I love the women on this blog, for so many are “without guile,”
confessing their sin, asking authentic questions, and longing to be closer to Jesus.
Our own Laura questioned why we were looking at the awful book of Judges at Christmas!
I was able to respond:
The reason we are studying this at Christmas is because the Bible is all one story — of a great Prince who came to rescue His unfaithful Bride. The book of Judges surely shows her infidelity, and in contrast, the book of Ruth shows us how we can be transformed into a faithful and pure Bride.
And our own Jill wrote:
Every Advent I TRY to find some book or devotional or something to *make* me feel closer to God… to better realize what it is all about. This year I simply came desperate and thirsty to my Bible and the words which are so familiar wash over me in unanticipated newness and freshness. His Spirit is there.
So true. So this week (you’ll be glad, Laura!) we are looking at a much more traditional Christmas passage (John 1). If we come “desperate and thirsty,” as Jill did, these familiar words will wash over us in newness and freshness. All Advent we have been “wondering,” and this Christmas week we will ponder the wonders of His love.
For what could be more amazing than this?
The Word became flesh.
Luci Shaw puts it like this:
The Word, stern-sentenced to be nine months dumb.
Infinity walled in a womb.
His searing sharply focused light eclipsed in amniotic gloom.
Why would He give up so much to become so vulnerable,
to become, as Tim Keller says, “killable?”
For us.
He wanted a pure Bride.
Though I will share more about this next week, I’m excited about what the Lord has given me for us to do in 2020. It will be different, shorter, but I think, richer — and something of a sabbatical for me. My favorite Keller book on a book of the Bible is: Jesus The King (formerly titled The King’s Cross.) I would love for as many of you as possible to purchase it, for we will be doing just one chapter a week — that covers just one chapter or less in Mark. A really easy pace with accountability to find something each day and share a possible God Hunt. You can get it just about anywhere, including Christianbook.com and Amazon. And you could even still ask for it for Christmas! 🙂 You’ll want to underline! It will take us through and a bit past Lent.
Sunday
- What stands out to you from the above and why?
Listen to We Wonder: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1484584757
2. What did you like about We Wonder?
Monday: The Word Made Flesh
I know it is a busy week so am giving you the sermon upfront to listen and reflect on. Share your thoughts whenever you like.
3. Share your notes and thoughts whenever you like
Listen to We Wonder: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1484584757
4. Thoughts on the above?
Tuesday: Christmas Eve
5. Read John 1:1-3 and share your reflections.
6. What similarities to the above do you find in each of the following?
A. Genesis 1:1-2
B. 1 John 1:1-2
Listen to We Wonder: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1484584757
7. Share your thoughts on the above.
Wednesday: Christmas Day
8. Reflect and share your thoughts on John 1:14. Wonder — what does this really mean?
Listen to We Wonder: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1484584757
9. Share your thoughts on the above.
Thursday-Friday: Reflecting
10. Share two ways God met you this Advent.
11. Share a way He met you Christmas Day.
I am eager to share my biggest Advent surprise. My plan was to drive from Green Bay, Wi through Des Moines, Iowa (daughter Beth is there) and onto Kearney, Ne (daughter Anne is there.) I had an eye appointment in Green Bay late in the afternoon last week, and was going to try to get a few hours of driving done. When I came out it was dark, my eyes blurry from eyedrops, and I really wondered if I should be driving at all. Suddenly a little Asian woman ran up to me and said, “Ma’mm – may I catch a ride with you?” I was confused and asked, “Ahhh — how can I help you?” She didn’t say anything more but just grinned at me. Suddenly I realized it was my Annie, who had flown in from Nebraska. I cried, “What are you doing here in Green Bay?” It was her Christmas gift to me to drive back with me, see her sister in Des Moines, and have alone time with me. Best gift ever!
I also want to tell you that each of you is a gift to me — and I have loved traveling Advent with you and hope many of you will be with me on the next adventure. More about that next week.
Saturday:
12. Share something that truly impacted you during our Advent together, or a way God is working in your life.
81 comments
I have been following this advent study behind the scenes and have enjoyed and been encouraged by all the responses and the pod casts. Laura, I so appreciated your honesty…it made me smile because Judges is my husbands favorite book…he enjoys the action and what each story teaches us today.
Dee, I have ordered Keller’s book and look forward to the next study.
Merry Christmas!
Hurrah, Sharon. So Laura, what do you think? Judges a favorite book!
