THE CROSS EXAM DEVOTIONAL ARCHIVES

December 1, 2002

Today we start a series of devotions geared for preparing you for the Christmas season, and for helping you get through it. This year we have found an excellent series presented by the Moody Bible Institute that we believe God can use to draw you closer to Him! We hope and pray that these teachings will be a blessing to you.

Love,
Richard & Jonathan

QUOTE OF THE DAY: The Son of God became a man to enable men to become sons of God. - C.S. Lewis

The Greatest Gift - Part 1

Read Genesis 1:1-31, John 1:1-15

"I tell you the truth," Jesus answered, "before Abraham was born, I am!" - John 8:58

Both Genesis 1:1 and John 1:1 start with the words, "In the beginning." As we begin a study on the birth of Christ, it's important to recognize that His life didn't begin when He was born as a baby. Jesus Christ was with God in the beginning (John 1:2).

Genesis 1 is clearly Trinitarian - each member of the Godhead is present and active at Creation. The Holy Spirit is described as "hovering over the waters" (Genesis 1:2). In verse 26, we find another indication that God the Father and God the Son are both involved: "Then God said, 'Let us make in our image...'" Jesus is eternal, and as part of the Trinity, He created everything - including humanity, the form He would one day take for our salvation (Philippians 2:6-8).

In John's gospel, we see an interesting parallel to the opening words of Genesis. Why would John begin his narrative of the life of Christ this way? First, John wanted his readers to understand that Jesus is God (John 1:1). Second, he uses "The Word" to refer to Jesus. The Greek word 'logos' is translated "Word", meaning the spoken word that communicates to us what God is like: His actions, thoughts, feelings, and attitudes (John 14:8-10). Finally, the opening verses of John describe why Jesus - who is God and who communicates God to us - came to earth: so that we who believe in Him could be the children of God (John 1:12).

The baby born in the stable in Bethlehem is the God of creation, willing to sacrifice His heavenly glory so that we could be reconciled to God. This is truly a birth worth celebrating.

Today along the way - This is the season of Advent, a time of preparation for the coming of Christ. As you are preparing to celebrate the birth of Christ with shopping, baking, writing Christmas cards, and all the other activities of this season, are you prepared for the return of Christ? Pray this month of reflecting on His birth will give you increased readiness and desire to see Him when He returns in all His Glory.

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu

December 2, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY: [Jesus' birth] is the most significant event in human history. - Dr. Charles Stanley

The Greatest Gift - Part 2

Read Isaiah 9:1-7

For to us a Child is born, to us a Son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. - Isaiah 9:6

Most of us are familiar with Handel's use of Isaiah 9 in his famous work, The Messiah. One of the most thrilling moments is when the choir sings, "And His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace."

The list of names in Isaiah 9:6 is quite impressive, and can fully describe only Jesus. This prophecy of His birth can give us great encouragement today.

Isaiah has been called the "Messianic Prophet." God gave him the challenge of speaking for Him to the nation of Judah. Ahaz, one of the kings to whom Isaiah spoke, was so evil that he even sacrificed his own son to idols (see 2 Kings 16:1-3).

Isaiah called his people to repent and warned what would happen if they didn't. He also prophesied the coming of a Child, a Child who would bring peace. In case there is any doubt who this Child is, Matthew's gospel tells us clearly that Jesus is the one who brings light in the darkness (Matthew 4:15-16, cf. Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:22-23).

It's worth reflecting on what Isaiah 9 tells us about Jesus. Have you ever thought of Jesus as your Wonderful Counselor? In these days of self-help books and TV therapists, we have access to the wisdom of God through Jesus. When Jesus was born, there weren't many people who saw Him as the Mighty God - all they saw was a helpless baby. Sadly, there are still many people today who think Jesus was just a good man. Isaiah, though, is clear: He is the Mighty God.

As we saw yesterday, Jesus was present and active in Creation with the Father. The title of Everlasting Father addresses both Jesus' eternal deity as well as His compassionate care and protection of His people, like a loving father.

We are living in a time of uncertainty, with wars and the threat of war describing many parts of our world. Jesus, the Prince of Peace, brought us peace with God the first time He came to earth. When He returns, He will bring an end to war and conflict, and He will reign forever and ever.

Today along the way - Handel's Messiah is probably performed by choirs most often at this season. Obtain a copy of Handel's Messiah, either in recorded format or sheet music. Read or listen to the words carefully, paying close attention to the names of Jesus: Wonderful Counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace. Write these names on a sheet of paper and describe what each of these names means to you personally. Which one do you find is the most important to you? Why?

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

December 3, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY: Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love.
- Hamilton Wright Mabi

The Greatest Gift - Part 3

Read Isaiah 32:8

Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord, is the Rock eternal. - Isaiah 26:4

The office of prophet was instituted during the days of Samuel, the last of the judges around 700 b.c. Prophets were God's special representatives, called to speak for God. They warned the people to turn from lives of sin or face God's judgment and punishment. Although Isaiah is often considered to be the greatest prophet, his message went unheeded by most who heard it in his day.

Certainly the people of Isaiah's day longed for rulers who were righteous and just--they had suffered under so many immoral and corrupt kings. We can understand this; in recent months our news headlines have been filled with stories of leaders--business, political, and religious-who have betrayed trust and acted immorally. We can see the pain and devastation that bad leaders bring, and we, too, long for righteous and just leadership.

Because Jesus came, we can find a shelter in the storms of life (v. 2). And as He reigns in our lives, we are able to provide a refuge for others, and we can see the righteousness that we were once unable to grasp (v. 3).

Those of us who have believed in the saving work Christ accomplished on earth can see how Jesus transforms the blind into seeing, the rash into reasonable, the stammerers into fluent speakers. We may even have experienced such a dramatic transformation at our own conversion. But as we look around our world, we don't see these characteristics everywhere as Isaiah seems to indicate we should.

When Christ returns and all people recognize Him as Lord and King, then all of these characteristics in Isaiah 32 will describe life in His Kingdom (cf. Philippians 2:9-11). At that time, eyes and ears will be opened, and everyone will acknowledge proper values and priorities (Isaiah 32:5). As we celebrate Christ's first coming, let's pray that His Second Coming will be soon!

Today along the way - As the overhanging rock offers refreshing shade and shelter to the weary desert traveler, the power, truth, and love of Jesus offers us today, as believers, protection and refreshment during the difficult journey we walk. We need to seek refuge in Him, for He alone can protect us through every trial. Our rewards are the comfort of His presence, the work of His Spirit in us, and in time, the full enjoyment of His glory and presence.

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

December 4, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY: Let us remember that the Christmas heart is a giving heart, a wide open heart that thinks of others first. The birth of the baby Jesus stands as the most significant event in all history, because it has meant the pouring into a sick world of the healing medicine of love which has transformed all manner of hearts for almost two thousand years... Underneath all the bulging bundles is this beating Christmas heart.
- George Matthew Adams

The Greatest Gift - Part 4

Read: Isaiah 42:1-9; Matthew 12:1-21

The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.
- Matthew 20:28

Many early American folk songs describe what life is like when you are poor--and in the case of spirituals, when you are a slave. As one spiritual puts it, "Nobody knows the trouble I've seen, Nobody knows but Jesus." These songs give us a sense of despair of those conditions.

Isaiah 42 is one of the Servant Songs of Isaiah, named so because here God describes someone who is His Servant and pleases Him (v. 1). As we think about the birth of our Lord, we can learn much from this passage about His coming to earth.

First, how do we know who this Servant is in Isaiah 42? We find the answer in Matthew 12. The Pharisees were plotting to kill Jesus, so He left that place and continued to heal the sick. Then Matthew quotes Isaiah 42:1-4 to confirm that Jesus is indeed the Servant in whom God delights.

Second, don't you find it striking that the Son of God, the Lord of the universe, would choose to be described as a Servant? As we ponder our response to the birth of Christ, it's appropriate to remember that we should have the same attitude and willingness to be a servant (cf. Philippians 2:5-8).

Isaiah 42 describes Jesus as both gentle and just. The word justice is mentioned three times in four verses. Although the perfectly just rule of Christ over all the earth is still to come, we can and should value and promote justice as His followers. And we can have confidence that He will one day return to rule with perfect, faithful justice (Isaiah 42:4).

The Lord of justice is also our gentle Savior who promises to be patient with the downtrodden--"the bruised reeds" (v. 3). Our culture promotes survival of the fittest, instructing us to "Clear out the dead weight!" and "Step or be stepped on!" But Jesus gently cares for us when we are desperately hurting, when we are like candles struggling to stay lit.

This is the character of the Servant who delights God: One who stands for justice and gently cares for the needy.

Today along the way - God calls Jesus "My chosen one in whom I delight" (v. 1). What a special honor that is! Wouldn't we, too, like to hear God say that of us? God does delight in us as His children, something we can remember when we are "bruised reeds." Unlike the world, He doesn't value us for our beauty, talent, money, success--or diminish us for lack of these things. God delights in you because He made you, loves you, and redeemed you through Christ. That's true value!

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

December 5, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY: It was always said of him, that he knew how to keep Christmas well, if any man alive possessed the knowledge. May that be truly said of us, and all of us! And so, as Tiny Tim observed, "God Bless Us, Every One!" - Charles Dickens

The Greatest Gift - Part 5

Read Isaiah 49:1-13

While I am in the world, I am the light of the world. - John 9:5

In 'Keeping the Spirit of Christmas', Handel H. Brown writes, "There is a beautiful contrast between light and noise. You watch the sun rising in the east, quietly stealing into the sky, dispelling the night, and gently waking all nature to life. It does not shout. . . . It moves silently across the world, transforming it. And so it is with Jesus. . . . He is the Light that enables us to see things more clearly."

We celebrate Christmas on December 25, just three or four days after the day with the fewest hours of daylight. It seems appropriate that each year our days grow increasingly dark until just before Christmas--when Jesus was born to bring light into the world.

Before Jesus was born on earth, Isaiah 49 tells us that God chose Him to bring light into a dark world (v. 1). The birth of Jesus was an act of love that God had planned from the beginning of time. God was willing to send His only Son to earth for us.

Christ's mouth is "like a sharpened sword" (v. 2), an image that recurs in Scripture several times. In Revelation 19:15 we see a similar description of Jesus with a sharp sword. This should remind us that although God does love us, the truth of God also brings judgment on those who do not accept Christ. Jesus is both gentle and just.

