Prophet's Birth Luke 1:57-80

Sermon Nuggets Monday Dec 26- The Prophet’s birth

Verses-

Luke 1:57-63 When it was time for Elizabeth to have her baby, she gave birth to a son.

58 Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown her great mercy, and they shared her joy.

59 On the eighth day they came to circumcise the child, and they were going to name him after his father Zechariah, but his mother spoke up and said, "No! He is to be called John."

61 They said to her, "There is no one among your relatives who has that name."

62 Then they made signs to his father, to find out what he would like to name the child.

63 He asked for a writing tablet, and to everyone's astonishment he wrote, "His name is John."

Prophets Birth

This week we come back to the person of Zechariah and particularly the events of John’s birth. We talked a couple of weeks ago of the silence of Zechariah, the priest, for couldn’t speak for 9 months for doubting Gabriel’s good news. Even in old age he and Elizabeth were to have a baby and this baby was the chosen one to prepare the way of the Messiah and he is to call his name John.

When John was born Zechariah as now able to get his voice back but instead of complaint he praised the Lord and that will be the subject of this weeks devotionals. We had talked about Elizabeth’s words of praise a couple of weeks ago and last week focused in on Mary’s song of praise with the Magnificat.

The verses today talk about Mary being with Elizabeth until the time came for the prophet’s birth.

It is always a joyous time to see new life brought into the world, but especially so when you have what we call a miracle baby. Some parents will call each birth a miracle and are filled with wonder at his or her birth. Some will use that term for those who are born out of unusual circumstances, a premie who lives, or someone who had a great difficult and pulled through. Some who couldn’t get pregnant, like Elizabeth and then the unexpected happened.

John is indeed a miracle child but also special because he is a prophet prepared especially by God and even prophesied in Malachi.

At the birth there was a neighborhood party unlike before because with the special events that surrounded the announcement of the angel to Zechariah at the temple they knew even by his silence that God was involve in an unusual way. Now there is a party to celebrate God’s work among them. Friends and neighbors new the mercy of the Lord was demonstrated.

At the time of the circumcision others expected this baby to have the name of his father Zechariah. We have not any instance in Scripture that the child should bear the father's name; but perhaps it was of increasingly the custom at that time with the Jews, and they intended hereby to do honor to the father, who was not likely to have another child.

It was the custom, when they circumcised their children, to name them, because, when Abram was circumcised God gave him a new name, Abraham; and it is not unfit that they should be left nameless till they are by name given up to God. But he gives him a new name than what is expected. This name is given by none other than the angel Gabriel who tells him to name the baby John.

Perhaps the reason others planned to name him was Zechariah couldn’t speak, but when Zechariah took a tablet and wrote His name shall be John that was when his tongue was loosed and he could speak!.

It seems to me the angel had struck Zechariah deaf as well as dumb because in verse 62 it says they communicated to him with signs instead of speech—gradually in the silence of those months, when he could not converse with his wife or friends, Zechariah began to see what was happening. It began to sink into his head and heart that these were stupendous, unrepeatable, incredibly significant days. That got everyone talking.

He shall be called Johanan-Gracious, because he shall introduce the gospel of Christ, wherein God's grace shines more brightly than ever.

Pastor Dale

Sermon Nuggets Tues Dec 27 New Name

Verses- Luke 1: 63-66 He asked for a writing tablet, and to everyone's astonishment he wrote, "His name is John."

64 Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue was loosed, and he began to speak, praising God.

65 The neighbors were all filled with awe, and throughout the hill country of Judea people were talking about all these things.

66 Everyone who heard this wondered about it, asking, "What then is this child going to be?" For the Lord's hand was with him

A New Name

The people who heard now from both Elizabeth and John were amazed that something new was happening by naming him John. They heard John speak for the first time in 9 months and believed another miracle had occurred. They were willing to listen now to a message from the priest. It began with the name John, gracious. God is going to show grace upon His people.

Now a new name is symbolic of a new covenant, a new arrangement with God that is not by the law but by grace. God’s plan in the beginning was always to create for himself a people with whom he could share his life.

We begin to see this most clearly in God’s relationship with Abraham. God comes to Abraham and does something with him that becomes the norm for God establishing a relationship with someone — he establishes a covenant,

God has often given people different names. Names mean something in the Bible. Simons name was changed to Peter the Rock. Sauls name was changed to Paul. (small humble)

Abram the exalted father to Abraham, the father of many or father of nations.

A covenant is not just a mutual agreement between two people, like a contract. It was a binding agreement that the parties involved committed themselves to under pain of death. It created a binding relationship between them. The covenant was based on the character of the persons involved. God’s part of the promise was that he would fulfill the covenant and redeem his people by bringing his Messiah into the world, and this Messiah would bring God’s people back to him. As he said, “This is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel after that time, declares the Lord. I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people” (Jeremiah 31:33).
Sometimes you have heard the gospel song, There is a new name written up in glory and its mine, yes Lord its mine. Isa 62: 2 The nations will see your righteousness, and all kings your glory; you will be called by a new name that the mouth of the LORD will bestow. Rev 2:17 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give him a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to him who receives it.

One of the interesting things we notice about God’s covenant with Abraham is how one-sided it was. The parties making a covenant with each other would walk the path between the pieces, of animals that were cut in half and in effect say, “If I break the terms of this covenant, so may this be done to me.” The animals were then prepared and eaten as a covenant meal.

But what is interesting in the covenant with Abraham is that only God walked the covenant path between the animals. One reason Abraham did not walk between these parts of the animals was he could not keep the terms of the covenant.

Now the new name reminds us of the new covenant. And our relationship with Christ is based on a covenant. His body was broken and we eat the covenant meal as we partake of communion, and we remember that God has bound himself to us in covenant love. This is our faithful God. It is not based on law but on grace. And that is the name of this baby, grace or gracious. A new name to a new beginning of a new work of God in coming to earth to save.

Pastor Dale

Sermon Nuggets Weds Dec 28 A New Song

Verses- Luke 1: 67-75 His father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and prophesied:

68 "Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has come and has redeemed his people.

69 He has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David (as he said through his holy prophets of long ago), salvation from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us-- to show mercy to our fathers and to remember his holy covenant, the oath he swore to our father Abraham: to rescue us from the hand of our enemies, and to enable us to serve him without fear in holiness and righteousness before him all our days.

