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The Beatitudes: A Spiritual Mirror

I was having dinner with a group of people I had just met when I excused myself to the bathroom. Looking in the mirror, I was horrified— I had something stuck in my teeth. Immediately, I wondered, How long has that been there? No one at the table had mentioned it, and I didn’t blame them; we didn’t know each other well. Still, I felt embarrassed. The worst part? I had no idea anything was wrong until I was confronted with my reflection. I fixed the issue and carried on with dinner.

We need that same kind of confrontation spiritually.

God, in His kindness, provides mirrors for us—not just literal ones, but spiritual ones. He uses Scripture, the conviction of the Holy Spirit, godly friends who see what we can’t, and even books from faithful pastors of old. One such book in my life has been Studies in the Sermon on the Mount by Martyn Lloyd-Jones. He writes:

I have no hesitation again in asserting that the failure of the Church to have a greater impact on the life of men and women in the world today is due entirely to the fact that her own life is not in order… Every revival proves clearly that men who are outside the Church always become attracted when the Church herself begins to function truly as the Christian Church, and as individual Christians approximate to the description here given in the beatitudes.

Lloyd-Jones reminds us that the church is most effective when it prioritizes holiness over cultural relevance. Church history shows that decline often begins with neglecting God’s Word, leading to slow compromise. Evangelism is essential, but we must first ask ourselves: Are we living in obedience to God’s commands? The Beatitudes serve as a powerful mirror, revealing where we truly stand.

The Beatitudes Confront Us

Like a mirror showing what we wouldn’t otherwise notice, the Beatitudes expose our spiritual condition. When we read Jesus’ words, we must ask: Do I reflect this? These aren’t surface-level checklists; they reveal our desperate need for grace.

The Beatitudes Push Us

The Beatitudes cut to the heart. At our core, we are spiritually poor, helpless, and mourning over sin. We naturally seek power and recognition, yet Jesus calls us to meekness and humility. True mercy, peacemaking, and endurance through persecution—these are not traits we can manufacture on our own. They require the transforming work of the Spirit.

The Beatitudes Reassure Us

Though the Beatitudes confront and challenge us, they also come with promises. When we read about the poor in spirit, Jesus promises the kingdom of heaven. To those who mourn, true comfort. To the meek, an inheritance of the earth. These blessings are not rewards for effort but gifts of God’s unmerited grace.

A Mirror That Leads to Change

Like noticing something in our teeth and fixing it, the Beatitudes show us our need—but they don’t leave us in despair. They point us to Jesus, the only One who can make us clean. Through Him, we don’t just try harder; we are made new.

When we allow the Beatitudes to confront, push, and reassure us, we see that we are not the same anymore. And that’s the true evidence of grace.

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What Does the Bible Say About Money

1 Timothy 6:17-19

“As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.”

Does the Bible address money? Absolutely. Jesus spoke about money in about 15% of His teachings, and Paul also offers clear instructions about wealth. In 1 Timothy 6:10, Paul reminds us that “the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil.” It’s not money itself that is the problem—it’s the idolatry of money.

When money becomes our ultimate hope or source of security, we stop trusting God. As Paul instructs Timothy, pastors are to help their congregations see money rightly—not as a source of arrogance, but as a resource entrusted to us by God.

4 Truths About Money From 1 Timothy 6:17-19:

1) It Won’t Last Forever

Our money and possessions are temporary. They age, break down, or get spent. And when we die, we can’t take anything with us.

Paul warns, “Tell the rich not to be haughty or arrogant, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches” (v. 17). Wealth is fleeting—it can be lost, stolen, or destroyed. Instead of trusting in riches, Paul calls us to trust in God.

This doesn’t mean we should be pessimistic about life, but realistic. Our ultimate hope is not in something temporary, but in God’s eternal kingdom. “Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe” (Hebrews 12:28-29).

Everything we have is from God. You may think, I worked hard for what I have—it’s mine. And yes, hard work is good! But consider:

• Why do you work hard? If your goal is just to accumulate wealth or power, you’re aiming too low.

• Who gave you the ability, opportunity, and resources to work hard? It’s the Lord.

As Colossians 3:23reminds us, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.”

God is the provider and sustainer. He gave us everything in the past, He provides for us today, and He will continue to provide in the future.

