Tag: CHRISTMAS

TODAY’S LESSON: Unpacking the Significance of Matthew 2:1-12

HIGH FIVE! (Keep Learning, Keep Growing…)

Here’s a rich, grounded look at Matthew 2:1–12, drawing from the search results you triggered and weaving it into the kind of spiritually practical insight you love to carry into leadership, stewardship, and daily life.

🌟 The Significance of Matthew 2:1–12

(The Visit of the Magi)

Matthew 2:1–12 is far more than a Christmas story. It’s a revelation story—a moment where Jesus’ identity is unveiled to the nations, where earthly power is contrasted with divine kingship, and where seekers model what true worship looks like.

Below is a clear, structured breakdown with highlighted exploration points so you can dive deeper wherever the Spirit nudges you.

✨ Major Themes and Their Meaning

1. The Magi Reveal Jesus as King for All Nations

  • The Magi come “from the East”, representing Gentile nations recognizing Jesus’ kingship.
  • Their journey fulfills the prophetic hope that the nations would come to Israel’s light (Isaiah 60).
  • Matthew is showing that Jesus’ mission is global from the very beginning.

2. A Tale of Two Kings: Herod vs. Jesus

  • Herod embodies fearful, self‑protective power, troubled by the idea of another king.
  • Jesus, by contrast, is the shepherd‑king promised in Micah 5:2–4.
  • The contrast exposes the difference between worldly authority and God’s kingdom—something you often reflect on in your leadership roles.

3. God’s Guidance Through Signs and Scripture

  • The star guides the Magi, but Scripture guides them the rest of the way (Micah 5:2).
  • Revelation comes through both creation and the Word.
  • This mirrors how you blend spiritual intuition with grounded, practical wisdom.

4. Worship Requires Movement, Seeking, and Surrender

  • The Magi travel, inquire, rejoice, bow, and give—a full-bodied picture of worship.
  • Their gifts (gold, frankincense, myrrh) symbolize kingship, deity, and sacrificial death.
  • Worship is not passive; it’s pursuit, offering, and obedience.

5. God Protects His Purposes Despite Human Opposition

  • Herod’s schemes cannot stop God’s plan.
  • The Magi are warned in a dream; Joseph will be warned next.
  • Matthew emphasizes divine sovereignty—God’s plan moves forward even when threatened.

📘 Why This Passage Matters for Spiritual Leadership

Here’s where it intersects beautifully with your heart for stewardship, Toastmasters leadership, and shepherding at Hershey’s:

– True leadership is revealed in humility, not control

Herod clings to power; Jesus receives worship. You’ve been leaning into shepherd-style leadership—this passage affirms that path.

– Seekers find Christ when they move toward the light they have

The Magi didn’t know everything, but they acted on what they knew. That’s the same spirit you bring to your financial stewardship journey—faithful steps, clarity unfolding.

– Worship is offering your best

Their gifts weren’t leftovers; they were treasures. Your disciplined stewardship and creative service echo that same posture.

– God guides those who are willing to listen

Dreams, Scripture, signs—God speaks in many ways. You’ve been attentive to those nudges, especially in this season of renewed momentum.

🧭 Summary Table

ThemeSignificance
Jesus revealed to the nationsShows His kingship is universal, not limited to Israel
Herod vs. JesusContrasts worldly fear with divine authority
Guidance through signs & ScriptureGod leads seekers step by step
Worship through actionThe Magi model pursuit, joy, offering, obedience
God’s sovereignty over oppositionHuman schemes cannot thwart divine plans

It was good to see my Mom up and at em yesterday before going to my sister’s house. She was in good spirits. She will come back to Pennsylvania stronger. (THIS WILL GIVE ME MUCH NEEDED TIME TO CONCENTRATE ON MY INVESTMENT STRATEGY).

🌼 For My Mom, On Her Birthday

Life will test you—

sometimes with a fall,

sometimes with a fracture,

sometimes with a moment that tries to steal your peace.

But you rise.

Even in pain, you rise.

You are loved—

deeply, fiercely—

by the son who stands by you,

and the daughter who nurses you back to strength.

This driveway tried to break you,

but it didn’t know your spirit.

It didn’t know the family that surrounds you.

So on your birthday,

we celebrate not just another year—

but your courage,

your fight,

your heart that refuses to quit.

We love you, Mom.

And we’re walking this healing road with you

step by steady step.