Although the nation of Israel did not accept Jesus when He first came (Isaiah 49:7), God in His mercy made salvation through Christ available to all people (v. 6). God promises to restore Israel (v. 8), and all people who have been freed from the bondage of sin can feel the excitement in the words, "Come out . . . and be free!" (v. 9).

Verse 13 is a wonderful shout of praise for this season of Christmas. All of creation is filled with rejoicing at the goodness of God; how much more should we praise Him since we have experienced His salvation. Because God had compassion on us, He sent His only Son to be born--and to die for our sins. Because of Christ, we can shout for joy and burst into song.

Today along the way - Christmas is a season of music--and we have so much to rejoice over. If your church offers a Christmas carol sing-along, consider participating for the opportunity to sing out with others. You could also organize some Christmas caroling with your friends or family members. Even today you can "burst into song," perhaps with the beloved Christmas carol "Joy to the World." Your level of musical ability isn't the important factor--just fill your heart with praise to God.

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

December 6, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY: If there is no joyous way to give a festive gift, give love away. - Unknown

The Greatest Gift - Part 6

Read: Isaiah 52:1-15

Therefore my people will know my name. - Isaiah 52:6a

Isaiah's entire life was spent under the shadow of threatening Assyrian power, and he witnessed the ruin of his nation at their hands. When Isaiah was a young man, all of northern Israel was taken captive (734 b.c.). Thirteen years later Samaria fell, and the rest of Israel was carried away. Then the Assyrians came into Judah and carried away 200,000 captives. When Isaiah was an old man, the Assyrians finally were stopped before the walls of Jerusalem (cf. 2 Kings 19).

This passage starts out, "Awake, awake, O Zion." Zion is one of the hills on which Jerusalem stands, so Jerusalem is often referred to as "Zion." Isaiah predicted that Jerusalem wouldn't fall into defiled hands again (v. 1) King Hezekiah repaired the temple and reestablished the services there. He was a king who was dedicated to God and to the spiritual rebirth of the nation.

Often the passages in Isaiah have meanings that extend beyond their immediate context, and that may be the case here, since the total redemption of Jerusalem won't occur until the return of Christ to earth.

In the first verses of this chapter, we see God's promises to restore His people (vv. 4-6). Then, in verse 7 Isaiah tells us the good news: peace and salvation are found in God. The people will be comforted and will burst into "songs of joy" because the Lord "has redeemed Jerusalem" (v. 9). The last verses of Isaiah 52 introduce the theme that will extend into our discussion tomorrow of Isaiah 53. Again we see God refer to Jesus as "my servant" (v. 13).

The ways of God are often unexpected and contrary to the order of things in our ways of looking at the world. Here is a dramatic example: in the divine irony that brought us salvation, the Servant is "highly exalted" and wiser than kings (vv. 13-15).

Today along the way - Repeatedly in Isaiah we have seen Jesus referred to as "the servant." How is your aptitude for service? Since we are followers of Christ, this is an important question. At this season focused on buying presents, think about how you can serve the people in your life. Do they need extra time, compassion, a listening ear, or some aspect of your expertise? Do this service for others as a way of serving like Jesus for the glory of God.

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

December 7, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY: Somehow, not only for Christmas, but all the long year through,
The joy that you give to others, is the joy that comes back to you.
And the more you spend in blessing the poor and lonely and sad,
The more of your heart's possessing, Returns to you glad.
- John Greenleaf Whittier

The Greatest Gift - Part 7

Read: Isaiah 53:1-12

But I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself. - John 12:32

Yesterday we mentioned the divine irony of the Servant being the most highly exalted. Today we see another divine irony: the Cross. What appeared to be a terrible defeat, is really the dramatic victory of God.

It might be tempting for some people to see the crucifixion of Jesus as an accident. How could God let His Son be put to death so cruelly? But Isaiah 53 predicts the suffering of Jesus and gives us a vivid account of His crucifixion, assuring us that the Cross was no surprise or accident for God.

We're looking at this passage during the Christmas season because it is central to why Jesus was born. Isaiah 53 is also one of the most personal chapters--notice how many times the pronouns our, us, and we appear. There is no doubt that the suffering and death of Jesus is related to us and our sinful condition. It is not some event that we can dissect analytically without getting involved.

What is the connection between the Cross and us? Jesus bore our sins, our transgressions and iniquities. And His punishment brought us peace and healing (vv. 5-6). As we read the description of our sin and Jesus' pain, we feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude that He would love us enough to pay this price.

Each one of us has sinned, and Isaiah made it clear that when Christ died on the Cross, He willingly took our place. He died alone with our sins upon Him.

The first nine verses tell of the suffering of the Savior, but the remaining verses tell of His glory. God had foreordained the Cross to accomplish our redemption (v. 10). Jesus not only died, but He rose again from the grave in victory (v. 11).

Only our God could turn such suffering into such joy, such agony into such triumph, such loss into such gain. What looked like defeat was the victory of God over sin and death! Jesus continues today to intercede for us (v. 12, cf. Hebrews 7:25).

Today along the way - At first glance, it might be easy to miss the intensely personal words in Isaiah 53. As you reflect on Christ's work for you, read through this chapter of Isaiah again. This time, use pronouns I, my, and mine. Insert your own name where it says "for many." Spend extra time in prayer thanking God for the forgiveness that is possible because of Jesus' suffering, death, and resurrection.

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

December 8, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY: Until one feels the spirit of Christmas, there is no Christmas. All else is outward display--so much tinsel and decorations. For it isn't the holly, it isn't the snow. It isn't the tree not the firelight's glow. It's the warmth that comes to the hearts of men when the Christmas spirit returns again. - Unknown

The Greatest Gift - Part 8

Read: Isaiah 61:1-11; Luke 4:14-22

The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. - Isaiah 61:1a

In Luke 4:18-19 Jesus quoted the words of Isaiah 61:1-2 as He read from the scroll to the people in the synagogue in His hometown of Nazareth. Jesus ended His reading with the words, "to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor" (Isaiah 61:2).

With all eyes fastened on Jesus, He rolled up the scroll and said, "Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing" (Luke 4:21). In His hometown synagogue Jesus proclaimed Himself as the One who would bring this to pass.

When Isaiah originally wrote these words, his people faced desolation at the hand of Babylon. Therefore, Isaiah was probably referring to Christ's first coming to earth. This passage speaks of the second coming of Christ as well as the first, and the two are only separated by a little and in verse 2. Today, however, we realize the time between the two is at least two thousand years.

Let's look at the first and second comings of Christ as tall mountains, and the time between as a valley where we presently stand. We can look back at the first mountain to the birth, death on the cross, and resurrection of Christ, but we can't see the top of the second mountain. When Jesus comes again, He will put down the rebellion here on earth with righteous wrath, and it won't be a pretty scene.

Yet immediately following the day of vengeance, Jesus will "comfort all who mourn" (v. 2). Those who mourn over their sin and are obedient to Him will be comforted with a "crown of beauty," "oil of gladness," and a "garment of praise" (v. 3).

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

December 9, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY: Christmas--that magic blanket that wraps itself about us, that something so intangible that it is like a fragrance. It may weave a spell of nostalgia. Christmas may be a day of feasting, or of prayer, but always it will be a day of remembrance--a day in which we think of everything we have ever loved.
- Augusta E. Rundel

The Greatest Gift - Part 9

Read: Jeremiah 23:1-8; Isaiah 4:2-6

I will raise up to David a righteous Branch, a King who will reign wisely and do what is just. - Jeremiah 23:5

During dark, difficult moments for a nation, it's important to have a leader who can see the hope on the horizon and communicate that to a weary people. Prime Minister Winston Churchill played that role for Great Britain during World War II, reminding the exhausted, attacked, and grieving that although the price was heavy, they could defeat the Nazis and repel an invasion. The strength of his hope gave millions of people the encouragement to fight on against Nazi aggression.

Dark clouds of invasion, persecution, and exile swirled around the prophets Isaiah and Jeremiah. Even though their people often rejected their message, it never became so dark that the prophets couldn't see the light, as God gave them visions of future glory and redemption.

In Jeremiah 23 God warned those who persecuted the Jews, as well as those who were false prophets (vv. 1-2), warnings we should heed even today. Jeremiah also prophesied of a King that would come in David's line to "reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land" (v. 5). Jesus was a descendant of David; both His mother Mary and His legal father Joseph were descendants in the line of David.

Jesus Christ, the Messiah, is called the Righteous Branch (v. 5). Jesus deserves this interesting title not only because He is righteous, but also because He makes His people righteous by taking their sins upon Himself and placing them on the Cross. Bible commentator Matthew Henry said it this way, "His obedience unto death is the justifying righteousness of believers, and their title to heavenly happiness."

The statement "He will be called: The Lord Our Righteousness" (v. 6) confirms the deity of Christ, since here He is called Jehovah, a proper name that is reserved for God alone. Righteousness will also characterize the kingdom when the Lord Jesus Christ reigns on earth at the Second Coming. At that time He will provide protection for Israel and make them a blessing to the world.

Today along the way - We have discussed many names for Jesus--here we see Him called "the righteous Branch." Make a list of all the names for Jesus that you can find. A good Bible dictionary will be helpful; your pastor, church librarian, or Christian bookstore can recommend one for you. How do these names increase your understanding of who Jesus is?

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

December 10, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY: Christmas is the season for kindling the fire of hospitality in the hall, the genial flame of charity in the heart. - Washington Irving

The Greatest Gift - Part 10

Read: Micah 5:1-15

Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. - Luke 2:11

"Come, Thou long-expected Jesus,
Born to set Thy people free.
From our fears and sins release us;
Let us find our rest in Thee.
Born Thy people to deliver,
Born a child and yet a King.
Born to reign in us forever,
Now Thy gracious Kingdom bring."

These words, based on Micah 5:1-5, were penned by Charles Wesley, the famous evangelist and composer of over 6,000 hymns. Many theologians think this Scripture passage is the most important prophecy in the Old Testament since it distinguishes Christ's human birth from His eternal existence (v. 2). The words "from ancient times" could also be translated "from days of eternity." Jesus was born as a baby in Bethlehem, but He had existed throughout all time.

