12/25/11- Merry Christmas- First Prophecy After His Birth

12/25- Day 29- Simeon’s Prophecy- A Sword will Pierce your soul as well Luke 2:29-35
Light all the candles including the Christ candle.
29 “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. 30 For my eyes have seen your salvation, 31 which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: 32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
and the glory of your people Israel.” 33 The child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him. 34 Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, 35 so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.” (Luke 2:29-35)

(Simeon the Righteous Alexey Yegorov 1830-40)

Thoughts: This was the first prophecy recorded after the birth of Jesus. Joseph and Mary were brining Jesus to the Temple to dedicate their firstborn son and offer a sacrifice in His stead. Simeon was a godly man, but was not known as a prophet. He was waiting for the Messiah to come, and God had told him that he would see the Messiah before his death. The prophecy about the Christ is that he would cause the falling and rising of many of Israel. It is a bringing down of the powerful (falling), and a lifting up of the humble (like Mary and Joseph and some fishermen). The pride and know-it-alls in their faith (the priests and Pharisees) would fall, but the common people who sought God with their heart would rise. But the dagger at the end of this is that a sword would pierce Mary’s heart too. It was not a physical blade, but a double-edged blade of conviction and sorrow. She would come to believe in her son, and she would feel the piercing sorrow of watching him suffer as a sacrifice.

Prayer: Help me, Lord, to humble myself and allow you to penetrate my heart with your presence and love.

12/24/11- Advent Day 28- Messianic Prophecy of the Angels

12/24- Day 28- The Angel’s prophecies- Matthew 1:20-21; Luke 1:26-38
Light four candles. If lighting them in the evening, you may also light the Christ candle.

20 But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus,[f] because he will save his people from their sins.”
(Matthew 1:20-21)

26 In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 27 to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28 The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” 29 Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. 30 But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. 31 You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.” 34 “How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” 35 The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. 36 Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. 37 For no word from God will ever fail.” 38 “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her. (Luke 1:29-37)

(The Annunciation Paolo Matteis 1712)

Thoughts: The angel Gabriel proved a prophet- being a messenger of the Messiah. He predicted that the Messiah would come through Joseph, and Mary. All the prophetic predictions about the Messiah were narrowing down to within a few months. It was becoming very clear exactly what God wanted, and how He was going to bring His son into the world- through a common couple and as a baby. God was announcing His plan becoming real right then- which was a shock to Mary and Joseph. The time waited for and predicted for centuries was coming to reality. God comes to us in smaller ways, but often in surprising ways to accomplish His plans. Our response should be as Mary’s- may it be to me as you have said. On Christmas Eve, we rejoice that God accomplishes His plan for our salvation.

Prayer: Lord, may your plan be accomplished in me. May I accept your Son, your salvation anew.

12/23/11- Advent Day 27 Prophecy that the Messiah would Suffer for Sins and Be Raised

12/23- Day 27- Light four candles.
The Messiah would suffer for our sins and raised- Isaiah 53; Matthew 27, 28

(Isaiah 53) 3 He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain.
4 Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted. 5 But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. 7 He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth. 8 By oppression and judgment he was taken away. Yet who of his generation protested? For he was cut off from the land of the living; for the transgression of my people he was punished. 9 He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death, though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth. 10 Yet it was the LORD’s will to crush him and cause him to suffer,
and though the LORD makes his life an offering for sin, he will see his offspring and prolong his days, and the will of the LORD will prosper in his hand. 11 After he has suffered, he will see the light of life and be satisfied; by his knowledge my righteous servant will justify many, and he will bear their iniquities. (Isaiah 53 selections)

(Vouet 1622)

Thoughts: Isaiah foresaw that the Messiah would not come in triumph without also suffering. So much of Christ’s suffering is illuminated in these verses and in Psalm 22- so much so that some think Jesus simply tried to duplicate what was said. But Jesus had no control over being pierced (Jn. 19:34), or having his clothes gambled for, or being given a grave with Nicodemus. Isaiah foresaw the Messianic sacrifice- atoning for sin. Isaiah also foresaw that after his suffering and being assigned a grave he would see the light of life (a reference to the resurrection- vs. 11). The amazing thing is that the Creator suffered because of our sins. It is hard to get our head around this kind of love and grace. In some ways Jesus came to suffer and die. He said at the beginning of his ministry, “For even the Son of Man came not to be served, but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). Christ came to suffer for us that we might have our iniquities borne away.
Prayer: Your deep, amazing love, O God, strengthens me. Help me to live a grateful life because you came and died on my behalf.

12/22/11 The Messiah Prophesied to be Betrayed with a Kiss

12/22- Day 26- Light four candles.
The Messiah would be betrayed by a friend for 30 pieces of silver- Ps. 41:9; Zech. 11:2; Mt. 10:4; 26:15

9 Even my close friend, someone I trusted, one who shared my bread, has turned against me (Psalm 41:9)
12 I told them, “If you think it best, give me my pay; but if not, keep it.” So they paid me thirty pieces of silver. 13 And the LORD said to me, “Throw it to the potter”—the handsome price at which they valued me! So I took the thirty pieces of silver and threw them to the potter at the house of the LORD. (Zechariah 11:12-13)

15 and [Judas] asked, “What are you willing to give me if I deliver him over to you?” So they counted out for him thirty pieces of silver. (Matthew 26:15)
I tell you the truth, one of you will betray me…Then Judas, the one who would betray him, said, “Surely not I, Rabbi?” Jesus answered, “Yes it is you.” (Matthew 26:21,25)

(Judas betrays Christ with a kiss)

Thoughts: Betrayal is a terrible act in life. Dante had Brutus as well as Judas in the depths of hell because of their betrayal of someone who trusted them. Judas betrayed Jesus with a sign of love- a kiss. Jesus predicted the betrayal early on in his ministry, and predicted it through Judas at the table of the Last Supper. The Bible says that Satan entered Judas when he went to the Pharisees agreeing to money (30 pieces of silver) to betray Jesus, and that Satan also entered him at the Last Supper. Betrayal is ultimate evil. The opposite is loyalty and faithfulness. Let God find us faithful and loyal this Christmas.