A New Song

Zechariah, filled with the Holy Spirit, now with his speech returned shouted what has come to be known as the Benedictus. , It was a song filled with praise of what was about to happen with the birth of Jesus. Benedictus is in Latin the first word. It is often recited in some churches and at this time of year.

Zechariah recognizes the coming of the Redeemer to keep the covenant promises and yet in new ways.

He started this new Song with praise to the Lord for he is the God of Israel and if there is a song to be heard from Zachariah it is the song of Redemptions

He begins with praise to the Lord, worthy of honor. He is the one who draws near to his people. He is not left the people without His presence. I am sure he knew of the excitement of Mary’s visit and special child in her womb as virgin with child from God.

Now remember the context of his message has been 400 years of silence. God did not speak to them except through the prophets and coming of the Messiah. It has been that long wince they heard.

Nine months earlier Zechariah could not believe his wife would have a child. Now, filled with the Holy Spirit, he is so confident of God's redeeming work in the coming Messiah that he puts it in the past tense. For the mind of faith, a promised act of God is as good as done. Zechariah has learned to take God at his word and so has a remarkable assurance: "God has visited and redeemed!"

I find it interesting that the word about Jesus activities are in the past tense if it had already been done. He was so confident that he moved from a doubter to one who said it is as good as done even though it would be 30 years before Jesus became public. God has come and has redeemed his people because the promise is sure.

He talks about raised up the horn of salvation. Horn symbolizes different things in the OT but Psalm 92:9, 10 gives us a picture of what the horn stood for: “For lo, thy enemies, O Lord, for lo, thy enemies shall perish; all evildoers shall be scattered. But thou hast exalted my horn like that of the wild ox.” The horn is a sign of strength and a means of victory. In Micah 4:13 God says to Jerusalem, "Arise and thresh, O daughter of Zion, for I will make your horn iron and your hoofs bronze; you shall beat in pieces many peoples."

The power and might of salvation of Jesus Christ is from the house of David just as promised. Psalm 132:17, God says concerning Jerusalem, "There I will make a horn to sprout for David. I have prepared a lamp for my anointed. His enemies I will clothe with shame." When a horn sprouts on an ox's head and becomes like iron, then he must be feared by all his enemies.

But in the Old Testament one always finds the conviction that God is the one who fights for Israel. He is the one who is strong and who gets victory over the enemies of his people. Therefore, it is not surprising that the only two instances of the phrase "horn of salvation" in the Old Testament are references to God, not man. Both record the same psalm of David after God saved him from his enemy Saul. He says, "The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation."

God is his defense (his shield) and his offense (his deadly and powerful horn).

In hindsight we see how Jesus did so much more than Zechariah could have imagined. He believed now. But Gods mind wasn’t just on the Egyptian and Assyria, or Babylon and the Philistines or Greeks and Romans- it was on Satan and demons and principalities and power that are unseen. These are the world systems and leaders control by evil.

Zechariah, no doubt, is hoping that the Israel of his day will be delivered from her oppressive Roman overlords and that Messiah, the king of David, will reign over a liberated Israel. It has not been revealed to Zechariah that this national-political deliverance will not happen at the first coming of the Messiah, but only at his second coming. Nevertheless, we will see signs in Zechariah's son that the redemption of the Messiah is more than national liberation.

Zechariah has a new song of the coming of the Redeemer- The one who would pay the price for freedom. With redemption comes also salvation to the house of David.

There is also the praise of the pace of the mercy and to remember the covenant. The agreement by oath which God swore to Abraham call him to himself and his descendents.

It is the "consolation of Israel" for which Zechariah hopes. It is the "Lord God of Israel" who is coming to redeem his people. The people in view are the people of Israel. This was the chosen nation to whom the promises had been given. God had the world in view, but he aimed to come to Israel first. So Jesus said in Matthew 15:24, "I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel." But just like there is a clue in Zechariah's song that God's redemption is more than national, so there is a clue that the beneficiaries of that redemption are more than Israelites.

God was making a promise that will find its ultimate fulfillment when He sets up His kingdom here on earth. Just as surely as Zacharias could praise God for a past tense redemption that had not taken place yet, he could also praise God for keeping His promises that hadn’t been fulfilled yet.
When I read about the things God has said He will do one day I don’t worry a bit about whether He’ll do them or not. God has been faithful in the past; He is faithful today and I know He’ll still be faithful tomorrow! The God that promised a Savior and made promises for four thousand years about how that Savior would come is the same God that fulfilled those promises with amazing accuracy. That same God has promised that one day Jesus Christ is coming again to rule and reign in peace and righteousness. He came the first time as a meek and gentle Lamb, but He’s coming again as the mighty Lion of the Tribe of Judah! How do I know? Because God keeps His promises!

Pastor Dale

Sermon Nuggets Thurs Dec 29 New Hope

Verses- Luke 1: 76 And you, my child, will be called a prophet of the Most High; for you will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for him,

77 to give his people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins,

78 because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven

79 to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace."

A New Hope

Now Zechariah moves from addressing God in praise to addressing his newborn son in his arms: ” You will be called a prophet of the Most High.”

What an honor to know in advance you will be especially chosen by God to declare truth and revival to the people. You will prepare the way for the Messiah. What a privilege for John and for his parents who probably didn’t live to see that day.

What was his message of hope? It was to give his people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of sin. God is merciful to tell people they can have forgiveness and we see that played out in the person of Jesus Christ who came and lived and died on a cross and was buried and is coming again.

This one will guide them into peace which they longed or and anticipated.

How easy for Elizabeth and Zechariah to think of themselves and their joy of having children in their older age. But the significance of the baby, John was in being the forerunner of the Messiah. And they were celebrating the splendid part his son was to play in the Messianic drama.

Although they were thinking of political salvation from the oppressors, there was a need for moral salvation. Salvation comes by facing sins and repenting of them. John’s role was to prepare people hearts for the coming of Jesus and prepare them to listen to the Lord and follow in obedience and affect the world for God. There was a need for moral change by trusting and obeying God. It has more than national birth. It was to be a spiritual birth.

