A PROMISE WAS GIVEN BY THE PROPHETS:
ONE DAY THE PEOPLE WALKING IN DARKNESS
WOULD SEE A GREAT LIGHT
HERE THIS PASSAGE IS PUT TO MUSIC IN HANDEL’S MESSIAH:
15th Century Italian artist
WHEN JOHN THE BAPTIST WAS BORN,
HIS FATHER, WHO HAD BEEN STRUCK DUMB BECAUSE OF UNBELIEF,
WROTE ON A SLATE THAT HIS NAME WAS JOHN.
THEN ZECHARIAH’S TONGUE WAS UNLEASHED TO PROPHESY,
TO TELL ALL THE PROMISE WAS FULFILLED,
FOR HIS SON WOULD POINT TO THE TRUE LIGHT,
“THE SUNRISE FROM ON HIGH.”
“Because of the tender mercy of our God,
whereby the sunrise shall visit us from on high
to give light to those who sit in darkness
and in the shadow of death,
to guide our feet into the way of peace.”
(Zechariah’s Song in Luke 1:78-79)
These prophecies from Isaiah and Zechariah inspired the carol,
“O Come O Come Immanuel,”
the hauntingly beautiful song filled with images of light overcoming darkness.
is sung here by Enya with visuals from The Nativity Story.
INDEED, JESUS WOULD SOON BE BORN ON EARTH,
A LIGHT THE DARKNESS WOULD NOT OVERCOME,
A TRUE LIGHT THAT ENLIGHTENS EVERYONE.
THIS WEEK WE ARE CONTINUING TO MEMORIZE THE FAMOUS PROLOGUE
FROM JOHN’S GOSPEL.
THERE ARE THREE, AT LEAST, VERY RICH WORDS IN THIS PROLOGUE,
AND THIS WEEK WE WILL LOOK CAREFULLY AT TWO OF THEM TO DEEPEN
YOUR UNDERSTANDING OF WHY JESUS CAME
AND WHY HE IS RESISTED, BOTH BY UNBELIEVERS, AND, IF WE ARE HONEST
BY OURSELVES AS BELIEVERS.
Sunday: Icebreaker
1. Christmas provides some of the most beautiful art and music on earth. Comment on Jocopo’s painting — what do you see? And comment on either of the musical classics.
2. What other comments or thoughts do you have as you consider the opening or the journey we are on?
We are continuing to memorize the famous prologue — if you are doing ESV, print this off and put it in a plastic sleeve.
(1) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
(2) He was in the beginning with God.
(3) All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made.
(4) In him was life, and the life was the light of men.
(5)The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
(6) There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.
(7) He came as a witness, to bear witness about the light,
that all might believe through him.
(8) He was not the light, but came to bear witness about the light.
9. The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world.
10. He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. 11. He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him.
Monday: Review 1 through 8. As Twila says, Review, Review, Review.
3. The first word we are going to consider is “logos,” translated word. In part, Keller explains, the “logos” for something is the purpose or design for it. In other words, Christ came, in part, to show us our purpose or design. He, as the Word, is the “Master’s Manual” for our lives. He knows better how to run our lives than we do. And submitting to the Word brings freedom and enlarges our hearts.
A. What thoughts to you have on this meaning of the word “logos?”
B. Give an example of how The Word knew better than you did how to handle a particular problem and how, if you submitted to it, you were helped.
C. What challenges are you facing today that the Word could help you with?
Tuesday: Review 1 through 8 and add verse 9.
4. The second word we are going to consider is “overcome,” sometimes translated “understood,” “comprehended,” or “extinguished.” Again, a very rich word. Keller likens it to the word “master” because it contains both ideas of overcoming something and understanding something. What thoughts do you have on “the light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it”?
5. What thoughts do you have on verse 9, on the fact that the true light enlightens everyone?
6. Romans 1:18 explains why not everyone responds to the light they are given. What is it? How is this also true of you as a believer?
Wednesday: Review 1 through 9 and add verse 10.
7. What irony do you see in verse 10?
The human heart is able to suppress what is obvious in order to do what it wants to do. As Woody Allen said famously, after sleeping with his daughter, “the heart wants what it wants.”
But then there are those who have a childlike wonder at creation. If you have time, watch this TEDS talk by a professor of medicine at Yale, and see his wonder.
8. Comment if you had time to watch.
9. As you submit to the Creator, do you experience more of His presence?
Thursday: Review 1-10 and add 11.
10. Any new revelations on this passage?
11. Listen to this optional (not free) Keller sermon and share your thoughts.
http://www.gospelinlife.com/in-the-beginning-7937.html
Friday: Review 1 through 11.
12. Any new revelations on this passage? How is it impacting you?
Saturday: Review 1 through 11.
13. What is your take-a-way and why?
135 comments
Dee – the hymnal on my piano has been open all this week to “O Come O Come Immanuel”…..I’ve been drawn to sing it daily throughout the week. So it was just a little “heart connect” to see the beautiful piece highlighted here…..also, I really appreciate being directed to Zechariah’s prophecy. To reflect on the tender mercies of our God to send Immanuel to us….and that He would so willingly visit us. To “give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.” This gives me great hope on a morning when our family is sitting in the “shadow of death”. How I love that Zechariah’s last word of prophecy is “peace”.
Jackie My prayer for you is that you will feel the Lords presence like never before as you are walking this road, and that His light will be shining so brightly thru you to those you love. as it does here. I pray you feel the power of the prayers being lifted up and that they will carry you thru this great challenge. May you experience His great peace and your eyes stay fixed on Him.
Jackie — I am so glad you are staying close during this valley of the shadow of death for the ones you so love. I do so pray for His light in your darkness — not just for you, but your loved ones.
What stood out?
Zechariah’s words (SO POWERFUL – ) and the picture of John the Baptist and family and women. I notice that Zechariah’s feet and legs are brown. This puzzles me. Is this the artist’s way of including dark-skinned people as being part of God’s plan. I does make me stop and realize that Jesus and John were Middle Eastern and NOT white as we are prone to assume. Zechariah looks so old, but, then again, he was. I have often wondered who raised John since his parents probably did not live to raise him to manhood. People did not often live to a ripe old age in those times. I am wondering what our Anne sees in the picture. I look forward to others ponderings on the picture.
Diane I can’t see much in this painting. It seems awfully sedate for such a joyous occasion. Maybe that is because they are all waiting to see what Zechariah will say. Good digging Elizabeth about the waffling thing. Mary seems to be focused on her. Maybe Zechariah’s words will be no surprise to her so she is looking at the woman who will record things.
That is a good point about Zechariah ‘s legs. The painting looks pretty deteriorated along the bottom edges but his legs seem purposely brown. I wonder if it is because of his age. Poor circulation can cause a brown discoloration of the skin.
