When I think of the ending of the year, it brings to mind an old song -- "Day is dying in the West." I suppose everyone has their own way of how they want to observe New Year's Eve, or how they want to look back over the year, recalling different events, milestones, joys, sorrows, etc. But I think I just want to lay all of 2018 at the feet of Jesus and say with the Apostle Paul:
". . .this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." If you make New Year's Resolutions, I can't think of a better one! Praise the Lord! What a wonderful challenge for 2019!
Then, I think I would like to sing with the songwriter --
"Lead on, O King Eternal, till sin's fierce war shall cease,
And holiness shall whisper the sweet amen of peace.
Thy cross is lifted o'er us; we journey in its light --
The crown awaits the conquest; Lead on, O God of might."
And then I think I would like to read this quote from Oswald Chambers, and think, meditate and act upon its challenges.
"There is only one relationship that really matters, and that is your personal relationship to your personal Redeemer and Lord. If you maintain that at all costs, letting everything else go, God will fulfill His purpose through your life. One individual life may be of priceless value to God's purposes, and yours may be that life." What a challenge for us to walk humbly with our God!
Then we can greet 2019 singing -- "I'd rather have Jesus than anything this world affords today!"
Monday, December 31, 2018
Friday, December 28, 2018
The 23rd Psalm!
As 2018 draws to a close, and we face the unknown tomorrows of 2019, perhaps we should slowly read and meditate on the wonderful assurance to be found in the six verses of this sweet Psalm of David!
"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for Thou art with me: Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: Thou anointest my head with oil: my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever."
Our Lord is the "Good Shepherd" on whom we can depend, so in the coming days if you find your heart is troubled, remember ---
you can find quiet, peace, and calm when you open up your Bible and read this blessed Psalm!
Monday, December 24, 2018
Christmas Eve!
On this beautiful Christmas Eve morning, as my mind travels to the manger in Bethlehem, my heart is filled with awe, praise and worship, and makes me want to sing with the songwriter:
"Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Sing this Christmas morn --
Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Christ the Lord is born!"
And while I am bowing at the manger, I want to try and contemplate a little of the amazing wonder of the angel's words to Joseph:
"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." What a glorious mystery!!
And then, as we think of "The Wonder of it All", let us be thankful that this Baby in the manger was God's son, the promised Saviour, and may we humbly sing, "Lord, I want your Presence for Christmas"!
From my home to yours -- Best Wishes for a blessed and holy Christmas as we once again celebrate the birth of our wonderful Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ!
"Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Sing this Christmas morn --
Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Christ the Lord is born!"
And while I am bowing at the manger, I want to try and contemplate a little of the amazing wonder of the angel's words to Joseph:
"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." What a glorious mystery!!
And then, as we think of "The Wonder of it All", let us be thankful that this Baby in the manger was God's son, the promised Saviour, and may we humbly sing, "Lord, I want your Presence for Christmas"!
From my home to yours -- Best Wishes for a blessed and holy Christmas as we once again celebrate the birth of our wonderful Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ!
Friday, December 21, 2018
Joy To The World!
In Luke 2:10, we read: "And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people."
As we joyfully anticipate Christmas Sunday, it seems we must sing from the depths of our soul --Joy to the World -- Jesus has come!!
This hymn, by Isaac Watts, is one of the most joyous of all the Christmas hymns. It is interesting to note that it omits references to shepherds, angelic choruses, wise men, etc. Instead, it emphasizes the wonderful joy that Christ's birth brought to mankind. The entire Advent season should be filled with rejoicing as we contemplate anew God's great gift!
"Joy to the World" reminds us of these words in the 98th Psalm: "Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth; make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise. Let the floods clap their hands: let the hills be joyful together before the Lord: for He cometh to judge the earth: with righteousness shall He judge the world, and the people with equity."
Kenneth Osbeck tells us: "The text was originally titled, 'The Messiah's Coming and Kingdom', when it first appeared in Watts' hymnal of 1719. The music for this carol is thought to have been adapted by Lowell Mason, an American church musician, from some of the phrases used in parts of George Frederick Handel's beloved oratorio, 'The Messiah', first performed in 1742. Through the combined talents of an English literary genius of the 18th century, a German-born musical giant from the same period, and a 19th century American choir director and educator, another great hymn was born!
