmas poem written by Henry Van Dyke that s often pulled off the shelves and dusted off for the Sunday after
More informationLuke 1:26-31, 2:22, New International Version December 23, 2018
Luke 1:26-31, 2:22, 25-35 New International Version December 23, 2018 The International Bible Lesson (Uniform Sunday School Lessons Series) for Sunday, December 23, 2018, is from Luke 1:26-31, 2:22, 25-35.
More informationMAIN POINT: God chose Mary and Joseph to be Jesus earthly parents.
SESSION TITLE: Angels Spoke to Mary and Joseph BIBLE PASSAGE: Matthew 1:18-24; Luke 1:26-56 MAIN POINT: God chose Mary and Joseph to be Jesus earthly parents. KEY PASSAGE: 1 John 4:9, This is how God showed
More informationHOW TO USE THIS GUIDE
GOD WITH US Cover HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE We want you to use this Advent devotional in a way that points your heart toward Christ in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Each week has a Scripture passage,
More informationPromises--Past, Present, Future November 27, 2016 Isaiah 53:1-12
I. Introduction Promises--Past, Present, Future November 27, 2016 Isaiah 53:1-12 Christmas is a time of year that creates anticipation. I know growing up I couldn t wait until Christmas to open up my presents.
More informationAvoiding Disappointment
Richard Davenport December 30, 2018 1 st Sunday after Christmas Text: Luke 2:22-40 (NIV) Jesus Presented in the Temple Avoiding Disappointment 22 When the time came for the purification rites required
More informationMary s Faith, Luke 1:26-38 (Second Sunday of Advent, December 9, 2018)
Mary s Faith, Luke 1:26-38 (Second Sunday of Advent, December 9, 2018) 26 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, 27 to a virgin betrothed to a man whose
More informationA YOUNG MAN S PREDICAMENT Matthew 1:18-25
A YOUNG MAN S PREDICAMENT Matthew 1:18-25 Matthew 1:18-25 (NKJV) 18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: After His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found
More information1 st -3 rd Grade Kids Bible Study Guide Unit 16, Session 1: Angels Spoke to Mary and Joseph
TEACHER BIBLE STUDY People had been waiting a long time for Jesus. God hinted at His coming in the garden of Eden when He promised a seed to conquer the serpent. (Genesis 3:15) The prophets told of His
More information4 th -6 th Grade Kids Bible Study Guide Unit 16, Session 1: Angels Spoke to Mary and Joseph
TEACHER BIBLE STUDY 4 th -6 th Grade Kids Bible Study Guide People had been waiting a long time for Jesus. God hinted at His coming in the garden of Eden when He promised a seed to conquer the serpent.
More informationDirections for Use. I hope these devotions will spur your creativity and bless your kids! Amanda Singer
Directions for Use In the Kids Choir Program at Community Bible Church, we begin with worship and devotional time every week. It is so important that kids have spiritual reference on each song they sing.
More informationBEFORE BABY JESUS BIRTH Matthew 1:18-25; Luke 1:5-80
BEFORE BABY JESUS BIRTH Matthew 1:18-25; Luke 1:5-80 STRUCTURE Key-persons: Zechariah, Mary, and Joseph Key-locations: Jerusalem and Nazareth Key-repetitions: Angels: angel Gabriel visited Zechariah (Lk
More informationWE ARE WAITING FOR JESUS ON CHRISTMAS. God s Promise. "I am coming." Psalm 40:7. My Promise. "On this Christmas, I will be waiting for you.
WE ARE WAITING FOR JESUS ON CHRISTMAS God s Promise "I am coming." Psalm 40:7 My Promise "On this Christmas, I will be waiting for you." Bible Reading Psalm 40:4-10 OPENING I remember when I was a child
More informationSermon Pastor Ray Lorthioir Trinity Lutheran Church W. Hempstead, NY Based on Mark 7:37, James 2:18 and Acts 2:36-39, 42-47
Sermon 9-9-18 Pastor Ray Lorthioir Trinity Lutheran Church W. Hempstead, NY Based on Mark 7:37, James 2:18 and Acts 2:36-39, 42-47 You Are What You Believe How would a Jew or any gentile who reads the
More informationLuke 1:39-46 Joy to the World Rev. Jonathan P. Cornell
Luke 1:39-46 Joy to the World Rev. Jonathan P. Cornell 12-16-18 I want to invite you to do something for me. Take a moment and bring to the front of your mind a time in life when you received profoundly
More informationPAUL S MISSION (Text: Acts 9:1-28:31)
THE STORY, Message #29 Sunday Morning, September 30 th, 2012 Barry L. Cameron Pastor PAUL S MISSION (Text: Acts 9:1-28:31) Read: Acts 9:1-7; 10-16 The Bible opens with four phenomenal words: In the beginning
More informationLuke 1:26-31, 2:22, King James Version December 23, 2018
Luke 1:26-31, 2:22, 25-35 King James Version December 23, 2018 The International Bible Lesson (Uniform Sunday School Lessons Series) for Sunday, December 23, 2018, is from Luke 1:26-31, 2:22, 25-35. Questions
More information2) That s the second point for this sermon. Mary sang with Bible knowledge.