One commentator said, “Its not what the child is that made him important, but what the child says- a prophet through whom someone else is meant to speak.”

That is the task that God indeed prepares for each of us, for no longer do we live in a spiritual economy where God is hidden from men and is only revealed by the specially chosen prophets. Now we can hear God directly through the written word. God is no longer working through priest and sacrifices for us to come before his holy throne. Now we are all made priests before the Lord and have a right to come before him through Christ. We are prophets telling forth the good news of Jesus Christ that He came to save people from their sins. We are the new priests representing God to men and men to God. We have no longer a veil that separates us.

The Old Testament prophets could say with hope someday He will come God will visit us and we will be redeemed. We will be saved someday. Someday God will keep his promise but now John could say, “Listen people the one we were looking for is here. He is at hand. Hear him and follow him.”

And John was the first prophet, the greatest prophet to witness God presence and grace first hand. He pointed to the Lamb of God away take away the sins of the world He was preparing his prophet even from before his birth. He had a wonderful plan for his life. Yet we can also think back knowing the story as believers many years later.

We hear the Lord has a wonderful plan for your life. But realize that plan is to be used for his glory for our ultimate heavenly blessing. Let us not become so earthly minded that we think only of earthly blessing and comfort of this world that is a lie. The Lord has the same plan that he had for John in that we are not to be prophets in the New Testament sense speaking forth the word of God to our fellows of His grace and love. God has wonder plan for our lives the first and foremost plan is for you to know Jesus and trust him to save you and forgive your sin.

We remember and observe Christmas because of the hope it offers us. Both Christians and non-Christians see in this day the Hope of the World.
Unfortunately, while the hope of Christmas is offered to all men, not all men will accept it. The gift we celebrate came in that first century. It is offered until he comes again. This message is still to be proclaimed, accepted, and lived in hope.

Pastor Dale

Sermon Nuggets Fri Dec 30 A New Year

Verses Luke 1: ⁸⁰ And the child grew and became strong in spirit; and he lived in the wilderness until he appeared publicly to Israel.

Luke 3:1-3 ¹ In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar—when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, Herod tetrarch of Galilee, his brother Philip tetrarch of Iturea and Traconitis, and Lysanias tetrarch of Abilene— ² during the high-priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to John son of Zechariah in the wilderness. ³ He went into all the country around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.

A New Year

Vs 80 tells us what happened to John. He became that prophet and began his ministry. There was a new year that dawned in Israel. There was a new chapter God had prepared for his people with the public ministry of John. It was in the fifteenth year of Caesar’s reign.

People from all around would come to hear him and he readily preached repentance to prepare their heart for what God is going. People respond in three ways to messages on sin. First there is repentance when it is exposed resulting in humility, guilt and confession sin. People know they are condemned and want mercy. Secondly there is a self justification. This can result in resistance, denial and bitterness. People want to attack or discredit the prophet by either accusing them of wrong doing. Then there is a group for whom their hearts are so hardened they think it is for another and not them. They see faults and sins in others but not themselves.

John was eventually beheaded for his message as he pointed out the sin of adultery to the King who divorced his wife and married his sister-in-law. He was lonely as he spoke in a wilderness and had to eat locust and wild honey. He was denounced also by the Jews and his task was very unpopular, but he felt it was worth it all to be used by God.

We come to a new year. As we meet on Sunday we share in communion. It is a new year to reflect on the past and ask forgiveness for sin that God might reveal. It is a new year to ignore promptings of truth and we live as we always have lived. Or it is a new year to rejoice in the salvation and freedom provided by God in a closer relationship and vitality in faith. God is praised for providing salvation and forgives. Because he is merciful and shines on those living in darkness there is hope and life after death and guiding feet in the path of peace. God is praised for he provides his presence for his people and he has not only remembered them but also provides for them spiritually.

God provided for his people in way that honors him. He does not forget us either as individuals or as a nation and church. God can to save those who would trust in him and shine on those living in darkness and sin.

Jesus read from Isaiah 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.”

Isa 55:1-3 also pictures this beauty of salvation by saying “Arise, shine for thy light has come the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee for Gentiles shall come to the light when we think of the provision before us.”

What does it mean to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor? It is the time for the message to be revealed how God is dealing with his people by grace to all who will receive him as the gift. If you are fighting the effects of the evil one let me tell you the good news. Jesus has won the battle and desires you be strong and free. You can win over the temptation that plagues you that loneliness that will you not to go on, the light in that darkness. It is Jesus Christ and the power that can provide for your life. Only when we have learned to hate sin and leave it that we are free to walk the paths of righteousness. This faith is the beginning of Spiritual Life This can be a new year of God’s favor upon you.

I was talking with someone on their hopeless of addiction. They believe the lie that they will have this sin all their lives. There are others for whom a new year was proclaimed and by the power of the Holy Spirit and help of others they have remained free from resisting the temptations of Satan. He has come to destroy the devil’s power.

Man didn’t know God until Jesus came to show he is love. Man didn’t know forgiveness until Jesus came to offer a relationship with our creator. We have a new peace.

Men seek peace with all their hearts but few find it. The peace offered here today is not peace like the world offers. They is a phony peace of wealth, power and prestige. But peace among men can only happen when all men have peace in their hearts and that can only come as a gift from God.
I think of the hymns we sing could have been sung by Zechariah. It is the essence of his praise.” I will sing of my Redeemer -I will tell the wondrous story, How my lost estate to save, In His boundless love and mercy, He the ransom freely gave.

I will praise my dear Redeemer, His triumphant power I’ll tell, How the victory He giveth Over sin, and death, and hell.

Sing, oh sing, of my Redeemer, With His blood, He purchased me. On the cross, He sealed my pardon, Paid the debt, and made me free”

It’s a new year. A year of the Lord’s favor.

Pastor Dale

Spirit of Christmas Luke 1:46-56

Sermon Nuggets Mon Dec 19 THE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS

Verses- Luke 1:46-56 And Mary said: "My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,

Spirit of Christmas

At this time of year we hear a lot about the spirit of Christmas.

What does it mean? Ebeneezar Scrooge was contacted by the spirits of Christmas past, present, and yet to come. In Dicken's classic story, the Spirit of Christmas is a ghost.