"Joy to the world! The Lord is come! Let earth receive her King;
Let every heart prepare Him room, and heaven and nature sing!
Joy to the world! The Saviour reigns! Let men their songs employ --
While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains, repeat the sounding joy!
No more let sin and sorrow grow, nor thorns infest the ground;
He comes to make His blessings flow far as the curse is found!
He rules the world with truth and grace, and makes the nations prove --
The glories of His righteousness, and wonders of His love."
Thank you, Jesus, that because You came, we can have "Joy unspeakable, and full of glory"!!
As we joyfully anticipate Christmas Sunday, it seems we must sing from the depths of our soul --Joy to the World -- Jesus has come!!
This hymn, by Isaac Watts, is one of the most joyous of all the Christmas hymns. It is interesting to note that it omits references to shepherds, angelic choruses, wise men, etc. Instead, it emphasizes the wonderful joy that Christ's birth brought to mankind. The entire Advent season should be filled with rejoicing as we contemplate anew God's great gift!
"Joy to the World" reminds us of these words in the 98th Psalm: "Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth; make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise. Let the floods clap their hands: let the hills be joyful together before the Lord: for He cometh to judge the earth: with righteousness shall He judge the world, and the people with equity."
Kenneth Osbeck tells us: "The text was originally titled, 'The Messiah's Coming and Kingdom', when it first appeared in Watts' hymnal of 1719. The music for this carol is thought to have been adapted by Lowell Mason, an American church musician, from some of the phrases used in parts of George Frederick Handel's beloved oratorio, 'The Messiah', first performed in 1742. Through the combined talents of an English literary genius of the 18th century, a German-born musical giant from the same period, and a 19th century American choir director and educator, another great hymn was born!
"Joy to the world! The Lord is come! Let earth receive her King;
Let every heart prepare Him room, and heaven and nature sing!
Joy to the world! The Saviour reigns! Let men their songs employ --
While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains, repeat the sounding joy!
No more let sin and sorrow grow, nor thorns infest the ground;
He comes to make His blessings flow far as the curse is found!
He rules the world with truth and grace, and makes the nations prove --
The glories of His righteousness, and wonders of His love."
Thank you, Jesus, that because You came, we can have "Joy unspeakable, and full of glory"!!
Wednesday, December 19, 2018
THE MESSIAH!
I can't imagine Christmas without music, nor can I imagine any words or music more thrilling and inspiring than Handel's Messiah! It humbles me greatly to understand how, over 200 years ago, God wrote this masterpiece through His servant, George Frederick Handel, and today it is still blessing thousands of hearts every Christmas!
I have posted this the last two Christmases, but I must do it again. I trust that your heart will be humbled and blessed as you read this condensed story of the Messiah -- the King of Glory!
"George Frederick Handel was struggling against creditors and hunger in 1741. People were too poor and too cold to interest themselves in music that winter. He paced the floor, wondering why musicians and composers had to struggle so hard to make a living. Suddenly there was a crash -- then silence. Handel's servant heard the strange crash and ran upstairs. There in the hall lay Handel, the genius, his mouth open and a vacant stare in his eyes. When the Dr. arrived, he shook his head. After his diagnosis, he turned to go. The servant fearfully asked, 'Dr., is he going to die'? A miracle might save his life, but his left side is paralyzed.
Weeks wore on. The great composer revived some, but was unable to use his left hand to play, and his mind seemed dull. The Dr. advised a trip to the hot springs in France. Handel went to France with a great desire to live and compose again. He spent hours in the hot baths. Within a few weeks, he had largely recovered his health.
Back in London, Handel began to play again and to compose some. Then hard times struck again. The Spanish wars were raging. His pension had been cut off. People were hungry for bread. Winter came on, and at times Handel had to pace the streets to keep warm and to evade his creditors. Inspiration had left him. He was despondent, and seemed to be losing his strength, his mind, his belief in God, and his desire to live.