2) God Is the Wealthiest

In verse 17, Paul describes God as the one who “richly provides us with everything to enjoy.”Everything belongs to Him. As Psalm 50:10-11 declares, “For every beast of the forest is mine, the cattle on a thousand hills. I know all the birds of the hills, and all that moves in the field is mine.”

God’s wealth isn’t limited to material riches. He has lavished us with the greatest treasure of all: His grace. Through Jesus, we have redemption, forgiveness, and eternal life. As Ephesians 1:7-8 says, “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace, which He lavished upon us.”

Even if you lose everything in this life, you are still rich because of Jesus. This gospel perspective frees us to hold loosely to our possessions and trust fully in God.

3) Be a Steward

Paul calls us to “do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share” (v. 18). Generosity is not about obligation—it’s about reflecting God’s character.

2 Corinthians 9:6-7 reminds us, “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

Generosity means sacrifice. It’s choosing to give rather than accumulate. It’s saying no to temporary wants so you can say yes to eternal investments.

Be generous with your church, your neighbors, and those in need. Let your generosity point others to Jesus, the One who gave everything for us:

• He became poor so we could have heavenly riches.

• He took our sin so we could be forgiven.

• He died in our place so we could have eternal life.

4) Invest the Right Way

Paul encourages us to “store up treasure…as a good foundation for the future” (v. 19). He echoes Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 6:19-20: “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy…but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven.”

Investing in eternal things means prioritizing the gospel:

• Supporting missions and ministries.

• Serving in your church and community.

• Using your time, talents, and resources to point others to Jesus.

This is wise stewardship that glorifies God and leads to true life.

Final Thoughts: A Gospel Perspective on Money

Money matters because it reveals where our hearts are. Are we trusting in riches or in the God who richly provides? Are we accumulating wealth for ourselves or using it to further God’s kingdom?

Let’s remember that our ultimate treasure is Jesus. He is our provider, sustainer, and Savior. Even if we lose everything, we have the riches of His grace and the hope of eternal life.

May we honor God with our wealth, be generous to others, and invest in what truly matters.

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Awesome God

The 1980s were a unique time to grow up. From neon-colored clothes to big hair, and yes, the lingo, it was a decade full of memorable trends. Among the popular words of the time, “rad” or “radical” stood out, a term used to describe something cool, exciting, or extraordinary. Another favorite word was “awesome.” Though it gained popularity in the 70s, it remained a staple for expressing enthusiasm in the 80s. Anytime my friends or I experienced something thrilling or fun, we’d shout, “That was awesome!”

But let’s pause for a moment and think about the word “awesome.” Webster’s Dictionary defines it as, “inspiring awe,” “terrific,” or “extraordinary.” Based on this definition, there is no one more awesome than God Himself. He is the most extraordinary, the most inspiring, and the One who truly fills us with awe.

The Awe of God in 1 Timothy

In the book of 1 Timothy, Paul gives Timothy instruction on how to lead the church, guard the truth, and teach sound doctrine. Near the end of the letter, Paul encourages Timothy to flee false teaching, pursue righteousness, fight the good fight of faith, and hold tightly to the hope of eternal life (1 Timothy 6:11-12).

As Paul reflects on these truths, he can’t help but turn his focus to praise. He pens one of the most beautiful doxologies in Scripture, declaring the greatness and sovereignty of God:

“He is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings, and the Lord of Lords, who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light, whom no one has seen or can see. To him be honor and eternal power. Amen.”

1 Timothy 6:15-16

Let’s break down what this passage reveals about the awesome nature of God:

1. God Is Sovereign Over All

Paul calls God the “blessed and only Sovereign.” To be sovereign means to have supreme power, control, and authority. God reigns over all creation, from the smallest detail to the greatest kingdom. The title “King of kings and Lord of lords” emphasizes that there is no equal to God—no one comes close. He stands in a category all His own, infinitely above everything else.

2. God Alone Is Immortal

Paul reminds us that God is the author of life and the source of all existence. Pastor R. Kent Hughes puts it well:

“This lifts God up as the bestower of life. We humans are immortal because we will exist after death, whether in heaven or hell. But this is only because he who possesses life has created us so. He is the absolute sovereign of all life.”

God alone is eternal, existing from everlasting to everlasting. Every breath we take is a gift from Him.