Luke 1:54-55 Dear children of God, brothers and sisters in Christ, and guests, two more days, and it will be Christmas. Today is the last Sunday of Advent. Our reflection on expectation is almost over.
More informationThe Miracle. December 4, 2016
The Miracle December 4, 2016 Matthew 1:1, 16-25 I. Introduction This morning, the 2 nd candle of the Advent wreath reminds us of the wondrous miracle of the birth of Jesus Christ. The American College
More informationGROW.PRAY.STUDY. Weekly Study Guide
GROW.PRAY.STUDY Weekly Study Guide Unexpected Journey: An Unexpected Announcement December 2, 2018 Scripture: Luke 1:26-38 (Good News Translation) In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy God sent the
More informationDEDICATIONS OF FIRSTBORN MINISTRY INVOCATION My God: We give thanks to You for the manifold blessings to us. We shall remain eternally grateful. Amen.
December 20, 2015 ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON DEDICATIONS OF FIRSTBORN MINISTRY INVOCATION My God: We give thanks to You for the manifold blessings to us. We shall remain eternally grateful. Amen. WHAT
More informationQuotable. JESUS: THE INDESCRIBABLE GIFT Jesus: The Gift of God s Hope Twelve Daily Studies for Christmas
Quotable For centuries, righteous Jews have put their hope in the coming of the Messiah. They ve lived on tiptoe, looking toward the horizon for the Promised One to arise like the dawn of a new day to
More informationAnd the WORD BECAME FLESH and dwelt among us, and WE HAVE SEEN HIS GLORY, glory as of the only Son from the Father, FULL OF GRACE AND TRUTH.
2017 And the WORD BECAME FLESH and dwelt among us, and WE HAVE SEEN HIS GLORY, glory as of the only Son from the Father, FULL OF GRACE AND TRUTH. John 1:14 WHAT IS ADVENT? And the Word became flesh and
More informationInvited to the Stable. A 6-Day Family Advent Devotional. Does your family have a nativity set?
Invited to the Stable A 6-Day Family Advent Devotional Does your family have a nativity set? In many Christian homes, children grow up playing with plastic figures of Mary and Joseph around Christmas time.
More informationWaiting. First Sunday of Advent Pastor Lyle L. Wahl December 2, 2012
Waiting First Sunday of Advent Pastor Lyle L. Wahl December 2, 2012 Introduction The countdown to Christmas begins on this first day of Advent, and so we are taking a break from our series in James until
More informationLife of Christ. Introducing the Son of God! NT111 LESSON 03 of 07. The Lamb of God!
Life of Christ NT111 LESSON 03 of 07 Christian University This course was developed by Christian University & Our Daily Bread Ministries. The Lamb of God! The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him
More informationMatthew 1: Luke 2:1-4
Matthew 1:18-25 This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit.
More informationauthorities say he would also have been stoned because he was also guilty) Or, he could quietly have the contract set aside for a time while she went
The Christmas Story This is just a short program for Christmas based on the reading of the well-known Christmas story. The intent is to give another insight into the often read story and try to see things
More informationCONVERSATIONS Advent: Isaiah. Isaiah 9:1-7 (NIV)
Advent: Isaiah Isaiah 9:1-7 (NIV) 1 Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will
More informationZechariah Prophesies About Jesus Luke 1:68-79
Session 2 Zechariah Prophesies About Jesus Luke 1:68-79 Worship Theme: God meets our needs. Weaving Faith Into Life: Children will praise God for the loving way he meets their needs. Session Sequence What
More informationThe Real. Jesus. A study through the Gospel of Luke. BOOK 6: His preparation
The Real Jesus A study through the Gospel of Luke BOOK 6: His preparation 3 T h e R e a l J e s u s 4 T h e R e a l J e s u s BECOMING A CHRISTIAN In the Bible, God reveals His truth about how to have
More informationI am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life. John 8:12
I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life. John 8:12 1 Boxing Day/Tomorrow 9.30 am Service No Night Service I am the light of the world.