You might see advertisements talking about given the spirits of Christmas and what they are selling are liquor; Christmas cards depict the spirit of Christmas as love, sharing, giving.

Of Course the Bible does give us an understanding of the ‘spirit’ of

Christmas. This is different also from the Holy Spirit, although He is involved in everything that surrounds the first Christmas story.

John MacArthur reminds us that "the Spirit of Christmas is a relationship with God out of thankfulness for His salvation. It is praise, a time of worship and filling with the beauty of the Holy Spirit. It is being filled with wonder, and awe at the work of God through Jesus.

The one who was closest with Jesus at that time of course was his mother Mary. And what does she do? She magnifies the Lord. She knew that she would bear God's son. What was her response? "Why me? I can't believe it." She, by her own words, felt unworthy of such a great honor. Let’s look at her song of praise as it reminds us of reasons for rejoicing this and every season.

She begins by acknowledging the joy of her heart and soul. The first thing that comes into her mind when Elizabeth greets he and calls her blessed is praise to God for his salvation. Redemption has come. God is coming to save his people. Her heart is centered on God.

I admit that too often people would have our hearts centered on the externals not the internals. I am not one who thinks the celebration should be banned, as some Christians do, anymore than I feel music should be banned because there is a danger of centering our attention on the beauty of the voice, song, music, instruments and not on the Lord. These are vehicles that can be used for worship. But we need the reminder of the one to whom all of this is dedicated. For the Christian the joy of the season is worthy of celebration, decoration, and symbols around which we can converse and discuss the reason for celebration to our children and to one another. But let’s remind ourselves that Mary's deep desire is to honor God and love him. It is not a shallow superficiality. We worship God in spirit and in truth.

This song is often called the Magnificat Latin meaning to magnify or lift up the Lord. You have a magnifying glass it brings things into focus in a larger way than how we have seen them before. Worship is lifting up and extolling and magnifying the Lord in a larger way that we do normally. I think that is an appropriate purpose of the Spirit of Christmas. It is a time to remind ourselves of the plan of God to save a lost world.

Salvation is the heart of the purpose for Jesus to come into the world. Jesus says, ”the son of man has come to seek and to save that which is lost.” The praise that God desires is because this is His plan. He plans to redeem and save. There is salvation in no other.

To declare the salvation of the Lord is to do so in the real spirit of Christmas.

Pastor Dale

Sermon Nuggets Tues Dec 20,

Verses- Luke 1:47-49 And Mary said: "My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,48 for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed,49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me-- holy is his name.

Grateful for Grace

Mary, the mother of Jesus, recognizes God as her savior, meaning she needs salvation too. She calls God her savior. She knows she is a sinner who needs saving. She is like any other human being.

She does not exalt herself, Elizabeth only recognizes how blessed she was and indeed she was. Nowhere does the attention of praise ever fall on the angels, on Mary on Joseph, on the priest, on the King only on Christ.

The verb tense in the Greek of praise or magnifies the Lord is a continuous action. She magnifies the Lord and keeps on doing it.

I wonder how many rejoice this season because the coming of Christ meant salvation for them. Have you responded to the good news personally? Have you repented of your sins and called upon God to be your savior? That is the root of all praise for we cannot really praise the Lord unless His Spirit lives within and that cannot happen until we commit ourselves to Him.

"..for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant." From now on all generations will call me blessed. for the Mighty One has done great things for me--holy is his name."

Grace is the giving of God that is so undeserved by mankind. Mary is humbled. Indeed, true worship comes from a humbled heart for the more we lift up God the more we recognize our unworthiness for we are not special but God is. She recognizes and is grateful for God’s work in her life. Out of that realization we are fortunate blessed people because of God's grace. Mary had done nothing to deserve the tremendous gracious gift of God.

Now to be sure, God would not have chosen someone who did not have upstanding character and a heart for God. But there were many God could have chosen. She was not a slut, or a profane woman. She had the character that God wanted to raise Jesus from infancy into adulthood. She had a love for God and a servant’s heart. She regarded her lowly estate: she is a handmaiden, a servant, willing to obey and do what God wanted. Only the truly humble can give true worship because when they see Gods' greatness they see their own weakness and undeserving of grace.

Luke 14:11 says, "For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted." Ish. 57:15 tells us "For this is what the high and lofty One says-he would live forever, whose name is holy: "I live in a high and holy place, but also with him who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite." It is the humbled who recognizes the grace of God.

There is great joy realizing that we have been so blessed beyond what we deserve. If one thinks that he deserves a raise, he isn't nearly as excited about getting one as the fellow who didn't expect or even think he should get one.

Certainly we cannot be compared to Mary who was the mother of the Lord, but do not forget God dwells within us as believers. If we are partakers of the Holy Spirit what more can we desire by way of favor from God? We bear a close a relationship to Christ as did the virgin mother. It is a grace given to us so undeserved but indeed made into flesh as we demonstrate God's grace to the world within our own lives.

Pastor Dale

Sermon Nuggets Weds Dec 21

Verse Luke 1: 50 His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation.

Grateful for God's Mercy.

Part of Mary’s song of praise included her thoughts toward God’s mercy. When I think of mercy I think of first, the forgiveness of God. If someone is merciful they are kind even though the other person doesn't deserve their kindness. It is not getting what they deserve. They deserve punishment, they do not get punishment. If I want the judge to be merciful it implies that I have done some wrong and I hope that he will not be harsh with me. If I want mercy from someone I do not want the worse or worse things to happen.

Forgiveness is the means of God’s mercy. Yesterday we addressed the subject of grace when Mary got this unexpected surprise of being the very one chosen to receive the babe. Mercy is recognizing this is undeserved. She felt this ought not to happen to her. When we fear, honor, love, respect the Lord when we are contrite we are seeking forgiveness for our sins and repentance implies the desire to turn from them.

I think of a comment made by Florence Littauer "I used to gather up my husband Fred's faults with the fervor of a child picking berries. I had a whole shelf of overflowing baskets before the concept of forgiveness fell heavily upon me. To be spiritual I plucked out a few of Fred's faults and forgave them, but I didn't want to clear the whole shelf. Where would I go for future reference material?"