Hahaha Dee! It is strange that Judges could be a favorite book…but then again I haven’t read it in awhile. Next time I do, I will keep this in mind 🙂
Sharon, I sure laughed when I read that your husband’s favorite book is Judges. I may have to re-read Judges. LOL
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? Desperate and thirsty… just yesterday my son was asking questions and I was trying to articulate the Gospel difference between seeking Jesus to get into heaven and seeking Jesus because you’ve been given heaven. “Our actions come from our deepest beliefs so if I really believe that Jesus is the most wonderful and Lord of my life I will seek Him out, not because I have to keep favor but because my spirit is desperate and thirsty for what I know is Good,” Lord, may it be so that I never have my thirst satisfied this side of heaven….
Also the word sabbatical puts a little fear into my heart….Dee (and all you gals), I so appreciate this space and how the Lord uses it. BUT it is good for you to rest, Dee. Much love and respect. All that said I am super excited to dive into Keller!
I also am struck by Luci’s words and Keller’s articulation of what God did…became kill-able…what pain, just for us.
(PS Dee, Susan, and Laura I read your responses from last week. I always enjoy going a bit deeper on some of the questions.)
Excited to have you Jill. You add so much!
Jill, I am adding something now to last week. I don’t think I explained well about the historical fiction. I agree, going deeper is good. I like when I have the time to do that.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
I love the story of Beth coming to meet you at the doctor’s office. How sweet of her! I hope you had a special time together. I also love our Laura for her “without guile” comments. I hope she is having a great time in her travels this next couple of weeks. Advent has been very disorganized for me this year because of the move and trying to settle in to our new compact home. I have stolen a couple of opportunities to wander for a few minutes into our woods and view our stream which has ice beginning to form on the edges. I think I am going to love living here!
In case I don’t get back on here before Christmas, Merry Christmas all! Hugs to you all!
oh Diane–I LOVE hearing how you are enjoying your new home! “stealing” moments to enjoy your woods and stream..just sounds perfect, so thankful for His provision!
Merry Christmas to you as well, Diane! I also love to steal away out into nature…it’s been unusually mild here in Ohio the past couple of days with temperatures nearing 50, and my daughter and I stole away for a walk at one of our parks. I saw a squirrel chase a robin yesterday, and my daughter and I also saw several flocks of geese seeming to meet together at one of the parks we were at; I wondered how they all knew to meet up with each other there as they arrived at different times!
I am most taken by the picture of Annie and her Miabelle!–they are just precious! And I love the gift of her surprise, and wanting time with you!
I also just pulled Jesus the King from my shelf, haven’t looked at it in maybe 5 years! So I’m really looking forward to reading it together and the accountability.
I think this year Advent has felt so different for me. I used to do like Jill mentioned–search for the perfect book or routine….But this year, maybe as I have been stripped, again, of idols I was trying to gain identity from, I have felt freed–of demands on myself, of “doing advent well”…and I have experienced more peace, more of a steady drawing near that will continue beyond the 25th…a renewal of my soul, and a deeper reliance upon Christ alone for my identity.
Lizzy, this is an interesting point you bring up here about “doing Advent well”….when there’s a “spiritual build-up” to the special times of Advent and Lent, sometimes I feel pressure to make it a really good one….insightful, deep, reflective….the focus then is on me and what I’m doing. Then, I remember that many Christians (mostly those outside of more liturgical churches/traditions) don’t even give Advent or Lent a second thought. They’re just being faithful and practicing their faith every day like they always do. So I am glad that you have felt freed of the demands on yourself to do advent well and I’m going to try to remember that in the future!
Sunday
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? The word WONDER…I find myself in a place of much wondering.
Listen to We Wonder: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1484584757
2. What did you like about We Wonder? I love how the music and other sound track adds so much to the text. I love the comfort in the “sameness” in format of each episode…the breathe in and breathe out…making space in our hearts…wondering what God’s word has to say to us and what I have to say to God.
Wondering is a great place to be, Lucy
Sunday
What stands out to you from the above and why?
a. I have been seeing the word “wonder” in many places it seems like. One place is in the book I have been reading “The Praying Life”. Paul E. Miller had a section subtitled, “the willingness to be enchanted”. He then said, “ As we wait and pray, God weaves his story and creates a wonder. Instead of drifting between denial and reality, we have a relationship with the living God, who is intimately involved with the details of our worlds. We are learning to watch for the story to unfold, to wait for the wonder.”
b. Luci Shaw’s poem is so profound-I love it! Such love for us all.
The Word, stern-sentenced to be nine months dumb.
Infinity walled in a womb.
His searing sharply focused light eclipsed in amniotic gloom.
c. The wonders of His love-we sang Joy to the World this morning at church and also had the Lord’s Supper. The elements were so meaningful to me as I think forward of Easter during this Christmas season. He came to die for me, for us.
d. I was reminded as well of the lyrics to the song “If that isn’t love” by Ray Boltz https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jltKwX6ifzQ
He left the splendor of Heaven
Knowing His destiny
Was the lonely hill of Golgotha
There to lay down his life for me.