More informationCELEBRATING WEEK FOUR of ADVENT
CELEBRATING WEEK FOUR of ADVENT Therefore the Lord himself will give you this sign: the virgin shall be with child and bear a son, and shall name him Immanuel. - Isaiah 7:14 We pause and remember that
More informationJoy: The Shepherds Candle Luke 2:8 20
CORNERSTONE BIBLE CHURCH December 14, 2014 Joy: The Shepherds Candle Luke 2:8 20 Introduction: Birth Announcements This past Monday night, we received news that some of our good friends from our church
More informationThe Journey to Bethlehem: Joseph December 4, 2016
The Journey to Bethlehem: Joseph December 4, 2016 Matthew 1: 18-24 18 This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together,
More informationAdvent and Christmas Festival of Worship and Music 9:00 and 10:30 December 20, 2015 Calvary Lutheran Church, Grand Forks, ND
Advent and Christmas Festival of Worship and Music 9:00 and 10:30 December 20, 2015 Calvary Lutheran Church, Grand Forks, ND Prelude Welcome Welcome to this special service of worship in which with music
More informationThe Birth of Jesus Foretold
Story 79 riah that because he didn t believe God s word, he wouldn t be able to speak until everything God had told him came true. At that moment, Zechariah discovered that he couldn t speak. He had a
More informationihope CHRISTMAS Devotions Ami Sandstrom Shroyer
ihope CHRISTMAS Devotions Ami Sandstrom Shroyer Breakdown of Each Lesson: This section sets the stage for each song and why it s important. This section looks at what should be center stage in the story.
More informationThe Requirement of Hope
Hope Is Here The Requirement of Hope Luke 1:26-50 This morning as we open God s Word we start a new sermon series that is focused on the reason for the season. In many ways it is hard to believe that we
More informationAngels Spoke to Mary and Joseph
Use Week of: Angels Spoke to Mary and Joseph BIBLE PASSAGE: Matthew 1; Luke 1 STORY POINT: God chose Mary and Joseph to be Jesus earthly parents. KEY PASSAGE: Galatians 4:4-5 BIG PICTURE QUESTION: Why
More informationThe Naming of Jesus. The Naming of Jesus
The Naming of Jesus (Text from Luke 1:31-32, Matthew 1:21, and Luke 2:21-39) A Booklet from www.hubbardscupboard.org and www.joyfulheartlearning,com 2015 Clipart Copyright @ Kari Bolt Scripture quoted
More informationLONG HOLLOW BAPTIST CHURCH AUTHENTIC JESUS THE ARRIVAL (LUKE 2:1-52) AUGUST 19, 2012 DISCUSSION PLAN PREPARATION HIGHLIGHTS
LONG HOLLOW BAPTIST CHURCH AUTHENTIC JESUS THE ARRIVAL (LUKE 2:1-52) AUGUST 19, 2012 DISCUSSION PLAN PREPARATION > SPEND THE WEEK READING THROUGH AND STUDYING LUKE 2:1-52. Consult the commentary provided
More informationThe Four Weeks of Advent
THE SUNDAY GOSPEL Commentary and Reflection Questions for Each Week The Four Weeks of Advent Watching and waiting for our Savior BY AMY EKEH, MA DECEMBER 3 1st Sunday of Advent Mark 13:33-37 REFLECT: The
More informationHOPES & FEARS Dealing With Disappointment at Christmas
HOPES & FEARS Dealing With Disappointment at Christmas Psa 146:5-10; Isaiah 35:1-10; Luke 1:46b-55; Matt 11:2-11; James 5:7-10 Why These Advent Texts? A young pastor in another state wrote me a few days
More informationbrings out very painstakingly some salient truths. Mary is approaching the end of her pregnancy and as they arrive in Bethlehem there is no room for
IV. Advent in Biblical Perspective The Advent Names of the Redeemer A Savior, Who Is Christ the Lord Luke 2:8 20 Dr. Harry L. Reeder III December 21, 2014 Morning Sermon We will be in Luke 2 and I will
More informationIntroduction to the gospel of Luke: Luke 1: 1-4. The foretelling of John the Baptist's birth: Luke 1: The angel's visit: Luke 1: 11-20
Read: Luke 1: 1-25 Introduction to the gospel of Luke: Luke 1: 1-4 1. What was Luke's purpose in writing the book of Luke? The foretelling of John the Baptist's birth: Luke 1: 5-11 2. What are two of the
More informationThe Jesse Tree. "A shoot will spring forth from the stump of Jesse, and a branch out of his roots. Isaiah 11:1
Written By Shannon Schultz, published and hosted by 1+1+1=1 www.1plus1plus1equals1.com The Jesse Tree "A shoot will spring forth from the stump of Jesse, and a branch out of his roots. Isaiah 11:1 Jesse
More informationCreation; The World Read Genesis 1: Abraham; Promised Descendents Read Genesis 12:1-7 & 15:1-6
A tree for reflection during Advent Then a shoot will spring from the stem of Jesse. And a branch from his roots will bear fruit. Isaiah 11:1 Creation; The World Read Genesis 1:26-31 The symbol is the
More informationJoseph and Mary couldn t find a room at the inn, so they slept outdoors in a stable, where Jesus was born.