Mary is impressed with the mercy of God in working with His people. Eph 2:4 illustrates God's mercy in this way. "But because of his great love for us. God, who is rich in mercy made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions-it is by grace you have been saved.”

Grace is given us what we do not deserve, salvation. Mercy is not giving

us what we do deserve, death.

John Prussing told of a woman who complained to a neighbor about receiving poor service at a local pharmacy, intending that her complaint would be repeated to the druggist. The next time the woman went into the

store, the druggist greeted her warmly, told her how much he appreciated her business, and filled her prescription immediately. He added that if he could do anything to help her family, she should be sure to call on him, even if it was after store hours.

The woman mentioned the improvement to her neighbor. "It certainly worked, your repeating my dissatisfaction to him."

"Well, no, I didn't do that”, replied her friend. "Instead, I told him you were impressed with the way he had built up his business, and that you felt his was one of the best-run drugstores you'd ever dealt with." The woman showed mercy. He didn't get what he deserved, but by receiving mercy he responded in kindness.

Instead of being full of judgment God has dealt mercifully with mankind by giving us a means whereby we can be forgiven. Instead of covering up sin and ignoring it and pretending it doesn't exist, we can face it and get it cleaned up and out and have those burdens lifted. God is merciful.

Pastor Dale

Sermon Nuggets Thurs Dec 22

Verses- Luke 1: 51 He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.

52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble.

53 He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty.

54 He has helped his servant Israel

Grateful for God's Power

Mary continues her praise to God for his unbelievable power. She reflects in her song to God of what he has and will do for her and for others. She mentions seven things.

1) Has performed mighty deeds with his arm. 2) Scattered those who are proud in their inner thoughts 3) Brought down rulers from their thrones

4) Lifted up the humble. 5) Filled the hungry with good things 6) Sent the rich away empty. 7) Helped his servant Israel

E. Stanly Jones said, "The Magnificat is the most revolutionary document in the world." Why? Because of power against pride. Jesus came to earth to bring death to pride. Jesus knocks the props out of each one of us and says if you are a man or woman of faith; it is shown in your servant spirit, in your humble attitude. He brings down rulers. If you are not sure of that look at the regimes of Hitler, of Mussolinni, or of the communist countries that five years ago seemed like such a threat. Do you known when the rulers of Iraq was brought down, at God's timing.

However, have you thought when the ruler of the United State will be brought down? It will be.

Think for a minute of the rulers and kings that were involved during the time of Christ. There was Herod he was so threatened that he had all the babies killed. Still Christ overcame.

There was Pilate, he had not more power than what God would allow and finally allowed him to be put to death. He mistakenly even thought he had that power, yet he was overcome when Christ arose. Herod, Festus, Agrippa, Caesar and Nero all tried to do away with Christ and his followers. He has brought down rulers from their thrones and lifted up the humble. In that final spiritual conquest when the last of days are done; the mighty forces of this world, defeated, God's humble children have won."

There is a revolution against the rich. The love of Christ is demonstrated toward those who are generally poor, hungry, lost, sinners coming to Christ bring them hope to the hopeless.

How odd that someone like Mary should be picked, a simple poor woman. Joseph was only a carpenter. Disciples were fishermen, tax collector, a political zealot. In fact the whole Christmas story is not to the priests, Sanhedrin ministers, wealthy, but surrounded by shepherds, stable, straw.

Those who find themselves all self-sufficient will find themselves empty. Jesus came also to release the captives. Jesus has come by his power to make all the wrongs of society right again, all the things that are unfair just, and to overturn the oppression and prepare for the way of the final judgment of the righteousness of God. Are you ready?

Mary saw God at work. She became mindful of his power. She was to conceive of a child without having sexual relationship with a man. It was a miracle to recognize the virgin birth of Jesus. He was powerful. It was nothing she did. It was something by the sovereign grace of God that happened to her. That brought her to personal praise to God. It also brought her to reflect over the experiences of God throughout the ages.

Pastor Dale

Sermon Nuggets Fri Dec 23

Verses- Luke 1: 54 He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful to Abraham and his descendants forever, even as he said to our fathers."

Mary stayed with Elizabeth for about three months and then returned home.

Grateful for God's Promises.

Mary is also praising the Lord for keeping his promises. The long awaited and expectant Jesus is the theme of anticipation for the Jews for so many years. Now God was fulfilling what he promised. The time had come for God to show himself in the form of a person and picked of all things, to come to earth as a baby and come to earth as a suffering servant. How unlike what they thought God should be and do.

But God does not forget promises and plans for they are foretold by the prophets and they will come about. How joyous to see that they are coming about now. He promised the seed of righteousness and Jesus is that seed.

It was years earlier when God coveted with Abraham to be his God and to let Abraham offspring become God's people. It was a special relationship that as initiated by faith. His faith was tested you remember with Isaac being placed on the sacrifice and he was instructed to kill his own son, Isaac. yet the angel intervened and said that was not God's desire, he wanted to make sure Abraham was obedience and faithful to the Lord.

What is the promise to Israel. Ish. 11:1-3 that he would be born from the family of Jesse, which was the stock of both Mary and Joseph, Micha

5:2 told he would be born in Bethlehem. Ish. 7:14 prophecies that avirgin shall conceive and bear a son. and many more Old Testament predictions.

Yes, the people have waited a number of years to be freed from the tyranny of Greece and Rome. The Israelites were wondering if the Messiah would ever come. Some are still wondering that. They were looking for the redemption of Israel. Now Mary knew that all the centuries of waiting would culminate in the birth of her son.

I wonder what she would have thought if she had any idea of what God was really doing. For you see, yes God was preserving his promises, all that was mentioned hundreds and thousands of years earlier did come about. But Jesus was interested in more than just Palestine. He was claiming his rightful place on the throne of the world- King of kings and Lord of lords. He was to reclaim the dominion of Satan. He was to see the lost and sinners come to life.

We too have the expectation when all of this will be fulfilled. What was purchased for us at his first coming will be finalized at his second coming?

Just as Mary was filled with praise for God was fulfilling his promises so with faith and hope we are filled with that same expectation that one day, soon, maybe very soon He is coming again so we shall be with him forever.