If that isn’t love…
Listen to We Wonder: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1484584757
2. What did you like about We Wonder?
Everything about this podcast is excellent-Sarah Dahl’s voice, the selected music for background, the breathing in and out as we pray and the thoughts and prayers of the children.
Thoughts on this episode: I needed to hear this story as I have some fears right now I am dealing with. It was good to remember that Jesus saves and God’s love drives out all fears.
Love “the willingness to be enchanted!”
I’ve been following at a distance as well for a while as I’m working so hard on another adoption that is finally coming through after a 3 1/2 year wait. I was happy to see you referencing thirsting after God because this has intrigued me in the past few weeks after listening to a John Piper sermon about Jesus calling out, “Whoever is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink!” After the sermon, I seemed to hear these words from Jesus is such a fresh way, as if He was calling my name personally, and yet, I didn’t know how to drink of Him. I have heard these verses all my life, but it hit me that I really didn’t know practically how to actually drink of Him. I began to ask Him to show me how to drink of Him as I was so very thirsty, and I believe He has begun to show me. How often I drink from the broken cisterns of this world (desire for human love and acceptance being the primary one for me) expecting them to quench my thirst. He started to remind me when I would feel, oh so thirsty, for human love and acceptance, that He is truly only the One that can satisfy that thirst. He reminded me of countless precious Scriptures where He satisfies the longing soul and fills the hungry soul with goodness. “I came to Jesus and I drank of that lifegiving stream. My thirst was quenched, my soul revived, and now I live in Him!” This also helps me with my upset over people who don’t love and accept me the way I want to be loved and accepted. We are all broken cisterns and cannot quench the thirst of any other human being. So why get upset with others who don’t fulfil my needs? Only He can truly satisfy. I have so much more to learn. I also just purchased the Tim Keller book and am eager for the new study to come. Thank you for all you do to make this blog such a blessing, Dee! Merry Christmas to all!
Miriam, I love your entire post. I love how you asked Him to show you, because you just didn’t really know, how to actually drink of Him. That’s a good question. Kind of like me wondering about the abide in Me thing, and wondering how do I actually do this? And boy can I relate to feeling oh so thirsty for human love and acceptance and being upset with people when they don’t love/accept me the way I want to be loved and accepted. And so, I try to drink from the broken cisterns of this world.
Miriam–this is a beautiful post! Prayers for your next adoption!
Wonderful, Miriam!
What stands out to you from the above and why?
I love the idea of a book study! And, Keller! His genius in explaining the things I don’t understand…I have such excitement this Christmas, for I am not in America, and I miss the beauty of our Christmas season. The lights, the carols, the waiting for Him. Although there are plenty of lights and Christmas trees where I am, we are told no one here celebrates Christmas, rather all the hoopla is for the new year. Ugh. It is sad to me, but at the same time exciting to come home tomorrow to our home and the babies, who also await Jesus’ birthday! I have tried to “witness” to our taxi driver, but alas, I may have run him off. Jesus brings hope, and it is so apparent that the people here need that in their lives.
2. What did you like about We Wonder?
I just love these podcasts! Sara is an excellent “deliverer” of the content. Mary….the Magnificat, Jesus’ name means “God saves.” She knew by His name that He was coming to save His people. Her waiting, the people of Israel’s waiting would end. She was hopeful when others couldn’t understand. Her faith was amazing, but also, she “got it.” She wasn’t “slow” as I am at times when it comes to the Word. There were clues and she knew. How sweet! The angel, the contemplation of the event that would happen…she must have been at least a bit anxious don’t you think? But, when you have God, there is no reason to be anxious. I am traveling in a place I would never have expected to be in my life. I have been a little anxious because it has put me out of my comfort zone. But, God is with me. He is here to comfort me in my potential anxiety. Thank You Jesus for coming to earth to be with us. God with us. How sweet.
Laura, “He is here to comfort me in my potential anxiety.” What a blessing to experience God with us in a foreign land.
So good to hear from you while you are overseas. Yes, God is with us.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
I agree…I love Laura’s questions because she often asks the questions I’m thinking, too! (I kind of wondered about why we were reading about concubines being cut up into pieces at Christmastime). And, I also remember Jill’s post from last week, about trying to find a really good Advent devotional/material to “make” you feel closer to God, and then how she simply read her Bible. It’s true – it’s all right there. What could be more amazing than this: the Word became flesh. I did listen to the Keller sermon from two weeks ago, and I liked his metaphor of how there was a concrete slab separating us from God, and God punched a hole right through it.