Prayer: Help me to be loyal to you, O Lord. Keep me from betrayal and shaming you by my actions or words.

12/21- Day 25 of Advent- The Messiah Rejected by the Jews- but Light for the Gentiles

12/21- Day 25- Light four candles .
The Messiah would be a stumbling block for the Jews and Light for the Gentiles Ps. 118:22 (1 Pt. 2:7);
Isa. 60:3; Acts 13:47-48

22 The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; 23 the LORD has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes. (Psalm 118:22- quoted in 1 Peter 2:7)

1 “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you. 2 See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the LORD rises upon you and his glory appears over you. 3 Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn. (Isaiah 60:3)

47 For this is what the Lord has commanded us: “‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles,
that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’” (Acts 13:47)

“My eyes have seen your salvation… a light to the Gentiles.” (Luke 2:30-32)

(Simeon prophesying Jesus as the light for the Gentiles).

Thoughts: We already saw on day 3 that God’s plan was to bless all peoples through the choosing of Abraham. Jesus is the means to that blessing. In His ministry Jesus healed non Jews, evangelized Samaritans, and told parables of the Good Samaritan to open the way to the Gentiles. The Jews would not be the only ones to know about God- the way would be open to “whosoever believed.” God is God of all the earth. For those who wished for only a small group of pure Jews to know God (like the Essenes or Saducees) then Jesus was a huge disappointment. We too are called to be lights to the world- testifying to His great Light. Today, and only in the last 25 years, has the gospel spread so that there are believers in every country in the world. Christianity is the only religion that can say this. Christ is indeed the "Light for the Gentiles." May He be your light as He was Simeon's.

Prayer: May I be a light to those around me, pointing to your true light.

"Now That I've Held Him in My Arms" Youtube video by Michael card:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rBZiPRPogn0

12/20/11- Advent Day 24- The Messiah is Prophesied to Ride into Jerusalem on a Donkey

12/20- Day 24- Light four candles . The Messiah would Enter Jerusalem on a Donkey- Zechariah 9:9; Luke 19:35-37

9 Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey. (Zechariah 9:9)

35 They brought it to Jesus, threw their cloaks on the colt and put Jesus on it. 36 As he went along, people spread their cloaks on the road. 37 When he came near the place where the road goes down the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen:
(Luke 19:35-37)

(Palm Sunday procession- James J. Tissot)

Thoughts: A sign that Jesus was the Messiah, the Son of David, was how he entered Jerusalem. He came not on a war horse, but on a humble colt. When God exalts us, let us seek not to relish in it, but to seek humility in the midst of praise.

Here is a list of Messianic Prophecies in the Old Testament: http://www.shalach.org/PropheciesTable/prophecieslst1.htm
Prayer: Lord, give me grace to be gracious and humble even when others want to exalt us.

12/19/11- The Messiah Prophesied to Teach in Parables

12/19- Day 23- Light four candles. The Messiah would teach in parables Psalm 78:2; Matthew 13:34

1 My people, hear my teaching; listen to the words of my mouth. 2 I will open my mouth with a parable; I will utter hidden things, things from of old— 3 things we have heard and known, things our ancestors have told us.
(Psalm 78:2)

34 Jesus spoke all these things to the crowd in parables; he did not say anything to them without using a parable. 35 So was fulfilled what was spoken through the prophet: “I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter things hidden since the creation of the world.” (Matthew 13:34)

(Jesus teaching in the Temple- James J. Tissot)

Thoughts: Even the method and manner of Jesus’ teaching was prophesied. Jesus was a master story- teller, and he most often used a parable to tell the story he needed to hear. Telling a story in a parable much like telling a story in a ballad or song- it is more easily remembered. The Good Samaritan, the Prodigal Son, and the Parable of the Talents are simply literary masterpieces. Jesus accommodated his stories to put them on the same level his hearers were on. So we should keep the faithful message but tell it using the means available to us (the web, facebook, blogs, dvd, new kinds of song etc.) to get the life-saving parables out to others.
Prayer: The message is more important than the medium. Give me a heart to tell others your good news.

(The Good Samaritan- Aime Moret 1880)

12/17/11- Messiah Prophesied to Perform Miracles

12/18- Day 22- Light four candles.
The Messiah shall have a ministry of miracles- Isaiah 35:5,6; Matthew 9:35 (John 11:43-47; 21:25)

3 Strengthen the feeble hands, steady the knees that give way; 4 say to those with fearful hearts, “Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, he will come with vengeance; with divine retribution he will come to save you.” 5 Then will the eyes of the blind be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped. 6 Then will the lame leap like a deer, and the mute tongue shout for joy. Water will gush forth in the wilderness and streams in the desert. (Isaiah 35:3-6)
35 Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. 36 When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd (Matthew 9:35-36)

(Jesus healing blind Bartimaeus- Carl Bloch- d. 1890).

Thoughts: God is the Great Physician. He is the One who made us- every molecule and atom of us. He knows us by name and knows what is going on before the MRI or CAT Scan or biopsy is taken. God does not just care about our souls and our minds. He also cares about our bodies. Jesus showed that clearly when He came. The Messiah brings spiritual and physical relief. This is a sign of God’s love and compassion breaking upon our hurt and problems. He heals people because He is compassionate for them. In turn, we are called to do all we can to help people who are in need. We are his hands and feet now.
Prayer: Give me compassion, Lord, for those who are sick around me. Give me a heart like yours that cared for those who were hurting whether they were clean, dirty, multiple or single problems. Let me be patiently kind and compassionate toward them.

