December 28 -- "From Tears to Joy"

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Today's Reading: Psalm 126

Seasons of sorrow and hardship are not the end of the story for God’s people.  The big idea of Psalm 126 is the transformative power of God to restore us from adversity and bring us back to a place of joy.

This Psalm celebrates the restoration of Zion (Jerusalem) and the immense joy experienced by God's people. It recounts the time when the Lord turned Jerusalem's fortunes around, filling the people with laughter and shouts of joy. The psalmist credits their incredible turnaround all to the Lord's unwavering faithfulness.

Verse 5 reveals a profound truth about our life’s journey, emphasizing the transformative power of God's work. For the Jewish people, "sowing in tears" refers to the hardships they endured during their exile in Babylon and Persia. Yet, the psalmist offers a hopeful outlook, proclaiming that those who sow in tears will reap with shouts of joy. This imagery of sowing and reaping illustrates the victory the Lord brought about when He returned the exiles to their homeland with great joy.

For today's Christ followers, Psalm 126 reminds us that our struggles are not in vain nor will they continue forever. When we face trials with faith and perseverance, God works through these tough times to bring a harvest of joy and blessings. This principle aligns with Galatians 6:9, where Paul encourages believers— “Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” 

So, dear follower of Christ, find hope and encouragement in the midst of your trials. Know that God is at work, and your tears and struggles are part of His larger narrative of redemption and restoration. Your faithfulness in sowing seeds of righteousness, even in tough times, will lead to a harvest of joy and fulfillment.

May the Lord of restoration and joy fill your heart with steadfast hope. As you sow in faith, even through tears, may His transforming power turn your sorrow into laughter and your trials into triumph.

December 27 -- "Remember Me For Good"

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Today's Reading: Nehemiah 13

God is good.  All the time. Nehemiah's words, "Remember me for good," encapsulate both a desire for God's recognition of faithful service and a plea for His divine favor. It reminds us that our labor in the Lord is not in vain, and God sees and remembers every act of obedience, no matter how small it may seem.

The Hebrew phrase in Nehemiah 13:31, "remember me for good," can be understood two ways: (1) Remember the good I have done on Your behalf; and (2) Don’t forget to bless me with Your goodness and favor. Thus, this quick prayer of Nehemiah is one of asking for God’s blessing upon him for the good works he is doing and has done.

First, this speaks to the importance of leaving a legacy marked by faithfulness and righteousness. It reminds us that our actions in this life have a lasting impact and that we should seek to be remembered for the good we have done, especially in serving God and others. Without a doubt, Nehemiah made mistakes and committed sins during his lifetime, but his request here is that he wouldn’t be remembered for those things, but for the good he has done. While salvation is a gift of grace, the New Testament also speaks of God remembering His children for the good they have done. Hebrews 6:10 tells us, "For God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and the love that you have shown for his name." This suggests that our actions, motivated by faith, can have eternal significance.

Second, in Nehemiah’s prayer, he is expressing the heartfelt plea, that God would never forget to shower his life with goodness and blessing. It's as if Nehemiah is saying, “Don't forget to do good things in my life, Lord." This cry echoes the deep longing we all share for God's continuous presence, favor, and blessings in our lives. It reflects a heart that understands the vital importance of God's hand of favor as the most essential element in our journey of faith.

"Being remembered" in the New Testament context signifies a deep and enduring connection with God and His people. It conveys a promise of divine favor, eternal life, and a lasting legacy. In reality, God will never forget to show His children His goodness and favor.  Throughout Scripture, we see countless assurances of God's faithfulness and steadfast love towards His people. Psalm 23:6 declares, "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever." Today's verse beautifully encapsulates God's unwavering commitment to showering His children with His goodness and favor.

May the Lord, who sees and remembers your faithful service, shower you with His goodness and favor. As you walk in His ways, may His steadfast love and mercy follow you all the days of your life.

December 26 -- "Sounds of Joy Heard from Afar"

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Today's Reading: Nehemiah 12

The sound of rejoicing echoed far and wide, both inside and outside the city. Imagine the air filled with awe-inspiring sounds—the joyful shouts of people united in praise of God's faithfulness for rebuilding the walls and restoring their city. These shouts would be accompanied by the harmonious tones of harps, lyres, and cymbals, creating a melodious and rhythmic celebration.

Hearing their joy from afar represents more than just a loud celebration; it symbolizes the profound impact of genuine worship and gratitude on surrounding cities, towns, and nations. Practically, these joyous sounds could indeed travel far, resonating across the landscape of Jerusalem. On a deeper level, this imagery underscores the powerful effect that authentic worship and thanksgiving can have on those who witness it.

When our lives reflect true joy in the Lord, we become beacons of hope and encouragement to those around us. Just as Nehemiah and the Israelites' celebration reached far beyond the walls of Jerusalem, our joyful devotion to God can resonate with others near and far. This isn't mere noise but a proclamation of faith that transcends geographical boundaries and cultural barriers.

In the New Testament, Jesus speaks of being a light to the world and a city on a hill that cannot be hidden (Matthew 5:14-16). Our rejoicing in God's faithfulness contributes to this shining testimony. It draws attention, stirs curiosity, and invites others to experience the same joy and faith we have in Christ. Let's not only think about the audible sound of rejoicing but also the spiritual resonance it creates.