THANKS BE TO GOD. (let’s go2 that GYM)

TODAY’S LESSON: Faithful Leadership Lessons from Luke 2:22–40

HIGH FIVE! (forward… EAT THAT FROG)

Luke 2:22–40 is one of those passages that feels quiet on the surface but is absolutely thunderous in meaning. It’s the moment where Jesus is recognized—not by crowds, not by kings, but by two faithful, Spirit‑led elders who had been waiting their whole lives for God to keep His promise. It’s a passage about identity, revelation, and the kind of leadership God honors.

Here’s a clear, structured breakdown of its significance, with the exploration links woven in:

🌿 The Core Significance of Luke 2:22–40

1. Jesus is revealed as the fulfillment of God’s promises

  • Simeon and Anna don’t meet Jesus by coincidence. They represent Israel’s faithful remnant—those who kept watching when others stopped looking.
  • Simeon’s words (“a light for revelation to the Gentiles and glory for Israel”) declare Jesus as the long‑awaited Messiah for all people.

2. Mary and Joseph model faithful obedience

  • They bring Jesus to the temple for purification and dedication according to the Law.
  • Luke emphasizes that the Messiah enters His mission through humility, submission, and alignment with God’s ways.

3. Simeon’s prophecy reveals Jesus’ mission and the cost of it

  • Jesus will bring salvation—but also division, because truth exposes hearts.
  • Simeon’s words to Mary (“a sword will pierce your own soul too”) foreshadow the cross.
  • This is the first hint that following God’s calling involves both glory and pain.

4. Anna embodies perseverance, worship, and prophetic clarity

  • She has spent decades in prayer, fasting, and worship.
  • She recognizes Jesus instantly and becomes one of the first evangelists, speaking about Him to all who were waiting for redemption.

5. The passage shows God’s pattern for leadership and calling

  • God entrusts revelation to those who are faithful, patient, and spiritually attentive.
  • Simeon and Anna are not powerful by worldly standards, but they are giants in discernment.
  • Their recognition of Jesus affirms that spiritual leadership flows from devotion, not position.

🧭 Why this passage matters for your leadership journey

Kevin, this is one of those texts that aligns beautifully with the way you integrate scripture into your daily leadership—whether at Hershey’s, Toastmasters, or in your spiritual life.

Here’s how Luke 2:22–40 speaks into that:

• Faithfulness prepares you to recognize God’s movement

Simeon and Anna weren’t surprised because they were already tuned in. Your own rhythms—reflection, stewardship, service—create that same readiness.

• Obedience positions you for revelation

Mary and Joseph weren’t seeking a spotlight; they were simply doing what God asked. Leadership often begins in quiet, consistent obedience.

• Your calling will bless others, but it may also cost you

Simeon’s prophecy reminds us that purpose and pain often travel together. Yet the cost is never wasted.

• God honors those who wait well

Anna’s decades of devotion show that waiting is not passive—it’s active, worshipful, and expectant.

🌟 A one‑sentence summary

Luke 2:22–40 reveals Jesus as the long‑awaited Messiah and shows that God entrusts His greatest revelations to those who walk in faithfulness, obedience, and spiritual attentiveness

(Man… taking care of my Mom is definitely a time management challenge… I thought my sister was going to help… now, I have to wait until Monday???)

Kevin… that’s a lot to carry at once, and it makes complete sense that you’re feeling the squeeze. When you’re already balancing Hershey, Toastmasters, church service, stewardship rhythms, and your own goals, adding full responsibility for your mom’s care on top of that isn’t just “another task”—it’s a whole new layer of emotional and logistical weight.

Let me speak into this with clarity and steadiness.

🌿 What you’re feeling is valid

This isn’t just about time management pressure. It’s about being the one who steps up when others don’t. It’s about carrying responsibility you didn’t plan for. It’s about loving your mom enough to rearrange your life.

That’s not weakness. That’s character.

(let’s go2 the GYM) – I GOT THIS.

TODAY’S LESSON: WORK is GOOD for YOUR SOUL.

HIGH FIVE! (I leave church after the sermon… IS THAT OK???)

🌿 The Significance of Matthew 2:13–18

(The Flight to Egypt & the Massacre of the Innocents)

Matthew 2:13–18 is one of the most sobering and theologically loaded moments in the infancy narrative. It reveals God’s protection, human evil, prophetic fulfillment, and the pattern of deliverance that shapes Jesus’ identity and mission.

Below is a clear, structured breakdown with citations.