As to who raised John, I once read a theory that Herod was also after him and that his parents sent him across the Jordan where he was raised by the Essenes. I don’t know much proof there is for that though.
I’m late arriving this week, so just wrote some thoughts about the painting on a comment below. But, I wanted to ask if we know for sure that Zechariah died when John was young? Maybe that is in scripture, but my mind is blank on this, and I’m not taking the time at this moment to look it up. I was just thinking of how Abraham was 100 and Sarah 90 when Isaac was born. I’ve never understood how ‘ages’ worked in those years. How could people have children at those ages? It seems so many lived hundreds of years in the OT. I’m not sure about the NT because I can’t think of an instance that it’s documented as it is in earlier OT years.
My computer is giving me problems today and posted it before I was finished. I need to go back and reread Zechariah’s words — so much there. “Shadow of death” reminds me of Psalm 23 “yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for thou art with me”. He also mentions “peace” — peace is a theme mentioned by the angels as well, though often not emphasized in Christmas sermons or programs, it seems. But, Oh how our hearts long for peace, true peace, God’s peace in this chaotic and violent world. How far away it seems. Only if hearts are changed will it come. O Come, O Come, Lord Jesus. Rescue us from the darkness around us and from the darkness deep within our own hearts.
amen Diane. Did you see in the Enya video, for just a brief moment, Herodias’ face. Evil and threatening as it was and though she took John’s life on earth, she did not succeed. I have comfort in that.
Anne, my computer isn’t giving me the Enya video. Perhaps it is because I am in Canada. Is anyone else having this problem? Does anyone have a link that I can try? I am also just seeing a blank where Dee refers to the Ted talk. I refreshed the page but it hasn’t made any difference.
Diane it redirected me to you tube. Can you go to you tube and look for it?
Can you try this link http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=iWCISA8MOnU
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=iWCISA8MOnU
Diane,
I am experiencing the same problem.
I am not seeing either of the music videos or the Ted Talk. Just blank spaces. I have logged on three different times today and still the same :\
Diane–same for me on both–I use Chrome, I think you do too? I was going to try another browser
Yes, Elizabeth and Nila, I use Chrome. Anne’s link worked for me though.
Thanks for the link, Anne. I didn’t see Herodias’ face though. I’ll watch it again later.
I use Firefox and similar to Nila, where the videos should be are blank spaces. Thanks for the link, Anne…I too love “Oh Come, Oh Come, Immanuel”.
The painting is interesting to me. I love art, but I am not well educated with art history, and probably do not have an eye for all the details–but the halos on Elizabeth, Zechariah, and John did stand out to me.I prefer only Christ to have a halo–but I see that this is depicting the presence of the Spirit upon them. Zechariah is writing the baby’s name – John – to confirm the name the angel told them for their son.
I also noticed the woman in the back ground–reminded me of this from Luke 1:65 in reference to John’s birth “And fear came on all their neighbors.” But, my husband thought it looked too spooky and that it was Satan–he’s probably right!
I tried a little research and found the thing I thought was a mirror in the woman’s hand,is likely a “wafering iron, used to make waffles bearing the family’s coat-of-arms and details of the newborn child.”
What stood out most though to me, is the contrast between John’s birth and Jesus’. John the Baptist, born to a priest,given the proper announcement; Jesus’ announcement is in the small town of Nazareth. Luke 1:58 tells us Elizabeth was celebrated and well attended to: “And her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown great mercy to her, and they rejoiced with her.” In contrast, Jesus, born in a manger, with no family or friends or neighbors nearby.And yet, while John is filled with the Holy Spirit, Jesus is conceived of the Holy Spirit. John points to the King, Jesus IS the King.
Every year, I think I begin to see Advent as more than Christ’s birth–as the pointing to His Second coming–and I long for it more and more.I LOVE “O Come Emmanuel”–I think in part because I love the name Emmanuel–what more could we want than God with us? Overwhelms me. Also makes me think of another favorite hymn “Come, Lord, and tarry not; Bring the long looked for day; O why these years of waiting here, These ages of decay?
Come, for Thy saints still wait;Daily ascends their sigh; The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come”;Does Thou not hear the cry?
Come, for creation groans,Impatient of Thy stay, Worn out with these long years of ill,These ages of delay.
Come, for love waxes cold,Its steps are faint and slow; Faith now is lost in unbelief,Hope’s lamp burns dim and low.
Come, and make all things new,Build up this ruined earth; Restore our faded Paradise, Creation’s second birth.
Elizabeth (and Diane), you have such an eye…you saw so many things, questioning and going on to investigate further…thanks for sharing. My brain doesn’t seem to work that way (the woman in the far back didn’t draw my attention, nor the iron) and I am appreciative of folks like you that help me view it differently, bringing those things to light for me.
I loved the words of the hymn at the end Elizabeth, I feel them.
Elizabeth, I think Luke 1:65 perfectly describes the woman in the back behind the curtain! My first thought was that she was an onlooker, likely a neighbor, who had heard what was going on, but I had no idea that there was a verse about the neighbors in the scripture. Thanks for pointing that out! The NIV says the neighbors were filled with awe. I think the painting captures more of the fear. Though ‘fear’ and ‘awe’ are synonymous in some senses.
Very early this morning a friend emailed me several scriptures about the Light. (she had no idea I was doing this blog study) I love that sometimes the Lord Himself orchestrates such moments.
Isaiah 9:2
“The people who walk in darkness will see a great light; Those who live in a dark land, the light will shine on them.”
Isaiah 42:16
“I will lead the blind by a way they do not know, In paths they do not know I will guide them. I will make darkness into light before them And rugged places into plains.These are the things I will do, And I will not leave them undone.”
Then, I went to church and the message was an encouragement to be the light in someone’s dark world. This takes courage beyond what we can muster. ….. because we have an enemy that hates the light.
Needing the Lord to give me courage to be a light in my son’s life. He has been diagnosed with a serious medical condition (I posted on facebook private prayer request page).
Nila I am not on facebook but I will pray for your son. I will especially pray this causes him to see the light. We also had a sermon today about shining the light.
1. Christmas provides some of the most beautiful art and music on earth. Comment on Jocopo’s painting — what do you see? And comment on either of the musical classics. In the painting…I’m not entirely sure what I see! It always confuses me a bit when artists give human beings halos! However, I think it is John the Baptist’s birth with his father there writing out “his name is John” and Elizabeth there and maybe even Mary (with her hand on her pregnant belly)?
I thought Enya’s singing of O Come O Come Immanuel was really beautiful and the other song was chilling with the valley of death and skeletons in it. We grow so accustom to disease and death in this life and have hospice people telling us “death is just a natural part of life” But, as one of my previous pastors used to say, “Death is NOT a natural part of life…it was something God never intended for His creation. It only came as a result of sin.” Thankfully, since Immanuel did come, death has lost it’s sting for those who believe.