The sentence, "They will strike Israel's ruler on the cheek with a rod" (v. 1) probably refers to Zedekiah, the last king in the line of David to rule in Judah. King Zedekiah was captured by the Babylonians and hauled off in bronze shackles after seeing his sons murdered just before his eyes were put out (2 Kings 25:7). Many Jews feared that the line of David had come to an end with the Babylonian captivity and wondered how the promise God made to David, that one was to come in his line and reign forever, could ever be fulfilled.

Since there were two Bethlehems, "Bethlehem Ephrathah" (v. 2) is used to distinguish between them. The word ephrathah means "fruitful."

King David and his line had come from Bethlehem, so it was well respected. Yet, after the dispersion of the Jews, no descendants of David lived in Bethlehem. One family in the line of David, however, did live in the town of Nazareth, about 80 miles away. And a decree issued by Augustus Caesar, one that fit perfectly into God's plan, brought Mary, the mother of Jesus, and her husband, Joseph, to Bethlehem.

Micah predicted the place where Jesus was to be born 700 years before the event! This prophecy was the only basis the chief priests and scribes had to inform King Herod who directed the Magi, or wise men, to Bethlehem (cf. Matthew 2:1-6).

Today along the way - In the midst of foretelling of death and destruction, God encouraged His people through the prophet, Micah, by offering the hope of a Savior and the promise of peace. Because of Christ's birth in Bethlehem and His death on the Cross we, too, have the opportunity to experience peace with God with no fear of retribution. Our sins are forgiven; our slate is wiped clean. Today, during your prayer time, write out a prayer of praise, thanking God for the wonderful gift of His Son.

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

December 11, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY: Bless us Lord, this Christmas, with quietness of mind; teach us to be patient and always to be kind. - Helen Steiner Rice

The Greatest Gift - Part 11

Read: Malachi 3:1-18

Moreover, the Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son. - John 5:22

People consider with great care whom they choose as a messenger for important information. If the President wants to communicate an important policy, he will select a trusted member of his staff. Companies like United Parcel Service and FedEx spend millions of dollars each year to convince customers that they can be trusted to deliver messages.

Two messengers are mentioned in verse 1 of today's passage. The first messenger, who is to prepare the way, is John the Baptist (cf. Mark 1:2). The second is "the messenger of the covenant," the Lord Jesus Christ. This prophecy doesn't refer to Jesus' first coming, but rather to the Second Coming. At that time Jesus will return as a Judge, as One who will establish His kingdom and put down rebellion against God on the earth.

Jesus is compared to a refiner's fire (v. 2). When metals such as silver and gold are originally mined, they are filled with impurities. To remove these, the ore is crushed and washed with pressurized water, and the dirt and some of the waste materials are washed away. Then the ore is heated and refined in a blast furnace at a high temperature. As the gold or silver melts, the impurities rise to the top and are skimmed off, leaving behind the pure metal.

God is quite clear about what sorts of actions will be judged (v. 5). At first glance we may feel tempted to think that we're exempt from the rebuke; after all, we wouldn't think of practicing sorcery. But it becomes clear that we should examine ourselves more carefully--lying, injustice, and a lack of mercy also displease God.

In verse 6, God says, "I the LORD do not change." God is faithful to His promises. Israel will repent and return to Him, and He will give the Jews a second chance as He states in His promise, "So you, O descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed." Yet, in order to take advantage of this promise, the Jews must repent of their sins. This is instructive for us as believers. God welcomes us into His fellowship, but we need to confess our sins.

Today along the way - Someday we will all stand before Christ and will give an account for our lives. Are there areas of your life that need to experience the Refiner's fire? The Holy Spirit will convict you of the areas in your life that need to be purified when you ask Him. Prayerfully ask for His leading, and thank Him for the refining process that keeps you in fellowship with God. Our God does not abandon us when we sin, but makes a way to restore us (1 John 1:9).

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

December 12, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY: Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas. - Calvin Coolidge

The Greatest Gift - Part 12

Read: Isaiah 40:1-11

The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever. - Isaiah 40:8

As anyone who has parented toddlers has experienced, the process of raising little ones requires both firmness and gentleness. Children often want to do their own thing, like crawl into the fireplace, run into the street, or throw their toys. Parents find themselves firmly correcting (for the hundredth time!) the inappropriate action. But children also need hugs and encouragement as they develop and learn new skills.

God is the perfect model of the firm and gentle parent. It is the will of God that His people should be comforted even in the worst of times. In the previous chapters of Isaiah, the prophet warned the people of the consequences of their sin, and he foretold of the Babylonian captivity. But before God sent His people into captivity, He furnished them with promises of support and comfort during their times of trouble (v. 1).

"A voice of one calling: 'In the desert prepare the way for the Lord'" is a prophesy of the coming of John the Baptist (v. 3). John the Baptist called people to repent of their sins, thereby preparing them for Christ. God used John the Baptist to initiate the public ministry of Jesus after His baptism.

Isaiah 40 also prophesies the coming of Christ, who was and is God, that He would come into the world in a physical form. "And the glory of the LORD will be revealed, and all mankind together will see it" (v. 5). At Christ's first coming many didn't accept Him, so for all people to see, Isaiah had to be referring to the Second Coming. This is reinforced a few verses later, "See the Sovereign LORD comes with power" (v. 10).

The "good tidings" of verse 9 is that God is here. This was also the message of John the Baptist (cf. John 1:29-34). And it is the message of the gospel. Christ was born--God was here on earth. He came to take away our sins.

Again we see the combination of justice and gentleness (vv. 10-11). Jesus rules with strength, and He also gently leads His people like baby lambs. What a great Savior!

Today along the way - God comforted His people in the Old Testament through the prophets. Jesus came to earth and brought comfort as the Good Shepherd. He laid down His life for us, His sheep (John 10:15).

When we accept that He died for our sins, we are comforted. Jesus said that the Father would give another Comforter, the Holy Spirit, who is with us today. And we can comfort others by allowing the Holy Spirit to work through us.

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

December 13 2002 QUOTE OF THE DAY: Christmas, children, is not a date. It is a state of mind.
- Mary Ellen Chase

The Greatest Gift - Part 13

Read: Luke 1:5-25

Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to give him the name John.
- Luke 1:13b

In George Bernard Shaw's play, 'Saint Joan', Joan of Arc tries to explain her message from God to the king: "The Dauphin was annoyed. 'Oh, your voices, your voices,' he said. 'Why don't the voices come to me? I am king not you.' 'They do come to you,' said Joan, 'but you do not hear them. You have not sat in the field in the evening listening for them. When the angelus rings you cross yourself and have done with it; but if you prayed from your heart, and listened to the trilling of the bells in the air after they stop ringing, you would hear the voices as well as I do'".

As Joan told the king, God often speaks in unexpected ways to unexpected people.

Zechariah was a priest whose turn had come to serve in the temple. Both he and his wife Elizabeth were righteous (v. 6). They recognized their sin, brought the necessary sacrifices to the temple, and backed up their outward compliance with inward obedience. Zechariah means "God remembers", and Elizabeth means "His oath." Together their names mean, "God remembers His oath."

Yet, Zechariah and Elizabeth were childless. And to be childless in their Hebrew society was practically a disgrace. Although they were elderly, they continued to pray for a son.

Then the angel Gabriel appeared to Zechariah in the temple and said, "Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard" (v. 13). The angel told Zechariah to name his son John, which means "the Lord is gracious." John was dedicated by his parents to be a Nazarite for life, a man specifically consecrated to God. He would take a vow not to drink alcoholic beverages or cut his hair (v. 15).

Although his most fervent prayers were answered, Zecha-riah asked the angel, "How can I be sure of this?" (v. 18). And as a result of his unbelief, he was unable to speak until John was born.

God's voice comes to those people who listen for it-as Zechariah did.

Today along the way - Here we see the humanness of Zechariah. He prayed fervently for a son, but when Gabriel told him his prayers would be answered, he questioned the angel.

We are often guilty of that, too-praying but not believing that God will answer our prayers. Do you have things that you have requested from God--and you're starting to wonder if He has heard you? As you pray for your requests today, remember the story of Zechariah and God's faithful answer to prayer. He also hears your prayers!

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

December 14, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY: Perhaps the best Yuletide decoration is being wreathed in smiles. - Unknown

The Greatest Gift - continued

Read: Luke 1:26-38

For nothing is impossible with God. - Luke 1:37

Over five hundred years ago Martin Luther wrote about Christmas, "It is not simply an old story of an event that happened fifteen hundred years ago; it is more than an event that happened once; for it is a gift and a bestowing that endures for ever".

Six months after the angel Gabriel appeared to Zechariah, he appeared to Mary, and she became the first person to hear about the gift of which Luther spoke. Mary was a young woman engaged to a carpenter named Joseph, a descendant of King David (v. 27).

Marriage in biblical times was usually an arrangement between two families. Once a price for the woman was agreed upon, a formal contract was drawn up. Then the wedding date was set, usually about a year later. If a woman had sexual relations with another man during her engagement, the groom could legally break off the engagement with a bill of divorce. Mary was aware of this when the angel approached her.

Gabriel told Mary, "Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God" (v. 30). Given Mary's engagement, an unplanned pregnancy probably didn't seem like much of a favor from God. But the angel Gabriel's message continued to grow more interesting.

The angel told her she would give birth to a Son and to name Him Jesus. Jesus was a common name and is the Greek form of the name Joshua. It means "The Lord Saves". Gabriel predicted that Jesus would sit on David's throne and that His kingdom would never end (vv. 32-33). Jesus offers believers eternal life, and His reign will continue throughout all eternity.

Mary then asked a very practical question: how this could be since she was a virgin? Yet, with Gabriel's explanation, she immediately accepted the angel's message to her. Her response is remarkable: "I am the Lord's servant. . . . May it be to me as you have said" (v. 38).

Today along the way - Mary was a young woman, probably uneducated and of modest means. Yet, Gabriel said, "You have found favor with God". Mary's total submission to the will of God made her the ideal candidate to be Jesus' mother.

We may feel that our lack of ability, experience, or education makes us unlikely candidates for God's service. But we must be careful not to limit God's choices. If we have faith and trust Him, He will use us. Pray that God will show you what you can do to serve Him.

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

December 15, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY: From home to home, and heart to heart, from one place to another.
The warmth and joy of Christmas, brings us closer to each other.
- Emily Matthews

The Greatest Gift - continued

Read: 1 Samuel 2:1-10; Luke 1:39-56

Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished! - Luke 1:45

One of the most exciting moments for a woman is when she discovers she is pregnant, and she can feel the unborn child moving inside her. Likewise for a man, it is thrilling to anticipate being a father as he places his hand on his wife's abdomen and feels the kick of a little foot.