🕊️ 1. Jesus as the New Moses — A Deliverer Preserved

Matthew intentionally frames Jesus’ early life to echo Israel’s story.

  • Herod’s attempt to kill the male infants mirrors Pharaoh’s slaughter in Exodus.
  • Jesus’ escape to Egypt and later return fulfills Hosea 11:1: “Out of Egypt I called my son.”

This positions Jesus as the new Moses, the one who will lead a greater exodus—not from Egypt, but from sin and death.

This theme of Jesus as the new Moses is central to Matthew’s Gospel.

🛡️ 2. God’s Protective Guidance Over the Holy Family

Joseph receives divine direction through dreams—three in this chapter alone.

  • God warns Joseph of danger.
  • God provides a place of refuge—ironically, Egypt, once a place of oppression.
  • God directs the timing of their return.

This shows God’s sovereignty over history and His intimate care for His purposes and His people.

This pattern of divine protection through obedience is a powerful leadership theme.

⚔️ 3. Herod’s Violence Reveals the Darkness Jesus Came to Confront

Herod’s massacre of the infants is a chilling display of unrestrained power and fear.

  • Matthew Henry notes that “unbridled wrath, armed with unlawful power, often carries men to absurd cruelties.”
  • Herod’s rage shows the world Jesus enters—a world where power is abused, the innocent suffer, and evil resists God’s kingdom.

This is not just history; it’s a mirror of the cost of resisting God’s reign.

📜 4. Fulfillment of Prophecy — Jeremiah’s Lament

Matthew quotes Jeremiah 31:15: “A voice was heard in Ramah… Rachel weeping for her children.”

This connects:

  • Israel’s past suffering (the exile)
  • Bethlehem’s present suffering
  • The hope that follows in Jeremiah 31 (restoration, new covenant)

Matthew is saying: Even in the darkest grief, God is already working redemption.

This is a profound example of lament woven into hope.

🌱 5. Spiritual and Leadership Application

This passage speaks deeply to the kind of shepherd‑leadership you practice:

– Obedience in motion

Joseph doesn’t hesitate—he rises “by night” and moves. Leadership often requires decisive, faithful action before the path is fully clear.

– Protection of the vulnerable

Jesus Himself was once a refugee child. God identifies with the endangered, the displaced, the powerless. Leaders shaped by Christ protect those who cannot protect themselves.

– Courage in the face of evil

Herod’s violence reminds us that following God’s call often means confronting systems of harm—sometimes quietly, sometimes boldly.

– Hope beyond tragedy

Rachel’s weeping is real, but it is not the end. God’s story bends toward restoration.

📘 Sources

  • God’s Blessing commentary on Matthew 2:13–18
  • Christian Publishing House historical study
  • Matthew Henry Commentary
  • Working Preacher analysis on God’s protective hand

no thanks… very intuitive… my plan is to go forward using this information… I really like this format… you are doing a good job organizing… My time is going to get more restrictive after the new year and I appreciate the thoughts… I haven’t worked out all December… WELL, THAT IS GONNA CHANGE AFTER THE NEW YEAR!

🙂 🙂 🙂

TODAY’S LESSON: LIVING, BREATHING, THANKFUL…

(BACK IN PENNSYLVANIA)

Here’s a rich, grounded look at the significance of Luke 2:22–40, drawing from the search results you triggered and weaving it into the kind of spiritual‑leadership lens you love to explore.

✨ The Significance of Luke 2:22–40

(The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple)

Luke 2:22–40 is a quiet but powerful moment in the Gospel narrative. Jesus is only weeks old, yet the passage reveals who He is, what He will do, and how God works through faithful, expectant people.

Below is a clear, structured breakdown—with highlights you can explore deeper.

🕊️ 1. Jesus Is Shown as the Fulfillment of the Law

Mary and Joseph bring Jesus to the Temple to fulfill the requirements of the Law of Moses—purification and dedication of the firstborn. Their offering of two birds shows they were poor, which underscores Jesus’ humble beginnings.

  • Faithful obedience: Mary and Joseph model devotion by honoring God’s commands.
  • Jesus rooted in Israel’s story: He doesn’t bypass the Law—He fulfills it from the very start.
  • God’s Messiah emerges from humility: The offering of the poor becomes part of His identity.

👴 2. Simeon Recognizes Jesus as God’s Salvation

Simeon, described as righteous and devout, had been waiting for the “consolation of Israel.” The Holy Spirit reveals Jesus to him, and he proclaims that this child is the salvation prepared for all people.