2. What other comments or thoughts do you have as you consider the opening or the journey we are on? I just continue to be so excited to be memorizing Scripture. Oh how I needed this (a little accountability) to return me to that practice. I’m glad God led you in this direction for this season, Dee! =)
Mary – Amen and Amen to what you have expressed on “death”. Death IS an enemy! But how true that for the redeemed……death has lost it’s sting! So MANY have expressed that my sister in law who just died is “at peace….no more pain…”. But to my knowledge, she was not a believer. I DO still have hope that in God’s mercy of her lingering for several days in a coma like state that she may have come to that place….but I have no way of knowing. But it is the world’s way to offer a comfort that doesn’t have the HOPE of Christ. I cannot help but think a lot of late of Luke 16 and Jesus’ story of Lazarus and the rich man……oh how sobering to read our Lord’s words on death and what follows.
Jackie, I have often thought about that myself at funerals. And I have also considered that, maybe, some folks make a “death-bed decision” between themselves and the Lord that no one else is aware of (due to them being in a coma or unresponsive.) Like you said, we just have to trust that Lord knows the hearts of all men and He is merciful and good. I pray for your daughter quite often. Maybe this passing of her aunt has caused her to really think more about spiritual things?
Jackie I am so sorry for the loss of your sister in law.
Something in the opening that I am thinking about is my tendency to resist the Light. I have experienced the presence of the Lord and I love His presence with me, so why do I resist Him, and just as importantly, when do I do it? It is scary actually because it is the same reason Satan fell and is the spirit of antichrist, in me. That is sobering.
So today, and yesterday too, I have been irritated. Not as much with people but with the things of the earth. The unimportant things that waste my time and energy. I can’t tell if this is the Lord helping me to erect my boundaries or an attack of Satan through my flesh. Lord I pray that I may be wise as a serpent and harmless as a dove.
Also in the opening. The first picture. The silhouette of a boy running and playing. Who would have thought? But He did tell us, through the prophets. It just seems so unlikely that God would come to us in this way.
1. Christmas provides some of the most beautiful art and music on earth. Comment on Jocopo’s painting — what do you see? And comment on either of the musical classics.
I am not sure why there were no men in the scene. Even the spooky person in the background was a woman! Middle Eastern culture? I was struck by the last picture of the cross at the end of the Handel Aria. Indeed at the darkest time in history, the cross is front forward because the Light soon pierced the darkness. Praise the Lord! I got teary seeing the depiction of the humble birth of our Savior. ” A mother tonight is rocking A cradle in Bethlehem” by Sarah Groves. Sweet, Lord thank you for coming to us and for us.
2. What other comments or thoughts do you have as you consider the opening or the journey we are on?
Memorizing the passage has been a wonderful experience for me. The practice of writing or typing the words has given me times of contemplation sweet to my soul. My love for Jesus is kindled and His light is burning brightly. 🙂 I have been praying about learning how to do calligraphy as a hobby and hoping to go to a retreat at an abbey in the summer. Brother Michael, a priest who is leading these retreats has been doing Scripture calligraphy for many years. He said the practice of writing has helped him be more reflective of God’s Word. I am excited to explore this practice and hope to get good at it enough to make cards by hand.
What I thought of most from looking at this painting that I had never thought of before was I was wondering if during the 9 months that Zechariah had no voice had he been writing messages all along or was writing Johns name the first message he was allowed to write. I never noticed the woman in the back ground that several had mentioned and had to go back and look. Her face definitely has a different appearance than the others. Thanks for the link. I had it on my Ipad but not on my computer and I do not use chrome.
I am having difficulty with having blank spaces and no videos or music this week. That has not happened before so I am wondering why.
I will try the link to the video.
The painting is interesting and seems unreal to me. Zechariah does seem so old, as we know he was… Most important was his writing tablet, reminding
me of his voice taken at his questioning of the announcement of John’s coming birth.
I am contemplating on logos as purpose for my life. This is a beautiful meaning and yes, God has been pruning me and preparing me for greater service for him. Mainly the memorization of scripture is a tool to handle my tendency for anxiety which puts the focus on self.
The true light, which gives life to everyone, was coming into the world. Praise God!
Prayers for each of you as the challenges of emotions, illness, and death impinge on our joy.
David is going to get someone to work on it so that Firefox and Chrome show the videos. Thanks for letting me know. They do work on Safari.
Concerning the artwork — halos were traditional that early in history — and one of you mentioned the presence of the Spirit. I like that Mary E identified who I think surely is Mary. And one of you pointed our “fear came upon the neighbors.” All the tongue wagging about Elizabeth, and now this — perhaps fear for their unkindness, jealousy that God was moving, and I think it is Elizabeth behind Zechariah with a small smile, a sense of “Yes, he will write ‘John'” I think it is so early in the Christmas story that there is still confusion and skepticism.
Our Rebecca still very sick.
I speak at a big Christmas tea Wed and would love your prayers that I will have energy and be alert for it is late when I begin to speak!
Praying for you Dee.
Dee, Thanks SO MUCH for letting everyone know and for praying. I am feeling better although I have done something to my left thigh joint-most likely from being in bed so long and with osteoarthritis..It is painful to walk. Going to go back to work today but can come home if I am unable to walk. Wow..kind of discouraged with one more thing..It will heal I am sure though.
I have to chime in and say how verse review and memory has been such a balm during this! :))) I am so grateful for my blog sisters!
oh Rebecca–so thankful you are a little better–wishing you could stay home another day–are you off next week for break? Praying for your leg too! Don’t over-exert yourself dear sister–much love and prayers~
Oh, keep getting better, Rebecca. And yes, take care and don’t overdo. Will pray for refreshing sleep tonight and your leg feeling better too.
So glad to hear you are feeling better, Rebecca. Hope the arthritis issue improves very soon.
Glad t hear you are feeling better Rebecca. Take it slow.
Rebecca, I’ve been praying for you…glad you’re feeling better. This is a hard time of the year to be sick! I do hope your hip starts to improve and you can move around without so much pain!
Will be praying for you Dee.
1. Christmas provides some of the most beautiful art and music on earth. Comment on Jocopo’s painting — what do you see? And comment on either of the musical classics.
I noticed the halos around Elizabeth, John, and Zechariah. Also, Zechariah’s legs are crossed. That seems funny and “modern” to me. Why wouldn’t Mary have a halo? Isn’t she the pregnant woman on the left? Who are all the other women? It seems like a nanny might be holding John, but the others?
The people in darkness piece is haunting. The painting with all the skeletons is pretty scary to me; also, sad.
I can’t get Oh Come Oh Come Emanuel to play. Will try other options.
Thanks! Now the videos are all available and I have listened. Love Handel’s Messiah and this piece is haunting and beautiful. Scripture set to music is wonderful. Yes, the people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.