How exciting it must have been for Elizabeth to feel her baby John leap within her womb when Mary arrived. Elizabeth was an elderly woman, strong in her faith, and "filled with the Holy Spirit" (v. 41). What a comfort and encouragement she must have been to young Mary during the three-month stay at her cousin's house.

Upon talking to Elizabeth, Mary became filled with joy and sang a song of praise, one of the greatest hymns in Scripture called the "Magnificat".

It is quite similar to Hannah's prayer in 1 Samuel 2 that she offered when she found that she was pregnant with Samuel. She looked beyond the gift and praised the Giver. In Hannah's prayer she rejoiced in the salvation of the Lord and in His deliverance (1 Samuel 2:1). Hannah understood what Mary also knew: the great and sovereign Lord over kings is gentle and merciful to His servants.

Mary realized that the words of Hannah, as well as those of Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Micah, would be fulfilled by the baby in her womb. She knew it was a glorious privilege to be the mother of the Son of God, but there was a paradox of blessedness in her life. Mary's heart must have been filled with a wondering, awe-filled joy. Yet, this blessedness would become a sword to pierce her heart when she saw her son hanging on a cross (cf. Luke 2:34-35). That pain would not be resolved until the Resurrection, when she would fully comprehend the important role God had given to her.

To be chosen by God so often means a cross of sorrows as well as a crown of joy.

Today along the way - The relationship between Elizabeth and Mary is a wonderful model of encouragement, and we see instructions for similar mentoring in Titus 2:3-5.

If you are a seasoned Christian, find someone younger and newer in the faith that you can mentor. If you are a new Christian, seek a mentor who can comfort and encourage you. Your church may have a mentoring program already, but even if not, there are people all around you who long for this kind of fellowship.

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

December 16, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY: Then ye be glad, good people,
This night of all the year,
And light ye up your candles:
His star is shining near.
- Unknown

The Greatest Gift - Part 16

Read: Luke 1:57-80

And you, my child, will . . . give his people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins.
- Luke 1:76-77

When Sir Walter Scott was young, he wanted to become a soldier. An accident made him slightly lame, however, and he was forced to abandon his dream. He turned his energies to reading old Scottish histories and romances, and he became a master novelist. His works include the classics Ivanhoe and The Talisman. His characters and stories sweep the reader into the violent, dramatic changes of history. Though he couldn't have predicted it when he was young, his change of vocation ended up impacting far more people.

John the Baptist had no such career redirection--in fact, his parents knew his role before he was even born. The angel Gabriel told Zechariah that his son would be the forerunner who would prepare the way for the Messiah.

In Palestine the birth of a boy was an occasion of great joy. Friends and musicians gathered around the house and sang when the birth was announced. Elizabeth was doubly thankful. She had conceived in her old age and given birth to a son.

On the eighth day the boy was circumcised and received a name (v. 59). A family name was usually given to a baby, so everyone assumed the child would also be named Zechariah. But to the neighbors' surprise, Elizabeth said, "No! He is to be called John" (v. 60).

Not believing her, they turned to Zechariah. Since he could not speak, he wrote for them, "His name is John" (v. 63). Gabriel had told Zechariah in the temple that God wanted his son to be named John. John is a shorter form of the name Jehohan, which means "Jehovah's gift" or "God is gracious".

After this act of obedience, Zechariah was able to speak again, and immediately he began praising God (v. 64). His song echoes the themes of Mary's song: praise for God's redemption, recognition of God's faithfulness, and a response of serving the Lord (vv. 68-75).

All devout Jews hoped and longed for the day when God's anointed King would come. Most of them believed a forerunner would announce His coming. Zechariah knew that his son John was the one who would announce the coming of the Messiah (vv. 76-79).

Today along the way - For two days we've read some incredible songs from Hannah, Mary, and Zechariah.

You can write your own song of praise to God using the same elements in these Scriptural songs. First, how has God redeemed you? Second, how has He been faithful to you? And third, what is your response to Him? Share your song as a testimony for the Lord with a close friend or family member. You could also create music for your song and sing it joyfully to the Lord today.

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

December 17, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY:
I heard the bells on Christmas Day
Their old, familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet the words repeat
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!
- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

A Word With You
By Ron Hutchcraft
"The Illusion Of Control"
Joshua 5:13-14

Listen with RealAudio!

The last time I was at a theme park, I ended up on one of the longest lines they had. It was the line for those little "Grand Prix" racing cars. All of us, I mean all of those kids wanted to get on that little race track and pretend we, uh, they were a race car driver. It's fun, but it's fantasy. Oh yes, there's an accelerator, but your speed is pretty much limited no matter how much your floor it. Oh yes, there's a steering wheel - you can turn it - but your turning is totally limited to the track they have your car on. Sure, you can hug that wheel and stomp that accelerator, but the sorry truth is this: you don't have control of that thing!

Well, I'm Ron Hutchcraft, and I want to have A Word With You today about "The Illusion Of Control."

For many of us, life is pretty much like driving one of those amusement park race cars. We hold onto the wheel tightly, trying to be in control, thinking we are in control. Refusing to relinquish control. News Flash: it's an illusion. See, we're little masses of protoplasm on this little dirt ball called earth in a sea of billions of galaxies. But we still hang on tightly to our little steering wheel, shouting, "I'm in control!" Until God allows one of those things into our life that shatters our illusion and exposes the truth.

Maybe that's what's happening in your life right now. Suddenly there's something that is clearly beyond your control. It is out of your hands, and God is calling you to a moment of personal surrender - not so you can lose, but so you can win.

It was a moment like that for Joshua in our word for today from the Word of God. It's from Joshua 5 beginning at verse 13. This powerful general is facing a challenge that is far bigger than his resources to overcome it - the walled city of Jericho. As he looks up at that seemingly impenetrable fortress, something happens that makes a victory possible. A surrender.

The Bible says, "When Joshua was near Jericho, he looked up and saw a man standing in front of him with a drawn sword in his hand. Joshua went up to him and asked, 'Are you for us or for our enemies?' 'Neither,' he replied, 'but as commander of the army of the Lord I have now come.' Then Joshua fell face down to the ground in reverence, and asked him, 'What message does my Lord have for His servant?'" Joshua then hears from God an approach to the problem that he wouldn't have thought of in a thousand years - marching around the walls for seven days, shouting, blowing trumpets, and watching the walls fall down!

I believe that God is calling someone who's listening today to the same point General Joshua was at that night facing Jericho. Jehovah God has brought you face-to-face with something bigger than you are so you could be face-to-face with Him. So you would reach a point where you will fall face down before Him and surrender all control. And there, in a confession of your total powerlessness, you will become more powerful than ever before as you get out of the way and God's power totally takes over.

You're used to being the general in your universe, or at least you try to be. You've tried to get it done by controlling your family, or your ministry, your business, your future, your money, your life. But now it's time to release that wheel, to let God show you answers and approaches you could never think of to make it happen. And if you're afraid of giving up control, remember that amusement park race car. All you're really giving up is the illusion of control!

Ron Hutchcraft Ministries, Inc.
www.gospelcom.net/rhm/
Copyright (c) 2002, Ron Hutchcraft

December 18, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY:
Love came down at Christmas,
Love all lovely, Love Divine;
Love was born at Christmas;
Star and angels gave the sign.
- Christina Rossetti

The Greatest Gift - continued (part 17)

Read: Matthew 1:1-17

I, Jesus...am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star. - Revelation 22:16

Tracing family histories is a growing hobby. Today people spend thousands of dollars on special computer software, research books, and even trips to the place of their ancestors. There's often a strong tug to feel connected to where we come from.

Genealogies were exceedingly important to the Jews. Matthew 1:1-17 provides Jesus' genealogy on Joseph's side. Matthew said that Jesus is "the son of David, the son of Abraham (v.1). Many Bible scholars believe that Matthew reversed the chronological order here to present Jesus first as the Messiah, the King who will establish the Kingdom of Heaven on earth.

We read previously this month that Jesus is the Son of David. He is also the Son of Abraham. God said to Abraham, "Through your offspring all nations on earth will be blessed, because you have obeyed me" (Genesis 22:18).

The names in Matthew's genealogy are arranged in three groups of fourteen people each. This is a mnemonic device, arranged so that they are easy to memorize. The three sections are based on the three great stages of Jewish history: First from Abraham to David, second from David to the exile in Babylon, and the third from the Exile to the birth of Christ.

Four names stand out - customarily women's names didn't appear in the Jewish genealogies: Tamar (v.3), Rahab (v.5), and Bathsheba, referred to as Uriah's wife (v.6). If you study these women, you may wonder what some of them are doing in Christ's genealogy! They are examples of God's grace and forgiveness of sins.

It is important to note that Joseph was not Jesus' actual father, but rather Mary's husband (v.16). Consequently, the genealogy of Mary appears in Luke 3:23-38. Her genealogy goes back to Adam and shows that Mary was also from the line of David.

Both physically through His mother Mary and legally through her husband, Joseph, Jesus was of the house and lineage of David (cf. Luke 2:4).

Today along the way - Take some extra time this week to read the stories of the four women in Christ's genealogy. Tamar can be found in Genesis 38; Rahab in Joshua 2; Ruth in the book of Ruth; and Bathsheba in 2 Samuel 11-12.

Here, at the beginning of the New Testament, we are given a glimpse of the all-embracing love of God. No sin is too great for Him to forgive if we confess. Thank God for His love and His grace as you read these stories and pray for forgiveness of your sins.

The Greatest Gift - continued (part 18)

Read: Matthew 1:18-25

The virgin...will give birth to a son, and will call Him Immanuel. - Isaiah 7:14

The Jewish marriage procedure in biblical times had three steps. First was the engagement, made through the parents or a professional matchmaker. Often the couple had never even met one another. The second step was the betrothal, which was absolutely binding and could only be terminated by divorce. It lasted for one year, and the couple was known as a man and wife. But the relationship was not consummated until after the third step, the actual wedding ceremony and celebration.

Mary and Joseph were betrothed when Joseph found out that Mary was pregnant. Joseph was a gentle and righteous person, so he decided to divorce here quietly - rather than have her stoned as he was permitted to do under Jewish law (v.19). In order to prevent a very tragic situation, an angel appeared to Joseph to make clear what was happening. The angel explained that the conception was "from the Holy Spirit" (v.20).