12/17/11- The Messiah to be from Galilee

12/17- Day 21- Light 3 candles. The Messiah shall be “from” Galilee- Isaiah 9:1; Matthew 4:12-17

1 Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honor Galilee of the nations, by the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan— 2 The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. 3 You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy; (Isaiah 9:1-3)

12 When Jesus heard that John had been put in prison, he withdrew to Galilee. 13 Leaving Nazareth, he went and lived in Capernaum, which was by the lake in the area of Zebulun and Naphtali— 14 to fulfill what was said through the prophet Isaiah: 15 “Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles—
16 the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.” 17 From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” (Matthew 4:12-17)

(Sea of Galilee- taken by author)

Thoughts: God gives hope to humbled areas that He hasn’t forgotten them. So God comes to us and lifts us up when we humble ourselves in His sight. Galilee had been ripped apart by the Assyrians. Isaiah was giving them hope of honor one day. God gives us hope in our humility.
Prayer: In my humility, give me hope, O Lord.

(John the Baptist- da Vinci 1512)

12/16/11 Advent Day 20- The Messiah to be Preceded by a Messenger

12/16- Day 20- Light the first 3 candles (the third is the pink/joy candle).
The Messiah shall be preceded by a Messenger- Isaiah 40:3; Matthew 3:1,2 (Jn. 1:23; Luke 1:17)

3 A voice of one calling: “In the wilderness prepare the way for the LORD; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. (Isaiah 40:3)

1 In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea 2 and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”

(John speaks about Jesus in the wilderness)

Thoughts: Jesus did not come in a vacuum. There were many prophets who had forecast His coming, and reminded the people what true religion consisted of. It made sense that right before the Messiah came a voice calling for repentance and washing away of sins immediately preceded him. John the Baptist’s home is not far from Jeremiah’s home- and his message is very similar. His message is also similar to Elijah’s who saw corruption everywhere. John did not mind standing up to kings, and that, in the end, cost him his life. That John in utero lept for joy at Christ in utero is a sign of fellowship and spiritual recognition. That John and Jesus knew each other as children is probable.
This advent, as we want and desire (and wait for) Christ to come anew to our hearts, let us do so with repentance and remembering our baptism.

Prayer: Lord, you do not come in silence, but with prophets, angels, shepherds, wise men. Yet you come in humility. So, I humble myself before you today. I repent of the things I have left undone and the things I should not have done. Wash me, cleanse me and make me whole. Prepare me for your presence once more.

(John the Baptist and Jesus as children- Christ offers a drink to John. Bartolome Esteban Murillo Perez 1600s)

12/15/11 The Messiah to be Concerned about the Temple

12/15- Day 19- Light the first 3 candles (the third is the pink/joy candle).
The Messiah shall be concerned with the purity of His Temple Psalm 69:9; John 2:15,16

9 for zeal for your house consumes me,
and the insults of those who insult you fall on me.(Psalm 69:9)

15 So he made a whip out of cords, and drove all from the temple courts, both sheep and cattle; he scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables. 16 To those who sold doves he said, “Get these out of here! Stop turning my Father’s house into a market!” (John 2:15-16)

(Jesus chasing the Moneychangers out of the Temple John 2:15,16- Raymond Balze)

Thoughts: Jesus was not simply and just a nice guy. He also was concerned with putting things right. The people were weighed down by laws, and bribes. They had the appearance of law but it was wrong-headed. They were legalistic about little things but were not getting their hearts right with God. Jesus was concerned with the Temple as the House of God. He taught there, His disciples gathered there. He was concerned that the house of prayer not be turned into a den of thieves. We too should be concerned that the church be pure and holy for it is the Holy One’s church.

Prayer: This advent, make me holy. Give me a concern and a desire to pursue holiness and purity in the way I speak, think, and act toward you and others, Lord.

12/14/11- Advent Day 18- Messiah will be filled with Holy Spirit

12/14- Day 18- Light the first 3 candles (the third is the pink/joy candle).
The Messiah shall be filled with the Holy Spirit- Isaiah 11:2; Matthew 3:16,17

1 A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit. 2 The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him— the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of might, the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the LORD— 3 and he will delight in the fear of the LORD. (Isaiah 11:2)

18 “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, 19 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing. (Luke 4:18-19)

16 As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. 17 And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:16-17)

(Tree of Jesse- Commissioned by James IV of Scotland 1510-20)

Thoughts: The Spirit of God rests on Jesus who is of the line of Jesse. Jesus began His ministry claiming an anointing of the Holy Spirit. The word “Christ” means “anointed one.” Anointing was a symbol of calling. Sometimes people were anointed to do certain tasks or fill certain offices (1 Kings 19:15-18). But anointing is also a symbol of blessing and smoothness. Oil is a symbol of the Holy Spirit and of things fitting right without squeaking or yanking. When God blesses us with His Spirit- things seem to go smoothly and rightly- the way they are designed to be. Perhaps in the rush of Christmas shopping, cooking, decorating, and parties maybe you feel exhausted more than blessed. Seek God’s Spirit to make the way smooth before you.

Prayer: Bless me Lord this advent, that I might be a blessing.

12/13/11- Day 17 of Advent Psalm 2:6; Matthew 27:37

12/13- Day 17- Light the first 3 candles (the third is the pink/joy candle).
The Messiah shall be a King- Psalm 2:6; Jeremiah 23:5; Matthew 27:37

6"Yet have I set My King upon My holy hill of Zion." (Psalm 2:6)

5 “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. (Jeremiah 23:5)

37 Above his head they placed the written charge against him: THIS IS JESUS, THE KING OF THE JEWS. (Mt. 27:37)

(Christ the King stained glass at Melkite Church in Rosalinde Massachusetts).

Thoughts: The Westminster Shorter Catechism asks “How is Christ a king?” the answer is 1) in subduing us to himself, 2) in ruling and defending us; 3) in restraining and conquering all his and our enemies. The prophets forecast that He a righteous and just king will one day rule and do what is right- in contrast to the evil rulers. Jesus’ said that he was a king (Mt. 27:11), but his kingdom was not of this world (Jn. 18:36). Jesus’ kingdom is not ruled with tanks and guns but rules over the hearts of people. In the American Revolution the Presbyterians had a saying, “We have no king but Jesus.” The ultimate authority for what is right or wrong is His. When we rebel against Him and His way we are doing nothing but hurting ourselves for He made us.
Prayer: Lord, keep me from rebelling against you. Help me to listen and serve you as my King.