The whole emphasis on the light is so meaningful. Last evening we had a carol sing followed by a candle lighting. I brought my neighbor who has never experienced this kind of service and she was delighted with the roomful of little lights. May we truly reflect his light to others.
Shirley,
It’s great that your neighbor joined you at the candle lighting service. Imagine. She could have gone her whole life without that experience, but you brought her and it made her pause with delight. Sweet!
A. What thoughts to you have on this meaning of the word “logos?”
“Submitting to the Word gives us freedom and enlarges our hearts.”I find the more I obey the word of God, the freer I become in my capacity to love others. I am no longer bound by rules and political correctness. I also find He is able to deliver me from complicated circumstances without me lifting a finger. Some people may call it luck; I call it the grace and providence of God.
B. Give an example of how The Word knew better than you did how to handle a particular problem and how, if you submitted to it, you were helped.
One time in the past, I had a longing in my heart but wanted my husband to come to the same desire without me prompting him. I hinted several times about it but I sensed his resistance to it. So I looked at God’s Word and told Him, I will wait on Him. It took several years for it to come to fruition (there were days I got impatient but wanted to submit) but I believe the timing was perfect and I did not even have to bring it my husband’s attention. The funny thing is he never remembered our previous conversation! I probably could have said, “I told you so!”But I didn’t and I was glad!
C. What challenges are you facing today that the Word could help you with?
How to manage my time-it seems like I am always behind. A new found friend who is a very organized person has offered to help me which is a blessing. I am a victim J often of the “tyranny of the urgent”. God has been showing me things I need to give up and I pray I will be obedient.
The kind of story those with control idols need! Thank you!
4. What thoughts do you have on “the light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it”?
I love (LOVE) this verse…it gives such hope, security, and confidence. No matter how dark, bleak, etc. events/circumstances appear, I can trust that God is at work, in control, and will bring something of value from even the worst. He IS the light that dispels the darkness and no matter what the evil one schemes, our Lord is the ultimate Victor!
I also want to chime in about the memorization…it has been such a rich component of my advent thus far…oh to ponder these texts as I am learning them by heart has been such a gift. I don’t get as much out of works of art and music clips as others, but that is all about how our brains are wired and such…I have learned that memorization is “my thing”…it helps me to really ponder the significance and meaning of the text.
I also want to thank Liz again for her comment last week where she recommended The Bait of Satan (John Bevere). I was convicted by Liz’s comment and went on to read the intro of the book on Amazon…I ordered it in Kindle version since I wanted to get reading immediately. I am now finishing the book and the impact has been life-changing; it will be re-read and re-read again and recommended to others. I know that there is much ahead of me related to pulling roots of bitterness that I have allowed to grow, humility, and forgiveness, but I am on the right pathway. Sisters, this was a “kiss from the King”…a big smooch!
Nanci so blessed to hear the impact that book had on you! It is one to repeat and I too need to go back to it. I believe it is an issue that can reoccur if we are not paying attention. Last week even as I typed a person came to my mind I had to confess I was harbouring on offense with. I just want to be free from all of that. That was not an easy post for me to write. I am glad I did not bow to the fear I was feeling.
Oh Liz, I too am SO glad that you didn’t bow to the fear… Besides the book pointing to past events, it has also made me acutely aware of how easily offended I can become in daily life. Oh the evil one is sneaky…he knows where to jab and press. I am going back now to do the devotional portion in the re-read.
Thanks Nanci — we have similar tastes in reading so this is good to read.
So glad the videos are working. David — thank you!
3. The first word we are going to consider is “logos,” translated word. In part, Keller explains, the “logos” for something is the purpose or design for it. In other words, Christ came, in part, to show us our purpose or design. He, as the Word, is the “Master’s Manual” for our lives. He knows better how to run our lives than we do. And submitting to the Word brings freedom and enlarges our hearts.
What thoughts to you have on this meaning of the word “logos?”
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (ESV)
Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.
Luke 17:7-10 (ESV)
“Will any one of you who has a servant plowing or keeping sheep say to him when he has come in from the field, ‘Come at once and recline at table’? Will he not rather say to him, ‘Prepare supper for me, and dress properly, and serve me while I eat and drink, and afterward you will eat and drink’? Does he thank the servant because he did what was commanded? So you also, when you have done all that you were commanded, say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.’”
I am thinking about how we, in out independence valuing culture make too much of our having “given our lives to God”. There is often such a lack of humility in the way this is stated. We are his creations, we belong to him whether we ever submit or not.
In his miraculous mercy he makes a way for us, not just to be only slaves (which is more than we deserve) but fellow heirs with Christ, it seems audacious to me that we make much of our having given anything to him when he owns us and all the world.
We imagine that we are giving something up, that we HAVE to submit and repent, when the truth is that we GET to submit and repent.
When we think rightly about these things, we see the wonder in the privilege we have of drawing near, the immeasurable gift of having Christ’s righteousness imparted to us…the gift of Scripture…the Holy Spirit to enlighten us…being allowed to serve God and be a part of what he is doing!
We are wise to count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus as Lord. He makes known to us the path of life and in his presence there is fullness of joy!
After reading the comments of others on the painting, I thought I would give my two cents.
The first thing I noticed was the size of John, he looks to be about 6 months old! I thought at first that the woman holding John was Elizabeth, but realized she must be the midwife. John appears to be nearly half the size of his mother 🙂
It was curious to me that Mary was not given a halo by the artist.
The figure behind the curtain also stood out to me, “those who sit in darkness”, will the figure choose to walk in the light or remain sitting in darkness. I also thought about the dark curtain and Christ removing the veil.
2 Corinthians 3 “16 But when one turns to the Lord, the veil is removed. 17 Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 18 And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.”
Insightful about the curtain
Thoughts about the painting: I don’t mind the halos around Zechariah, Elizabeth and John because I think it is meant to show that this is the family God chose through whom to bring his message of the coming Christ. I think to the 15th century artist who was generally commissioned by the church to paint, these were expected as each saint was honored. I am, however, stumped as to why Mary does not have a halo. (assuming she is the pregnant woman). I can only think that it is because Christ is not yet born and the focus of this painting is John. I thought the woman was holding a fan! Thinking that the woman with the baby and the woman holding whatever the object is, are Elizabeth’s ‘lady’s maids’. Just a guess. I am also curious about the woman behind the curtain. My first thought is that she is a curious onlooker as this was quite a dramatic event, may be a servant girl who knew that John was about to make his written statement? May represent the lowly among them? The explanation of the difference of color of Zechariah’s legs may be as simple as an attempt by the artist to use light/shadow. I think most or all of the Italian artists painted Jesus and the Bible characters ‘lily white’, at least the vast majority of them seemed to have. My daughter, who studied Art History in Florence, Italy has pointed out a few things to me now and then. I should try to run this picture by her and see if she knows it. I remember her telling me that the ‘greats’ like Rembrandt were phenomenal because they had experimented and mastered the use of light and shadow which previously was done in a much more primitive way. Though for 15th century, this is very masterful. Think of the paintings of George Washington and family in the 18th century in America. Children, were usually painted as ‘miniature adults’. Even though John definitely does not look like a newborn!, he does look like a baby. 🙂
Love your thoughts — yes, talk to your daughter!