Oh God, why has all this come? he cried in despair. He dragged himself to his study before retiring. On his table was a large envelope. He tore it open, and on the title page were the words--The Messiah. Seeing that it was another oratorio, he tore the manuscript in half and threw it on the floor. His last oratorios had not met with approval. That night the heavy-hearted composer turned and tossed, unable to get the torn manuscript off his mind. Should he get up and look at it?
The first few words were -- 'Comfort ye, comfort ye my people'. The words seemed to soothe him. As he read on, he felt a strange fire surge through his frame. Surely it was a message from the Lord directly to him! The great musician was himself again! God had spoken to his soul! He heard and felt music again as never before!! The words, Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah! seemed to move every fiber of his body. How they thrilled him! Even the final words - Amen! Amen! Amen! seemed to thrill him again, and he exclaimed--I cannot slight one word! Every word must play its part. He began to compose like a man obsessed. He rarely left his room, and rarely touched his meals. In only 24 days, he composed 260 pages -- an immense physical feat, and the world's greatest oratorio was finished.
After finishing the Hallelujah Chorus, he said -- 'I did think I did see all heaven before me and the great God Himself.' The Messiah met with overwhelming success wherever it was presented. People wept for joy as they heard its moving music. It seemed to breathe of a heavenly land. On one occasion, the whole audience--including King George--stood to their feet as the Hallelujah Chorus was sung. It was as if they were standing reverently in the presence of the Divine.
Years later, on a Good Friday, George Frederick Handel attended a presentation of his Messiah (of which he said--it was written by Another, not me) and joined in singing the Hallelujah Chorus. With the closing notes, he sank to the floor and was carried out. He lingered only a short time before he went to join the heavenly choir to sing the Hallelujah Chorus around the throne of God!"
I have posted this the last two Christmases, but I must do it again. I trust that your heart will be humbled and blessed as you read this condensed story of the Messiah -- the King of Glory!
"George Frederick Handel was struggling against creditors and hunger in 1741. People were too poor and too cold to interest themselves in music that winter. He paced the floor, wondering why musicians and composers had to struggle so hard to make a living. Suddenly there was a crash -- then silence. Handel's servant heard the strange crash and ran upstairs. There in the hall lay Handel, the genius, his mouth open and a vacant stare in his eyes. When the Dr. arrived, he shook his head. After his diagnosis, he turned to go. The servant fearfully asked, 'Dr., is he going to die'? A miracle might save his life, but his left side is paralyzed.
Weeks wore on. The great composer revived some, but was unable to use his left hand to play, and his mind seemed dull. The Dr. advised a trip to the hot springs in France. Handel went to France with a great desire to live and compose again. He spent hours in the hot baths. Within a few weeks, he had largely recovered his health.
Back in London, Handel began to play again and to compose some. Then hard times struck again. The Spanish wars were raging. His pension had been cut off. People were hungry for bread. Winter came on, and at times Handel had to pace the streets to keep warm and to evade his creditors. Inspiration had left him. He was despondent, and seemed to be losing his strength, his mind, his belief in God, and his desire to live.
Oh God, why has all this come? he cried in despair. He dragged himself to his study before retiring. On his table was a large envelope. He tore it open, and on the title page were the words--The Messiah. Seeing that it was another oratorio, he tore the manuscript in half and threw it on the floor. His last oratorios had not met with approval. That night the heavy-hearted composer turned and tossed, unable to get the torn manuscript off his mind. Should he get up and look at it?
The first few words were -- 'Comfort ye, comfort ye my people'. The words seemed to soothe him. As he read on, he felt a strange fire surge through his frame. Surely it was a message from the Lord directly to him! The great musician was himself again! God had spoken to his soul! He heard and felt music again as never before!! The words, Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah! seemed to move every fiber of his body. How they thrilled him! Even the final words - Amen! Amen! Amen! seemed to thrill him again, and he exclaimed--I cannot slight one word! Every word must play its part. He began to compose like a man obsessed. He rarely left his room, and rarely touched his meals. In only 24 days, he composed 260 pages -- an immense physical feat, and the world's greatest oratorio was finished.