12/12/11- The Messiah is Prophesied to be a Priest

12/12- Day 16- Light the first 3 candles (the third is the pink/joy candle).
The Messiah shall be a Priest- Psalm 110:4; Hebrews 3:1

4The LORD hath sworn and will not repent: "Thou art a priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek." (Psalm 110:4)

Therefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus. (Hebrews 3:1).

(Jesus the Savior- St. Catherine’s Monastery Mt. Sinai)

Thoughts: John Calvin summarized the work of Christ as prophet, priest and king- the three anointed offices in the Old Testament. Jesus brought all three together which is not easily done. David was a prophet who wrote many Psalms and a king, but not a priest. Uzziah was a king who tried to be a priest and received leprosy for overstepping his bounds. But Jesus is all three. Yesterday’s devotion spoke of his being a prophet, and tomorrow’s of his being king. Hebrews speaks eloquently on the priesthood of Christ. A priest is a mediator between human beings and God. The priest prayed for the people (interceding for them), while He sacrificed for them to reconcile them to God. But the priest also spoke to the people about God. Christ is the ultimate high priest for He is both God and human. He understands both and brings both together. The ultimate sacrifice He made was not of many animals but the ultimate sacrifice of Himself on the cross to pay for our sins. Luke’s genealogy (supposedly through Mary) goes back to Levi the father of priests (3:29). While Hebrews points out He is a priest forever and ever of the order of Melchizedek (Heb. 5:6). He is a priest not only to the Jews, but also to any who would believe in Him. This advent we should remember that Christ came to build a bridge for us to God as His priestly work.

Prayer: Forgive me and my family of our sins this advent Lord. Grant us a clean heart and peace with God and each other.

12/11/11- Day 15 The Messiah Prophesied to be a Prophet

12/11- Day 15- Light the first 3 candles (the third is the pink/joy candle). The Messiah shall be a Prophet Deuteronomy 18:18; Matthew 21:11 (Lk. 7:16; Jn. 4:19; 6:14; 7:40)

18I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren like unto thee, and will put My words in His mouth; and He shall speak unto them all that I shall command Him. (Deuteronomy 18:18)

11And the multitude said, "This is Jesus, the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee." (Matthew 21:11)

(“Transfiguration”- Raphael 1516- with the prophets Moses and Elijah)

Thoughts: Moses, at the very beginning of the nation of Israel foretold of the ultimate prophet (Deut. 18:18 above). McDowell says that the Jewish scholar Maimonides in a letter to the community of the Jews in Yemen denounced a messiah pretender by saying: “The Messiah will be a very great Prophet, greater than all the Prophets with the exception of Moses our teacher…His status will be higher than that of the Prophets and more honorable.” When John the Baptist came, people asked him if he was “the prophet” (Jn. 1:21). Jesus spoke forth the Word of God as a prophet would. In fact, Jesus is greater than any prophet in that He Is described as the Word (or emanation) of God incarnate- the Word made flesh (John 1:1,14). Before Jesus’ sacrificial death (which he had predicted in many times and places) Moses and Elijah- two of the greatest prophets- met with Him to encourage Him on. Jesus also predicted the destruction of Jerusalem and its Temple (Mt. 24:2; Mk. 13; Lk. 21) within a generation of his death. This happened in 70 AD. But Jesus not only predicted, He also taught amazing words of grace, love and beauty. The voice from heaven gave good advice, “This is my Son whom I love, listen to Him” (Matthew 17:5).

Prayer: Lord you have a message for me. It is found in your very person. Help me to have ears to hear and listen to your voice.

12/10/11- Advent Day 14- The Messiah to be Called Immanuel

12/10- Day 14- Light the first two candles. The Messiah shall be Called Immanuel- God with us- Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:23

14Therefore the Lord Himself shall give you a sign: Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel (Isaiah 7;14)

23"Behold, a virgin shall be with child and shall bring forth a Son, and they shall call His name Emmanuel" (which being interpreted is, "God with us"). (Matthew 1:23)

(“Nativity” Giorgione 1507)

Thoughts: Immanuel is a title of Jesus, not the name of Jesus. But He was recognized in His miracles, in His loving teaching, in His manner of life as God in the flesh. Thomas fell at His feet and cried, “My Lord and My God!” In Isaiah the child, Immanuel, born at the prophet’s bidding, was a sign of God’s care and deliverance from the enemies of his people (at the time the armies of Syria and Israel). But the ultimate deliverance is for all people. It is deliverance of sin and the punishment due for sin. Have you ever felt at Christmas time that God was just “with” you. Have you experienced nearness of God? God’s presence with us is a sign of His care and blessing.
Prayer: Lord, you are God come down- God with us. Thank you for coming down for us to deliver us.

12/9/11- The Messiah To Be Called "Lord"

12/9- Day 13- Light the first two candles . The Messiah shall be called the Lord Psalm 110:1; Luke 2:11; Matthew 22:43-45

The LORD said unto my Lord, "Sit Thou at My right hand, until I make Thine enemies Thy footstool." (Psalm 110:1)

11For unto you is born this day in the City of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. (Luke 2:11)

43He said unto them, "How then doth David in the Spirit call Him `Lord,' saying, 44`The LORD said unto my Lord, "Sit Thou on My right hand until I make Thine enemies Thy footstool"'? 45If David then call Him `Lord,' how is He his son?" (Matthew 22:43-45)

13Ye call Me Master and Lord; and ye say well, for so I am. 14If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet, ye also ought to wash one another's feet. (John 13:13-14)

(The Lord washing the disciples’ feet- Ford Madox Brown d. 1893)

Thoughts: Jesus is worthy of our humbling ourselves- kneeling before Him- sa He is Lord. Yet He also humbled Himself before us- washing the feet of the disciples- and washing away our sins by His sacrificial death on the cross. He is Lord of lords as well as King of kings, and is worthy of our allegiance and worship this advent. If we recognized we were in His presence, and how much He did for us, we would rarely let anything get in the way of our worship of Him.