Rebecca I am so glad you are better! We were concerned. I will pray about your hip. I think you are right about the cause.
A. What thoughts to you have on this meaning of the word “logos?”
I am in the overview of the book of Leviticus now. I’ve always thought it a difficult book to read but it was not this time. There is so much there, Jesus actually.
My notes say that the phrase “I am the Lord” occurs almost 50 times and close behind says “The Lord said to Moses”. Since Leviticus is a guide to holy living so that God may tabernacle with us, I see Jesus as “logos” here. He gave the “how to” in the laws and at the right time He came and gave us the power to live holy lives. He transforms us to His glory through the Word.
C. What challenges are you facing today that the Word could help you with?
Do you really want me to answer this question, Dee? You might get an earful….
So behind this week! Struggling with a health issue (as you well know on FB) really sad right now about not being about to dance this weekend or for the next few weeks, so I suppose God could help me with that? Also, my daughter has been in contact with a person who is not good for her, and I only found that out yesterday. I had blocked this person’s phone number and for some reason did not know that the feature was deleted from my phone plan (the blocked numbers feature). I reinstated it last night but oh! It may be too late. This person is one who Sarah hung around before she moved to go to cosmotology school. The person has done enough drugs that fried the brain (and knows it). So very sad. Life presses in as Christmas looms in the back ground.
Speaking of Christmas…..I have few decorations up, too broke to buy presents, can’t dance, and am so sad. Why Lord, why? The only thing “Christmasy” this year is the memorization of John, here on the blog. I’m not even doing that very well 🙁 tonight I must try to add some cheer to my home. I need lights and bling; maybe that will help my spirit? I am like Renee; too many papers to grade and deadlines to meet that I can’t even enjoy the season. In NE we don’t really get the same consideration as in the south. We work up until Dec 23 and then only have 1 day to prepare for ChrIstmas. In the south (I bet) they are finished on Friday.
Okay that was the pity party. Done. “The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world.” Yay! I did it! Well, kinda.
Laura, I’m so sorry about Sarah, your injury that will not allow you to dance this weekend, the crazy, busy-ness of the academic year…yes, you are in the midst of long-suffering with little relief in sight, yet, as you said so well…”the True Light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world”…He will shine in this darkness and the darkness will not overcome His light…peace, rest, hope, and joy to you dear sister. “Pity party”?…no, sadness being sharing with friends.
I agree with Nanci — you are letting us mourn with you — and you have reason to mourn.
Laura I agree with Nanci and Dee. Lifting you up to the Lord who meets us in our sadness.
6. Romans 1:18 explains why not everyone responds to the light they are given. What is it? How is this also true of you as a believer?
It is being ungodly and unrighteous that suppresses our belief. Oh yes! When I am rude to people (like at the doctors office yesterday), or uncaring about someone, or any non – godly action/statement, I am not shining the light through me, as John did so well. I’m am in a big funk of not being godly right now.
5. What thoughts do you have on verse 9, on the fact that the true light enlightens everyone?
All are provided the opportunity…in the term “everyone,” truly “every” “one” is given the opportunity…the Lord came for all.
6. Romans 1:18 explains why not everyone responds to the light they are given. What is it? How is this also true of you as a believer?
Those who don’t respond to the truth are suppressing the truth. They choose to not believe; they close their eyes, ears, minds, and hearts to the truth that is right in front of them and apparent. They choose “self” rather than the Lord.
As a believer, this is true when I am disobedient…when I feel the Lord nudging me to do something, yet I do not follow through as He would have me do. This is true when I allow bitterness and resentments to flow rather than forgiveness. This is true when my heart motivation is not what it should be, rather than doing something from a heart of love it is done out of obligation or for appearance sake. Sadly, I think I could probably go on…but, it is time to jump in the shower and get ready for the work day.
Praying Dee for the Christmas Tea–hearts to be open and moved by the Lord, for Him to use you as His vessel and speak His words through you~
Oh thank you for remembering. I need energy when I speak late at night. Thank you. It is tonight.
Praying for you Dee.
Yes, Dee. Praying God moves in you and through you tonight. Are you still feeling poorly from illness?
I hope everything was okay last night Dee. I did get some bling on my house last night and I’m exhausted today! I enjoyed your pictures of cutting down the Christmas tree this year. What fun!
Also praying for you, Dee, as you speak tonight. God, give strength, energy and peace of your Presence to Dee as she shares the message. May each one present be enriched.
“Praying Dee for the Christmas Tea–hearts to be open and moved by the Lord, for Him to use you as His vessel and speak His words through you~”
…Amen.
Gods Word yet again helped me this morning, I must share. I was reading in Ezra 3 when the foundation was being laid for the new temple the people where shouting for joy. Yet the older men were weeping with a loud voice remembering the former temple.( not the topic but does that not happen in our churches today) The Lord speaks to me in this; that He is doing a new thing! Do not mourn for what was. (Christmas past) Days when my daughters were younger. I am waiting and standing on His promises! The enemy is NOT going to steal my JOY. His light does shine in my period of darkness and nothing in that darkness will overcome that light! I am submitting to His Word and it is bringing freedom to me and enlarging my heart! He will help me to handle any challenge I face and I have much to draw from for what He has already done!
16 Thus says the Lord:
“Refrain your voice from weeping,And your eyes from tears;For your work shall be rewarded, says the Lord,And they shall come back from the land of the enemy.17 There is hope in your future, says the Lord,That your children shall come back to their own border.
Oh my goodness, Liz. What a word from the Lord! Sweet kisses from the King! I have been feeling burdened by the darkness these last few days as well. Thanks for reminding me that the Lord will never abandon us and that all the wrongs will be made right one day. We need to live in that hope. The darkness cannot put out His true Light in us and with us!
I also wanted to thank you for your prayers. A HUGE THANK YOU! I was sitting in some darkness the other day!
What challenges are you facing today that the Word could help you with?
This question is one that I have been pondering! Ernema so aptly said, “Submitting to the Word gives us freedom and enlarges our hearts!”
I am struggling with the up and down emotions, probably exaggerated by the season. I am praying to choose joy when I feel the loss of my family, now grown and living far away and too busy to connect .
As I think of the Romans passage, on suppressing the truth I guess that when I allow my emotions to become the prominent force, I am actually extinguishing some of the light.
I am praying for those I long for to experience the light in their lives, particularly my son and daughter-in-law.Praying for God’s will in their lives.