Listen to these promises: Acts 1:11 Men of Galilee, why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus who has been taken from you into heaven will come back in the same way you have seen him go in’to heaven. I Thes 4:16-18, Mt. 24:3-8 & 36-44. Rev. 21:3,4 Yes, Jesus coming is something to sing about Mary. May we continue your song of praise to God and may we recognize the spirit of Christmas that spirit of rejoicing and praising God for his salvation, for his grace, for his mercy for his power and for his promises until he comes.

Pastor Dale

Elizabeth's Song Luke 1:5-47

Sermon Nuggets- Mon, Dec 12 Elizabeth’s Song

Elizabeth’s Song

Singing and carols are an important part of Christmas. Yesterday afternoon we had a traditional Christmas Hymn sing. Those who cam enjoyed singing the favorites interspersed with special numbers. Even as Pastor Isaac spoke in his sermon- one of the Christmas traditions is music. I am glad God gave within our hearts and emotions the means of expressing to Him and others joy and love and witness of what He has done.

Literally a carol is a joyous song or lyric. It is from the French. It has become known to relate to the stories surrounding the Nativity.

According to one article I read St. Francis of Assisi tried to change the Church’s Latin formalism with the human warmth of worship. He was acknowledge as the first to set up the crib, ox and donkey, manger and infant Jesus and sung in 1223.

Interestingly, carols were banned in England in 1647, since many of our customs and traditions were adapted form pagan worship of the sun god. Christians decide not to celebrate the winter solstice bur the son of God bringing light to the world so they took that Holiday and used it to recognize the coming of Jesus into the world. The Puritans wanted to throw all of that out because there were also celebrations that involved carousing and feasting. So Parliament outlawed celebrations and even churches were stripped of ornamentation, organs were carted away and religious singing was restricted to only the Psalms. That law lasted about 20 years.

Now it seems ACLU is the Grinch that want to outlaw Christmas singing except in churches. Not only have there been various law suits throughout the country on what songs schools can an cannot include, and whether the nativity scenes can be place on public property, but even I the Salvation Army can solicit funds on pubic grounds to help the poor.

However, real joy isn’t’ in singing and telling the Christmas story as certain time and place, it is in knowing Jesus Christ in a personal way and receiving his free gift of salvation by repenting of sin an by faith following Him. If you haven’t made Christ Lord of your life, my prayer is you will this year.

G. Campbell Morgan writes, “Luke, the artists, has gathered and collected, under the guidance of the Holy Ghost, the stories which reveal the fact that when Jesus came into the world poetry expressed itself and music was reborn.”

Can you imagine the joy as well as the fear ad bewilderment that came to Mary when the angel Gabriel approached her and announce she was to deliver that long expected Messiah? Who can she go to and share the news? Who would understand that she, a virgin, his pregnant? Gabriel tells her about another miracle that happened to her cousin, Elizabeth in her old age. She would understand.

This is something women share with women. Elizabeth could be someone with whom she could share the secret. Instead of being received with suspicion she was received with acceptance, love and excitement. Elizabeth assured Mary of her single blessedness by being selected of God to be the Mother of the Messiah. She indeed was an encouragement. When Elizabeth saw her cousin arrive and realized the joy of her own child within her womb, she responded in praise and song unto the Lord.

This is a time or singing of our salvation, and God’s goodness.

Pastor Dale

Sermon Nuggets Tues Dec 13 Prelude

Verses Luke 1:5-7

5 In the time of Herod king of Judea there was a priest named Zechariah, who belonged to the priestly division of Abijah; his wife Elizabeth was also a descendant of Aaron.

6 Both of them were upright in the sight of God, observing all the Lord's commandments and regulations blamelessly.

7 But they had no children, because Elizabeth was barren; and they were both well along in years.

Prelude

Before most of our services we have a prelude of music. Since we have been talking about music at Christmas this week the prelude is usually musical introduction to what is about to happen. It is used to set a mood for worship. Sometimes the organist plays familiar songs and people might think of some of the words that are about God and His works. Sometimes there are musical numbers which are used specifically to quiet our hearts and allow people to pray, think, mediate before a service begins where the Spirit might guide one’s thinking.

We know the prelude to Jesus ministry was found in the person of John the Baptist who was appointed to prepare the way of the Lord spiritually. But the prelude to Jesus birth was also indirectly found in the person of John the Baptist who even in the womb is the first to recognize the son of God who is to come into the world.

You might say the surroundings of Jesus birth was sober and dreary. It was not a happy tune under the strict dominance of the Romans. There was a feeling of despair and a barrenness where God was taking much too long, in the minds of the Jews, to bring the Messiah to redeem the people from oppression once again.

Part of this, I think, is symbolized by Elizabeth’s barrenness and without the joy of a child. Just as Zechariah was a priest Elizabeth was a descendent of the line of Aaron, the first appointed priest. The Bible says they pleased God. They were upright and observing all the Lord’s commands and regulations.

Many women in their barrenness wonder if God is somehow punishing them. Having a baby is key to being a woman in that culture. They would please their husbands and find purpose in raising a family.

We understand more of what Elizabeth must have felt when we read of the barrenness of Sarah with Abraham, or Rachel before she had a child with Jacob. We see Hannah crying out to the Lord in the temple and felt the shame and ridicule for not having a baby. God provided for all these women and their offspring had a significant part to play in redemptive history.

Some people give up on God when their prayers are not answered. But in spite of the circumstances Elizabeth and her husband served the Lord faithfully. They honored God publicly and privately.

This prelude was a preparation for Elizabeth, but it was really Elizabeth spent her whole lifetime being prepared by God to be the mother of John the Baptist. Only she didn’t know it. Her son would be the greatest of prophets according to Jesus. Her name is honored for her humble and faithful service.

Every person used of God had a mother whom God used in different ways to prepare their children. Certainly the Biblical mandate is the train the children up in the ways of God and in the teachings of the Bible. A parent who is doing his and her job walks close to the Lord and wants to pass on the most important truths any child can know. Elizabeth joins her husband in the years ago to have their son follow the Nazarite laws of diet and dress.

But the prelude is the first song to prepare for worship. And she becomes the first spokesperson to declare the wonders of Jesus coming in the flesh. Her song is the first human expression of praise for the Christ child.