The Birth of Jesus How Many Inaccuracies Can You Find? Joseph and Mary couldn t find a room at the inn, so they slept outdoors in a stable, where Jesus was born. LUKE 2:4 4 So Joseph also went up from
More informationIt would be good for you to have your Bibles turned to Luke chapter 2 from
1 What are you waiting for? (Luke 2:22-40) 27 th December 2015 It would be good for you to have your Bibles turned to Luke chapter 2 from verses 22 to 40. You can take notes in the sermon outline if you
More informationThe Nativity Story and Jesus Formative Years
The Nativity Story and Jesus Formative Years PREFACE The following account has been compiled from the three different Gospel stories of Matthew, Luke, and John using the New King James translation of the
More informationThe Jesse Tree Advent Devotional 2017 drawings by Leilani Pierson
The Jesse Tree Advent Devotional 2017 drawings by Leilani Pierson a church, a city, and a world continually made new by the grace of Christ 2012 W. Dickens, Chicago, IL 60647, (Education Building: 2022
More informationTHE ADVENT JOURNEY A Sermon for the Fourth Sunday in Advent, 2010 On the Text: Propers for the Day By the Reverend Doctor Randolph Constantine
THE ADVENT JOURNEY A Sermon for the Fourth Sunday in Advent, 2010 On the Text: Propers for the Day By the Reverend Doctor Randolph Constantine We often talk about processes that take some time as a journey,
More informationThe Fellowship of Ailbe
ACTS RAPID GROWTH IN JERUSALEM F. Michael Slay A DEEP Study The Fellowship of Ailbe Acts 2:29-3:16 Rapid Growth in Jerusalem Two aspects of the apostolic ministry start to take shape miracles and fellowship.
More informationVerse 3. All returned to their own ancestral towns to register for this census. Verse 4. And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to
31 And a sword will pierce your very soul." Verse 36. Anna, a prophet, was also there in the Temple. She was the daughter of Phanuel from the tribe of Asher, and she was very old. Her husband died when
More informationWe come to worship to thank God for his grace or to cry out for his grace. Christmas is God s message of hope, grace and love.
1 December 10, 2017 Good News of Great Joy: Be Not Afraid Luke 2:8-20 We come to worship to thank God for his grace or to cry out for his grace. Christmas is God s message of hope, grace and love. Jesus
More informationQuotable. JESUS: THE INDESCRIBABLE GIFT Jesus: The Gift of God s Hope Twelve Daily Studies for Christmas
Quotable It was a rare moment when the apostle Paul couldn t find the right words to express spiritual truth, but when he put his pen to parchment to describe Jesus, no word came to mind. Thanks be to
More informationJoy from Above Luke 2:1-20
Sermon Transcript Joy from Above Luke 2:1-20 Joy s pretty popular this time of year, I would say. It s one of those attributes that gets a lot of face time in December, a lot of holiday cheer for several
More informationTHE SERENDIPITY OF EPIPHANY Dr. George O. Wood
Dr. George O. Wood My Christmas message today is The Serendipity of Epiphany. Preachers should never use a title you have to start the sermon to explain the title. Epiphany of course is the Greek orthodox
More informationLUKE. 1Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile a narrative. Dedication to Theophilus
THE GOSPEL OF LUKE Dedication to Theophilus 1Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile a narrative of the things that have been accomplished among us, 2 just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses
More informationKey Verse He will be great and will be called the son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give him the throne of his father David.