My heart goes out to you who have health issues and losses. The beautiful hymn O come, O come, Emmanuel has a meaningful 3rd verse :
“O come, thou Dayspring, come and cheer our spirits by thine advent here and drive away the shades of night, and pierce the clouds and bring us light!”
The scripture memory fontinues to bring joy and so much meaning.
Me too, Shirley. Today the down emotions seem to be winning. Praying with you and for you that we will not extinguish the true Light by believing the lies of the Darkness.
TESTING: Had a comment formatted but can’t get past security today! Will hope to try another time.
3. The first word we are going to consider is “logos,” translated word.
(Combining a,b,c) I like too how RC Sproul defines logos: “logos came to be understood as that which gave life and meaning to the universe.”
This is a simple thought, but it struck me again today how God’s Word stands true whether you are a Christian or not. We know that every great story resembles the one True Story—one of victim, villain, and Redeemer. In the same way, every Scripture is truth for all the world. I was looking at Luke 16:10 with one of my kids today—the truth that faithfulness in the small things allows you to be trusted with bigger things—this is a truth they see in the (public school) classroom, but it is first God’s truth. God’s Word stands true and gives meaning—and it is not dependent upon the individual’s faith.
My “challenge” applies to a lot of areas–but the same root–to trust Him with “it” and not be overcome and consumed by it, letting it rob my joy. The last few weeks (maybe just 2), I have felt greater peace, greater releasing to Him, but it is a continual struggle to release it all, to pray and then let go. I have many favorite Scriptures that remind me not to fear. The familiar Phil. 4:6 teaches me to go against my natural bent towards both fear and to thinking I am too small to “trouble” God—“do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” In parenting, I continually feel like we might as well be the Laura Ingalls family compared to the culture around us—it can be confusing-but even today I turned back to Rom. 12:2 and reminded myself we should feel different! “ Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” And on the weariest of days, to remember He is greater—He has won, It is finished: John 16:33 “But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
4. The second word we are going to consider is “overcome,” sometimes translated “understood,” “comprehended,” or “extinguished.”
Light has power. Light gives life to plants. Light gives warmth, and it allows us to see more clearly. Darkness cannot overcome because it has no power. It cannot give life, or warmth, or clarity of sight. It is powerless.
LIKE THE SPROUL QUOTE.
LAURA INGALLS IS GOOD!
Elizabeth i pray we do look different in comparison to the world. Hopefully a different that will be attractive. I loved your thoughts in your first paragraph. His truths do stand. I loved watching Laura Ingalls:)
Elizabeth, I LOVE picturing your family as the Laura Ingalls family. Makes me smile. Sometimes it is hard to feel so different than our culture but that is part of how we are Light in this dark world. And thanks for the Sproul quote.
OH, as I read several of these comments, I can resonate with the emotions winning as Diane said , and the holiday stress taking over. So sorry to hear your sadness, Laura. I am seriously lacking sleep this week due to some relentless health issues and pain and until the sleep gets better, I’m just putting one foot in front of the other and forcing myself to keep going. The health issues that are flaring up have been addressed recently, so it’s not that I’m being neglectful, but I do feel overwhelmed to go down any more medical trails I will bounce back. I always do. Just have to break the pattern that is causing pain, anxiety and lack of sleep. In East Central Minnesota, we have not seen the sun for 11 days save a few short cameo appearances today. I’m usually not affected by seasonal affect issues, but this is starting to take a toll. The physical darkness and gloom of fog, rain, now snow, and short hours of daylight and the emotional darkness of the tragic loss of our neighbor and the outwardly insurmountable painful dynamics in his family (and some anxiety I have about my own family too) have made me think more about darkness and the significance of Advent. There are times, when I’ve wished that Christmas was observed at a different time of year. December has colds and flu (influenza raging in our community now) and where I live, December has ice, snow and storms that make travel sometimes treacherous, often worrisome and sometimes disappointingly impossible and December has the darkest days of the year.
And then I think. Perfect! These are exactly the times when we NEED to celebrate Christmas. We need the LIGHT. We need the PEACE. We need the HOPE. I love driving past homes that have Christmas lights shining when I drive home in the dark after work. It lifts the gloom. It reminds me of the Light of Life. I’m SO loving Zechariah’s song and the purpose for which John came. ‘to prepare the way for him. to give his people knowledge of salvation. And all of this is because of the tender mercy of our God by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.”
These words are penetrating my sadness and darkness today. I am clinging to them. HE is our peace. Our light. Our hope.
I attempted to post the above about 10 times today and got the security trigger every time. Finally, I removed some parentheses, paragraph breaks and quotation marks and it worked.
Wanda, praying for you…so much here with your health and pain issues and lack of sleep, the emotions of the loss of your neighbor, the gloomy weather that gets you down. For whatever reason, even if there are no “big” problems going on, the Christmas season always seems to bring with it a sense of sadness; a remembering of losses, whether recent or past, a longing for what once was. After the day or two of celebration is over, I always feel a bit of a letdown. There is so much darkness in our world that it is hard not to be affected by it…love that you are clinging to the words “…because of the tender mercy of our God by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.”
Oh, I am so glad that you persevered to get this posted, Wanda. It is pure gold! I needed to hear this today. You are so right! Never is Christmas MORE NEEDED than in this dark time. We need His Light, His Peace and His Hope more than ever. Nothing else helps! Amen!
Wanda, I really know how you feel. Although I LOVE winter (being from Florida), we haven’t seeN “the light” in awhile here in New England much either.
Last night was the final rehearsal before the dress rehearsal on Saturday. The dancers were joyful and danced to their best ability. It made me cry. I am so proud of these ladies who are non-dancers (mostly); that they are so willing to put themselves “out there” to help others enJOY the season.
The other night, as I tried to put myself in the Chrsitmas spirit (one foot ahead of the other as you said), I put two separate golden words on my front door….they say “Joyful” and “Peace;” together “joyful peace.”
That is what I am trying to focus on this week. The Joy. The Peace. These come with His coming.
What challenges are you facing today that the Word could help you with?
How to love my teenage son so that he feels loved, at Christmas. He struggles to be strong and independent and I recognize that as part of his growth into adulthood. But it needs to be tempered with love from mother. Gifts are only part of that, a vehicle for the greater purpose of intentionally loving him. I need the Logos to do this through me toward all of my family. So that is my prayer to Him. That is what will make Christmas,true Christmas in my mind.
7. What irony do you see in verse 10?
It is ironic that God was in the world but the world did not recognize him. I think we might do that today as well……He is with us.
Laura, with all you have to do with your teaching jobs and how busy you are and all the other things I read in your post above, you are so faithful to be here early every morning!