The concubine sentence made me laugh out loud.
Too funny!!
2. What did you like about We Wonder?
OH, I’ve been loving these podcasts! I appreciate the thoughtful music with each one, and how she reminds us the God is with each one of us right where we are. I like how she asks questions like “What does God have to say to me”, and “What do I have to say to God?” In this one about Mary’s heart, I heard that God’s first and most important message to us is Don’t Be Afraid. Jesus means “God Saves”. Mary opened her heart to God, and it gave birth to her wonderful “song”. How do I need God to save me today?
Susan–I think you could do something like her podcasts. You have such depth of wisdom and are so gifted at putting words to your thoughts!
Totally AGREE!!
Oh, I wrote a comment last night and it did not take. It might be because of a link to a song I included. I will try again.
Sunday
What stands out to you from the above and why?
a. I have been seeing the word “wonder” in many places it seems like. One place is in the book I have been reading “The Praying Life”. Paul E. Miller had a section subtitled, “the willingness to be enchanted”. He then said, “ As we wait and pray, God weaves his story and creates a wonder. Instead of drifting between denial and reality, we have a relationship with the living God, who is intimately involved with the details of our worlds. We are learning to watch for the story to unfold, to wait for the wonder.”
b. Luci Shaw’s poem is so profound-I love it! Such love for us all.
The Word, stern-sentenced to be nine months dumb.
Infinity walled in a womb.
His searing sharply focused light eclipsed in amniotic gloom.
c. The wonders of His love-we sang Joy to the World this morning at church and also had the Lord’s Supper. The elements were so meaningful to me as I think forward of Easter during this Christmas season. He came to die for me, for us.
d. I was reminded as well of the lyrics to the song “If that isn’t love” by Ray Boltz.
He left the splendor of Heaven
Knowing His destiny
Was the lonely hill of Golgotha
There to lay down his life for me.
If that isn’t love…
Missy, I love your post and am so thankful for your heart for others through adoption.
You are such a sweet blessing to me personally, Bing! Hope we can meet one day!
Dee, just want to let you know that my last comment showed up a few minutes after I thought it wasn’t accepted. Right now, it is showing, ” your comment is waiting moderation.” Ugh. So I do not know what is going on. Sorry for the inconvenience.
It’s not really an inconvenience — I did have to approve (probably because of the link) but that’s not a big deal and you have to wait for me to get online.
1. What did you like about We Wonder?
Everything about this podcast is excellent-Sarah Dahl’s voice, the selected music for background, the breathing in and out for prayers and the thoughts and prayers of the children.
Thoughts on this episode:
Because of Mary’s brave heart, God’s love came into the world as her son. Do not be afraid. God’s love drives out all fear. Jesus means “God saves”. There are a few things in my life right now that need me to be brave. Lord, help me to be courageous to step out in faith and like Mary, be brave.
5. Read John 1:1-3 and share your reflections.
I have a very special place in my heart for this particular scripture. A few years back, Dee encouraged us to memorize it. As I was memorizing I recognized that it reminded me of another scripture in Proverbs. I’m pretty sure I have told this story before, so sorry if you don’t like repeats! When I made the connection between John 1:1-14 and Proverbs 8:22-31, I decided to choreograph both scriptures as one dance. We had 2 readers and they read alternating; a few from John and then a few from Proverbs. The John part was classical ballet moves, and the Proverbs was more modern. It turned out superb….I believe the best I have done to-date. I can’t read these verses without thinking of our dance. Thanks Dee for that inspiration so many years ago!
The Word has always been with us. He is our Guide, our Light. Thank You Lord for being so merciful to us.
6. What similarities to the above do you find in each of the following?
A. Genesis 1:1-2
B. 1 John 1:1-2
They both consider “the beginning.” God created. Jesus was with God. In Genesis 3, it talks about the light, reminding me of John 1.
Oh I remember, Laura — and your dance was wonderful!
Thanks Dee! Merry Christmas ✝️🎄🎁♥️🤶🏻
Laura, I hope you realize what a gift you have to choreograph Scripture into movement and dance!
5. Read John 1:1-3 and share your reflections. This may be stretching too far (?) but all things were made through Christ so all things were made by Grace. Was God forgiving us and redeeming us even as He created us? Was the promise of a Saviour necessary to allow us to come? Christ accepted His role and committed to coming, suffering, and dying even before all was begun?!
(Laura– I remember your dance, too. I have always loved worship dancers – can you share it again somehow?)