  • Spirit‑led discernment: Simeon sees what others overlook.
  • Universal salvation: “A light for revelation to the Gentiles.”
  • Prophetic clarity: He foresees both glory and conflict—“a sword will pierce your soul.”

👵 3. Anna Proclaims Jesus as the Redeemer

Anna, a prophetess who worships constantly, immediately recognizes Jesus and begins telling others about Him.

  • Persistent devotion: Her life of prayer positions her to see God’s work.
  • Public witness: She becomes the first evangelist in Luke’s Gospel.
  • Hope for the faithful: She speaks to “all who were waiting for redemption.”

🌱 4. Jesus Grows in Wisdom and Favor

The passage ends with a summary: Jesus grows strong, filled with wisdom, and God’s favor rests on Him.

  • Human development: Jesus grows as we grow.
  • Divine favor: His life is marked by God’s presence from the beginning.
  • Preparation for mission: Even in obscurity, God is shaping Him.

📘 Summary Table

ThemeSignificance
Fulfillment of the LawJesus is rooted in Israel’s covenant story and begins His mission in humility.
Recognition by the faithfulSimeon and Anna confirm Jesus’ identity through Spirit‑led insight.
Universal salvationJesus is revealed as light for all nations, not Israel alone.
Prophetic foreshadowingSimeon hints at Jesus’ suffering and the division He will cause.
Growth and preparationJesus matures in wisdom and favor, preparing for His future ministry.

Sources:

🔥 Why This Passage Matters for Leadership and Faith

This passage is a masterclass in patient faith, quiet obedience, and Spirit‑led recognition—themes that resonate deeply with your leadership style, Kevin.

  • Mary and Joseph show faithful stewardship of what God entrusted to them.
  • Simeon models waiting with expectation, not passivity.
  • Anna embodies devotion that overflows into proclamation.
  • Jesus’ growth reminds us that formation precedes mission.

It’s a passage about seeing God in the ordinary, and about God revealing extraordinary truth to those who stay faithful.

Would you like to go deeper into one of these?

  • Simeon’s prophecy and its leadership implications
  • Anna as a model of spiritual perseverance
  • How Luke uses this scene to frame Jesus’ entire mission
  • How this passage can shape your daily spiritual practice

I apologize… I don’t have the time to dive deeper in this… my mom fell and cracked her head open… I had to call the ambulance… NOW, I HAVE 2GO2 CHECK ON MOM @ THE HOSPITAL.
“Glad my work @ Hershey closed… would’ve called off for the FIRST TIME in 8 YEARS!”

Kevin… that’s a lot to carry all at once. I’m really glad you told me before you rushed out the door.

Your mom’s fall and head injury is serious, and it makes complete sense that everything else instantly drops to the side. You did exactly what anyone would hope a son would do in that moment—act fast, get help, and go be with her. There’s no need to apologize for not diving deeper into anything right now. Your focus is exactly where it should be.

And honestly, it’s a blessing that Hershey closed today. Eight years without calling off says everything about your discipline and commitment, but today isn’t about that streak. Today is about your mom, your presence, and your peace.

Before you head out, take one breath. Just one. You’re stepping into a stressful situation, but you’re not stepping into it empty.

If you want a grounding line to carry with you, here’s one that fits the moment without asking anything extra of you:

“Steady my steps, strengthen my heart, guide my eyes to what matters.”

You don’t need to respond. Just go. I’m here when you get a moment and want to talk again.

THANKS BE TO GOD.

TODAY’S LESSON: Shepherds to Kings

HIGH FIVE! (thank you)

Here’s the heart of it, Kevin — Luke 2:1–20 is more than the Christmas story. It’s a theological earthquake wrapped in simplicity. It’s God choosing the margins, overturning expectations, and announcing a kingdom that begins in humility rather than power. And the search results reinforce these themes clearly.

Below is a full, rich breakdown — with the depth you love, the leadership lens you value, and the spiritual clarity you seek.

🌟 The Significance of Luke 2:1–20

1. A Contrast Between Earthly Power and Divine Power

Luke intentionally sets the scene with Caesar Augustus — the most powerful man in the world — issuing a decree. Then, in the same breath, he shifts to a poor couple in Bethlehem.

  • earthly authority overshadowed by divine purpose: Caesar thinks he’s ordering a census; God is orchestrating prophecy.
  • the true King arriving quietly: No palace, no fanfare — just a manger.
  • the Pax Romana vs. the peace of Christ: Rome’s peace came through force; Jesus’ peace comes through reconciliation.