3. God Dwells in Unapproachable Light

Paul describes God as dwelling in “unapproachable light,” a reference to His holiness and purity. Think back to Moses in Exodus 33, when he asked to see God’s glory. God only allowed Moses to see His passing glory, for no one could fully behold His presence and live.

This truth reminds us that God’s holiness is beyond comprehension. Yet in His mercy, He draws near to us through Jesus Christ.

4. To Him Be Honor and Eternal Dominion

Paul concludes this doxology with a declaration of worship. He gives all honor and eternal dominion to God, emphasizing His rule that lasts forever. Unlike earthly kingdoms that rise and fall, God’s reign is eternal. He is worthy of all praise, now and forevermore.

Resting in God’s Sovereignty

When we consider God’s sovereignty, it brings a sense of peace and rest. Knowing that our lives are in the hands of the One who is all-powerful, all-knowing, and ever-present should calm our fears and anxieties. As Psalm 139:2 reminds us, God knows our coming and going. He cares for us deeply, guiding our steps with His perfect wisdom and love.

In a world that often feels chaotic, it’s comforting to know that God is in control. His sovereignty and goodness give us the assurance we need to trust Him with our lives.

The Awesome God of the 80s and Today

So, as I think back to the 80s and the word “awesome,” I can’t help but smile. The word might have been used for everything from cool skate tricks to blockbuster movies, but its true meaning points us to someone far greater. God alone is truly awesome—amazing in His love, extraordinary in His power, and inspiring in His holiness.

May we live in awe of Him, giving Him the honor and glory He deserves.

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The Enduring Dangers to True Preaching

My brother-in-law recently reminded me of a book I read some time ago, Preachers and Preaching by D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones. He pointed out how Jones was able to point out dangers regarding preaching in his day which exist today. This book is a collection of lectures he delivered at Westminster Theological Seminary in 1971. He was given the freedom to lecture on any topic, and he chose the ministry of preaching because of its unparalleled importance in Christendom.

Lloyd-Jones writes:

“To me the work of preaching is the highest and the greatest and the most glorious calling to which anyone can ever be called.”

Over the six weeks of lectures, Lloyd-Jones explored the vital role of preaching as the ministry of the Word—a ministry that is as needed today as ever. He also addressed dangers that threatened preaching in his day, which remain pressing concerns for the church now.

Lloyd-Jones boldly claimed:

“If you want something in addition to that I would say without hesitation that the most urgent need in the Christian Church today is true preaching; and as it is the greatest and the most urgent need in the Church, it is obviously the greatest need of the world also.”

He identified three major dangers to preaching that are as relevant today as they were in the 1970s.

1. The Loss of Belief in the Authority of Scripture

Lloyd-Jones observed that many preachers lacked confidence, humility, and trust in God’s Word. A diminished view of Scripture had hollowed out truth, leaving sermons to focus on ethical speeches, moral uplift, or socio-political commentary rather than the gospel. He writes:

“But as the belief in the great doctrines of the Bible began to go out, and sermons were replaced by ethical addresses and homilies, and moral uplift and socio-political talk, it is not surprising that preaching declined.”

This danger is just as present today. Some pastors hesitate even to call it “preaching,” opting for terms like “giving a talk,” as if “preaching” is too harsh or outdated. However, preaching is distinct from mere speech because it proclaims the truth and life found in the gospel. The preacher heralds the good news of what Jesus has done as the Redeemer of sinners.

Yes, the message of the cross is offensive—it is foolishness to those who are perishing (1 Corinthians 1:18). But preachers must not shrink back from declaring it. Sadly, some ministries are driven by the latest headlines, allowing cultural issues to dictate their direction. Others avoid the reality of sin, reducing sermons to moral encouragement rather than gospel proclamation.

2. The Danger of the “Great Pulpiteer”

Lloyd-Jones warned against the professional orator who prioritizes style over substance. He writes:

“You see, the form became more important than the substance, the oratory and the eloquence became things in and of themselves, and ultimately preaching became a form of entertainment.”

This is not to say preachers shouldn’t strive to grow as communicators. Clarity and accuracy are essential, and preachers should work to avoid distracting habits or filler words. But style must never overshadow the truth of the gospel.

The warning against “itching ears” in 2 Timothy 4:3 remains relevant today. There are many skilled communicators who can stir emotions or elicit reactions, but true preaching relies on the Holy Spirit. The faithful preacher focuses on understanding the text, preaching first to his own heart, and proclaiming the gospel unapologetically.