Kindergarten 9:15 a.m. Teaching Plan Journey 1 Key Word Promise Key Verse He will be great and will be called the son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give him the throne of his father David. Luke
More informationText: Psalm 132 Title: God Delivers
Text: Psalm 132 Title: God Delivers Well our Christmas celebration is in full swing here at Travis. I hope you ll plan to be here tonight for the Christmas concert. Next Sunday is One Day. We ll all be
More informationInternational Bible Lesson Commentary. Luke 1:26-45 International Bible Lessons Sunday, December 1, 2013 L.G. Parkhurst, Jr.
International Bible Lessons Commentary Luke 1:26-45 International Bible Lessons Sunday, December 1, 2013 L.G. Parkhurst, Jr. The International Bible Lesson (Uniform Sunday School Lessons Series) for Sunday,
More informationThe Magnificat Luke 1:46ff.
The Magnificat Luke 1:46ff. December 22 & 23, 2012 Steve DeWitt For Christians this truly is a most wonderful time of the year. There are many reasons why our culture, in general, celebrates: being with
More information"Prevailing Against Hell" Matthew 16:13-20
"Prevailing Against Hell" Matthew 16:13-20 August 21, 2011 10 th Sunday After Pentecost The men s AA group, which meets at Peace Lutheran Church, has, as of last week, dissolved. When the leader of the
More informationWho is Jesus of Nazareth?
Who is Jesus of Nazareth? It has been said that you can gauge the size of a ship that has passed out of sight by the huge wake that it leaves behind. The greatest wake ever registered on the planet, however,
More informationJesus Is the Promised Savior. Dec. 11, Isaiah 9:1 2, 6 7; Luke 2 (Birth of Jesus)
Dec. 11, 2016 Jesus Is the Promised Savior DATE PONDER POINT Isaiah 9:1 2, 6 7; Luke 2 (Birth of Jesus) For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And
More informationWORSHIP NARRATION THE. Celebrate the Miracle. Written by Deborah Craig-Claar
THE WORSHIP OF Celebrate the Miracle NARRATION Written by Deborah Craig-Claar Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version, NIV. Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. Used
More informationAnticipation of Christmas
Anticipation of Christmas Luke 2:25-38 Christmas is often associated with children waiting for THE day. I remember my mom had a cloth banner with candy tied for each day up till Christmas It only built
More informationJesse Tree Daily Devotions
Jesse Tree Daily Devotions December 1 Jesse - Tree Stump with Shoot Scripture: Isaiah 11:1-2 God has a plan for everything. Long before Jesus was born lived a man named Jesse. Jesse had seven sons; the
More information. Unit 19, Session 1: From Abraham to Jesus. Dear Parents,
Unit 19, Session 1: From Abraham to Jesus Unit 19, Session 2: Mary Praised God Unit 19, Session 3: Jesus Was Born Unit 19, Session 4: Jesus at the Temple Unit 19, Session 5: Jesus Was Baptized Unit 19,
More informationInternational Bible Lesson Commentary Luke 1:26-38
International Bible Lessons Commentary Luke 1:26-38 New Revised Standard Version International Bible Lessons Sunday, December 4, 2016 L.G. Parkhurst, Jr. The International Bible Lesson (Uniform Sunday
More informationLeaders: this is just for you! Read ahead of time to engage with the Bible story on an adult level and prepare your heart to teach on Sunday.
Leader DEVOTIONAL Leaders: this is just for you! Read ahead of time to engage with the Bible story on an adult level and prepare your heart to teach on Sunday. People had been waiting a long time for Jesus.