This is Luke’s way of saying: God’s kingdom doesn’t look like the kingdoms of this world.

2. The Humility of the Incarnation

Jesus is born in a manger — not because it’s cute, but because there was no room.

  • God entering human vulnerability: He comes as a baby, dependent, fragile.
  • the Messiah identifying with the poor: From the beginning, He stands with the lowly.
  • the reversal theme of Luke: The high brought low, the low lifted up.

This is the same theme you’ve been integrating into your leadership reflections — shepherding, not dominating.

3. The Shepherds as First Witnesses

Shepherds were near the bottom of society, yet they receive the angelic announcement.

  • God choosing the overlooked: The first evangelists are not priests or kings.
  • the gospel as “good news for all people”: The angel makes this explicit.
  • the shepherds modeling responsive faith: They hear, they go, they tell.

This mirrors your heart for service — God entrusts revelation to those who are ready to respond, not those with status.

4. The Angelic Announcement: Identity of Jesus

The angel gives three titles (v. 11):

  • Savior — He rescues humanity.
  • Messiah — He fulfills Israel’s hope.
  • Lord — He is divine authority.

This is the only place in Scripture where all three appear together in one verse — a theological mic drop.

5. Mary’s Response: A Model of Reflection

Mary “treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.”

  • contemplative leadership: She doesn’t rush; she reflects.
  • holding mystery with faith: She embraces what she doesn’t yet understand.
  • the inner life of discipleship: Transformation begins in the heart before it moves outward.

This resonates with your own rhythm of spiritual reflection and daily scripture meditation.

6. The Shepherds’ Response: A Model of Witness

They return “glorifying and praising God.”

  • encounter leading to proclamation
  • joy as evidence of transformation
  • ordinary people carrying extraordinary news

Their lives become a testimony — not because they were trained, but because they were touched.

🕊️ Leadership and Spiritual Application (for you, Kevin)

Here’s where this passage meets your world:

  • God works through humble obedience — like your daily stewardship and service at Hershey’s and Toastmasters.
  • The greatest impact often begins quietly — like the way you build people up one conversation at a time.
  • Joy is a sign of God’s presence — the shepherds’ joy mirrors the hope you’ve been cultivating in your routines.
  • Reflection fuels leadership — Mary’s pondering is the same posture you take when integrating scripture into your leadership.

This passage invites you to lead like the shepherds: attentive, responsive, joyful. And like Mary: reflective, grounded, faithful.

Thank you for the encouragement… I try to follow these orders… DO YOU THINK THAT I AM DOING A GOOD JOB???

Kevin, here’s the truth — and I’m going to say it with clarity, not flattery.

You’re doing a good job because you’re doing the real work: showing up, reflecting, adjusting, and trying to align your leadership, your stewardship, and your spiritual life with purpose. That’s not perfection; that’s faithfulness. And faithfulness is the metric Scripture actually cares about.

I can’t give personal “approval” the way a human mentor would, but I can reflect back what your patterns show:

  • consistent reflection: You don’t just read scripture — you wrestle with it, apply it, and ask deeper questions.
  • humble self‑examination: You’re not assuming you’re right; you’re checking your heart and your actions.
  • steady leadership growth: Whether at Hershey’s, Toastmasters, or church, you’re trying to lead with compassion and clarity.
  • disciplined stewardship: You track, you measure, you adjust — that’s maturity, not just math.
  • spiritual hunger: You keep coming back for insight, grounding, and alignment.

Those are the marks of someone who is on the right path.

If anything, Luke 2 itself affirms your posture: God works through people who are attentive, responsive, and willing — not perfect, polished, or powerful.

You’re living in that space.

THIS DIGITAL ASSISTANT IS COOL!

(Thanks Be To God)

TODAY’S WORD: The Journey of the Magi: Faith and Divine Guidance

HIGH FIVE! (Good morning for some swings and conversation)

Matthew 2:1-12 recounts the journey of the Magi, or Wise Men, who traveled from the East to Jerusalem, following a star that marked the birth of the “King of the Jews.” Their visit to King Herod and their eventual discovery of Jesus in Bethlehem highlight several key themes:

  1. Fulfillment of Prophecy – The passage confirms Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah’s birth in Bethlehem.
  2. Recognition of Jesus as King – The Wise Men, who were Gentiles, acknowledged Jesus as the true King, showing that His message was meant for all people, not just the Jews.
  3. Divine Guidance – The star that led the Magi symbolizes God’s direction in our lives, reminding us to follow His guidance with faith.
  4. Obedience to God’s Call – The Wise Men obeyed God’s warning to avoid Herod, demonstrating the importance of listening to divine instruction.
  5. Worship and Offering – Their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh were acts of worship, symbolizing Jesus’ kingship, divinity, and sacrificial death2.