Prayer: Lord I bow before you, for you are Lord.




http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQaolD8FCwQ&feature=results_video&playnext=1&list=PL794F5408F0F2F0BD

12/8/11 Prophecy that the Messiah Would Be Presented with Gifts

12/8- Day 12- Light the first two candles. Presented with gifts- Psalm 72:10; Mathew 2:1,11

8He shall have dominion also from sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth.
9They that dwell in the wilderness shall bow before him, and his enemies shall lick the dust.
10The kings of Tarshish and of the isles shall bring presents; the kings of Sheba and Seba shall offer gifts. (Psalm 72:8-10)

Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the East to Jerusalem, 2saying, "Where is He that is born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him."… 11And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto Him gifts: gold and frankincense and myrrh. (Matthew 2:1,2,11)

(Byzantine Mosaic-early depiction of Magi 565 Ravenna Italy)

Thoughts: This was applied to Solomon- but also to the Messiah. The ones who lived in Seba and Sheba the Sabeans, lived in Arabia (Nezikin, JM). The wise men were considered “men of the east” by most scholars noted for their soothsaying (Is. 2:6). Arabia was also called the land of the east (Gen. 25:6), and the presents they gave were products of that area. (JM p. 174).
This indicates to us the kingship of Christ and that He is worthy of our worship and our gifts. Wise men still seek Him. That is a saying we should not forget. Christ is worthy of all that we are, because He sacrificially came and sacrificially died for our behalf- for our good. In gratitude to God and inspired by the Spirit, we should come and worship and give to Him.

Prayer: Lord you are worthy of our time, talents, and gifts. Help us not to take you for granted.

(Sarcophagi stone work in Rome 4th cent depicting magi bearing gifts)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pHf1p3C8iVw ("We Three Kings" Video)

12/7/11- The Messiah Born in Bethlehem

12/7- Day 11- Light the first two candles. Born in Bethlehem- Micah 5:2; Matthew 2:1; Luke 2:4-7

2"But thou, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall come forth unto Me He that is to be ruler in Israel, whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting." (Micah 5:2)

Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the East to Jerusalem, (Matthew 2:1)

4And Joseph also went up from Galilee out of the city of Nazareth into Judea, unto the City of David which is called Bethlehem (because he was of the house and lineage of David) 5to be taxed with Mary, his espoused wife, who was great with child. 6And so it was that while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. 7And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling clothes and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. (Luke 2:4-7)

(Nativity Painting In Bethlehem Church of the Nativity)

Thoughts: Bethlehem is a small town outside large Jerusalem. It is a little bit like Chapin- about 20 miles away from the big city. Not much was expected to happen here- but out of this small country town came both David and Jesus. The ironic thing is that God used a decree issued by the greatest human emperor ever thousands of miles away to accomplish his purpose. Caesar Augustus said everyone must go to their hometown to be counted in order to be taxed. This was not an uncommon practice, but that it happened when Mary was about to be delivered- and that she went made the prophecy not only become figuratively true, but literally true. God often takes the small and insignificant and lifts it up for His purposes. David the shepherd killed Goliath. Jesus the humble conquered the world.
Prayer: O little child of Bethlehem, descend to us we pray. Cast out our sin and enter in, be born in us today.

12/6/11- The Messiah's Pre-existence Prophesied

12/6- Day 10- Light the first two candles. His Pre-Existence- Micah 5:2; Colossians 1:7; John 8:58 (Jn. 17:5,24; Rev. 1:1,2; 1:17; 2:8; 22:13)

2"But thou, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall come forth unto Me He that is to be ruler in Israel, whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting." (Micah 5:2)

“Very truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “before Abraham was born, I am!” (John 8:58)

15 The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. 16 For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. 17 He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.(Colossians 1:17)

(Adoration of the Shepherds Gerard Von Hornhorst 1622)
Thoughts: Jesus was not created when the baby inside Mary was conceived. Instead he was incarnated- His being was made flesh and accommodated to human form. Micah speaks of the Messiah coming to Bethlehem, but the prophet also says his origins are from of old- everlasting. Micah may not have realized what he was saying, but what prophet (or really what mortal) truly did? The meaning is clear in the fulfillment of Jesus- who was not just from the Davidic line, but also from everlasting. God’s coming to earth was not a fly-by-night thing, but an important plan to bring fallen humanity back to Himself.

Prayer: Thank you for your forethought and everlasting love, O God. Help me to respond in love for you this advent.

12/5/11- Messiah to be born of a virgin

12/5- Day 9- Light the first 2 candles. Jesus was prophesied to be Born of a Virgin- Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:18,24,25; (Lk. 1:26-35)

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. (Isaiah 7:14)

18 This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. 24 When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. 25 But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus. (Matthew 1:18,24,25)

(Annunciation to Mary- Ossawa Tanner 1898)


(Angel appears to Mary- Henry Ossawa Tanner)

Thoughts: “Born of the virgin Mary” is an important phrase in the Apostles’ Creed. Virginity and purity are not as valued in our polluted and wavering society. But the idea was that God did not defile Himself when Christ was conceived and born. The virgin birth also teaches us as the angel said to Mary, “Nothing is impossible with God.” There is some debate about Isaiah 7’s use of the word translated “virgin” here (some others translate it as “young woman”). In those days a young woman was very likely a virgin. If God came down to earth, we might expect God would come in an unusual way.
In Isaiah’s day, Ahaz had let the people down, even bringing an Assyrian idol/altar into the Temple, and later nailing the doors shut to the Temple. The hope was not to rest on his skills and abilities, but on a child who was to be born and would bring hope. Our hope does not rest in our abilities, or the government’s ability- but rather in the supernatural God.

Prayer: Help me to believe that nothing is impossible with you, Lord. I put my hope in you today.

12/4/11- Messiah of David's Line- Day 8 of advent

12/4/11 day 8- Light the first and second candles. Jesus was prophesied to be Of the House of David.

