Saturday, December 15, 2018

No Vacancy

God is Faithful

In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. And everyone went to his own town to register. Luke 2:1,3

To anyone in the hotel business, no vacancy is a wonderful thing. But to a guest who has traveled for miles, a sold out situation can be stressful.

Over 2000 years ago, Mary and Joseph had made the trip from Nazareth to Jerusalem to register in the census only to find the town’s inn was sold out for the “citywide” event. In addition to being tired from the journey, it was time for Mary to give birth, and so outside in the elements Jesus was born. Yes, Jesus entered the world as a vulnerable baby under very difficult circumstances and yet, He overcame the world. As we prepare for this Christmas, is there room in your heart to welcome Jesus? Will you look past hectic schedules and any difficult circumstances to be filled with joy – an unfathomable joy that comes from Christ himself?

For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you? Indeed, you are our glory and joy. 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20

Because God is faithful, through Jesus, we experience joy in all circumstances. Wishing you a very Merry Christmas!

Saturday, December 1, 2018

Naughty or Nice?

God is Love

Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin. Romans 3:20

Have you been good this year? The question is used with good intention, but if Santa only brings good gifts to good people, maybe this is where we get the notion that love is conditional. Maybe this is where we get the idea that we have to perform to be acceptable to others.

While many of the places we work leave us with an impression that how we’ll be treated is based on what we do, the opposite is true for God. God’s purpose for rules is to protect us and provide orderly living. And while God’s holy law will show us areas in our life where we fall short, He never expected us to keep the law. In fact, He knew we never could. His plan is for us to accept His love and forgiveness offered through His Son Jesus. And by knowing how deeply God cares for us, we in turn do good for His glory.

Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” Matthew 22:37-40


Because God is love, through Jesus, we too can love unconditionally.