Pastor Dale

Sermon Nuggets Weds Dec. 14 Joy of John

Verses : Luke 1:39-41 At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea,

40 where she entered Zechariah's home and greeted Elizabeth.

41 When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.

44 As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy.

The Joy of John

John the Baptist, still in the womb, recognizes Jesus, the Son of God ,in the womb of Mary. Baby talk! Elizabeth’s own baby becomes for her the messenger of confirmation of Jesus before either are ever born. When the babies were in proximity the Holy Spirit filled Elizabeth. These expressions are not just her own thoughts -this comes from God.

Luke is a doctor. Most doctors today will recognize emotional experiences of the mother can cause movement in the fetus she is carrying. Some will use that as an explanation for her baby jumping or kicking which Elizabeth understands is a sign from God. Skeptics can explain this away recognizing fetal movement, but not agreeing with conclusion that Elizabeth gives.

I believe this is the inspire Words of God. The Bible is the foundation of our faith and practice. She knew by God when the baby leaped inside of her as Mary greeted her even from some distance, this was the Messiah. The baby was not only filled with the Holy Spirit but had excitement in the presence of the Lord.

People today are continuing to understand more about babies in the womb and their reactions and responses. There are articles about encouraging mothers to have music, sing, rub, and even read to their unborn babies. I am not in a position to know what is or is not advisable. Because of ultrasounds many know the sex of the child before birth, something unheard of a few years ago. I will speak of my experience of being a new Grandfather.

Bryan and Kate wanted to know as soon as possible what their baby was going to be. When they got the first ultra sound pictures confirming she was a girl they began to plan accordingly. I was a bit surprised when they announced to us her name- Madelyn. What surprised me more was how they would no longer speak of her as the baby or certainly not a fetus, but as Maddie. They talked about what she did in the womb, and what they think she would like in her room for decorations. For me I was content to have our babies have a crib and a mobile (not a cell phone). But she became more of a person once she was named in my mind as well. I know she was a person at conception, but it was interesting to me how one’s thoughts and emotions toward her changed when she was named. Both Mary and Elizabeth not only knew the sexes of their boys, but their names as well. Add to that the purpose for which they were to be brought up.

I know the Supreme Court of Minnesota can legally declare an 8 ½ month old fetus as being a non person and allowing legal partial birth abortions. The Bible does not describe babies in this way. It acknowledges the personality of the fetus and recognizes the fetus is a baby and a special creation of God, and a person. I am to believe God rather than man.

If John were nothing more than a complex tissue- indeed if mankind is treated as nothing more than evolutionary accident without any spirit- then one animal is no different in value than a human except in our own eyes. Some animal rights advocates teach that. Why should one animal live over another? That is where evolution leads.

God confirms the sanctity of unborn life and declares in these verses for individuals to be unique creation and the miraculous power of the Holy Spirit blesses their mothers. The joy of Christmas was realized before the babies were born. It spreads with the joy of John

Pastor Dale

Sermon Nuggets Thurs Dec 15 –

Verses Luke 1: 42 In a loud voice she exclaimed: "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!

43 But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?

44 As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy.

45 Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!"

Elizabeth’s Humility

Elizabeth recognizes that not only did God bless her with the privilege of having a special baby in her old age, but sees herself as favored for allowed her to be in the presence of the long awaited Messiah, even if the baby is not born yet. He thoughts were “Why should I be so favored?” Already she knew he was her Lord. That is faith.

The expression of joy and thankfulness is similar to Hannah and Deborah of the Old Testament and their expressions of praise.

The Holy Spirit opened the yes of Elizabeth so she could see Jesus as Lord. A common participation in the divine favor drew the two women together. Mary loved Elizabeth and realized she would understand her feelings. Elizabeth was not the least bit concerned that she was the older deserving respect. The thing that impresses me about Elizabeth is the evidence of her sweet and humble spirit, and the joy she experienced in another’s good fortune.

Some are so quick to give God glory for the blessing of their lives while others seem to be so quick to think they are so special. They act as if others should somehow treat them differently. Pride is so devastating because we don’t want to admit others are better than we are. Pride tries to make us pretend that we are superior in some way to others. If someone does something better in one area we think of something we do better in another to regain that feeling of pride. It is easy to put down others so as to raise ourselves up.

That is the root of gossip. Do you realize that? People who have to prove themselves and their worth struggle with self esteem issues.

An old godly writer name Flavel said “When God intends to fell a soul he first makes it empty; when he intends to enrich a soul he first makes it poor; when he intends to exalt a soul he first makes it sensible to its own needs, wants, and nothingness. Humility does not mean thinking less of yourself than of other people, nor does it mean having a low opinion of your own gifts. It means freedom from thinking about yourself at all.”

Samuel Brengel adds an important lesson on humility- “If I appear great in their eyes the Lord is most graciously helping me to see how absolutely nothing I am without Him and helping me to keep little in my own eyes. He does use me, but I am so concerned that he uses me and that it is not of me the work Is done. The axe cannot boast of the trees it has cut down. It could do nothing but for the woodsman. He made it, he sharpened it, and he used it. The moment he throws it aside , it becomes only old iron. Oh that I may never lose this sight.”

Elizabeth understood this concept that it is God that has blessed her. Gave her a baby, gave her a prophet, blessed her cousin. But joy in the presence of the Lord yet unborn and why God should do this is beyond her understanding. It is totally an act of grace and she gives God the praise.

Think about our life and all that God has given to you recently that is so unwarranted and give Him praise and be filled with joy.

Pastor Dale

Sermon Nuggets Fri. Dec 16 Elizabeth’s Joy

Verse- Luke 1: 44 As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy.

45 Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!"

Elizabeth’s Joy

Why do you think the angel instructed Mary to go see her cousin Elizabeth? I think there might be several reasons. First, as mentioned, who could possibility understand the miracle of birth of God intervening to produce a child to a virgin? Not only is that hard to believe, but this miraculous birth is something Elizabeth has experienced in God providing a child in her old age.

Secondly, I think to get Mary out of the situation of more ridicule and shame was wise. People in her small village would definitely be judgmental and perhaps encouraging Joseph to have her pay the penalty for infidelity which could be death. The family would need adjustment to that type of story and that is also why an angel came to Joseph in his dream so he could stand as her protector and helper later but not right now.