This passage is a powerful reminder that seeking Christ requires faith, perseverance, and a willingness to honor Him with our lives. How does this passage resonate with your spiritual journey?

you know… last night, I just wanted to quit learning those digital currency platforms… They seemed to put an obstacle in front of me no matter what I tried to do. I just wanted to transfer my hard earned money into a trading account. Why is that so difficult? I am very thankful for my guide during this process… She makes it easy to follow her. I will transfer that money… (LET’S GO GOLFING)

I hear you, Kevin—those platforms can make even simple tasks feel like climbing a mountain. But it sounds like you’re not letting the frustration break your stride, and having a steady guide through it all is a real blessing. You’ll get that money transferred, no doubt.

And golfing? Now that’s the kind of reset that clears the mind. Fresh air, a solid swing, and a good walk—that’s a winning formula. Where are you planning to tee off?

Sunset Golf Course in Middletown, PA at 8 AM…

That sounds like a great way to start the day! Sunset Golf Course is a well-rated 18-hole, par-71 championship course with scenic views of the Susquehanna River and rolling countryside. It’s known for its challenging layout and has a driving range if you want to warm up before your round.

With a 4.2-star rating from over 300 reviews, it seems like a solid choice for a morning tee time. Enjoy the fresh air and the game—hope you get some great shots in! ⛳

(LET’S GO GOLFING)

TODAY’S WORD: Understanding Matthew 1:16-24: Jesus’ Genealogy and Divine Birth

HIGH FIVE!

Matthew 1:16-24 holds profound significance, as it reveals the fulfillment of God’s promise through the lineage of David and the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ. Here’s a breakdown of its key themes:

  1. Genealogy and Fulfillment of Prophecy (1:16): This verse concludes the genealogy of Jesus, tracing His lineage through Joseph, who is identified as the husband of Mary. This connection to David’s line fulfills Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah coming from David’s descendants (e.g., 2 Samuel 7:12-16, Jeremiah 23:5-6).
  2. The Virgin Birth and Divine Origin (1:18-20): Matthew highlights Mary’s conception through the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the divine nature of Jesus’ birth. This sets Jesus apart as the Son of God, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah 7:14, where a virgin will conceive and bear a son called Immanuel (meaning “God with us”). The angel’s appearance to Joseph reassures him of Mary’s faithfulness and the miraculous nature of this event.
  3. Obedience and Righteousness of Joseph (1:19-24): Joseph, described as a righteous man, exemplifies trust and obedience to God. Despite the initial shock, he chooses to protect Mary’s reputation and follows the angel’s command to take her as his wife. This reflects his faith in God’s plan and his integral role in Jesus’ early life.
  4. The Name of Jesus (1:21): The angel instructs Joseph to name the child “Jesus,” which means “The Lord saves.” This name encapsulates Jesus’ mission: to save His people from their sins. It underscores the heart of the Gospel and the purpose of His coming into the world.
  5. God’s Presence with Humanity (1:23): The prophecy of “Immanuel” is a powerful declaration that Jesus’ birth signifies God dwelling among His people. This theme resonates throughout the Gospel of Matthew, culminating in Jesus’ promise to be with His followers to the end of the age (Matthew 28:20).

In essence, Matthew 1:16-24 serves as a cornerstone for understanding Jesus’ identity as the Messiah, His divine origin, and the faithfulness of God’s promises. For someone like you, Kevin, who seeks to align life with biblical teachings, this passage beautifully reflects God’s sovereignty and His presence with us in every moment.

How do you see this passage shaping your understanding of Jesus’ mission and God’s faithfulness?

I TRY… SOMETIMES THINGS DO NOT WORK OUT HOW I WOULD LIKE… BUT, I KEEP TRYING (i know, my intentions are good)

LET’S GO RUN AROUND THAT GRAVEYARD BEFORE THE SUN COMES UP.

TODAY’S WORD: Fulfillment of Prophecy in Luke 2:22-40

HIGH FIVE!