3. The Danger of Not Knowing What Preaching Really Is

Lloyd-Jones criticized preaching that feels like a recited paper or lecture rather than a proclamation. He writes:

“They paid great attention to literary and historical allusions and quotations and so on.”

This approach results in sermons that are more academic than life-giving. Preaching is not a mere intellectual exercise; it is a dying man addressing dying men, pointing them to the One who brings life. It is proclaiming the gospel to spiritually blind people, directing them to the Light of the World who gives sight.

When preaching loses this focus, it becomes shallow and diluted, lacking the depth that convicts and transforms.

I am deeply grateful for the wisdom of D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones and his collection of lectures on preaching. Though these dangers were identified decades ago, they are just as real and relevant for the church today. May we heed his warnings, hold fast to the authority of Scripture, and proclaim the gospel boldly, for it remains the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes (Romans 1:16).

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Satisfied in Him: Lessons from Jesus Feeding the 5,000

Have you ever felt that perfect satisfaction after a good meal? The kind that makes you want to just sit back and take a nap? It’s a small taste of what it feels like to be truly content. In Mark’s Gospel, we encounter a story where satisfaction goes beyond the physical—a moment where Jesus not only met people’s hunger but also their deeper needs.

Mark 6:42 captures this beautiful conclusion to the miraculous feeding of the 5,000:

“And they all ate and were satisfied.”

But what led to this moment? Let’s take a closer look at Jesus’ example and the lessons we can draw from this event.

The Compassion of Jesus

Mark 6:34 gives us a glimpse of Jesus’ heart:

“When he went ashore, he saw a great crowd, and he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. And he began to teach them many things.”

Jesus’ compassion wasn’t just a passing emotion—it moved him to action. He saw the crowd’s spiritual hunger first and began teaching. But he also recognized their physical hunger and didn’t ignore it. This is the model for us: love that cares for the whole person, not just one aspect of their needs.

Avoiding Callousness

The danger we face today is becoming calloused to the needs of others. Instead of seeing people through a lens of compassion, we can start to see them as burdens or, worse, as problems to be judged. But Jesus challenges us to look deeper. True compassion compels us to act—not out of obligation, but out of love.

Understanding the Need

Jesus understood that the crowd’s needs were both spiritual and physical. They came to hear his teaching, but their growling stomachs could have distracted from their ability to receive the message.

If Jesus had ignored their physical hunger, his teaching may have been harder for them to focus on. Instead, he met both needs, demonstrating his care for the whole person.

God’s Heart for Needs

Jesus’ response reminds us of God’s generous nature. In Matthew 7:9-11, Jesus teaches:

“Which one of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!”

God knows our needs and delights in meeting them. As followers of Christ, we’re called to recognize the needs around us—both spiritual and physical—and to respond with the same heart of generosity.

Listening and Discernment

To understand the needs of others, we must listen well and ask thoughtful questions. Sometimes, the greatest need is spiritual—a longing for the hope and truth of the Gospel. Other times, it’s practical—a meal, shelter, or help with everyday struggles. Prayer and discernment through the Holy Spirit are essential to identifying how we can serve others best.

Meeting the Need

The beauty of this story is that what seemed impossible—a few loaves and fish feeding thousands—was made possible by Jesus. This reminds us that when we feel unequipped to meet the needs around us, God can work through us in powerful ways.

God’s Resources, Not Ours

Even if we can’t meet every need on our own, we serve a God who can. He often uses the collective efforts of his people—the church, Christian organizations, and individual believers—to provide for others.

Prayerful Conversations

As we seek to meet needs, we should also stay in prayer, asking God for the right words and opportunities to share the gospel. Every act of service points back to the ultimate source of satisfaction: Jesus himself.

Satisfied in Him

In the feeding of the 5,000, Jesus not only provided food but demonstrated his ability to meet the deepest needs of the human heart. The response of the crowd—satisfaction—points us to a greater truth: true fulfillment is found in Christ alone.

Let’s follow Jesus’ example by approaching others with compassion, understanding their needs, and trusting God to work through us. As we do, we can witness how he meets needs and brings satisfaction in ways we never thought possible.

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Strengthened by Love: A Prayer for a New Year

As we start a new year, many of us want to do better in different areas of life:

 • Better with our money

 • Better with our time

 • Better with our attitudes

These are all great resolutions, but real and lasting change begins with a transformed heart—a change only Jesus can bring.

