Immanuel

Over the next few weeks we will be taking a break from our focus stories which tell vignettes of God’s transforming work among us.  These next four weeks will be focused on God’s coming to this earth through the glorious gift of the incarnation of His Son, Jesus Christ.  Our prayer is that you will find encouragement and hope as we consider aspects of God’s Immanuel.



Darkness is never seen as good.  Darkness is connected to evil, to harm, and even destruction.  Matthew suggests darkness is a picture of hell where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.  The Apostle Paul says darkness is similar to unrighteousness (Matt. 8:12; 2 Cor. 6:14).  So when Jesus came and was called Light (John 1:5; I John 1:5-7), He was to be everything opposite of darkness.  When He showed up He brought life, truth, hope and purity—that’s what light brings.  His life is the true light that gives light to every person who trusts Him (John 1:9).   



This Christmas you will see lights—lots of lights.  Some of us will drive around the city to take in the beauty of people’s creativity.  My neighbor even has music that entertains you as you look at his lights.  Lights are beautiful because they dispel darkness.  They are beautiful because they capture your eyes and give you something to look at rather than just darkness.  As you drive the city and see the lights ask Almighty God to help you be LIGHT—a dispeller of darkness. 

Because of the power of Christ in you, you in fact are light  (I Thessalonians 5:5).  You don’t have to become light—you are inherently light because of the indwelling Holy Spirit in you.  So here is your assignment:

·         Walk as children of the light (Eph. 5:8)

·         Reprove the darkness because of your presence (Eph. 5:11)

·         Put on the armor of light every day (Rom. 13:12)

·         Show the glory of God (I Peter 2:9)

·         Walk honestly (Rom. 13:13)

“Almighty God give us grace to cast away the works of darkness, and put on the armor of light, now in humility through the power of the Holy Spirit in us—let us be light.”

 

Book Recomendation

Fully Alive--A Biblical Vision of Gender That Frees Men and Women to Live Beyond Stereotypes by Larry Crabb

Dr. Crabb has a biblical grasp on this issue of gender and sexuality.  He is clear and helpful when he defines masculinity and femininity.  If you want to engage on the cultural battle of  gender, this book is a great first step.