“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. 6 In his days Judah will be saved and Israel will live in safety. This is the name by which he will be called: The LORD Our Righteous Savior. (Jeremiah 23:5)

But my love will never be taken away from him [David], as I took it away from Saul, whom I removed from before you. 16 Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever.’” (2 Samuel 7:15)

31 the son of Melea, the son of Menna, the son of Mattatha, the son of Nathan, the son of David, (Luke 3:31)

22 After removing Saul, he made David their king. God testified concerning him: ‘I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.’ 23 “From this man’s descendants God has brought to Israel the Savior Jesus, as he promised. (Acts 13:22,23)

(David- Michelangelo-Florence, Italy 1504)

Thoughts: David was promised a descendant to sit on his throne forever. It could well be argued that Israel had a descendant of David governing in some way until the Romans took away the ability to decide life and death issues in the first century AD- after Jesus was born. The Jews never gained back the throne after that. The scepter (the symbol of the ability to judge- giving life and death) did not depart until Jesus came. Jesus, however, reigns forever and ever (as Handel’s Messiah reminds us). Hallelujah to the King of kings!
Prayer: Rule in my heart, O God. May I be a loyal subject to you for you are worthy of my respect and hope.


Hallelujah Chorus Quinhagak, AK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LyviyF-N23A

12/3/11 Messiah of the Line of Jesse

12/3/11- Day 7- Light the first candle- Jesus was prophesied to be Of the Line of Jesse

1 A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit. 2 The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him— the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of might, the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the LORD— 3 and he will delight in the fear of the LORD. He will not judge by what he sees with his eyes,
or decide by what he hears with his ears; 4 but with righteousness he will judge the needy, (Isaiah 11:1-3)

This is the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah the son of David, the son of Abraham: …
5 Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab, Boaz the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth, Obed the father of Jesse, 6 and Jesse the father of King David. (Matthew 1)

Thoughts: The name Jesse means “God exists.” The existence of God in human form was to come through Jesse’s line. He was the grandson of Boaz and Ruth (from the Book of Ruth). He had eight sons- most bigger and older than David, but the Lord chose David through Samuel. Samuel had chosen Saul previously in part because of his height, but David is chosen not because of his looks but because God called him. So Isaiah says it may look like Israel is cut off- just a stump- but out of the stump will come a greater and stronger shoot. God does not care about human appearances, in fact He often works despite appearances. So we should not seek to value others simply on how they appear on the outside. God exists even when we do not see Him.

Prayer: Help me to walk by faith, Lord, and not by sight.

12/2/11 Messiah of Judah's Line

12/2/11 Day 6- Light the first candle- Jesus was prophesied to be Of the Tribe of Judah

10 The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, until he to whom it belongs shall come and the obedience of the nations shall be his. (Genesis 49:10)

Jesus the son of…33 Amminadab, the son of Ram, the son of Hezron, the son of Perez, the son of Judah (Lk. 3:33)

14 For it is clear that our Lord descended from Judah (Hebrews 7:14a)

(Judah and Tamar- Emile Jean Horace Vernet 1840)


Thoughts: Judah was a strong tribe, but the patriarch of the tribe, Judah, was not a consistent and loyal son. Judah was the one who got his brothers to sell Joseph instead of kill him (Gen. 37:26,27). Judah had his bad moments with Tamar and the prostitute (Gen. 38). However, he insured Benjamin’s safety with his own life (Gen. 43:9). God takes us, strong yet weak; loyal yet unfaithful and makes us better people by His Holy Spirit. Sometimes God chooses us despite who we are for His great purposes.

Prayer: By your grace, Lord, take me as I am and change me for the better.

12/1/11 Day 5 of Advent Messiah to be a star of Jacob's Line

12/1/11 Day 5- Light the first candle- Jesus was prophesied to be Of Jacob’s Line

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.
He will crush the foreheads of Moab, the skulls of all the people of Sheth. (Numbers 24:17)

34 Jesus…the son of Jacob, the son of Isaac, the son of Abraham, the son of Terah, the son of Nahor, (Luke 3:34)

“I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give you this testimony for the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star.” (Revelation 22:16)

(Morning Star)

Thoughts: Jacob, the crooked supplanter, was also the ancestor of Jesus. The Jewish Targum Onkelos commenting on Numbers 24:17 says. “I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not nigh. When a king shall arise out of Jacob , and the Messiah be anointed from Israel.” This targum (also Targum Jonathan), shows that the Jewish people believed Balaam’s prophecy referred to the Messiah coming to earth through the people of Jacob. When The Jews revolted in AD 132 it was under Barkochba- “son of the star”- whom they thought was the Messiah. Jesus is the morning star, rising in our hearts (2 Pt. 1:9). Let him rise in your hearts like the star of Bethlehem- scattering the darkness- pointing the way to hope and truth.
Prayer: Rise in my heart, O morning star. Thank you that in the darkest night- you bring hope of a bright morning.

11/30/11- The Messiah Prophesied to Come Through Isaac's Line

Day 4- 11/30/11- First candle of advent- Jesus was prophesied to be of Isaac’s Line

12 But God said to him, “Do not be so distressed about the boy and your slave woman. Listen to whatever Sarah tells you, because it is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned. (Genesis 21:12)

23 (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, “Every firstborn male is to be consecrated to the Lord”), 24 and to offer a sacrifice in keeping with what is said in the Law of the Lord: “a pair of doves or two young pigeons.”(Luke 2:23-24)

17 By faith Abraham, when God tested him, offered Isaac as a sacrifice. He who had embraced the promises was about to sacrifice his one and only son, 18 even though God had said to him, “It is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned.” 19 Abraham reasoned that God could even raise the dead, and so in a manner of speaking he did receive Isaac back from death. (Heb. 11:17-19)

(Abraham and Isaac- Rembrandt vsn Rijn 1634)

Thoughts: There was wondering with only one son, and all the stars and sand of God’s blessing dependent on his life, if he would make it. Abraham was willing to give up his only son through his wife, and God blessed him for that. Perhaps God was thinking of when he would give up his only son on the cross for the sins of humanity. It is through Isaac (“laughter”) that the seed would be recognized. God took the one, made him many, but the importance of one life again showed itself in the Messiah. Each life is a gift from God. Isaac was precious. Jesus is precious. Each person is not an accident, but is uniquely created by God.
Prayer: Thank you for your plan, and your valuing of my life.