After finishing the Hallelujah Chorus, he said -- 'I did think I did see all heaven before me and the great God Himself.' The Messiah met with overwhelming success wherever it was presented. People wept for joy as they heard its moving music. It seemed to breathe of a heavenly land. On one occasion, the whole audience--including King George--stood to their feet as the Hallelujah Chorus was sung. It was as if they were standing reverently in the presence of the Divine.
Years later, on a Good Friday, George Frederick Handel attended a presentation of his Messiah (of which he said--it was written by Another, not me) and joined in singing the Hallelujah Chorus. With the closing notes, he sank to the floor and was carried out. He lingered only a short time before he went to join the heavenly choir to sing the Hallelujah Chorus around the throne of God!"
Monday, December 17, 2018
Love Finds a Way . . .
There are many words to describe Christmas, but the sweetest descriptive word is "Love"! Our Heavenly Father tells us about Love in His Holy Word, and John 3:16 tells us because "God so loved the world--He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
I have a feeling there is probably someone who needs Love from you and me at this blessed Christmas time.
In an issue of "Guideposts" several years ago, a lady prison chaplain, Kay Goldbeck, tells of her efforts to reach out to Barbara, one of the meanest and most hateful girls ever to be held in the Women's Prison in Goochland, Virginia.
"Her face was scarred from knifings, and her neck and arms were horribly disfigured from a bucket of lye water thrown on her in a fight. She was so mean, even the other prisoners would have nothing to do with her.
All of Kay's efforts to reach her seemed in vain. One day, Kay said, 'Barbara, do you know that God loves you?'
'Ain't nobody loves me!'
'But Jesus gave His life for us so that we can start new lives for ourselves.'
She spat on the ground and glared up at Kay. 'Don't want none of that preachin' stuff. It's all words---don't mean a thing.' And she got up and left.
One hot summer day during recreation time, Kay noticed Barbara standing apart from the others, as usual. Her scarred throat looked so hot. Kay went back to her room and found a soft, pink scarf. As she approached Barbara, she could see the anger seething in her dark eyes and was almost afraid to go on, but she did.
'Barbara, the sun is so hot, and your neck looks so sensitive, let me pin this little piece of silk around your neck to protect you from the sun.' She fastened it with a gold pin.
Barbara said nothing, but it looked as if a tear came into her eyes. But she stomped her foot, gritted her teeth, and spat on the ground.
But it was the beginning of a changed relationship. Barbara had found that 'preachin' wasn't all just words---that love reached out and cared enough to share a little pink scarf. Eventually, Barbara became a Christian, accepting God's love; and after her release from prison, became a county supervisor of all the nursing homes for the elderly in a mid-western state.
Love finds a way -- sometimes by way of a piece of pink silk -- but always some way that bridges the gap."
Perhaps you know someone today who needs a "piece of pink silk". Christmas is loving! Christmas is giving! And Jesus said -- "It is more blessed to give than receive!"
I have a feeling there is probably someone who needs Love from you and me at this blessed Christmas time.
In an issue of "Guideposts" several years ago, a lady prison chaplain, Kay Goldbeck, tells of her efforts to reach out to Barbara, one of the meanest and most hateful girls ever to be held in the Women's Prison in Goochland, Virginia.
"Her face was scarred from knifings, and her neck and arms were horribly disfigured from a bucket of lye water thrown on her in a fight. She was so mean, even the other prisoners would have nothing to do with her.
All of Kay's efforts to reach her seemed in vain. One day, Kay said, 'Barbara, do you know that God loves you?'
'Ain't nobody loves me!'
'But Jesus gave His life for us so that we can start new lives for ourselves.'
She spat on the ground and glared up at Kay. 'Don't want none of that preachin' stuff. It's all words---don't mean a thing.' And she got up and left.
One hot summer day during recreation time, Kay noticed Barbara standing apart from the others, as usual. Her scarred throat looked so hot. Kay went back to her room and found a soft, pink scarf. As she approached Barbara, she could see the anger seething in her dark eyes and was almost afraid to go on, but she did.