3. A. What thoughts do you have on this meaning of the word “logos”
The “logos” for something is the purpose or design for it. (I am processing out loud here) Jesus is the Word, the Logos…the One who outwardly expresses or shows the purpose, design, or meaning of everything. Jesus, the Logos, was with God and He is God. Here is a big question…why does God exist? What is His purpose? If Jesus shows us the meaning for God, then perhaps a part of it is that God exists to love. He existed before anything else and there was love between Father, Son, and Spirit. He created us to be His own special treasured possession, to love us, and for us to love Him in return.
Jesus came to show us our purpose or design. I get confused a lot as to what my purpose in life is. The world or our culture defines us in terms of what we do…what kind of education do I have, what kind of work do I do, am I a wife or a mother or a career woman. I hear talk at work about thing like what is currently “in” – new music groups, the “must go to” concerts, what everyone is drinking these days. Honestly, I feel kind of out-of-touch with all that. I find that a good job or a higher education seems to earn the respect of people. Even in the Christian world, in the various shows I listen to on Christian radio, it seems that if you are a Christian, you are supposed to have a “ministry”. Please – I am not trying to offend those who have a ministry! But what if you are just an ordinary person who is a mom, works part-time, takes care of your home and family and tries to love the people God has put into your life yet many days you find yourself worn-out from all the busyness of life and too much to do and not enough time to do it? It seems that trying to discern what Jesus came to show us as our purpose and design gets covered up by a lot of other things.
B. My example of how the Word knew better than I did – well, He knows better about everything than I do! But this comes to mind. Many years ago, the church I attended was building a second church closer to my home. My husband did not attend, and they were raising money for the new church. At that time, my parents turned over to me a small life insurance policy that they had taken out for me when I was born. It amounted to about $1000. I thought, I will give this to the church, so I pledged a commitment for that amount. Problem is, I am not financially astute. When I went to the insurance company, they said that yes, they could give me the money now for the policy, but after taxes…I would lose a few hundred dollars of it! I called a friend, an older, mature Christian lady, and told her my dilemma. She wisely advised me that because I was married, there was no “my money” – it was “ours” and that I should have prayed and also asked my husband about it. She said I would just have to explain to the church that I couldn’t fulfill my commitment. I confessed the whole story to my husband. Would you believe that a few days later, he came home from work with an unexpected bonus check for $1000 and gave it to me to give to the church!
Susan I am a firm believer that what is done for the ministry we have in our home has no comparison in importance to anything else.With that being said many times it can be one of the most difficult places to minister.
Liz–so well said, and so true!
I forgot to add I love the story about the 1000 dollars! Your obedience and Gods amazing grace!
Susan, I really love your giving story!
Susan. I am in agreement with you about “my purpose in life.” It seems like I re-visit this idea every so often. It has happened a couple of times in the past few months….I struggle being a teacher and sometimes wonder if I am meant to be in that career. Then, a job falls in my lap teaching at the community college. I feel affirmed that I am in the “right” place. We open the dance studio at church and I think,”this is my purpose…to help others learn to praise God through movement!” Then, I get injured. I try to help my children grow into adults, and fail.
During my pity party this week, I thought about this…..Lord what am I meant to be on this earth? Why did you make me? Everything I do falls apart.” I tried to overcome the feeling by remembering the verses we are memorizing. Ultimately, I should be like John and reflect the “light” to others. He made us to help spread His Word, right? In all I do that is most important. Although I hurt myself this week, I am trying so hard to show His love to others. I am being blessed in the mean time. Thank You Lord Jesus, for helping me understand why I was made. It has nothing to do with my “performance” in this life on earth; my job, my family, or dance. It has everything to do with sharing You and Your Spirit to others.
C. What challenges are you facing today that the Word could help you with?
It is very hard to just love people when I am trying to “run the world” and control other people and what they do. I am not happy about the way Christmas is panning-out this year. My celebrating with my husband’s family will be the same, but my oldest son will miss our Christmas Eve together as he will be travelling back home from Jamaica. Then, Christmas Day at my house this year will be different. There are only three of us sisters, and my two sisters have severed contact with each other, so my oldest sister and her husband have declined to come for Christmas, saying that if my other sister is there, they are not coming. And I know they will not change their minds. I know this is going to hurt my mom and dad, too. But it is out of my control. It is also hard to let go of my own expectations of what the day should be like. I have visions of “Norman Rockwell” scenes, meaningful spiritual conversation…I have to remember that Jesus, the Word, is present with me…He doesn’t flee from families that aren’t perfect or refuse to eat with a bunch of sinners and that includes me. I am praying that He will help me to be winsome and to focus on others and not myself.
Susan, Thank you for this post. Such encouragement.
I have to remember that Jesus, the Word, is present with me…He doesn’t flee from families that aren’t perfect or refuse to eat with a bunch of sinners and that includes me. I am praying that He will help me to be winsome and to focus on others and not myself.
SO MANY NEED TO EMBRACE YOUR THOUGHTS HERE, SUSAN.
Thanks so for your prayers for the Christmas tea. I had energy and God was present. MAJOR spiritual warfare, but God prevailed.
This is so encouraging, Dee…glad you had energy and God prevailed! Would love to hear some of the stories at some time!
I had a dark sad day yesterday, there were encouragements, but it was a hard one. It was helpful somehow to see some of you post that the day was tough for you too.
O ye beneath life’s crushing load,
Whose forms are bending low,
Who toil along the climbing way
With painful steps and slow;
Look now, for glad and golden hours
Come swiftly on the wing;
Oh rest beside the weary road
And hear the angels sing.
For lo! the days are hastening on,
By prophets seen of old,
When with the ever-circling years
Shall come the time foretold,
When the new heaven and earth shall own
The Prince of Peace, their King,
And the whole world send back the song
Which now the angels sing.
Oh, Chris, sorry you had a dark sad day yesterday. Thanks for coming on here to give us your empathy and your hug with the song. Brings tears here. Toiling hard here emotionally. I need to do this:
Oh rest beside the weary road
And hear the angels sing.
Chris, I’m so sorry you had such a dark, sad day…you have shared with us the burden you carry in your heart over the loss of your beloved son. Praying for you, Chris.
Chris I am so sorry. Oh Lord I pray that You will come very near to Chris during this time. She clings to the Word so tightly. Sustain her with Your love through Your word. Help her with the memorization, may it bring Your word to life for her. May it bring her light. Shine Your light into her darkness. Right now and for the days to come.
Dear Chris–you have stayed in my prayers all day–I remembered when you shared this a while back and it brought such comfort to me, I pray you feel His arms around you: “In all your course, walk with God and follow Christ as a little, poor, helpless child, taking hold of Christ’s hand, keeping your eye on the mark of the wounds on his hands and side, whence came the blood that cleanses you from sin and hides your nakedness under the skirt of the white shining robe of his righteousness.” ~Jonathan Edwards
With you, Chris in prayer. Thankful that even the Christmas carols have a lament to keep us close.