11/29/11- Messiah Of Abraham's Line

Day 3 11/29/11 Light the First advent candle- Jesus was prophesied to be Of Abraham’s line

18 and through your offspring all nations on earth will be blessed, because you have obeyed me.”
(Genesis 22:18)

1 The LORD had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you. 2 “I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great,
and you will be a blessing. 3 I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse;
and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” (Genesis 12:1-3)

1 This is the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah the son of David, the son of Abraham: (Matthew 1:1)

16 The promises were spoken to Abraham and to his seed. Scripture does not say “and to seeds,” meaning many people, but “and to your seed,” meaning one person, who is Christ. (Galatians 3:16)

((Abram Counsels Sarai- James J. Tissot 1902)

Thoughts: God seeks to bless the whole world through Abraham’s seed (descendants). Galatians interprets this as a single person- seed- namely the Messiah. God sought to bless the world through the Hebrews. The chosen race, the race of priests would produce the ultimate high priest. God would come down through them. This was not a last minute decision. When God chose Abraham out of all others, He was choosing a place to land- to come down to us. I Peter 2:9 says that we also are a chosen race and royal priesthood of believers called out of darkness into light. Let us bear witness to the light.

Prayer: May I be a priest to the world- interceding for them and pulling them toward you.

11/28/11 Prophecy of the Divinity of the Son

Day 2- 11/28/11- Light the first candle again. Jesus was prophesied to be the Son of God

7 I will proclaim the LORD’s decree: He said to me, “You are my son; today I have become your father.
8 Ask me, and I will make the nations your inheritance, the ends of the earth your possession.
9 You will break them with a rod of iron; you will dash them to pieces like pottery.” 10 Therefore, you kings, be wise; be warned, you rulers of the earth. 11 Serve the LORD with fear and celebrate his rule with trembling.
12 Kiss his son, or he will be angry and your way will lead to your destruction, (Psalm 2:7-12)

17 And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I have chosen; listen to him.”(Luke 9:35)

In the beginning was the Word. And the Word was with God and the Word was God. The Word became flesh and dwelt among us. (John 1:1,14)

1 Now Jesus… was the son, so it was thought, of Joseph…the son of Adam, the son of God.” (Luke 3)

Thoughts: Psalm 2 speaks of the anointed one as being God’s Son (cf. Ps. 45:6,7).

("Baptism of Jesus" Albani Francesco 1640)

Thoughts: What is promised is world-wide dominion of the Son of God. The New Testament confirms this image being imprinted on Jesus of Nazareth. The voice from the Holy Spirit that came down when the dove (symbolizing the Holy Spirit) rested on Him confirms as much as can be confirmed that God declares the Sonship of Jesus. The voice also declared his authority (“listen to him”). So we are called to listen to the Son, following Him.

Prayer: Help me, Lord, to respect you and listen.

11/27/11- The Messiah will be Human

11/27/11- Light the first candle-the Prophecy Candle. Jesus was prophesied to be the Son of Man.

15 And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head,
and you will strike his heel.” (Genesis 3:15)

4 But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, (Galatians 4:4)

(Avanzini Pier Antonio- crushing the serpent’s head on the globe)


Thoughts: Genesis 3:15 is the first verse in the Bible to forecast that a human will be a source of grace to wounded and fallen humanity. As there is one representative of Satan’s “seed” there would appear to be one individual who will represent and save humanity from the curse of the serpent (cf. Gal. 3:6). This individual will be struck or bruised on behalf of humanity- which can easily be associated with what Christ did on the cross. Satan is called the great dragon or grand serpent (Rev. 12:9). Romans 16:20 seems to be referring to this verse when It says, “The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.” New Testament interpretations- which are in Christian eyes more valid than any scholar’s- seem to see Genesis 3:15 as God’s triumph over forces of temptation and sin. Christ is our ultimate hope over evil. Christ’s coming is forecast to bring assurance of victory to those who are struggling “neath life’s heavy load.”
Prayer: Thank you Lord, that from the beginning of sin there was immediately the beginning of grace and hope. We thank you for being bruised for us in order to triumph over evil.