'Barbara, the sun is so hot, and your neck looks so sensitive, let me pin this little piece of silk around your neck to protect you from the sun.' She fastened it with a gold pin.
Barbara said nothing, but it looked as if a tear came into her eyes. But she stomped her foot, gritted her teeth, and spat on the ground.
But it was the beginning of a changed relationship. Barbara had found that 'preachin' wasn't all just words---that love reached out and cared enough to share a little pink scarf. Eventually, Barbara became a Christian, accepting God's love; and after her release from prison, became a county supervisor of all the nursing homes for the elderly in a mid-western state.
Love finds a way -- sometimes by way of a piece of pink silk -- but always some way that bridges the gap."
Perhaps you know someone today who needs a "piece of pink silk". Christmas is loving! Christmas is giving! And Jesus said -- "It is more blessed to give than receive!"
Friday, December 14, 2018
That Beautiful Name!
In Matthew 1:21, we read these blessed words: "And she shall bring forth a Son, and thou shalt call His name JESUS: for He shall save His people from their sins." There are many wonderful names and titles ascribed to Christ throughout the Bible. A few of them are -- Counselor -- Emmanuel -- Messiah -- Rose of Sharon -- Sun of Righteousness! But to the child of God, the sweetest name of all is "Jesus"!
This lovely hymn, by Jean Perry, first appeared in a hymnal published in 1916 especially for use at the Moody Bible Institute.
"I know of a Name, a beautiful Name, that angels brought down to earth;
They whispered it low, one night long ago, to a maiden of lowly birth.
I know of a Name, a beautiful Name, that unto a Babe was given;
The stars glittered bright, throughout that glad night, and angels praised God in heaven.
The One of that Name, my Saviour became, my Saviour of Calvary;
My sins nailed Him there; my burdens He bare; He suffered all this for me.
I love that blest Name, that wonderful Name, made higher than all in heaven;
It was whispered, I know, in my heart long ago---to Jesus my life I've given.
That beautiful Name, that beautiful Name, from sin has power to free us!
That beautiful Name -- that wonderful Name -- that matchless Name is Jesus!"
As we prepare our hearts for the coming Lord's Day, let us lift our voices in praise and worship to the One whose Name is above every name!! Praise the Lord!
This lovely hymn, by Jean Perry, first appeared in a hymnal published in 1916 especially for use at the Moody Bible Institute.
"I know of a Name, a beautiful Name, that angels brought down to earth;
They whispered it low, one night long ago, to a maiden of lowly birth.
I know of a Name, a beautiful Name, that unto a Babe was given;
The stars glittered bright, throughout that glad night, and angels praised God in heaven.
The One of that Name, my Saviour became, my Saviour of Calvary;
My sins nailed Him there; my burdens He bare; He suffered all this for me.
I love that blest Name, that wonderful Name, made higher than all in heaven;
It was whispered, I know, in my heart long ago---to Jesus my life I've given.
That beautiful Name, that beautiful Name, from sin has power to free us!
That beautiful Name -- that wonderful Name -- that matchless Name is Jesus!"
As we prepare our hearts for the coming Lord's Day, let us lift our voices in praise and worship to the One whose Name is above every name!! Praise the Lord!
Wednesday, December 12, 2018
"Hark! The Herald Angels Sing"
In the little book of Micah, written several hundred years before Jesus was born, we read this beautiful prophecy: "But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall He come forth unto Me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting."
HARK!! The Angels are trying to get our attention! Are we listening for their heavenly music announcing the birth of the Newborn King? Let's listen to the thrilling words written by Charles Wesley, and the beautiful melody by the master composer, Felix Mendelssohn.
Like many of Charles Wesley's more than 6,500 hymns, this text clearly presents Biblical doctrine in poetic language. The first stanza describes the song of the angels outside Bethlehem, with an invitation to join them in praise of Christ. The following verses present the truths of the virgin birth, Christ's deity, the immortality of the soul, the new birth, and a prayer for the transforming power of Christ in our lives.