6. What similarities to the above do you find in each of the following?
A. Genesis 1:1-2 God created all. He was there before time.
B. 1 John 1:1-2 It is referring to Christ (life made manifest) being with God from the beginning.
My kids and I have been listening to we wonder podcast.
Monday: The Word Made Flesh
I know it is a busy week so am giving you the sermon upfront to listen and reflect on. Share your thoughts whenever you like.
The Word Made Flesh – Timothy J. Keller
1. Share your notes and thoughts whenever you like.
Dee, first of all, thank you for introducing me to many Christian writers and speakers. I have been so blessed. Tim Keller here is in his element (as always) and the passage in John 1 is so pregnant with meaning as he expounded on it.
a. Jesus is God’s Word. He is the ultimate revelation of who God is.
b. Jesus Made flesh The Word made vulnerable; killable; when Jesus heard our cries, He came down knowing it would cost His life. Have I faced betrayal, hunger, injustice, been broke, lonely, faced death? Jesus had that is why He is called Wonderful Counselor- He has been there where we are or have been or would be in. I remember Tim Keller said in another message that Jesus was abandoned by God at the cross so we can never be abandoned or be alone.
c. Jesus tabernacled among us Whereas Moses couldn’t look at God without being killed… they had to make a tabernacle so He can talk to them but not see Him, Jesus, on the other hand, dwelt among us. He came down and was made vulnerable, feelable, God with us, Immanuel.
Jesus is the end of religion. Religion says you have to do this and that so you get to be accepted.
Christianity says you are accepted because of what Jesus has done for you therefore you do these things.
Jesus came to earth so he can close the gap between God and us
The unscalable holy God came as a baby, eager to show grace to each one of us. Christmas means inexhaustible things in Christ.
Thank you, Jesus, for coming down from Heaven so we can experience you in the here and now and later. Happy birthday to you! Help me to always, always remember.
Listen to We Wonder: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1484584757
I love how Sarah brought up such a tender picture of Joseph here. I think Joseph is often overlooked by the other characters surrounding Jesus’ birth. What privilege to be called the earthly father of our Lord! I wonder if he also had a song of praise like Mary did? Joseph’s Magnificat? In God’s sovereignty, there is no record of it but it does not mean he did not have his words of praise. Nevertheless, I do see Joseph’s tender care of Mary and Jesus. I wonder how old Joseph was when he died? And how? I am amazed too about how two ordinary people were used by God to raise His one and only Son. God is saying to me that He can use any ordinary people like me. All I need to do is obey what He has called me to do.
1. Read John 1:1-3 and share your reflections.
Jesus has always been in the beginning with God. He is also the Creator of all things.
6. What similarities to the above do you find in each of the following?
A. Genesis 1:1-2 God the Father created the heavens and the earth and Jesus was there as well as the Holy Spirit.
B. 1 John 1:1-2 The One who was from the beginning came down and walked among us.
Listen to We Wonder: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1484584757
7. Share your thoughts on the above.
The humble manger, an animal’s feedbox held the Savior of the world! God came down as a baby so He can be like us. I wonder how Mary delivered Jesus? How did Joseph cut the umbilical cord? What was it like that very night? God with us, Immanuel. Thank you.
Tonight, we had our Christmas Eve service. As I looked around and imagine the lives of the people who were there, my heart felt a variety of feelings. Rejoicing with one couple who are expecting their baby soon, radiant faces of children with their families, a lady in a wheelchair who has recovered well from a stroke. Sad over one couple who are getting divorced, a wife whose husband couldn’t be with her this night because he is at a rehab place after a major stroke, a widow who is by herself this Christmas. And many more. Thank you, Jesus, that you are Immanuel. You are with all of us and saying, Peace. You are a God who sees and will meet each one of us at our point of need. Help us to see you.
So good, Bing, seeing as the Father sees.
Bing, I love how you look out at the people in your church and carefully take notice of them and know their joys and sorrows. Merry Christmas to you and your family!
8. Reflect and share your thoughts on John 1:14. Wonder — what does this really mean?
Jesus (God) came to earth to live with us so we would know God. He showed us what it means to love each other. He was good. He paid for us with Himself, His blood, because He loves us so and wanted us to always be with Him. He covered us. Thank You sweet Jesus! Merry Christmas everyone! For unto us a child is born!!
P.S. we made it home safe and sound (no luggage) but we are here!
Hurrah. And Lord, please rescue the luggage!
Happy you are home safely, Laura! I enjoyed the pictures you posted, too. You had an amazing time! Merry Christmas! Better for the luggage to arrive late on the return trip, and not when you arrived in Russia!
Luggage arrived last night! Thanks for the prayers!
Hurrah! Thank You Lord!
