Category: Simple

God’s Favor on Mary

12/4/2018

The first two chapters of Luke include four songs or poems. Each of these announcements are spoken by a different person. Mary, the mother of Jesus, in a joyful statement proclaims what’s come to be known as The Magnificat (“my soul magnifies the Lord”). Zechariah, John the Baptist’s father, who is mentioned in the second half of Luke chapter 1, is the mute priest whose tongue is loosed to speak The Benedictus (“Blessed be the Lord God of Israel”). The angels in Luke Chapter 2 lit up the night sky outside Bethlehem and proclaimed The Gloria to some very frightened shepherds (“Glory to God in the highest”). And, finally, old, devout Simeon, waiting patiently for the Lord, takes the Christ child in his arms and speaks the words of the Nunc Dimittis (“Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace”).

Simple Christmas Part 1

11/20/2018

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).

God’s Favor on Mary

Simple Christmas Part 1

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