More informationHe Came First to His Own
He Came First to His Own - 1 - Sunday, April 15, 2018 He Came First to His Own (A Sermon for the Third Sunday of Easter) Text: Acts 3 Lectionary Texts: Psalm 4, Luke 24:36b-48, 1 John 3:1-7 Subject: Don
More information1 The Lord Himself will give you a sign 18 th Dec Please have your Bibles handy we re going to be looking at several passages
1 The Lord Himself will give you a sign 18 th Dec 2016 (Isaiah 7:14; Micah 5:2 & Luke 2:1-17 And more ) Please have your Bibles handy we re going to be looking at several passages You can take down some
More informationSermon Pastor Ray Lorthioir Trinity Lutheran Church W. Hempstead, NY Based on the first lesson for the Third Sunday of Easter, Acts 3:11-21
Sermon 4-15-18 Pastor Ray Lorthioir Trinity Lutheran Church W. Hempstead, NY Based on the first lesson for the Third Sunday of Easter, Acts 3:11-21 Suffering Messiah Power Here s something that Jesus said
More informationAdvent www.stonegatefellowship.com/christmas What Is Advent? The word Advent comes from a word in Latin that means to come or to arrive. For many centuries, followers of Jesus have celebrated His arrival
More informationTHE BOOK OF REVELATION A REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST
THE BOOK OF REVELATION A REVELATION OF JESUS CHRIST REVELATION CHAPTER 19:1-6 MEDIA REFERENCE NUMBER SM-561 APRIL 24, 2005 THE TITLE OF THE MESSAGE: The Hallelujah Chorus the worship of heaven SUBJECT
More informationThe Song of the Redeemed, Praising the Lamb of God Revelation 5
TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS TRANSCRIPT The Song of the Redeemed, Praising the Lamb of God Revelation 5 And I saw in the right hand of Him who sat on the throne a scroll written inside and on the back,
More informationBasics of the Gospel Session 1: The Problem
2 Part 1: Bible Time Supplies: Playdough, Jesus Storybook Bible Basics of the Gospel Session 1: The Problem Introduction I want to tell you a story. A true story. It s actually our story, but to understand
More informationAdvent and Christmas Activities
Advent and Christmas Activities Family Advent and Potluck Evening Sunday, November 27, from 5:30 to 7:00 pm Crafts and activities will be available for all ages. Yearning for the Messiah: Advent Devotions
More informationSermon Study on Isaiah 49:1-6
Sermon: WELS Walking Together (Advent 1) - Pastor Todd Goldschmidt Sunday 10:15 am November 27 th, 2011 At Living Hope Lutheran Church Sermon Study on Isaiah 49:1-6 Verse 1 - Listen to me, you islands;
More informationWho could have guessed that a change born of necessity would have made the play more meaningful?
We Need A Joseph First Presbyterian Church of Kissimmee, Florida Dr. Frank Allen, Pastor 12/23/07 Isaiah 7:10-16 (NRSV) Again the Lord spoke to Ahaz, saying, [11] Ask a sign of the Lord your God; let it
More information29 Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss[c] your servant in peace.
December 23, 2018 SCRIPTURE Luke 2:21-38 21 On the eighth day, when it was time to circumcise the child, he was named Jesus, the name the angel had given him before he was conceived. 22 When the time came
More informationJesus Triumphal Entry
UNIT 8 Session 1 Use Week of: Jesus Triumphal Entry 1 BIBLE PASSAGE: Matthew 21:1-17; Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:28-44; John 12:12-19 MAIN POINT: People welcomed Jesus to Jerusalem as their King. KEY PASSAGE:
More informationMary, the Mother of Jesus: Day 1
Mary, the Mother of Jesus: Day 1 I am the Lord s servant, Mary answered. May it be to me as you have said. Luke 1:38 Focus: Read Isaiah 55:8-11. Read this verse several times, meditating on the meaning.
More informationj. The scenes of Christmas are truly magnificent and amazing.
WHY JESUS CAME TO EARTH Matthew 1:23 I. INTRODUCTION- a. While the story of Christmas is the story of the birth of a Child the Child of Bethlehem there is so much more to the story of Christmas. b. Christmas
More informationGod s Promises November 29, 2009 Isaiah 53:1-12
I. Introduction God s Promises November 29, 2009 Isaiah 53:1-12 A couple of months ago I read a magazine article critiquing the Bible. The author wrote that since the Bible was written by over 45 different
More informationLesson 8 Jesus He Revealed God to Man You have come to the most important lesson of the course. In each lesson we have had an opportunity to hear
2 Lesson 8 Jesus He Revealed God to Man You have come to the most important lesson of the course. In each lesson we have had an opportunity to hear messages and examine the life of a great man in God s
More informationExegetical Notes, Luke 2:21-35 He Can Save YOU! Luke 2:21-35
Exegetical Notes, Luke 2:21-35 He Can Save YOU! Prepared by Charles H. Jensen, Pastor, Cornerstone Fellowship 101 Kylies Road, Coatesville, PA 19320 610-384-1375 charleshjensen@aol.com Luke 2:21-35 Verse
More informationDecember 21, :00 pm
Longest Night Service December 21, 2015 6:00 pm Jesus Justice Prayer Peace * Indicates to rise in body or spirit Gathering Music Mandy Kjellstrom, Native American Flute Welcome Call to Worship Leader:
More information