"Hark! the herald angels sing, 'Glory to the new-born King;
Peace on earth, and mercy mild -- God and sinners reconciled'!
Joyful, all ye nations rise, join the triumph of the skies;
With angelic hosts proclaim, 'Christ is born in Bethlehem'!
Christ, by highest heaven adored; Christ, the everlasting Lord!
Late in time behold Him come, offspring of the virgin's womb.
Veiled in flesh the God-head see; hail the incarnate Deity --
Pleased as man with men to dwell; Jesus, our Emmanuel.
Hail the heaven-born Prince of Peace! Hail the Sun of Righteousness!
Light and life to all He brings -- risen with healing in His wings.
Mild, He lays His glory by, born that man no more may die --
Born to raise the sons of earth; born to give them second birth!"
HARK! Are you listening? The herald angels are singing -- let's join them!
"GLORY to the new-born KING"!
HARK!! The Angels are trying to get our attention! Are we listening for their heavenly music announcing the birth of the Newborn King? Let's listen to the thrilling words written by Charles Wesley, and the beautiful melody by the master composer, Felix Mendelssohn.
Like many of Charles Wesley's more than 6,500 hymns, this text clearly presents Biblical doctrine in poetic language. The first stanza describes the song of the angels outside Bethlehem, with an invitation to join them in praise of Christ. The following verses present the truths of the virgin birth, Christ's deity, the immortality of the soul, the new birth, and a prayer for the transforming power of Christ in our lives.
"Hark! the herald angels sing, 'Glory to the new-born King;
Peace on earth, and mercy mild -- God and sinners reconciled'!
Joyful, all ye nations rise, join the triumph of the skies;
With angelic hosts proclaim, 'Christ is born in Bethlehem'!
Christ, by highest heaven adored; Christ, the everlasting Lord!
Late in time behold Him come, offspring of the virgin's womb.
Veiled in flesh the God-head see; hail the incarnate Deity --
Pleased as man with men to dwell; Jesus, our Emmanuel.
Hail the heaven-born Prince of Peace! Hail the Sun of Righteousness!
Light and life to all He brings -- risen with healing in His wings.
Mild, He lays His glory by, born that man no more may die --
Born to raise the sons of earth; born to give them second birth!"
HARK! Are you listening? The herald angels are singing -- let's join them!
"GLORY to the new-born KING"!
Monday, December 10, 2018
Away In A Manger
In Luke 2:7, we read: "And 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."
There is probably no Christmas song that is more loved than this sweet and tender Christmas carol. It is usually thought of as a children's song, but it is loved by old and young alike.
For some time, it was entitled "Luther's Cradle Hymn" because it was thought to have been written by Martin Luther for his own children, and then passed on by German mothers. However, according to Kenneth Osbeck, modern research discounts this claim. The first two stanzas first appeared in the "Little Children's Book" published in Philadelphia in 1885. The third verse was written by a Methodist minister, Dr. John McFarland, in the early 1900's when an additional stanza was desired for a children's day program.
Let these sweet words minister to your heart as you meditate upon them through the week:
"Away in a manger, no crib for a bed,
The little Lord Jesus laid down His sweet head;
The stars in the sky looked down where He lay,
The little Lord Jesus, asleep on the hay.
The cattle are lowing; the Baby awakes,
But little Lord Jesus, no crying He makes;
I love Thee, Lord Jesus! look down from the sky,
And stay by my cradle till morning is nigh.
Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask Thee to stay --
Close by me forever, and love me, I pray;
Bless all the dear children in Thy tender care,
And fit us for heaven, to live with Thee there."
And this Christmas --- let us not forget the words of Jesus:
""Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein."
There is probably no Christmas song that is more loved than this sweet and tender Christmas carol. It is usually thought of as a children's song, but it is loved by old and young alike.