Mary's story would have been unbelievable to Joseph except for one fact: Joseph was a devout Jew who knew the Scriptures. He realized that God had promised a Messiah who would be born of a virgin.

The angel also said, "You are to give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins" (v.21). The name Jesus means "Savior." Jesus is the Greek form of Joshua, Jeshua, and Jehoshua - all familiar Old Testament names.

Matthew quoted more from the Old Testament than the other three gospel writers combined. In verse 23 Matthew quoted Isaiah 7:14, showing the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies concerning Jesus: They will call Him Immanuel - which means 'God with us.'" Because Jesus was born of a woman, He was a human being, but since He was also the Son of God, He was born without any trace of human sin. Because He is separate from sin, He is capable of saving us from our sins.

Today along the way - In your prayer time today, think about the name for Jesus - Immanuel, God with us. Do you think about God being with you as you go about your day, interact with friends and family, make decisions at home and work, experience good and bad times?

This may challenge you to make some difficult choices, but it should also encourage you that no matter what comes your way, God is with you.

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

December 19, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY:
Love came down at Christmas,
Love all lovely, Love Divine;
Love was born at Christmas;
Star and angels gave the sign.
- Christina Rossetti

The Greatest Gift - continued (part 19)

Read: Luke 2:1-7

The time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. - Luke 2:6-7

In 2000, the United States conducted the census that is mandated by the Constitution. Even the hours it took to fill out the long census form seem pretty easy compared to the travel requirements of the Roman census.

"In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world" (v. 1). The Roman Empire at that time spread further than ever before, and censuses were taken every fourteen years for the purpose of taxation.

Both Mary and Joseph were required to go to Bethlehem since they were of the house of David (v. 4). Bethlehem was the birthplace of David, and Joseph traced his lineage back through David's son, Solomon (cf. Matthew 1:6). Mary's lineage went back through David's son, Nathan (see Luke 3:31). This fulfilled the prophesy of Micah 5:2 that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem.

Caesar Augustus hadn't considered being a part of God's plan, but even the most powerful man in the world is subject to the sovereign working of God. He was the adopted son and appointed heir of Julius Caesar, and his actual name was Octavianus. He had taken the name Caesar as a political strategy, and later gave himself the name Augustus as a signal of his self-ascribed deity. This precedent would later become full-fledged emperor worship, and thousands of Christians would lose their lives because they would not bow to the reigning Caesar.

The journey Mary and Joseph took from Nazareth to Bethlehem was 80 miles, a horrendous trip for a woman about to deliver a child. And although songs and pictures have Joseph standing by when Jesus was born, Jewish law would have forbidden any man, even a husband, from being present. Mary probably delivered Jesus by herself on a crude, hard-packed earthen floor. Then she wrapped Him in a square of cloth with a long strip that she wound around Him and laid Him in a feeding trough for animals (v. 7). Our Savior was willing to humble Himself and to leave the glory of heaven to be born in such surroundings.

Today along the way - This is an example of how God controls all history. Devout Jews never dreamed that the Messiah would enter the world in this manner. Yet, God had a plan for Mary and Joseph. They were not promised that life on this earth would be comfortable or easy, but they were told that their Son was the promised Messiah.

When we do God's will, we aren't promised a comfortable life either, but "we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him" (Romans 8:28).

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

December 20, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY:
Happy, happy Christmas, that can win us back to the delusions of our childhood days, recall to the old man the pleasures of his youth, and transport the traveler back to his own fireside and quiet home!" - Charles Dickens

The Greatest Gift - continued (part 20)

Read: Luke 2:8-20

Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord. - Luke 2:11

Once there was a European monarch who worried his court by often disappearing and walking incognito among the people. When he was asked not to do so for the sake of security, he answered, "I cannot rule my people unless I know how they live." Jesus came to earth in the humblest way possible, as a baby born to a poor couple in a remote outpost of the empire. Author George MacDonald put it this way, "They all were looking for a King To slay their foes and lift them high; Thou cam'st, a little baby thing That made a woman cry."

When the Savior came into the world, He did not lay aside His deity. Like the European monarch, He laid aside His glory. The Jews were expecting Him to come as a regal King with all of creation watching the magnificent spectacle. Instead, His welcoming committee consisted of shepherds.

God's message first came to shepherds who were tending their flocks at night. The angel's first words to them were, "Do not be afraid" (Luke 2:10). When the angel Gabriel appeared to Zechariah in the temple (Luke 1:13) and to Jesus' mother (Luke 1:30), his first words also were, "Do not be afraid." How reassuring it must have been that the angel's first concern in each case was to comfort those to whom he was presenting God's message. This reassures us, too.

Like Mary, the shepherds immediately accepted the angel's words and said, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened" (v. 15). They hurried to Bethlehem where they found Mary, Joseph, and Jesus. They were probably the first people to visit Jesus, and seeing Him convinced them that He was the Savior of the world, so "they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child" (v. 17).

How overwhelming all this must have been for a young peasant girl, who had traveled 80 miles before giving birth with no professional help. The stable or cave probably had a dirt floor and smelled of animals. "But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart" (v. 19).

Today along the way - Jesus is our Messiah--our Savior. And we can meet Him daily in prayer and in His Word. This is how we develop a close relationship with Him. Then, like the shepherds, we can share our joy with others.

Think of someone you know who hasn't accepted Jesus as his or her Savior. Share the good news about Jesus with that person, being sure to say that He accepts all people who are willing to come to Him.

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

December 21, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY: What is Christmas? It is tenderness for the past, courage for the present, hope for the future. It is a fervent wish that every cup may overflow with blessings rich and eternal, and that every path may lead to peace. - Agnes M. Pharo

The Greatest Gift - continued (part 21)

Read: Matthew 2:1-12 Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We . . . have come to worship Him.
- Matthew 2:2

Bethlehem is located six miles south of Jerusalem. We previously read the prophecy, quoted from Micah 5:2, that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem (Matthew 2:6).

People in the Mediterranean world, whether they were Jews or not, were hoping for a leader who would guide their nations out of submission to Rome and into a golden age of order and prosperity. And as we've discussed, the Jews in particular longed for the arrival of their Messiah. But they didn't expect a tiny baby--they expected a conquering hero who would overthrow the Empire.

The Magi were priests who specialized in the study of the stars and planets. They were also skilled in philosophy, medicine, and science. They were filled with wisdom, and they would have been aware of the Old Testament prophecies regarding Jesus' birth. Although we don't know what brilliant star those ancient Magi saw, that heavenly brilliance spoke to them of the entry of a king into the world. Thus, they set out to find Him.

In contrast to the Magi, King Herod was an evil man, who was insanely suspicious. If he suspected anyone to be a rival to his power, that person was promptly eliminated. He murdered his wife, her mother, and three of his sons. Augustus, the Roman Emperor, had noted that it was safer to be Herod's pig than Herod's son. It is obvious how such a man would feel when news reached him that a child destined to be a king had been born.

Herod sent for the Magi and said to them, "Go and make a careful search for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him" (v. 8). In actuality, though, Herod had no intentions of worship; he planned to kill the child.

We aren't sure how many Magi there actually were, but the number three is derived from the three gifts they brought to Jesus. Gold is the gift for a king. Frankincense is the gift for a priest. Myrrh is the gift for one who is to die. Thus, these wise men foretold that Jesus would be the true King, the perfect High Priest, and the Savior of men.

Today along the way - You may be finishing your last-minute Christmas shopping. But have you thought of what you will give to Jesus? The gifts from the Magi indicated what they thought of Him and how they valued His coming. How do you think of Jesus? As your Savior? King? Friend? Comforter? Think of a special "gift" you can give Him this season. As you celebrate His birth at Christmas, perhaps you could spend extra time in His Word, increase your financial support of His work, or do service in His name.

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

December 22, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY: The joy of brightening other lives, bearing each others' burdens, easing other's loads and supplanting empty hearts and lives with generous gifts becomes for us the magic of Christmas. - W. C. Jones

The Greatest Gift - continued (part 22)

Read: Matthew 2:13-23 And so was fulfilled what the Lord had said through the prophet: "Out of Egypt I called My Son." - Matthew 2:15

A children�s story tells that when Mary and Joseph became weary on their way to Egypt, they sought refuge in a cave. A spider, wishing to do something for the Christ child, spun its web across the entrance to block the wind. When Herod�s soldiers passed by, they didn�t bother to check the cave because the spider web was not torn. They didn�t think anyone could possibly be inside. They left the holy family in peace. Some historians attribute the tradition of hanging tinsel on a Christmas tree to represent the safety provided by the spider�s web in that story.

The angel of the Lord once again appeared to Joseph and told him to flee, because Herod would try to murder Jesus. Joseph instantly obeyed (v. 14). Fleeing to Egypt fulfilled the prophecy of Hosea 11:1: "Out of Egypt I called My Son." This passage carries the double meaning of God�s love for Israel, shown by Moses leading the exodus from Egypt, and also God�s love for us by calling His Son from the relative safety of Egypt to return and fulfill His ultimate purpose of suffering and dying on the cross for our sins.

Herod wanted to be sure to eliminate this potential rival to his power, so "he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under" (v. 16). Perhaps the soldiers drew a circle around Jerusalem with the radius as far south as Bethlehem and as far north as Ramah. They killed all the young boys within that territory, fulfilling the words of Jeremiah 31:15 that are quoted in Matthew 2:18.

Jacob�s favorite wife, Rachel, was the symbolic mother of the northern tribes of Israel. In Jeremiah 31 she is pictured crying for the exiles at Ramah, a deportation point during the Babylonian captivity. This terrible mourning had its fulfillment in Matthew 2 as the mothers in Bethlehem and the surrounding area wept as their children were brutally slain by Herod�s soldiers.

After Herod died, an angel appeared once again to Joseph and told him to return to Israel where the family settled in Nazareth. This fulfilled the prophecy that "He will be called a Nazarene" (v. 23).

Today along the way - Now we have seen all four prophecies dealing with locations in the birth of Christ fulfilled: born in Bethlehem, called out of Egypt, weeping in Ramah, and called a Nazarene. When originally given by the Old Testament prophets, these prophecies may have seemed strange and unreal. Yet, all were fulfilled and became real during Jesus� early childhood. Look over the previous days of December, particularly the Old Testament passages. Make a list of the other prophecies regarding Jesus that you can find.