3. Share your notes and thoughts whenever you like.
I’ve listened several times to this sermon. One highlight that grabbed my heart was when Keller said to please go to Him as your Wonderful Counselor and used the example of the cripple in Mark 2 who was lowered through the roof to Jesus. And the first thing Jesus said to the man was “Son, your sins are forgiven.” Keller asks, why would Jesus say that, because nowhere in the Bible does God grant forgiveness of sins where there is no repentance, and the man hadn’t said anything. But Keller said that there must have been inside that man “inarticulate, unexpressed, fragmentary longings for grace and mercy that Jesus was so sensitive to and responded to”. He is so eager to give grace. And I know myself how I can have a lot of unexpressed longings, and to know that God somehow sorts them out and understands, even when I don’t.
Also, how the story of Don Quixote helps explain the gospel. “Maddest of all to see the world as it is, and not as it ought to be.” It takes a madman to see royalty in a prostitute. Perhaps that’s why some said that Jesus was mad. He saw the potential good in cheaters, liars, adulterers…what they could become. Or maybe, who they truly were.
Beautiful, Susan, bringing in Don Quixote.
4. Thoughts on the above?
This one is about Joseph. When I went to that Advent labyrinth, one of the reflections was about Joseph. The reflection said that the angel’s appearance to Joseph in his dream is a call to give over, to give of himself, to give all of himself, no less than the request of Gabriel to Mary. The people who claim us, love us, and give us a home mark us and shape us no less than the biology which gave us birth. Joseph certainly shaped Jesus, too.
5. Read John 1:1-3 and share your reflections.
This makes it so clear that in Genesis 1 where it says that in the beginning God created, that Jesus was right there, being with God, and that He is God. God created everything through Him. I can’t wrap my mind around that. Jesus didn’t come into existence at his conception by the Spirit and His birth; He existed before His earthly mother did.
6. What similarities to the above do you find in each of the following?
A. Genesis 1:1-2
That in the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. God being God the Father, and Jesus His Son (and the Spirit) which John tells us in his gospel.
B. 1 John 1:1-2
John says that he proclaims to us the One who existed from the beginning (Genesis) and says that Jesus was with the Father. He says that Jesus IS eternal life, He IS life. So He was not created; He is the source of all life.
7. Share your thoughts on the above.
The root of Jesse has finally flowered into a new, growing tree. It’s so hard to imagine Jesus as a tiny, fragile baby! How did Mary and Joseph feel, now that the waiting for their baby was over?
8. Reflect and share your thoughts on John 1:14. Wonder – what does this really mean? Jesus dwelt among us as God dwelt in the Tabernacle to be with His people. There is a desire of God to be close to us because it is for our good that He comes, He doesn’t need to for His sake but wants to. We however would be so much worse off if He did not dwell with us. Also seeing His glory is essential for understanding who He is. He is Hope realized. Merry Christmas to ALL!
Sunday
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? – Love how if we really dig deeper in to God’s Word we will see that it is one BIG BOOK. I also wonder how Jesus must have felt, to be born an innocent baby to Mary, yet from the start was distend to be ‘killable’. WOW, to know the ending of our own lives from the start, would we even want to go on and live? Would we even want to put our hearts out there, open to be hurt, but still to love unconditionally. So true…THE WONDERS OF HIS LOVE!!!
5. Read John 1:1-3 and share your reflections. – It still amazes me that God chose me. I was created and put on this Earth because of Him. But why have I chosen to follow him, and others created by the same God have not? I still don’t understand this. So if we are all created by Him, have we all, at one point chosen to follow him but because of our free will to choose, fallen away because we think we have do a better job with our lives?
6. What similarities to the above do you find in each of the following?
A. Genesis 1:1-2 – God created everything from the start, by himself.
B. 1 John 1:1-2 – Jesus was with God from the beginning and is the Word.
Julie, how is your husband doing? Yes, the mysteries of God to have so chosen us.
Bing, he is doing ok. Anxious and just wants it over with. We are waiting to hear from the surgical nurse to get his surgery scheduled. We are grateful for all the prayers and he has a great outlook, so that is a big plus. Thanks for asking Bing.
I’m thinking about how some people claim other religions too….God made them but they are only exposed to other ways so they reject Christianity OR maybe they have never heard of Christianity, so they don’t know what they don’t know. I have a friend who is a missionary in a Muslim only country. Our church also supports a missionary in another Muslim country. Sometimes people hear the Word for the first time and are astonished; they don’t understand at all. They are curious and want to learn more. It is exciting for the missionaries. I think it’s a matter of us being in this fallen place and other things can take over our lives. Same would go for religion and belief systems.