For some time, it was entitled "Luther's Cradle Hymn" because it was thought to have been written by Martin Luther for his own children, and then passed on by German mothers. However, according to Kenneth Osbeck, modern research discounts this claim. The first two stanzas first appeared in the "Little Children's Book" published in Philadelphia in 1885. The third verse was written by a Methodist minister, Dr. John McFarland, in the early 1900's when an additional stanza was desired for a children's day program.
Let these sweet words minister to your heart as you meditate upon them through the week:
"Away in a manger, no crib for a bed,
The little Lord Jesus laid down His sweet head;
The stars in the sky looked down where He lay,
The little Lord Jesus, asleep on the hay.
The cattle are lowing; the Baby awakes,
But little Lord Jesus, no crying He makes;
I love Thee, Lord Jesus! look down from the sky,
And stay by my cradle till morning is nigh.
Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask Thee to stay --
Close by me forever, and love me, I pray;
Bless all the dear children in Thy tender care,
And fit us for heaven, to live with Thee there."
And this Christmas --- let us not forget the words of Jesus:
""Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein."
Friday, December 7, 2018
"What Child Is This?"
What Child is This?? Even the title of this lovely Christmas carol speaks of awe and mystery!
To me, there is something uniquely different and special about the lovely Christmas carols! They seem set apart -- as if God moved upon the writers of both verse and melody to try and help us grasp a little of the awe -- the wonder -- the miracle of that first Christmas in the manger!
Perhaps we should begin with that "hauntingly" beautiful carol, written in a minor key, and challenging our thinking and contemplation by asking the question -- "What Child Is This?"
Kenneth Osbeck says: "The question asked in this well-loved carol must have been uppermost in the minds of those present at Jesus' birth. This thoughtful text was written by William Dix, one of our finest lay hymn writers. While a successful insurance salesman in Glasgow, Scotland, he was stricken with a sudden serious illness at the age of 29. Dix was confined to bed for an extended period, and suffered deep depression until He called out to God and 'met Him in a new and real way.' Out of this spiritual experience came this beautiful carol. It was taken from a longer Christmas poem, 'The Manger Throne', written by Dix about 1865. The melody, 'Green Sleeves' is a traditional English melody written before 1642."
"What Child is this, who, laid to rest, on Mary's lap is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet, while shepherds watch are keeping?
Why lies He in such mean estate where ox and ass are feeding?
Good Christian, fear -- for sinners here the silent Word is pleading.
So bring Him incense, gold and myrrh -- come, rich and poor, to own Him;
The King of kings Salvation brings -- let loving hearts enthrone Him.
This, this is Christ the King, whom shepherds guard and angels sing:
Haste, haste to bring Him laud -- the Babe, the Son of Mary."
Yes, this Child -- this Babe in the manger is Christ the King!! Let us adore Him and give Him everything !!
To me, there is something uniquely different and special about the lovely Christmas carols! They seem set apart -- as if God moved upon the writers of both verse and melody to try and help us grasp a little of the awe -- the wonder -- the miracle of that first Christmas in the manger!
Perhaps we should begin with that "hauntingly" beautiful carol, written in a minor key, and challenging our thinking and contemplation by asking the question -- "What Child Is This?"
Kenneth Osbeck says: "The question asked in this well-loved carol must have been uppermost in the minds of those present at Jesus' birth. This thoughtful text was written by William Dix, one of our finest lay hymn writers. While a successful insurance salesman in Glasgow, Scotland, he was stricken with a sudden serious illness at the age of 29. Dix was confined to bed for an extended period, and suffered deep depression until He called out to God and 'met Him in a new and real way.' Out of this spiritual experience came this beautiful carol. It was taken from a longer Christmas poem, 'The Manger Throne', written by Dix about 1865. The melody, 'Green Sleeves' is a traditional English melody written before 1642."
"What Child is this, who, laid to rest, on Mary's lap is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet, while shepherds watch are keeping?
Why lies He in such mean estate where ox and ass are feeding?
Good Christian, fear -- for sinners here the silent Word is pleading.
So bring Him incense, gold and myrrh -- come, rich and poor, to own Him;
The King of kings Salvation brings -- let loving hearts enthrone Him.