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

December 23, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY:
Whatever else be lost among the years,
Let us keep Christmas still a shining thing:
Whatever doubts assail us, or what fears,
Let us hold close one day, remembering
Its poignant meaning for the hearts of men.
Let us get back our childlike faith again.
- Grace Noll Crowell

The Greatest Gift - continued (part 23)

Read: Luke 2:21-40

Sovereign Lord, as You have promised, . . . my eyes have seen Your salvation. - Luke 2:29-30

Our culture seems obsessed with youth. Advertisers pay millions of dollars to target 18-year-olds. Magazines and television shows rarely depict anyone over the age of 50. We seldom hear the value of old age celebrated.

The Bible teaches that people are loved by God and can serve Him at any age--from the smallest child to the most elderly woman. Anna is a beautiful picture of God�s faithfulness to a woman who had served Him her entire life.

In Luke 2:22 we read, "Joseph and Mary took Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord." According to the Law, every firstborn male was sacred to God (Exodus 13:2). A ceremony called the Redemption of the First-born allowed parents to "buy back" their sons by paying five shekels of silver to the priests at the temple (see Numbers 18:16).

Also forty days after Jesus was born, Mary was required to bring an offering to the temple for her purification after childbirth (cf. Leviticus 12). Since they were poor, she would have brought "a pair of doves or two young pigeons" (v. 24). This sacrifice was for Mary, not Jesus.

When Mary and Joseph entered the temple courts, Simeon took Jesus in his arms and praised God. He was so committed to seeking God that the Holy Spirit was guiding his thoughts and actions. When he saw Jesus, he knew that God had kept His promise (v. 26).

Notice that Simeon declared that Jesus is the fulfillment of Isaiah 49:6 which we read earlier (vv. 30-32). Simeon added that Jesus would meet with much opposition, because people can�t feel neutral toward Him. They either surrender to Him or are at war with Him.

Then we meet Anna, who was at least 84 years old at this time. For decades she had served God in the Temple. She, like Simeon, recognized Jesus for who He was, not just a month-old infant, but the Child who would bring redemption (v. 38). And Anna thanked God for keeping His promise.

Today along the way - Both Anna and Simeon waited a lifetime for their prayers to be answered, and in His timing, God answered them.

Make a list of your prayer requests if you don�t already have one. Tape the list to your refrigerator or near your computer. As you continue to pray faithfully, you will find that you become more attuned to God�s leading, and like Simeon and Anna, you will see His answers to your prayers.

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

December 24, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY: Time was with most of us, when Christmas Day, encircling all our limited world like a magic ring, left nothing out for us to miss or seek; bound together all our home enjoyments, affections, and hopes; grouped everything and everyone round the Christmas fire, and make the little picture shining in our bright young eyes, complete. - Charles Dickens

The Greatest Gift - continued (part 24)

Read: John 1:6-18

Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God. - John 1:12

If you had an announcement that would change the world, who would you want to deliver it? Would you choose a supermodel or celebrity? Maybe a respected journalist or political leader would get everyone�s attention.

The announcement of the coming of the Savior was given by God to a man named John the Baptist, a man who lived in the desert, ate strange food, and wore odd clothes.

This wild-looking man, who spoke with irresistible authority, attracted quite an audience, which he challenged to repent from their sins. Then he baptized them as a symbol of their repentance. It doesn�t sound like a popular message or messenger, but people crowded to him. John always knew that his role was to be a messenger, and he pointed beyond himself to the coming of "the true light that gives light to every man" (v. 9).

"The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us" (v. 14) shows that Jesus became fully human and lived as a man while never ceasing to be the eternal God who has always existed, the Creator of all things, and the Source of eternal life.

By His Spirit and grace, Jesus Christ enlightened all who were willing to accept Him, while those who wouldn�t listen perished in darkness.

Jesus Christ is the perfect example of how we are to act, and He was the perfect teacher to show us how God thinks and how we should mirror His thoughts. Jesus also came as the perfect sacrifice for our sins, that His death would satisfy the requirements of the removal of our sin. "From the fullness of His grace we have all received one blessing after another" (v. 16). He brings us grace and truth (v. 17).

No one has ever seen God (v. 18), but in Christ, God revealed His nature and essence in a way that could be seen and touched. Jesus opened a window in time that we may see the eternal and unchanging love of God.

Today along the way - Memorizing Scripture is a great discipline. This week, write John 1:14 on a note card. "The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth."

Place this verse in a prominent place--on the refrigerator, on your computer, or taped to your bathroom mirror. Every time you read this verse during the busy holidays, remember why Jesus came to earth as a tiny baby.

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

Christmas Bonus Message
December 25, 2002

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

I hope you are all having a wonderful and blessed Christmas. One of our members sent this to me just yesterday, and I really feel the need to share this with you today as a special bonus. It is more than a Christmas story, but a look at how we as Christians should live each and every day...

Only A Man (A Christmas Story)

At first glance, she looked like any other old woman. Plodding along in the snow, alone, neglected, head bowed. People passing on the busy city sidewalk averted their eyes, lest she remind them that pain and suffering did not stop to celebrate Christmas.

A young couple, smiling, talking, laughing, arms loaded with Christmas presents, took no notice of the old woman.

A mother with two small children hurried by on their way to grandmother's house. They took no notice.

A minister walked by proudly carrying his Bible in his right hand, like a well-armed Christian soldier. But his mind was stayed on heavenly things, and he took no notice.

If these people had noticed, they would have seen that the old woman wore no shoes. She walked barefoot in the ice and snow.

With both hands, the old woman gathered her worn button- less overcoat at the collar to keep out the wind. She stopped and stood bent and bowed at the bus stop. A red and blue scarf covering her head, she waited for the downtown bus.

A gentleman carrying an important looking briefcase waited near her, not too closely. After all, she could have something contagious.

A teen-age girl also waited for the bus. She glanced repeatedly at the old woman's feet, but said nothing.

The bus arrived and the old woman slowly, painfully boarded. She sat on the side-ways seat just behind the driver. The gentleman and the teen-age girl hurried to the rear. The man sharing the seat with the old woman shuffled uneasily and twirled his thumbs. "Senile," he thought.

The bus driver saw her bare feet and thought: "This neighborhood is sinking deeper and deeper into poverty, I hate to see it, I'll be glad when they put me on the College Park route."

A little boy pointed at the old woman. "Look, Mother, that old lady is barefoot."

The embarrassed mother slapped his hand down. "Don't point at people, Andrew. It's not polite to point." She looked out the window.

"She must have grown children," a lady in a fur coat suggested. "Her children should be ashamed of themselves. "She felt morally superior, because she took good care of her mother.

A teacher seated near the middle of the bus steadied the bag of gifts on her lap. "Don't we pay enough taxes to handle situations like this?" she said to a friend seated beside her. "It's this tax-cut crazy Republican administration, her friend replied. "They rob the poor and give to the rich."

"No, its the Democrats," a gray- haired man behind them interjected. "These Democrat welfare programs just make people lazy and keep them in poverty."

"People have to learn to save their money," a well-dressed young college man added. "If that old woman had saved when she was young, she wouldn't be suffering now. It's her own fault."

And all these people beamed with satisfaction that their acumen had delivered such trenchant analysis.

But, a kind businessman felt offended by this murmuring detachment of his fellow citizens. He reached into his wallet and took out a crisp twenty-dollar bill.

He strode proudly down the isle and pressed the bill into the old woman's unsteady, wrinkled hand. "Here, Madam, get yourself some shoes."

The old woman nodded her head in thanks. The businessman strode back to his seat, feeling pleased with himself, that he was a man of action.

A well-dressed Christian lady had noticed all of this. She began to pray silently.

"Lord, I don't have money. There is no way I can help. But Lord, I can turn to you in every need. Lord, I know that you are a loving God. You make a way out of no way. Now Lord, let your blessing shine on this old woman. Let shoes fall like manna from heaven, so that this old woman can have shoes for Christmas."

And the Christian lady felt supremely spiritual.

At the next stop, a young man boarded the bus. He wore a heavy blue jacket, a maroon scarf around his neck, and a gray woolen cap pulled down over his ears. A wire running under the cap and into his ear was connected to a Walkman.

The young man jiggled his body in time to music only he heard. He paid his fare and plopped down on the sideways seat directly across from the old woman.

As the young man's glance caught the old woman's bare feet, his jiggling stopped. He froze.

His eyes went from her feet to his. He wore his expensive, new, brand name sneakers. For months, he had saved from his minimum wage pay to buy these sneakers. Everybody in the gang would think he was "so cool."

The young man bent down and began to untie his sneakers. He removed his impressive new sneakers. He removed his socks. He knelt down before the old woman.

He said, "I see you have no shoes. Well, I have shoes."

Carefully, gently, he lifted the old woman's crusty feet in his hands. He placed his socks and his fine sneakers on the old woman's feet. The old woman nodded in thanks.

Just then the bus arrived at the next stop. The young man left the bus and walked away, barefoot in the snow.

The passengers crowded at the windows to watch him as he plodded barefoot through the snow.

"Who is he?" one asked.

"He must be a prophet," said another.

"He must be a saint," someone suggested.

"He must be an angel," said yet another.

"Look! There's a halo around his head," somebody shouted.

"He must be the Son of God," said the Christian lady.

But the little boy who had pointed, said, "No Mother, I saw him clearly,

He was only a man."

Gary Schmitz
Listen to Frank & Gary Saturday mornings 9-10 AM on 880 AM WRFD Columbus, Ohio

Merry Christmas! Happy Birthday, Jesus! We love You!

December 25, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY:
Heap on the wood!
The wind is chill; But let it whistle as it will,
We'll keep our Christmas merry still.
- Sir Walter Scott

The Greatest Gift - continued (part 25)

Read: Mark 1:1-8, John 1:19-28

I baptize you with water, but He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit. - Mark 1:8

One of the wonderful benefits of having four gospel accounts of the life of our Lord is that each personality can relate to one of the books. The Gospel of Mark is sometimes described as the "active gospel" we often find words like "at once," "immediately," and "without delay." Mark starts his account of the life of Jesus by jumping right into the story of John the Baptist.

