is from above,
coming down from the Father
of heavenly lights,
Who does not change
like the shifting shadows.
He chose to give us birth
through the Word of Truth,
that we might be
a kind of firstfruits
of all He created."
(James 1:17-18)
Beloved, I pray that your Christmas was filled with the hope, love, joy, and peace of Jesus Christ!
As we begin to clean away the remnants of our celebration, and as the world moves along, expediently but blindly going about its business, I encourage you to linger in the glory of Christ. Move beyond the celebration of the manger to the appreciation of the cross. And look beyond the appreciation of the cross to the anticipation of the coming King.
Today begins a twelve-day journey from Trumpet and Torch Ministries, specifically written to keep us Christ-centered and King-focused as we move from 2008 ("The Year of the Lord's Favor") to 2009 ("The Year of the Harvest"). "Epiphany: The Coming King" provides three daily devotions (one for breakfast, lunch, and dinner), conveniently delivered via e-mail. Click here to receive twelve more days of Christmas!
Precious friends, God is so good to intersect the hearts of those who love and live for Him "at such a time as this" (reference Esther 4:14). It is indeed a divine blessing to share the privilege of serving our Lord with you.
Precious Father, I thank You for Your goodness, Your love, and Your good gifts, especially the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ. As our traditional Christmas observances end, precious Father, I pray that we would remain filled with the ebuillient joy of the Wise Men (reference Matthew 2:10), the humble amazement of the shepherds (reference Luke 2:8-20), and the unshakeable faith of Mary (reference Luke 1:26-38, 46-55; 2:19). May we acknowledge that the baby in a manger is the King of kings and the Lord of lords, and may we live pure and holy lives in anticipation of the establishment of His righteous and eternal kingdom. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ, our coming King! Amen.
and of Christ Jesus,
Who will judge
the living and the dead,
and in view
of His appearing
and His kingdom,
I give you this charge:
Preach the Word;
be prepared in season
and out of season;
correct, rebuke and encourage--
with great patience
and careful instruction."
(2 Timothy 4:1-2)
For further reflection on this topic, see also ...
How can I encourage and pray for you today? Please let me know by clicking on "Sparks Share" at the end of today's reflection, and scroll down to the "Comments" box. You may choose to comment anonymously, if you prefer. Feel free to leave your praises and insights as well!
Copyright 2008. Kathryn B. Wells. All Rights Reserved.
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