Dee Not surprised with the spiritual warfare. The darkness does not want to be overcome by the light does it. Our prayers to be ready for it are so powerful. Sometimes I forget and let it get the best of me. Another reson why we need to be hanging out with other light bearers especially when so much out in the world. Or for some of us just even Being in our own homes.
I know so many of you are struggling deeply. Many friends at Church too have said this Christmas feels hard for them. We do not travel to TX for Christmas, so it’s just us, which years past has made me sad, but this year I really feel the blessing of joy and His peace, and I know it is a gift from Him. Where as I usually feel sorry for myself that we are not with extended family, the simplicity this year has brought peace. I am praying for each of you here this week. This really blessed me and I hope it will others if you have time to read, it’s not long:
From Spurgeon, called “Room for Jesus?” http://teachingresources1.files.wordpress.com/2010/01/room-for-jesus-by-charles-spurgeon.pdf
An excerpt: “Oh!” saith one, “I have room for him, but will he come?” Will he come indeed! Do you but set the door of your heart open, do but say, “Jesus, Master, all unworthy and unclean I look to thee; come, lodge within my heart,” and he will come to thee, and he will cleanse the manger of thy heart, nay, will transform it into a golden throne, and there he will sit and reign forever and forever “Oh!” saith one, “I have room for him, but will he come?” Will he come indeed! Do you but set the door of your heart open, do but say, “Jesus, Master, all unworthy and unclean I look to thee; come, lodge within my heart,” and he will come to thee, and he will cleanse the manger of thy heart, nay, will transform it into a golden throne, and there he will sit and reign forever and forever.”
Now this excerpt from Spurgeon made me teary-eyed, Elizabeth! The question, “I have room for him, but will he come?” How this must grieve His good and tender heart when I doubt His good intentions towards me, towards others! Thank you for sharing His gift of peace to you this Christmas.
This contentment is so good to read, Elizabeth. Good from Spurgeon.
Susan, I love the story of how the Word knew better than you did. What a wonderful ending that your husband was so generous.
Last year I so wanted our home to sell, and did everything to make that happen to no avail. Now we are working together to make it
comfortable for ourselves, and my husband has been so helpful that he renovated a small room for me to have an office and then
made over a tall bookshelf so that it would fit in the adjoining room. I am very grateful for his work for me. It shows me that my own desires
are not the best for us.
The family times that we plan are sometimes so difficult. I do pray that we can let go of our expectations and pray that I , too, will be led by the Spirit to focus on others and let him lead .
Your husband sounds like a real sweetheart, Shirley!
My translation uses the past tense for overcoming and I thought it referred to Satan’s attack on Jesus while He lived on earth.
I like focusing on the Greek word. The meanings are different but I think they must be part of a whole, like the different facets of a jewel make up the whole. To understand or comprehend a thing does give power over it. That may be where the power to extinguish would come from.
I like how Keller used not “mastered” to embrace both not overcome and not understood
Comment if you had time to watch.
The TED talk video made me cry. I was discussing the reproductive system with my students this week so I ended the chapter with the video. Dee, thanks for sharing. What a beautiful journey we travel from conception to birth. It is beyond words! How magnificent were we created! How often do I look at my physical flaws and complain. Forgive, Lord.
9. As you submit to the Creator, do you experience more of His presence?
Yes, the memorizing and the reflecting this past couple of weeks has magnified my awareness of my Savior and Lord. There is a peace that passes all understanding despite the clamoring circumstances and people needs that surround me. Sometimes I go back to my old ways because they are comfortable (idol) but I feel like I am gaining ground in not suppressing the light that is being revealed to me.
Fun to know you did that Erema
4. What thoughts do you have on “the light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it?”
I am intrigued by the double meaning of this word…the ideas of overcoming something and understanding something. I use the 1984 NIV and it translates it as “understood”.
I was thinking of this the other morning while I was driving and the sky was overcast but there were a few areas where I could see a small break in the cloud cover and just a hint of light and blue-ness could be seen. I thought of how when things seem all dark because of trials and circumstances, I can fail to understand that “the Light” is there all along. Just because I can’t “see” Him doesn’t mean He isn’t there. I often cannot understand how anything good can come out of certain situations, or I think it impossible that God could be at work in a certain situation. I fail to comprehend, or understand.
5. What thoughts do you have on verse 9, on the fact that the true light enlightens everyone?
I think it means that the Light leaves nothing, no one, unexposed. Not everyone will receive the Light, but it extends to all. It exposes the darkness within us, revealing the need in all, for a Savior.
6. Romans 1:18 explains why not everyone responds to the light they are given. What is it? How is this also true of you as a believer?
They suppress the truth. I’ve been thinking about this since we talked about it a few weeks ago. Im a way, I daily suppress the truth. I think every time I refuse to forgive, to offer grace—I am trying to be the one on the Throne, acting as though I have a “right” to be obeyed, and without saying it—I can act as though love, grace, has to be earned—this is NOT the truth of the Gospel! I think there are many ways our culture subtly even, trades the True Gospel for a false one—we say things like “when it rains it pours”—and really, this is not truth, but we start to believe it. We start to say “it’s always something…” these negative thoughts that become “truths” to us, but they are not the Truth. I must continually go back to the Word, for my sinful nature is to forget, to fear, and in that sense to “suppress”. I’m spieling, I’ll stop before I get on a soapbox 😉
Love your soapbox here, Elizabeth. We do tend to lapse into our culture’s way of thinking, don’t we. Thanks for giving us something to ponder. We need to follow the Word, not the world.
an important soapbox
Elizabeth,
Thank you for these encouraging words. Timely.
PRAYER REQUEST – I would appreciate prayer for my son, Adam. He is on his way now to Jamaica…please pray for travelling safety and for his protection while he is there. He is attending a friend’s wedding next Monday and will be at a resort and he flies home on the 24th; arriving back around midnight. Thank you all!
Praying right now!
Susan,
The Lord surely knows how anxious our mother-hearts can become over our children. May He give you peace as you await his return.
5. What thoughts do you have on verse 9, on the fact that the true light enlightens everyone?
“The true light, which gives light to everyone…” The words from a song come to my mind, “From the fullness of His love we have all received one blessing after another…” Whether a person is a believer or an unbeliever, we are all given blessings that we do not deserve. To both are given things that we need; food, clothing, shelter, family, friends, marriage, children, the ability to love and be loved, times of happiness and joy. That is one thought. Another is that song that Rebecca sang for us from the Psalms; “…and none can hide his sinful eyes or shelter from its heat.” Everyone is given a conscience (though there are those who because they never turn to the light deaden it and may even eventually cease to have one). The very fact that even an unbeliever can differentiate between what is good and what is evil, or know on the inside that something is wrong, has to be because there is an ultimate Truth and a true Light that exposes what is wrong because the Light is opposed to the darkness.