Mark seldom quoted Old Testament passages, but here he does begin with quotations from the prophets Isaiah and Malachi, declaring that the coming of John the Baptist fulfilled the prophecies of the one who would be the forerunner of Christ (Mark 1:2-3; cf. Isaiah 40:3 and Malachi 3:1).

One way that John prepared "the way for the Lord" (v. 3) was to baptize people in the Jordan River and preach "a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins" (v. 4).

Baptism wasn�t a new concept to the Jews, but it was reserved for Gentiles--incomers from other faiths--who needed to be baptized to be considered clean. Jews considered themselves God�s chosen people already, and they didn�t see a need to be "washed."

Yet, unorthodox as John the Baptist seemed to the religious leaders, many people came to listen and to submit to his baptism. He stayed in the wilderness where he could easily hear God�s voice. He also made lifestyle choices that were distinctive; he wore simple clothes made of camel�s hair like the ancient prophets, and he ate locusts and honey.

There was a Rabbinic saying that a disciple could do anything for his master that a slave did except untie his sandals. This was considered too menial a task. Yet, John the Baptist said, "After me will come one more powerful than I, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie" (v. 7). Despite his growing popularity, John the Baptist was willing to do anything in the service of the Lord.

Today along the way - Author Ruth Stafford Peale said of Christmas, "It is more than just the birth of a baby in a manger 2,000 years ago. Christmas is a universal celebration of God in our lives every day."

Today is Christmas Day. How will you celebrate the birthday of Jesus? How can we celebrate Christmas every day of the year? Write down your thoughts on this and put the paper someplace where you can refer to it periodically throughout the year and be reminded continually to celebrate the birthday of our Savior.

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

December 26, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY:
A Christmas candle is a lovely thing; It makes no noise at all,
But softly gives itself away; While quite unselfish, it grows small.
- Eva K. Logue

The Greatest Gift - continued (part 26)

Read: Mark 1:9-11, John 1:29-34

John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, "Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!"
- John 1:29

Public ceremonies are one way that we declare outwardly what we already have decided inwardly. For example, weddings publicly declare a couple�s commitment to each other.

This month we�ve been thinking about the birth of Jesus in the context of the stream of biblical history beginning in Genesis 1:1 and working our way through the prophecies of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Micah, and Malachi. As we read yesterday, Isaiah and Malachi foretold that John the Baptist would "prepare the way for the Lord" (Mark 1:3). Now the story reaches a climax at the baptism of Jesus.

Why did Jesus go to John to be baptized? Jesus was without sin, so it wasn�t to cleanse Him. Rather, it was a baptism of the Spirit, and according to Bible scholar William Barclay, three things happen when the Spirit takes possession of us: first, our lives are illuminated, and we gain knowledge of God and God�s will; second, the Spirit gives us the power to act on that knowledge, and our lives are strengthened; and third, our lives are purified.

Christ did not confess sin at His baptism, since He had no sin to confess, but He prayed, as others do, and He kept in communion with His Father. The Holy Spirit descended on Him like a dove (v. 10). Just as at Creation, we see the Trinity at the baptism of Jesus. The Holy Spirit descended in a bodily shape like a dove on Jesus in His human form. Then God, the Father, spoke from heaven, saying, "You are My Son, whom I love; with You I am well pleased" (v. 11).

In John 1:29, John the Baptist said, "Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" This name for Jesus sums up the love, the sacrifice, the suffering, and the triumph of Christ, and in Revelation this name for Christ is used 29 times. John asserted, "I have seen and I testify that this is the Son of God" (v. 34). Jesus truly is the Savior, the long-promised Messiah, who takes away all of our sins and washes us clean.

Today along the way - Baptism is an important part of Christian practice, considered by all Christian churches to be an important step of obedience (cf. Matthew 28:19).

Have you been baptized? As you think on Jesus� baptism, think of what your own baptism signifies. If you have not yet taken this step, prayerfully consider doing so. Your pastor and church leaders can help you in this process.

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

December 27, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY: He who has no Christmas in his heart will never find Christmas under a tree.
- Sunshine Magazine

The Greatest Gift - continued (part 27)

Read: Colossians 1:15-29

He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. - Colossians 1:15

When a legal document was drawn up in ancient Greece, such as a receipt or an IOU, it always included a description of the chief characteristics and distinguishing marks of the two parties involved. This helped in future identification. The Greek word for such a description is eikon, which is the same word Paul used to describe Christ as "the image of the invisible God."

Sadly, modern-day cults are not the first assaults on the orthodox, true teaching of the gospel. A heresy in the early church called Gnosticism taught that all matter was evil and only spirit was good. Therefore, the Gnostics concluded that since God was good, God could not become man, nor could He be the agent of creation of matter. This heresy flatly contradicted both the Old Testament teaching about God, as we read in Genesis, and the accounts of Jesus' birth, life, and death in the Gospels. Some cults today still teach a variation on this ancient heresy.

As we've seen, if Jesus were not both God and man, His atonement would not be possible. He had to die, and in order to die He had to be a man.

In Colossians 1 we see affirmation that Jesus is God and man. "For by Him all things were created" (v. 16) brings us full circle to December 1 and our discussion of Creation. When Paul said, "He is before all things" (v. 17), he showed that Christ has no beginning. Jesus was there when God created the earth (John 1:1).

Then Paul reminds us that Jesus was also fully human; His physical body died so that we can be reconciled to God (v. 22). Because of the blood Jesus shed on the cross, we are forgiven of our sins. Our race and nationality don't matter, nor do our social and economic standing. God's love and mercy are available to all of us who accept Jesus as our Savior.

Christmas is the greatest contradiction of Gnosticism or any other cult!

Today along the way - Colossians 1:21-23 sums up the heart of the gospel: we were alienated from God because of our sin, but Christ died and rose again to present us holy before God.

Have you accepted this hope of the gospel? If not, you can do so today. Simply acknowledge to God that you are sinful, and then tell Him that you believe that Jesus' death and resurrection covers your sins. This hope is available to you--if you trust in the work of Christ on the Cross.

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

December 28, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY: he rooms were very still while the pages were softly turned and the winter sunshine crept in to touch the bright heads and serious faces with a Christmas greeting. - Louisa May Alcott

The Greatest Gift - continued (part 28)

Read: Hebrews 1:1-14

The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by His powerful word. - Hebrews 1:3a

The writer of Hebrews was probably trained in Greek oratory because Hebrews contains some of the most beautiful language in the Bible, especially when read in Greek. The message points out the great truth that we need no person or supernatural being as a go-between to reach the presence of God. Jesus Christ has opened a direct door for us to the Father.

The writer of Hebrews directed the epistle to Jewish believers, although its teachings are for believers everywhere and across all time spans. He began with acknowledging the role of the Jewish prophets, "In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets" (v. 1). As we saw, prophets like Isaiah, Jeremiah, Micah, and Malachi spoke for God and were able to speak of future events that would occur. Yet, once Jesus came to earth, this changed. We now have direct access to God through His Son, Jesus Christ, who is superior to all the Old Testament prophets. Jesus fulfills the Old Testament prophecy, and He Himself gives God's final word to believers.

Jesus is also superior to the angels. This was an important concept for the writer of Hebrews to get across because the Jews were familiar with angels and thought of them as being next to the throne of God. They had read in the Scriptures of the appearance of angels to many of God's people, and some people even seemed to ascribe worship to angels. The writer made the point of Christ's elevated position by saying, "When God brings His firstborn into the world, He says, 'Let all God's angels worship Him'" (v. 6).

Today Jesus sits at God's right hand. Yet, He is vitally interested in believers and remains available to us. As Hebrews tells us, Jesus sympathizes with us and intercedes for us (Hebrews 4:15; 7:25). How comforting it is in our world of turmoil and change to dwell on the fact that Jesus Christ is the final Word of God who cares about us and our lives!

Today along the way - Many of the Psalms give us wonderful pictures of Jesus. Spend time this week reading the Psalms, particularly concentrating on the texts quoted by the writer of Hebrews in today's reading. These texts include Psalm 2:7, Psalm 45:6-8, Psalm 97:7, Psalm 102:26-27, Psalm 104:4, and Psalm 110:1. What new insights regarding Jesus have you gained by studying the Psalms? What comfort do you gain from them?

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

December 29, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY: The spirit of Christmas needs to be superceded by the spirit of Christ. The spirit of Christmas is annual. The spirit of Christ is eternal. The spirit of Christmas is sentimental. The spirit of Christ is supernatural. The spirit of Christmas is a human product. The spirit of Christ is a divine person.
- Stewart Briscoe from "Meet Him At The Manger"

The Greatest Gift - continued (part 29)

Read: 1 John 1:1-10

But if we walk in the light . . . the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. - 1 John 1:7

In the movie Saving Private Ryan, the military discovered that Private Ryan's mother had already lost three of her four sons in combat during World War II. Captain John Miller was ordered to go behind enemy lines to find her fourth son, Private Ryan, and bring him home. The mission was accomplished, but it cost many lives, including the captain's.

In the closing scenes, many years later, Ryan took his entire family to France where Captain Miller was buried. Standing over his grave, Ryan said, "I tried to live my life the best I could. I hope that in your eyes I've earned what all of you sacrificed for me."

Christ paid the ultimate sacrifice for us by dying on the cross. It is a free gift. However, if we confess our sins and acknowledge Jesus as our personal Savior, we will want to live our lives in a manner that makes His sacrifice worthwhile. The book of 1 John gives us practical instruction on living lives that please God and give evidence of our salvation.

The opening verses of this chapter echo the beginning of Genesis 1 and John 1. Again Jesus is identified as the Word (1 John 1:1). And He is said to be from the beginning-referencing His deity-and also someone who can be heard, seen, and touched-referencing His humanity.

John is concerned with the fellowship of believers, both with each other and with God (v. 3). The way we can achieve fellowship with God is by walking in the light, and "God is light" (v. 5). There is no darkness in Him. His light reveals our flaws, so that we are made aware of them and may ask for forgiveness. He is a guiding light for the road we travel.

John specifically stated, "If we claim to have fellowship with Him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth" (v. 6). Here is one evidence of a life redeemed by Christ: we do not stay in the darkness of sin.

For Christians truth is never only intellectual. It involves actions as well as knowledge. It is living our lives in a manner that makes Christ's sacrifice for us worthwhile.