A New Year Prayer:

The apostle Paul’s prayer for the Christians in Ephesus is a powerful prayer for us as well as we step into a new year:

”…that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” (Ephesians 3:16–21, ESV)

Take a moment to reflect on what Paul is asking for in his prayer for the church.

Be Strengthened

Paul prays not only that we would be strengthened with God’s power through the Holy Spirit, but at the heart of his prayer is a plea for Christians to be rooted and grounded in the multi-dimensional love of Christ.

Paul also prays for a second strength—that we would have the strength to comprehend Christ’s love. This is a love that surpasses knowledge. It’s a love that goes deeper, wider, higher, and longer than we can ever fully grasp. The sacrificial love of Christ is beyond measure—the One who knew no sin took on our sin so that we might become the righteousness of God.

How true it is that when we dwell on the love of Christ, everything else begins to change. Our time is no longer our own; it takes on a gospel urgency. Our money and resources are seen as tools for gospel ministry. Even our behavior transforms—not because of mere effort, but because of a heart that has been changed by the love of Christ.

This year, let’s make it our prayer to grow in strength, faith, and a deeper understanding of Christ’s love. With His power at work in us, we can trust Him to do far more abundantly than all we ask or imagine—for His glory and our good.

And as we pray, may we depend on the Lord moment by moment to strengthen us to comprehend His love and to grow in it each day.

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Inexpressible Joy: A Gift Beyond Words

Have you ever tried to put into words a moment when a wave of joy washed over you? You might describe it with words like happiness or excitement. But joy is different, isn’t it? Happiness can come and go, often tied to circumstances or events. Joy, however, is lasting. It doesn’t come from us or within us—it is a gift from the Holy Spirit.

Peter’s description of “inexpressible joy” in 1 Peter 1:8 points us to the profound and supernatural reality of the gospel:

“Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory.”

This joy is not something we can manufacture or muster on our own—it is a divine gift, a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22). It flows from the assurance of what Christ has done for us and who we are in Him.

The Joy of Knowing Christ

Peter acknowledges a beautiful paradox: loving and believing in someone we have never physically seen. And yet, this faith produces a joy so deep that it defies language. Why? Because the gospel is not just information—it is transformation. Through Christ, sinners are justified, the condemned are set free, and those who were once enemies of God are now His beloved children.

How can we even begin to express such a reality? Words often fail us. We might explain the mechanics of justification or atonement, but the weight of God’s mercy and grace leaves us humbled, overwhelmed, and profoundly grateful.

Joy That Transcends Circumstances

This inexpressible joy isn’t tied to our circumstances. It doesn’t waver with life’s ups and downs. Instead, it is rooted in the eternal work of Christ. Yet, how easy it is to lose sight of this joy. The noise of life—its distractions, difficulties, and disappointments—can overshadow the beauty of the gospel. We may find ourselves weighed down, discouraged, or even doubting.

I know I’ve been there. Sometimes it’s subtle—a gradual drift. Other times, it’s loud and sudden.

But here’s the good news: the gospel invites us to refocus. It calls us to lift our eyes off our circumstances and fix them on Christ. In Him, we find a joy that no storm can shake, a joy anchored in the unchanging truth of God’s promises.

Reclaiming the Joy of the Gospel

So, let us ask ourselves:

• Have we let the noise of this world drown out the melody of God’s grace?

• Have we allowed temporary struggles to eclipse eternal truths?

If so, the remedy is simple: return to the gospel. Meditate on what Christ has done. Reflect on His love, His sacrifice, and His victory over sin and death. Let the Holy Spirit remind you of the “inexpressible joy” that is yours in Christ, and let that joy reignite your faith, gratitude, and worship.

Remember, this joy is a gift. It is always available to us because it comes from the One who is unchanging. Fix your heart and mind on Him, and let the inexpressible joy of the gospel flood your soul once again.

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God With Us- The Hope of Christmas

Matthew 1:18-25

Christmas is a time when we celebrate the miraculous – the arrival of Immanuel, “God with us.” In Matthew 1:18-25, we see the extraordinary story unfold with Mary, Joseph, and an angelic messenger. These key figures remind us of the weight of God’s plan and the depth of His love.