Wednesday: Christmas Day
8. Reflect and share your thoughts on John 1:14. Wonder — what does this really mean?
Last night at our Candle Light Christmas Eve service, a couple brought their 3 weeks old baby girl. I stood there in awe once again thinking how this little girl will one day be grown up and will be living an earthly life. I pray she will come to know Jesus as her Lord and Savior. I wonder what Mary and Joseph were thinking when they were looking at Jesus in the manger crib? They knew from the angel that His name means He will save His people. But how will He do that? Did they envision Him to be crucified? Was there a vision of His sacrificial death? God made flesh-wonder-I can’t express it. And perhaps wonder is this- the inexpressible joy of finding the only One who would fully love me despite my unworthiness; Heaven came down for me! Indeed, all wonders of His love!
The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14
8. Reflect and share your thoughts on John 1:14. Wonder — what does this really mean? – He has come, in the flesh to live among us. Jesus is the only true Son from our heavenly Father. The only one that loves us unconditionally. My wonder is how did Jesus really feel about all that was going to happen to him. I sit back and think how God must have felt. To give up his only son right from the start. My life happening can’t even come close. The definition of WONDER as a noun is…a feeling of surprise mingled with admiration, caused by something beautiful, unexpected, unfamiliar or inexplicable. This really does sum it up perfectly. God’s love for me is beautiful, unexpected (since I fall short everyday). It is a feeling of surprise to me that there is only ONE person who loves me like this. That love comes from God, Jesus HIS ONE AND ONLY SON.
8. Reflect and share your thoughts on John 1:14. Wonder – what does this really mean?
I’m ashamed to say that I read this yesterday morning and thought, I’ll keep thinking about this verse all throughout the day. I hosted Christmas at my house this year, and I told my husband now I know why I used to “enjoy” Christmas Day more…it was easier to just show up than to do all the preparations! Really though, I enjoyed the day but was definitely distracted by many things, like Martha! I am stuck on “The Word became human.” I have read things about what does your cat’s behavior mean, and learned that when they look at you and do the ‘slow blink’ with their eyes, it communicates affection. But I can’t become a cat to really discover what it’s like to be a cat. It is beyond the human mind what it means that GOD, the Creator, the eternally existent One, became human. With blood vessels, a beating heart, a spleen and liver, muscles, bones, tendons. Nerve endings that enabled Him to feel pain. Human feelings that got hurt. Having to go to the bathroom. That two natures, divine and human, seamlessly melded together. If you scratched Him, divine light didn’t emanate out from under His skin; He bled. The bigger question is why did He do this. The reasons could be many, even endless. I think it has a lot to do with love.
I’m eager to hear how God met you this Christmas.
We had a wonderful day with one of Steve’s partners — good fellowship, food, and a few surprises. We took the children for a walk and met a farmer who let them ride horses! I did get sick for 3 days before Christmas but was hale and hearty by Christmas Eve, and soooo thankful.
Love to each of you.
Dee, I loved the story of your Advent surprise. When I was reading I started getting nervous, thinking you let a stranger in your car with you, but what a surprise to know your stranger was indeed a blessing of your daughter. What a great surprise, I’m sure that made for a great trip this Christmas.
Yes — so sweet. But I probably would have let that little woman in my car — she seemed so sweet!
🙂 Smile.
10. Share two ways God met you this Advent.
I think the We Wonder podcast was lovely this advent. I didn’t get to listen to all of them, but I did enjoy the ones I listened to. I was blessed by the children who wondered and prayed. Looking forward to Lent!
I made a commitment to have the young girls dance with me for the season at our church. We ended up with quite a crew and struggled to get the dance choreographed and taught by our December 15 timeline. One dancer couldn’t make it to several rehearsals because of family problems. I had to hold the line and tell the family that she couldn’t dance because she had missed so much. It did not go over well to say the least. I was blessed by my church family who supported me through it all. I felt bad, but everything turned out okay. The dance ended up beautiful!
While we were in Russia, we had a driver who stayed with us much of the time. He told us about the area, the people, and we learned about the culture. We never had many rubles and he didn’t take credit cards. So we kept “feeding” him American money. The ruble is only 2 cents in dollars. So, when he got $20 from us each drive, he made quite a bit extra. The last day we saw him he showed up in a beautiful, long wool coat! He said he got it at a second hand store. We hoped our money helped him buy it. We don’t know for sure, but I like to think it did. I was blessed by giving him the extra and thinking that it helped him.