Today along the way - Think of someone who has been a friend or mentor to you. Although that person probably didn't sacrifice his or her life for you, that individual did sacrifice precious time, energy, and care. Take time to call that person on the telephone or to write a personal note. Tell your mentor that his or her investment of time wasn't wasted and what you have gained from your relationship. Then find someone you can mentor in return and invest your time in that person.

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

December 30, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY: Don't expect too much of Christmas Day. You can't crowd into it any arrears of unselfishness and kindliness that may have accrued during the past twelve months. - Oren Arnold

The Greatest Gift - continued (part 30)

Read: 1 John 4:1-21

If we love one another, God lives in us and His love is made complete in us. - 1 John 4:12

It has now been five days since Christmas. Is there any trace of the festivities at your home? For many children, their new toys sit abandoned as they've already grown tired of their new things. Many adults feel the same way, realizing that all their new goodies don't bring them happiness. Holiday fatigue sets in as they wonder what all the fuss was about anyway.

First John 4:9 tells us what "all the fuss" is about, and it doesn't just impact what we do on December 25. "This is how God showed His love among us: He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him."

On Christmas we celebrated the first part--God sending His Son into the world. Now we need to celebrate the second part--living through Him. This is something we do every day of the year. God showed His love for us by sending Jesus into the world to be born, to suffer, and to die. "He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins" (v. 10).

John says repeatedly that "God is love" (v. 8, 16), and we are advised to "love one another" (v. 11). The love mentioned here is not eros or sexual love; it is agape or supernatural love. It is impossible for us to love God without showing love for others. We do this by the way we esteem, respect, and honor those around us.

The Holy Spirit can place the love of God in our hearts so that we are capable of extending this love to others. In this way, people can see Christ's love through our actions. No one has seen God, but when the invisible God reveals Himself to others through us, "His love is made complete in us" (v. 12).

Yesterday we discussed how 1 John gives practical ways to demonstrate our faith. Loving others is one critically important way that we give evidence of the work of Jesus in our lives.

This is also how we can keep the true spirit of Christmas alive in our hearts well after December 25 has come and gone. We are not celebrating just one day, but a Person who lives and who enables us to love God and each other.

Today along the way - Despite the promises given by John, almost everyone has felt fearful sometime in life. Think of one of those times when you were afraid. How did you react? How can this passage provide comfort during a future traumatic time? Perhaps we can resolve our fears by first focusing on God's immeasurable love for us. Then as He quiets our fears and allows us to love others through Him, we can quiet their fears and give them confidence. This is agape love.

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

December 31, 2002

QUOTE OF THE DAY:
The merry family gatherings, The old, the very young;
The strangely lovely way they Harmonize in carols sung.
For Christmas is tradition time, Traditions that recall
The precious memories down the years, The sameness of them all.
- Helen Lowrie Marshall

The Greatest Gift - conclusion (part 31)

Read: Revelation 19:6-21

Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and be glad and give Him glory!
- Revelation 19:6b-7a

When a baby is born, the parents often wonder what sort of person this little one will grow up to be. What dreams will he chase? What subjects will interest her? Whom will he marry?

The Christmas story doesn�t end with the birth of a baby. It doesn�t even end with the death and resurrection of Jesus. The end of the story will be the end of history, when Jesus returns to fulfill all that God has promised. He will rule forever and ever.

Today�s passage in Revelation declares important events foretold by the prophets. This is the culmination of human history. The event portrayed by John here is the second coming of Jesus Christ to earth as a warrior to establish His kingdom.

Christ, the Head of the Church, is riding on a white horse (v. 11) symbolizing victory. In His Second Coming, Jesus appears not as a Lamb to be sacrificed, but as a Conqueror and King to execute judgment. He wears many crowns (v. 12), because He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

"He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood" (v. 13). This blood is thought to be that of His enemies. Yet, there really is no battle because the victory was won when Jesus� blood was shed at Calvary. When He died on the Cross, conquering death, and rose again, He redeemed us from our sins.

When John called Christ "the Word of God" (v. 13), he meant that everything that God has said, threatened, and promised has come true in Him. The sharp sword that comes out of His mouth is His Word. With it all enemies of God are forever vanquished.

We have seen how God planned to send Jesus to earth for us. We�ve read the accounts of our Lord�s birth. And we have studied how His coming changes our lives. There is only response worthy of our Lord: Hallelujah!

Today along the way - Tomorrow begins a new year. However you may feel about making resolutions, here is one goal that should be on all of our hearts: to know Christ more. We�ve looked at prophecy, His birth, and the implications of His coming. Next year, focus on Jesus, to learn more about Him and about becoming like Him. Pray that God will prepare your heart to be changed by encountering Jesus again in 2003.

From "Today In The Word"
Moody Bible Institute
www.moody.edu
Copyright 2002 by Moody Bible Institute

January 1, 2003

Dear Cross Examiners,

The four years of Cross Examination have been unbelieveable! Believers from the world over, most of us strangers to one another, have come together to study devotionals and Bible studies, to pray with one another and encourage one another in our daily walks with Christ. But you know, just because Cross Exam is coming to a close, my ministry, nor Jon's, nor yours has come to an end. We are still God's messengers of the Word, the spreaders of the Good News. There are so many lost people in this world, and you may be the only exposure that many might have to Jesus. Keep this in mind.

I hope and pray that Cross Examination has been a blessing to you as it has to me. Not just the devotionals have helped me with my walk with the Lord, but the communications I have had with many of you, so much encouragement along the way, especially when the chips were down in my life.

We obtained our devotionals and Bible studies from many different web sites. They are all listed below today's devotional. From many of them, you can subscribe to have the devotionals sent right to you.

My goodbye would be incomplete without thanking many people. First, thank God and our Lord Jesus for sending Cross Exam to us to share with you. Thank every one of you, especially those who have stuck with us since the beginning. Thanks to Jon and Lisa Henschel for all their help and their friendship, thanks to Brother Bill McEwen for being a great 'keeper of the rolls' and all his help. Thanks to Cheryl Miller for sitting in for me while I was unable to perform the Cross Exam duties, and for the great newsletters she compiled. Thanks to Brother Steve Kelly and his weekly encouraging messages. And thanks to Nia Harrison for setting up the great web site for us. Speaking of the web site, it will remain active. You never know who is going to surf around looking for the truth.

Today's devotional is a very special one. It is the very first devotional we sent out in August of 1998, the one that started this devotional ministry. At the time I read this devotional, I began to see that I had become complacent in my walk with God. I was so moved by this devotional that I was led to share it with others. Oh, and I also discovered that complacency can become an ongoing battle, and is happening when we don't even realize it.

On behalf of Jonathan, continue to pray for one another, blessings to everyone, keep your eyes on Jesus and have a great 2003!

Love,
Richard

QUOTE OF THE DAY: The nature of Christ's salvation is woefully misrepresented by the present-day evangelist. He announces a Savior from hell rather than a Savior from sin. And that is why so many are fatally deceived, for there are multitudes who wish to escape the Lake of fire who have no desire to be delivered from their carnality and worldliness. - A. W. Pink

Come And Dine

Read John 21:1-25

But when the morning was now come, Jesus stood on the shore; but the disciples knew not that it was Jesus
- John 21:4

Have you ever noticed that the most difficult time to serve the Lord is immediately after a defeat in your life? When we are on a spiritual high, serving the Lord comes almost naturally. But when we experience the roller-coaster ride to the depths of despair after some spiritual tragedy we have a tendency to become complacent. While activity tends to produce additional activity, inactivity also reproduces itself.

The popularity of Jesus Christ had been building throughout His earthly ministry. Thousands of people followed Him through the hills of Galilee, watching His miracles and listening to His teachings. The disciples had become an intimate group, well known for their association with Jesus. As His popularity grew, so did their own.

The culmination of their intimate relationship with the Lord came the night of His betrayal. He had gathered the disciples in the upper room to keep the Passover. They were all there. They ate with the Lord, prayed with Him, sang hymns with Him, pledged their loyalty to Him. Around this meal, the institution of the Lord's supper, the disciples reached a spiritual high. Their heightened spirits, however, were soon to be dashed. Jesus was led away from the garden, He endured a cruel and illegal trial, and the disciples were dispersed. Even though Jesus again and again had told them that He must suffer the cruelty of the cross, the disciples still did not assimilate this tenet of His teaching. With His death and burial the disciples' balloon had burst. Even the resurrection of the Lord and the immediate post-resurrection appearances did not do much to reassure the disciples.

As instructed by the Lord Himself, the disciples returned to Galilee. Their meeting with Jesus on the mountain of Galilee where He had appointed them must have been subsequent to the account of our Scripture for today. Seven of the apostles had returned to their vocation as fishermen. How easy it was to be a follower of the Lord when He was present; how easy it was to return to their occupation in His absence.

It was Peter who first suggested that he would go fishing. This does not necessarily imply that he intended to renounce his apostleship in favor of the fishing trade. This is what he knew best; this is what he would do until the Lord commanded him otherwise. Hence Peter and the others entered into a ship and fished all night, but caught nothing. How could this be? Had they lost the knack of fishing during their years with the Messiah? Why were they so unsuccessful at a business in which they had been extremely successful before Jesus called them to discipleship? Throughout the night they fished without any success at all.

"But when the morning was now come, Jesus stood on the shore" (John 21:4). For some providential reason the disciples did not recognize the stranger standing on the shore. As He called to them inquiring how successful they had been, they had to answer that they were extremely unsuccessful in fishing that night. They did not recognize that it was the resurrected Lord keeping His rendezvous with them in Galilee until He commanded them to cast their nets on the other side of the ship. This was reminiscent of the similar but earlier command of the Lord with the same result (Luke 5:1-11).

When the disciples hauled in an incredible amount of fish, they came to the shore at Jesus' inviation to "Come and dine" (John 21:12). It was almost as if the Lord was reigniting the fire of intimacy and love which had cooled since their last supper together. Jesus Christ did not want His disciple band to become complacent, for complacency is kin to disobedience.

After we have once served the Lord well and lived in intimate relationship with Him, it is easy to become complacent, to drift from Him, and not to sit at His table. However, the Lord calls each of us to "Come and dine" and if we are to be an effective and useful tool in the Master's hand we must find our feet under His table frequently.

"Revive us again, filll each heart with They love;
May each soul be rekindled with the fire from above.
Hallelujah, Thine the glory! Hallelujah, amen!
Hallelujah, Thine the glory! Revive us again."

By Woodrow Kroll
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Copyright 1986, 1990 by Woodrow Kroll

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