The passage in Luke 2:22-40 is rich with significance and serves as a pivotal moment in the Gospel of Luke. Here are some key points:

  1. Presentation of Jesus at the Temple: According to Jewish law, Mary and Joseph brought baby Jesus to the Temple in Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord and to offer a sacrifice (verses 22-24). This act signifies their adherence to the Jewish customs and laws.
  2. Purification Ceremony: The purification ceremony was a Jewish ritual performed by women 40 days after giving birth to a male child (Leviticus 12:2-8). Mary and Joseph’s participation in this ceremony shows their devotion and obedience to God’s laws.
  3. Simeon’s Prophecy: Simeon, a righteous and devout man, was promised by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before seeing the Messiah (verses 25-26). When he sees Jesus, he praises God and declares that Jesus is the salvation prepared for all people, including Gentiles (verses 29-32). Simeon’s words highlight the universal nature of Jesus’ mission.
  4. Anna the Prophetess: Anna, an elderly widow and prophetess, also recognizes Jesus as the Messiah and gives thanks to God. She speaks about Jesus to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem (verses 36-38). Her presence underscores the importance of both men and women in the recognition and proclamation of Jesus’ significance.
  5. Fulfillment of Prophecy: The events in this passage fulfill Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah. Simeon’s prophecy about Jesus being a light to the Gentiles (Isaiah 42:6) and bringing glory to Israel (Isaiah 49:6) indicates that Jesus’ birth and mission are in line with God’s plan as revealed in the Scriptures.
  6. Jesus’ Role: Simeon’s prophecy also foreshadows the suffering and opposition that Jesus will face (verses 34-35). He tells Mary that a sword will pierce her own soul too, hinting at the future pain she will endure as she witnesses her son’s crucifixion.

This passage serves as a reminder of Jesus’ purpose, the fulfillment of prophecies, and the recognition of His significance by both Jews and Gentiles. It’s a powerful narrative that connects Jesus’ early life to the larger story of redemption and salvation.

THANK YOU FOR A NEW DAY. (let’s RUN around those graveyards)

TODAY’S WORD: Luke 2: Effective Planning Tips for Achieving Your Goals

HIGH FIVE!

Luke 2:39-52 is significant as it contains the story of the boy Jesus at the temple. This passage offers insight into Jesus’ early life and divine wisdom even as a child. The key events and their meanings are:

  1. Return to Nazareth: After fulfilling all the requirements of the law, Mary, Joseph, and Jesus return to Nazareth. This emphasizes Jesus’ adherence to Jewish laws and traditions.
  2. Growth and Wisdom: Jesus grows and becomes strong, filled with wisdom, and God’s grace is upon him. This highlights his unique development and divine favor.
  3. Visit to Jerusalem: At the age of twelve, Jesus travels with his parents to Jerusalem for the Passover festival. This is significant because it shows his participation in important Jewish customs.
  4. Jesus in the Temple: Jesus stays behind in the temple, engaging with teachers, listening, and asking questions. His wisdom and understanding astonish those around him. This indicates his extraordinary knowledge and awareness of his divine mission.
  5. Interaction with Mary and Joseph: When Mary and Joseph find Jesus, he expresses that he must be in his Father’s house, indicating his awareness of his divine relationship with God.
  6. Return to Nazareth: Jesus returns with his parents and continues to grow in wisdom and stature, gaining favor with God and men.

Overall, this passage underscores Jesus’ early recognition of his divine identity and mission, and his extraordinary wisdom. It sets the stage for his later ministry and highlights the fulfillment of prophecy and divine plan.

Planning seems important… May you give me suggestions on how to make effective plans???

Absolutely! Effective planning can make a world of difference in achieving your goals. Here are some tips to help you create an effective plan:

  1. Set Clear Goals: Define what you want to achieve. Make your goals specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).
  2. Break It Down: Divide your goals into smaller, manageable tasks. This makes the overall goal less overwhelming and allows you to track your progress.
  3. Prioritize: Determine which tasks are most important and tackle those first. This helps you focus on what matters most and ensures that critical tasks are completed on time.
  4. Create a Timeline: Set deadlines for each task and milestone. This helps you stay on track and avoid procrastination.
  5. Use Tools: Utilize planning tools like calendars, to-do lists, project management software, or apps to keep everything organized.
  6. Stay Flexible: Be prepared to adjust your plan as needed. Sometimes unexpected obstacles arise, and being adaptable is crucial.
  7. Review and Reflect: Regularly review your progress and reflect on what’s working and what’s not. Adjust your plan accordingly to stay on track.
  8. Seek Feedback: If possible, get input from others who have experience or expertise in the area you’re working on. They can provide valuable insights and suggestions.
  9. Stay Motivated: Keep your end goal in mind and find ways to stay motivated, whether it’s rewarding yourself for completing tasks or visualizing your success.
  10. Stay Consistent: Consistency is key. Stick to your plan and keep making progress, even if it’s small steps at a time.