Introduction to an Advent Devotional on the OT Messianic Prophecies

ADVENT DEVOTIONAL ON THE PROPHECIES OF THE MESSIAH
Why Celebrate Advent?
What can we learn from a Devotional on the Prophets?
How the New Testament Viewed Old Testament Prophecy
11/27/11- Day 1- Genesis 3:15- Galatians 4:4
11/28- Day 2- Son of God- Psalm 2:7 Matthew 3:17
11/29- Day 3- of Abraham’s line- Genesis 22:18- Matthew 1:1; Gal. 3:16
11/30- Day 4- of Isaac’s line- Genesis 21:12- Lk. 2:23,24
12/1- Day 5- of Jacob’s line- Numbers 24:17; Luke 3:23,34
12/2- Day 6- of the Tribe of Judah- Genesis 49:10; Luke 3:23,33, Heb. 7:14
12/3- Day 7- of the Line of Jesse- Isaiah 11:1; Luke 3:23,32 (Mt. 1:6)
12/4- Day 8- of the House of David- Jeremiah 23:5; Luke 3:23,31; Acts 13:22,23; Rev. 22:16)
12/5- Day 9- Born of a Virgin- Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:18,24,25; (Lk. 1:26-35)
12/6- Day 10- His Pre-Existence- Micah 5:2; Colossians 1:7 (Jn. 17:5,24; Rev. 1:1,2; 1:17; 2:8; 8:58; 22:13)
12/7- Day 11- Born in Bethlehem- Micah 5:2; Matthew 2:1; Luke 2:4-7
12/8- Day 12- Presented with gifts- Psalm 72:10; Mathew 2:1,11
12/9- Day 13- The Messiah shall be called the Lord Psalm 110:1; Luke 2:11; Matthew 22:43-45
12/10- Day 14- The Messiah shall be Called Immanuel- God with us- Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:23
12/11- Day 15- The Messiah shall be a Prophet Deuteronomy 18:18; Matthew 21:11 (Lk. 7:16; Jn. 4:19; 6:14; 7:40)
12/12- Day 16- The Messiah shall be a Priest- Psalm 110:4; Hebrews 3:1
12/13- Day 17- The Messiah shall be a King- Psalm 2:6; Isaiah 33:22; Matthew 27:37
12/14- Day 18- The Messiah shall be filled with the Holy Spirit- Isaiah 11:2; Matthew 3:16,17
12/15- Day 19- The Messiah shall be concerned with the purity of His Temple Psalm 69:9; John 2:15,16
12/16- Day 20- The Messiah shall be preceded by a Messenger- Isaiah 40:3; Matthew 3:1,2 (Jn. 1:23; Luke 1:17)
12/17- Day 21- The Messiah shall be “from” Galilee- Isaiah 9;1; Matthew 4:12-17
12/18- Day 22- The Messiah shall have a ministry of miracles- Isaiah 35:5,6; Matthew 9:35 (John 11:43-47; 21:25)
12/19- Day 23- The Messiah would teach in parables Psalm 78:2; Matthew 13:34
12/20- Day 24- The Messiah would Enter Jerusalem on a Donkey- Zechariah 9:9; Luke 19:35-37
12/21- Day 25- The Messiah would be a stumbling block for the Jews and Light for the Gentiles Ps. 118:22 (1 Pt. 2:7);
Isa. 60:3; Acts 13:47-48
12/22- Day 26- The Messiah would be betrayed by a friend for 30 pieces of silver- Ps. 41:9; Zech. 11:2; Mt. 10:4; 26:15
12/23- Day 27- The Messiah would suffer for our sins and raised- Isaiah 53; Matthew 27, 28
12/24- Day 28- The Angel’s prophecies- Matthew 1 ; Luke 1:26-38
12/25- Day 29- Simeon’s Prophecy- A Sword will Pierce your soul as well Luke 2:29-35

Dedicated to the Glory of God and to Etta Sloan Batson, our first grandchild.
[The birth of a child brings hope; The birth of the Christ child brings ultimate hope]
 
WHAT IS ADVENT?

Advent means coming. Jesus came down for us, not because we deserved God’s help, but because He is a giving, gracious, loving God. Jesus is our hero and our Savior. He is the one who enables us to be better than we are in and of ourselves. He works in us to make us a better people.
A lot of people are wondering about our future (with elections and economic forecasts foretelling many things). Many hymns and carols are celebrating the fulfillment of the prophecies that God would come to us- being Immanuel (God with us) in the midst of our worry, our problems, our time, and our space. He comes! We wait for Him. This is advent.
Thou didst leave thy throne and thy kingly crown when thou camest to earth for me.
But in Bethlehem’s home there was found no room for thy holy nativity.
O come to my heart Lord Jesus, there is room in my heart for Thee!
Come desire of nations come- fix in us thy humble home! [Hark the Herald Angels Sing]
Be near me Lord Jesus, I ask thee to stay close by me forever and love me I pray.
O holy Child of Bethlehem descend to us we pray. Cast out our sin and enter in,
Be born in us today. [O Little Town of Bethlehem]
This advent devotional is a celebration that God holds true to His Word and comes. We can count on God- even in changing times. The prophets continually prophesied about God’s faithfulness to us- even when we are not faithful to Him. He continually encourages us to come back to Him- physically, mentally, and spiritually. But He also holds out the hope that He comes to us. We have been studying the prophets with the Disciples series this fall, and these scriptures and devotion are meant to be a compliment to that study- but also to stand alone as inspiring and eternal words from God to us.
People celebrated Christmas as far back as we can record (though on varying dates). One early tradition was the twenty-fifth of December. In the 300’s this was finalized in a statement from the leaders of the church. In the 500’s a special liturgy was developed around the light of the world coming into our darkness with four candles.
Advent begins 11/27 and extends through Christmas Eve.
The four candles represent the following:
1st candle- Symbol of prophecy- longing for the light.
2nd candle- Symbol of preparation- the stable light.
3rd candle- Symbol of joy/rejoicing- the angelic light (usually a pink candle)
4th candle- Symbol of love and hope- the star’s light
Each night a candle is lit (all the candles from the previous nights are lit- adding a new candle each Sunday). If you have family with you, you may want to divide the parts- perhaps even making a schedule.


WHAT CAN WE LEARN FROM A DEVOTIONAL ON THE PROPHETS?
1) That God is in control. He is the King of kings. The government, the banks, the insurance companies, the media are not in control of life. God specifically said in the Old Testament that He would reveal the future through the prophets in order that people would believe in Him.
2) God knows and even oversees the future- showing us His existence, His power, and that He is the only true God. This enables us to rest and trust in Him.
“Remember the former things of old, for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there Is none like me. Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times things that are not yet done, saying, “My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure.” (Isaiah 46:9,10)
3) So we will know and be assured and encouraged in our faith.
In tough and skeptical secular times it is easy to become discouraged in our faith. God seeks to encourage us- and the prophecies fulfilled are one means of doing so.
“I have declared the former things from the beginning; They went forth from My mouth, and I caused them to hear it. Even from the beginning I have declared it to you; Before it came to pass I proclaimed it to you; Lest you should say, ‘My idol has done them, and my carved image and my molded image have commanded them.” (Isaiah 48:3,5)

Much of the material has been taken from various sources including but not limited to:
Christology of the Old Testament by E.W. Hengstenberg
The New Evidence that Demands a Verdict by Josh McDowell
The Encyclopedia of Biblical Prophecy by J. Barton Payne


A Newer Advent Devotional by the same author: http://dailybelief.blogspot.com/