This Sunday we will have the honor to study one of the greatest Old Testament prophecies concerning the birth of the long awaited Messiah. In fact, Micah 5:1-5 has been identified as one of the single most important prophecies in the Old Testament. It is important to remember the prophets proclaimed the Messiah would embody the function of Prophet, Priest, and King. As we worship Jesus this Advent season my prayer is that we grow in our understanding of Jesus, the long awaited Messiah.
This past week I was teaching my Old Testament Survey class and I was reminded that many believe it is difficult to read through the Old Testament especially the sections of extended genealogies. Reading page after page of “Asa begat Josaphat” doesn’t seem to do wonders for the soul. As we enter into this Christmas season I have regained my appreciation for the Old Testament and specifically the never ending list of genealogies. In fact they have become one of my favorite sections of Scripture. I believe the genealogies throughout the Bible illustrate one of the most beautiful truths we will encounter: “Your faithfulness endures to all generations.” (Psalm 119:90).
Be hospitable to one another without complaint. 1 Peter 4:9 (NASB)
The Apostle Peter provides a great challenge when he writes that Christ followers should show hospitality to one another without complaint. It is important to understand that hospitality is more than inviting people over and entertaining lots of guest in your home. It's much more than being ready, willing, and able to make a meal for someone at a moment's notice. Those things are very helpful and often a great blessing. But the heart of hospitality goes much deeper. I recently came across a story about a girl that died at the age of 20 named Brooke Greenberg. The thing that brought great intrigue concerning Brooke is the fact that although she was 20 years old she appeared physically to be a toddler. The news story about Brooke simply stated that she stopped growing. Doctors for years were puzzled about her condition, but discovered a gene mutation that stopped her ability to grow. For the last 15 years of her life she remained the same size with the physical appearance of a toddler. Eventually, Brooke was diagnosed with Syndrome X disease.
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AuthorOur Pastor writes most of the blog posts we publish, however, occasionally some of our other church leadership (some staff, some volunteer) who also contribute to the New Life blog. Archives
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