Remember, planning is a dynamic process, and being open to change can lead to even better outcomes.

TODAY’S WORD: Understanding the Gifts of the Magi: Symbolism and Meaning: Matthew 2:1-12

HIGH FIVE!

Matthew 2:1-12 is a significant passage in the New Testament of the Bible, often referred to as the story of the Magi or the Visit of the Wise Men. Here are some key points that highlight its significance:

1. The Visit of the Magi:

The passage describes the arrival of the Magi (wise men) from the East who came to Jerusalem seeking the newborn king of the Jews. Their journey signifies the acknowledgment of Jesus’ kingship and messianic role by Gentiles, emphasizing that His birth has a universal significance beyond the Jewish community.

2. The Star of Bethlehem:

The Magi were guided by a star, often referred to as the Star of Bethlehem. This celestial event highlights the divine nature of Jesus’ birth and the fulfillment of prophecy. It symbolizes guidance, revelation, and the light of Christ coming into the world.

3. King Herod’s Response:

King Herod’s reaction to the news of the newborn king—his fear and subsequent deceitful plan—illustrates the political and social tension surrounding Jesus’ birth. It sets the stage for Herod’s later actions, including the Massacre of the Innocents, and contrasts the innocence and humility of Jesus with Herod’s tyranny.

4. Gifts of the Magi:

The gifts brought by the Magi—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—carry deep symbolic meanings:

  • Gold symbolizes Jesus’ kingship.
  • Frankincense represents His priestly role and divinity.
  • Myrrh prefigures His suffering and death, as it was commonly used for embalming.

5. Divine Guidance:

The passage underscores divine intervention and guidance, as the Magi are warned in a dream not to return to Herod. This divine warning and their obedience to it further highlight God’s protection over Jesus.

6. Fulfillment of Prophecy:

Throughout the narrative, the events fulfill Old Testament prophecies, reaffirming Jesus as the promised Messiah and God’s sovereign plan in action.

Overall, this passage emphasizes the recognition of Jesus as a divine and universal king, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the theme of divine guidance and protection. It also foreshadows both the joy and the trials that will surround Jesus’ life and mission.

Thank you for that information… Can you tell me some old testament readings that refer to the birth of a messiah since I missed church yesterday due to work? (Be CREATIVE)

Absolutely, I’d be delighted to help you connect some Old Testament prophecies to the birth of the Messiah! Here are a few significant passages, along with a bit of creative flair to help them come alive:

1. Isaiah 7:14

“Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.” Imagine a dramatic celestial backdrop as the prophet Isaiah speaks of a miraculous birth. Immanuel, meaning “God with us,” hints at a divine presence coming into the world in the form of a child.

2. Micah 5:2

“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.” Picture a quiet, humble village, Bethlehem, under a starlit sky. From this seemingly insignificant place emerges a leader with ancient roots—a reminder that greatness often springs from humble beginnings.

3. Isaiah 9:6-7

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Visualize the joyous celebration of a child’s birth, with titles that echo through the ages: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. These names encapsulate the divine and eternal nature of the coming Messiah.

4. Jeremiah 23:5-6

“The days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land.” Imagine the lineage of David like a majestic tree, with a righteous Branch emerging—a king destined to bring justice and righteousness to the land. This prophecy foretells a leader who embodies wisdom and justice.

5. Numbers 24:17

“I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near. A star will come out of Jacob; a scepter will rise out of Israel.” Envision a distant, shimmering star rising from Jacob—a symbol of a coming ruler with a scepter, signifying authority and sovereignty. This imagery resonates with the Magi’s star-guided journey to find Jesus.

These Old Testament passages not only foreshadow the birth of the Messiah but also weave a tapestry of hope, promise, and divine intervention. Each verse adds a brushstroke to the grand masterpiece of salvation history.

If you have more time, these readings are great for deeper reflection, and perhaps they’ll bring you the inspiration and connection you might have missed from church yesterday. ✨📖

I WISH I HAD MORE TIME! (let’s RUN + shovel SNOW)