11. Share a way He met you Christmas Day.
Although our family is dysfunctional in many ways, it was a first that we didn’t argue, and our adult children made wise-ish choices. The one son who can’t seem to forgive his sister said he wouldn’t come because she and her husband (ugh) would be here. I told him I understood and wished him a Merry Christmas. He then turned around and decided he would come but leave when they showed up. I appreciated that he cared enough about the rest of us to come and hang for even a little while. Our dinner was fairly quiet, and we played cards afterwards! It was a nice, calm day. I am thankful for that. It almost felt like we were a normal family!
Laura, it is good to have you back! I am glad you were able to do the dance. Would you be able to post it so we can see it? And I love the story of the Russian driver. A coat-that is wonderful!
Oh I love the long wool coat story!!!
3. Here are my notes to Tim Keller’s sermon. Sorry it’s so long.
Meaningfulness at Christmas by singing Christmas Carols is good, but that is settling for too little.
The meaning of Christmas is more powerful then carols.
The book of John is not about what happened at Christmas, but what Christmas means
Jesus IS THE WORD
A person’s word tells others more about us. But if we never have talked to them, we really never met them.
You can’t really know God except through Jesus Christ. You can know of him, but you can’t REALLY KNOW HIM unless you are with Jesus.
God has spoken rationally in the book of John. God has given us a water tight person in Jesus Christ which gives no argument that Christianity is true if we take HIS WORD seriously.
Jesus is the WORD made FLESH and means God as become vulnerable.
When someone is in trouble, will you risk your life for that person? Christmas is telling us that the Lord of Heaven heard our cries and came down to help knowing he was risking HIS LIFE.
Hebrews 2 tells us that the God of FLESH had to be made like us so he could be made a high priest. Wonderful counselor are the best counselors that have been through trials and can help us because of that trial.
Jesus has been through it all in order for us to go to Him and trust him with what issues we have. When we feel abandoned by God, remember that Jesus has also been abandoned and didn’t have one of his prayers answered the way he wanted it to be.
Christmas, Jesus, is the end of religion as we know it. Jesus is our temple. Jesus is our Priest. Jesus is our sacrifice. Christianity accepts us and then we live to follow Jesus which is the opposite of religion which makes you do stuff first, before we are accepted.
Why wasn’t Moses able to see God’s glory? If you have experienced life, threatening actions you have a gap between you and those that hurt you. Something has to close the gap and Jesus came to Earth to become vulnerable and become killable and close the gap.
In the old testament the glory of God is smoking mountains, but Jesus came as a baby so the glory of God could come right in to our hearts.
There can be no half way measures in following Jesus. He is the Word that WAS GOD and Jesus has been claiming that he is God
We need to go to Jesus as our counselor, he has the medicine we need and will put it in our hearts. God does not give forgiveness unless there is repentance.
If you believe in Christmas we don’t have to choose between the real and unreal, Jesus Christ became the real. Christmas means anything can change.
Thank you for your notes, Julie. I have taken notes also. Tim Keller is good!
Thanks for the great notes Julie! I listened early in the week but never took notes. I appreciate your time in doing this.
Ladies, you are welcome. I love Tim Keller’s explanations on various topics and how Dee can find one that ties in to our studies.
Thursday-Friday: Reflecting
10. Share two ways God met you this Advent.
God met me at the most unlikely places:
a. At a rehab hospital .while visiting one of our church members-the suffering I saw among the patients and the sad countenance of family members who are waiting on news of their loved ones’ progress. God was saying, “I am here, too, Bing. I care for these people.”
b. At a Wal-Mart parking lot listening to NPR with the storytelling of a poor family during Christmas of 1949-how the father showed his son what kindness is by welcoming a family of strangers on the way to another city looking for jobs to provide for themselves. The need for God transcends time and generations. God was saying, “I am the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow, Bing.”
11. Share a way He met you Christmas Day.
First Christmas Day ( second actually to the first one when we were newly married) on our own as husband and wife after 31 years!. Ruth in Seattle (we are going to see her next month) and my Mom and my brother and his family (they are apart from one another as my brother is taking care of my Mom) in the Philippines. Some sadness but eclipsed with the truth that God is with us all, Emmanuel. The reality that as humans we are bound by time and space yet our hearts can be united because of the presence of God in our lives. I long for the day when I will see everyone I love and in one place!
Good stories Bing.
I sent out an e-mail about the study beginning tomorrow. Please pray that the ones God wants here will hunger to be here, sign up, and stay with us! Thanks so much.
Got my book and am ready to dive in! Happy New Year!
My book is supposed to be here tomorrow! Everyone, have a beautiful New Year!
Saturday:
12. Share something that truly impacted you during our Advent together, or a way God is working in your life.
I loved the Wonder podcast. I have experienced God in a deeper way. I long more for His coming again to make all things new.
I loved it too — I think many did!