This, this is Christ the King, whom shepherds guard and angels sing:
Haste, haste to bring Him laud -- the Babe, the Son of Mary."
Yes, this Child -- this Babe in the manger is Christ the King!! Let us adore Him and give Him everything !!
Wednesday, December 5, 2018
"Down From His Glory"
A silent night -- shepherds in the field keeping watch over their flock -- when Suddenly -- "the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid." Then an angel spoke to them -- "Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the Babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger."
It seems to me that, perhaps, thousands of angels could hold back their voices no longer, and Luke 2:13 tells us: "And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."
I don't think you can have Christmas without music, so let's begin with a beautiful song by William E. Booth - Clibborn which expresses the great love of God the Father who gave His only begotten Son -- who came Down from His Glory, and went all the way from the Cradle to the Cross!
"Down from His glory -- ever living story,
My God and Saviour came, and Jesus was His name.
Born in a manger -- to His own a stranger,
A Man of sorrows, tears, and agony.
What condescension -- bringing us redemption;
That in the dead of night, not one faint hope in sight.
God -- gracious, tender -- laid aside His splendor,
Stooping to woo -- to win -- to save my soul.
Without reluctance -- flesh and blood His substance,
He took the form of man, revealed the hidden plan.
O glorious mystery -- Sacrifice of Calvary,
And now I know Thou art the great "I Am"!
O how I love Him! How I adore Him!
My breath -- my sunshine -- my all in all!
The great Creator became my Saviour,
And all God's fullness dwelleth in Him."
Praise the Lord! Let us love Him, adore Him, and worship Him!
It seems to me that, perhaps, thousands of angels could hold back their voices no longer, and Luke 2:13 tells us: "And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."
I don't think you can have Christmas without music, so let's begin with a beautiful song by William E. Booth - Clibborn which expresses the great love of God the Father who gave His only begotten Son -- who came Down from His Glory, and went all the way from the Cradle to the Cross!
"Down from His glory -- ever living story,
My God and Saviour came, and Jesus was His name.
Born in a manger -- to His own a stranger,
A Man of sorrows, tears, and agony.
What condescension -- bringing us redemption;
That in the dead of night, not one faint hope in sight.
God -- gracious, tender -- laid aside His splendor,
Stooping to woo -- to win -- to save my soul.
Without reluctance -- flesh and blood His substance,
He took the form of man, revealed the hidden plan.
O glorious mystery -- Sacrifice of Calvary,
And now I know Thou art the great "I Am"!
O how I love Him! How I adore Him!
My breath -- my sunshine -- my all in all!
The great Creator became my Saviour,
And all God's fullness dwelleth in Him."
Praise the Lord! Let us love Him, adore Him, and worship Him!
Monday, December 3, 2018
A CHILD Is Born ---
Yesterday, our pastor preached two wonderful messages from the beautiful prophecy in the 9th chapter of the book of the prophet, Isaiah, where he tells of the divine Child to be born:
"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace".
What a thrilling scripture!! It makes me want to -- "Bow down before Him -- Love and adore Him -- His name is Wonderful -- Jesus, my Lord"! It is difficult, probably impossible, for our finite minds to fully comprehend how Christ could be fully God and still fully man. Truly, "the love of God is greater far than tongue or pen can ever tell."
So on this first Monday of December, let us begin singing the good news of great joy, and keep it ringing in our hearts throughout this blessed, holy season!
"Joy to the world! The Lord is come!
Let earth receive her King;
Let every heart prepare Him room,
And heaven and nature sing!"
"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace".
What a thrilling scripture!! It makes me want to -- "Bow down before Him -- Love and adore Him -- His name is Wonderful -- Jesus, my Lord"! It is difficult, probably impossible, for our finite minds to fully comprehend how Christ could be fully God and still fully man. Truly, "the love of God is greater far than tongue or pen can ever tell."
So on this first Monday of December, let us begin singing the good news of great joy, and keep it ringing in our hearts throughout this blessed, holy season!
"Joy to the world! The Lord is come!
Let earth receive her King;
Let every heart prepare Him room,
And heaven and nature sing!"
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