Mary and Joseph: Faithful and Obedient

Mary was most likely a young woman, perhaps even a teenager, as was customary for betrothals in her time. Betrothal was more than an engagement; it was a binding agreement. Breaking it required a legal divorce. This context sheds light on Joseph’s decision when he learned of Mary’s pregnancy. He initially planned to “put her away” quietly, meaning to divorce her without shame.

Mary faced immense risks with this pregnancy:

  1. Her Virginity: As a virgin pledged to be married, her pregnancy was scandalous. It took divine intervention for Joseph to believe and accept the miraculous truth.
  2. Cultural Law: According to Old Testament law, a woman found unfaithful could face severe punishment, even death (Leviticus 20:10).
  3. Stigma: Despite knowing the truth, both Mary and Joseph would face societal whispers about Jesus’ legitimacy.

The Incarnation: God With Us

Mary’s pregnancy by the Holy Spirit is the foundation of the incarnation. Jesus had to be born of a woman but without inheriting the sinful nature passed down from Adam. This miraculous conception fulfilled a prophecy made hundreds of years earlier:

“Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” – Isaiah 7:14

Why does the incarnation matter? Jesus, fully God and fully man, was uniquely qualified to rescue humanity. Only a sinless man could atone for sinful humanity, and only God could bear the weight of that sin.

Charles Spurgeon captures the mystery of the incarnation: “It is a deep, mysterious, and delicate subject, fitter for reverent faith than for speculative curiosity.”

Paul Tripp adds, “The incarnation of Jesus Christ pointedly preaches our inescapable need for radical, personal, and moral rescue and forgiveness.”

Belief and Obedience

Belief leads to obedience, and obedience strengthens belief. Faith itself is a gift from God:

“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” – Ephesians 2:8-9

Mary and Joseph’s actions exemplify this truth. Mary praised God, as recorded in Luke’s Gospel, while Joseph obeyed by taking Mary as his wife and refraining from consummating their marriage until after Jesus was born. Their obedience reminds us to trust God’s plan even when it challenges our understanding.

The Christmas Message: Good News and Bad News

Christmas brings both good news and bad news. The bad news is that humanity is broken and in desperate need of rescue. Sin has separated us from God, and no human effort can bridge the gap. But the good news is far greater: God did not leave us in our helpless state. Through Jesus, He provided the only way to be rescued.

Christmas reminds us of God’s kindness, love, and goodness. Jesus is our rescuer, Immanuel, God with us. As we celebrate, let us reflect on the miracle of His birth and the hope it brings to all who believe.

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When News Changes Everything

What’s the greatest news you’ve ever heard? Was it a surprise trip? Finding out you were going to be a parent? A promotion at work? Or maybe it was hearing about something incredible that happened to a friend or loved one.

It’s hard to rank life’s greatest moments, but there’s one piece of news that surpasses them all. In fact, it’s so good that it holds the #1 spot for everyone, whether they realize it or not.

This news is twofold:

1. The Birth of the Savior

Imagine this scene: shepherds are watching their flocks one quiet night when suddenly an angel appears, breaking the stillness with an incredible announcement:

“Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:10-11).

The angel goes on to describe where they can find the baby, and then, as if to punctuate the moment, a multitude of angels fills the sky, praising God and declaring:

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased” (Luke 2:14).

Can you imagine the wonder of that moment? The Savior—prophesied for centuries—had finally arrived! The King of Kings, the Redeemer, Jesus Christ, was born!

But the birth of Jesus wasn’t just a miraculous event in history. It had a purpose. As Paul reminds us:

“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners” (1 Timothy 1:15).

The good news of Jesus’ birth leads us to the second part of this greatest news.

2. His Death and Resurrection

While birth announcements bring joy, it’s strange to think of a death announcement as part of the greatest news. Yet, the gospel tells us that Jesus’ death wasn’t a tragedy—it was a triumph.

Jesus, the sinless Son of God, willingly gave His life for sinful humanity. His death on the cross paid the penalty for our sins, demonstrating both the seriousness of sin and the depth of God’s love.

But the story doesn’t end there. Three days later, Jesus rose from the grave, proving His victory over sin and death. This is why the angel at the tomb could say to the women who came to anoint Jesus’ body:

“Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here, for He has risen, as He said. Come, see the place where He lay” (Matthew 28:5-6).

The resurrection of Jesus is the continuation—and completion—of the greatest news ever declared.