May your life be so filled with gratitude and worship that the joy you experience in God's faithfulness reverberates throughout your communities, drawing others to Christ, the source and center of your joy and celebration.

December 25 -- "The Contagious Joy of Thankfulness"

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Today's Reading: Nehemiah 11

Mattaniah's role was pivotal: he led the people in praise and thanksgiving during worship as recorded in Nehemiah 11. His voice inspired others to turn their hearts toward God, rejoicing in His faithfulness. Thanksgiving wasn’t just a personal act for Mattaniah—it was a ministry, a means of pointing others to the greatness of God.

At Christmas, we are reminded of a similar calling. The angelic host broke into praise on the night of Jesus’ birth, declaring, “Glory to God in the highest!” (Luke 2:14). And Mary sang her Magnificat, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior." (Luke 1:46) Gratefulness and praise have always been key elements in celebrating God’s redemptive work.

Christmas is not just about exchanging gifts but about recognizing and praising the greatest Gift—Jesus Christ. Mattaniah’s example challenges us to lead in thanksgiving and praise, not only in song but in how we live. Our gratitude can be contagious, inspiring others to see God’s goodness.

This season, let gratefulness shape your heart and overflow into your relationships. A thankful heart turns ordinary moments into opportunities for worship, just as Mattaniah turned his role into a melody of praise that honored God.

Take time this week to reflect on God’s blessings, especially the gift of His Son. Express your gratitude through worship, prayer, praise, and acts of kindness. Share the joy of thanksgiving by encouraging others to focus on Christ during this season.

Imagine a candle lighting ceremony on Christmas Eve. One person’s flame spreads until the room is glowing. Thanksgiving works the same way: one grateful heart can ignite others to join in praise, just as Mattaniah did in Jerusalem.

May your heart sing with praise this Christmas, glorifying God for His gift of Jesus. May your gratitude inspire others to see the beauty of His love and the joy of His salvation. Merry Christmas!

December 24 -- "RENEW OUR VOWS"

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Today's Reading: Nehemiah 10

Christmas is a time of covenant renewal with God, a season to remember His faithfulness and recommit to walking in His ways, just as the Israelites renewed their covenant in Nehemiah 10.

Nehemiah 10 details the Israelites' response to God's faithfulness. They sealed a covenant, committing to obedience in worship, Sabbath-keeping, generosity, and care for God's house. Their vows reflected a desire to honor God with their whole lives. Similarly, Christmas reminds us of God's faithfulness in sending Jesus, His Son, to fulfill His promises.

Just as the Israelites renewed their vows by dedicating themselves to living set apart for God, Christmas invites us to renew our commitment to Him. The birth of Christ is God's ultimate covenant of love with us. It’s a reminder of Emmanuel—God with us—and calls us to reflect His love through holiness, generosity, and worship.

This Christmas, take time to renew your vow to Jesus. Reflect on areas where you can live more fully for Him—whether through serving others, giving generously, or deepening your time in the Word. Let your heart become a manger where Christ is welcomed anew.

Imagine receiving a treasured heirloom from a loved one. You would handle it with care and gratitude. Christmas is God’s greatest gift—Jesus, the promised Savior. How can you honor such a priceless gift? Like the Israelites, we respond by dedicating yourself to live for Him.

May this Christmas season inspire you to renew your covenant with the Lord. As you reflect on the miracle of Jesus' birth, may your heart overflow with worship, your hands with generosity, and your life with His love.

NEW TESTAMENT - Starts January 1st!

 

December 23 -- "Stand Up and Bless the Lord"

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 Today's Reading: Nehemiah 9

There was a palpable buzz of anticipation and reverence that day, akin to an electric current running through the crowd, as they awaited the unfolding of this significant gathering. It was a momentous occasion, and everyone present could sense the gravity of the situation and the importance of coming together to seek God's forgiveness and renewal.

The sight of the assembly was striking, with people from all walks of life uniting in harmony, their faces reflecting a mix of contrition and hope. They gathered in a central space, perhaps a courtyard or an open area, where everyone had a clear view and could hear distinctly.

The air was filled with a symphony of prayers, songs, and the reading of Scripture. Voices raised in confession and praise mingled with the hushed tones of heartfelt repentance, creating a melody of humble hearts seeking God's mercy and grace.

A faint scent of incense, symbolizing the prayers and offerings lifted up to God, mingled with the natural scents of the outdoors, enriching the sensory experience of this sacred moment of worship and reflection.

Nehemiah 9 can be viewed as a condensed summary or "Cliff Notes" of the Old Testament, especially regarding Israel's history and God's unwavering faithfulness. The chapter begins by recounting God's creation of the world and His covenant with Abraham and concludes with the division of the kingdom and exile to Babylon, followed by praise for God’s goodness in returning them to their homeland.

This chapter serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of confession, repentance, and acknowledging God's faithfulness in our lives. Just as the Israelites stood up to remember the faithfulness of God, confessing their sins, and worshipping God, whose “glorious name is exalted above all blessing and praise,” we are called to examine our hearts, confess our shortcomings, and honor God for His faithfulness despite our failings.

As you journey through life, may you never forget to exalt the name of the Lord. And may you prioritize Him above everything else, recognizing His unmatched greatness, awesomeness, and eternal glory.