The ‘one way’ to God went from a nation / ceremonial law to the person that nation and law prefigured. It was a mystery until Jesus. We’ll see how it binds us together across every line that would divide us.
The first thing that God shows His adopted children is what a wonderful family they have, the love that He has for them and the unfathomable power and resources that he has for all His children.
From natural disasters to shootings in schools, to the family member who has been diagnosed with a fatal illness or disease, we all can identify with pain of disaster and crisis. Even in-the-midst of darkness, God has sent us the Light of the World.
Christmas is about lights. We put them up everywhere, in our homes, on our streets and in our stores. When you picture Christmas with your eyes closed, you see lights. There's a reason for that.
The opening song to Pinocchio is entitled "When you wish upon a star." The Christmas story is about that dream coming true. What's up with a star though? What was God pointing us too?
The believer is being shaped by Christ, His image and His word. Katrina happens...so does cancer. Believers are not free from suffering. The key to being Christ-shaped is that our suffering is constructive not destructive.
Sacrifice is the characteristic trait of the believer. We are a living sacrifice trading in momentary, expedited pleasures and rewards for future blessings.
Jesus shows His disciples the way to victory in life...fight for it. Against what? Against who? Let's unlock the key to “running that you might obtain the prize.”