Our Response to the Greatest News

In both the birth and resurrection of Jesus, angels delivered the news along with instructions.

• At Jesus’ birth, the shepherds were told to find the baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger (Luke 2:12). Their response? “They went with haste” (Luke 2:16). They believed the message and obeyed, finding and worshiping Jesus.

• At the empty tomb, the women were told to go and tell the disciples that Jesus had risen. Their response? “They departed quickly…and ran to tell His disciples” (Matthew 28:8). They, too, believed and obeyed.

The pattern is clear: belief leads to obedience.

The birth of Jesus points to His purpose—to save sinners through His death and resurrection. And the empty tomb assures us that the Savior lives!

Sharing the News

The greatest news isn’t meant to stay with us. Like the shepherds and the women at the tomb, we’re called to share it with others. Jesus Himself commanded us:

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19).

The birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus are the foundation of the gospel—the good news that changes everything. Let’s believe it, live it, and share it boldly.

How do you respond to the greatest news?

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Lessons From the Fog: Trusting God When Life Feels Heavy

We often get weather alerts warning us of extreme conditions—high winds, heavy rain, or even an “atmospheric river.” Living in the Pacific Northwest, we’re no strangers to rain. But recently, we had a warning about extreme fog. Sure enough, thick, heavy fog rolled in, limiting visibility and creating a tangible heaviness in the air.

This got me thinking about how the Bible uses darkness as a metaphor for sin, separation from God, heaviness, loneliness, or seasons of despair. Today, we might describe a “dark state” as depression or deep sadness. These seasons of darkness can be triggered by our own choices, circumstances outside our control, or even the actions of others.

Throughout Scripture, there are references to the “night of the soul” or the “darkness of night.” These phrases echo the experiences of believers who have felt a profound absence of God’s presence. Have you ever been in a season like this—where it seemed like the darkness would never lift? How did you handle it?

The Bible offers a profound story of light breaking into a literal and spiritual darkness. In Acts 16, we read about Paul and Silas, two missionaries in Philippi. After casting out a demonic spirit from a girl, they were met with anger from those who had exploited her for profit. This act of compassion led to their imprisonment:

“Having received this order, he [the jailer] put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks. About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them” (Acts 16:24-25).

A few things stand out in this passage:

1. They were imprisoned for doing good. Despite their good deed, they faced unjust punishment.

2. They were placed in the inner prison. This was the harshest part of the jail, reserved for the worst criminals.

3. They chose to pray and sing. Instead of grumbling or despairing, they turned to God in worship.

4. They used their misfortune as a witness. Their prayers and songs reached the ears of other prisoners.

This story reminds me that in moments of darkness, it’s crucial to remember the truths of Scripture. Sometimes, this comes easily. Other times, it’s a struggle to hold on to hope. Two practices have helped me navigate seasons of darkness: praying and singing.

Praying in the Darkness

Prayer is more than asking God for help—it’s abiding with Him. It’s bringing our hearts before God in praise, confession, supplication, and thanksgiving. Even moments of silent prayer, where we simply desire to be in His presence, can be transformative.

One powerful practice is praying through Scripture. I wonder if Paul and Silas prayed through the Psalms—perhaps reminding themselves that God is their rock, shield, and shelter. Praying Scripture anchors our hearts in God’s promises and redirects our focus from our circumstances to His faithfulness.

Singing in the Darkness

I don’t have the best singing voice, but I’ve learned the importance of singing to the Lord. Paul and Silas sang hymns, likely based on Psalms. Singing Scripture allows us to internalize God’s truth in a unique and powerful way.

Recently, during a difficult season, I found myself turning to Scripture-based worship songs. Singing helped shift my focus from the weight of my circumstances to the promises of God. It reminded me of His sovereignty, faithfulness, and grace. It also pointed me back to the cross—the ultimate demonstration that darkness does not have the final word.

The Darkness Will Lift

Paul and Silas experienced a miraculous deliverance. But even when our problems don’t resolve immediately, we have the assurance that the darkness will not last forever. Like the fog, it may feel heavy and impenetrable, but it will lift.

As 1 Peter 2:9 reminds us:

“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”

No matter how thick the darkness seems, the One who called us out of darkness into His marvelous light holds us securely in His hands. When the darkness doesn’t lift right away, let’s follow Paul and Silas’s example—praying, singing, and trusting the God who shines His light in the midst of it all.