Thirdly, I think Elizabeth could also use the help of a young girl/relative. Zechariah was silent and could not speak. Elizabeth couldn’t carry on a conversation, or have much to talk about in this important time in their lives because of that hindrance. Elizabeth also had someone to talk to and someone to help her with some of the chores as I am guessing her energy level was not what it used to be.

How long did Mary stay? The Bible says Elizabeth was in her sixth month when the angel came to Mary. And then Luke 1:56 “Mary stayed with Elizabeth for about three months and then returned home.” That would have made it the 9^th month after she probably delivered the baby. During those last months of pregnancy and at her older age, I also think Mary ministered in a practical was to Elizabeth.

Fourthly, and I think most importantly, she could share openly and ask all the questions freely to someone who could be her mentor, friend, relative, and spiritual encouragement. We need people in our lives with whom we can share.

As I look back on my ministry there is one gapping need that I would do differently if I were to start all over again. I would do what I could to training older people to mentor younger people. We speak of that from time to time, but many people who started growing in the Lord lose the importance of having a friend and mentor who will be with them , teach, guide, and talk. We have had newer believers come and go through some classes and things go well, but then they seem to be left on their own and without ongoing friendship and guidance, their faith seems to grow colder and in time many become inactive if they do not get involved in ministry and mentorship.

2 Cor 1:3-6 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.

For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer.”

The apostle Paul seeks to instruct and encourage the Corinthian believers. Certainly newer Gentile Christians needed to understand truth through the Bible teaching and instructions of Jesus Christ. They needed to learn a new way to love and live in the Spirit. But an important principle is God is our comfort. And the way God has ministered to us needs to be shared with others. In our good times and in our bad times, in our lonely times and glad times. We need others who can encourage us in the Lord. When we go through pain, suffering, or hardships who best to encourage us in the Lord than those who have gone through the same things? They not only know some of the answers and options we should consider when making decisions but understand the emotions and feelings of facing what we are facing.

When girls get pregnant they find comfort in talking with others who have been pregnant. When someone is a young mother they find help talking with others who have been mothers as to what to do and how to do it. When one goes through facing life with God’s comfort there are people who have been there and done that and find God’s presence and purposes sustaining. It is those type of people God uses to help others grow in their faith.

Younger people in the Lord, seek out someone older who can pray with you, help you, and encourage you in truth. Older people in the Lord, seek out to be available to teach, listen, guide and pray for someone younger in Christ and need counsel and friendship.

Small groups, one on one Bible studies, discipleship is all part of developing a relationship with another who can be a comfort to pass on to others who need comfort.

Elizabeth was one whose true joy praised God and in that acceptance we see Mary following by giving Him praise as well. Someone understood her feelings and they shared them together.

Pastor Dale

Angelic Visit Luke 1:26-38

Sermon Nuggets Mon Dec 5 Angelic visit

Verses- Luke 1:26-27

26 And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth,

27 To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary.

Angelic Visit

My brother went into professional theatre after college graduation until he got older and realized there was more job security doing voiceovers for commercials and documentaries. But as I was a 6 ½ years younger it was exciting to see what went on both on-stage as well as back stage for plays he was in. I became aware there were lots of people that made a production work. Not just actors, but lighting, and sound, and make up, and properties, and costumes, and set design and construction people were needed. Then I met people in charge of the house- ticket sales, and cleaning and ushers and phone reservations and banking. While the play was going on stage hands were busy getting things ready for the actors.

There was one of the biggest dramas ever to occur in the world when God planned to execute coming to earth as a human. We are not talking about fictional presentation. There were no rehearsals at the first Christmas where people tried to get their lines right for others’ entertainment. The script was, however, pre-written. The characters were chosen carefully to fit their prescribed parts. The stagehands as it were, were the heavenly beings getting things in order for God to not only direct, but participate as the star of the greatest performance the world has ever seen.

In professional theatre there is someone behind the scenes that cues the performers when it is coming close to their time to be on stage.

Last week we looked at the preparation giving through the angelic announcement to Zechariah that his wife, Elizabeth would give birth to a child in her old age. This was part of the script. It was to coming of John the Baptist, a cousin to Jesus. He had a purpose to prepare also the way of Jesus during his public ministry.

The cue prompters in this Christmas story seem to be the angels. They are the one given lines, but do so as announcer to the characters in the story. We know that angels are messengers of God. They go and do what God desires. The Hebrew word translated angel, literally means a sent one. “Angelos” the Greek word, means messenger. They were the messengers to prepare by letting Mary and Joseph and the Shepherds know their parts. And in fact there was even a crowd scene for them coming up as part of the chorus.

. This day Gabriel is a chosen angel to deliver the Christmas message to Mary. Gabriel is a special messenger mentioned a number of times in the Bible

Wouldn’t it be great if we were as eager to give the messages from God to men and women? We have been given a message of Good News. To whom can we share it this week?

Pastor Dale

Sermon Nuggets Tues Dec 6 Luke 1:28-29

Verses- Luke 1: 28 And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.

29 And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be.

Blessed Art Thou

This time of year FedEX, UPS, and the USPS are all folks delivering packages. The workers look at the name and the address of a package and are paid to see that household gets it. If their customers are like me they really aren’t that interested in the delivery person, but what is in the package and who it was that was sending them this gift. What most folks don't do is go to the door and gush all over the delivery person, "Oh! I'm so glad you came. Please come in for some lunch, sit down, tell me all about yourself." But some people treat the heavenly messengers that way.

Some will sin by worshipping angels and praying to angels. There are passages I the Bible where they speak to angels, but not pray for them Those requests and words of praise are reserved for the sender. The sender is God.

Angels are so much part of our society’s folklore and decorations, and Christmas cards, movies and TV programs.

We know the name of the special delivery agent to Mary the Mother of Jesus. The angel’s name was Gabriel who appeared in Galilee, in the town of Nazareth, to Mary, a virgin, engaged to marry Joseph and announced to her that she would miraculously conceive a son and bring forth Jesus, the Son of God.

Heb 1:14: reminds us "Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?" So they are ministering spirits sent by God to serve the saints. If we fuss over them, we miss the point. What's important is who sent them. He's the one to pursue.

“Blessed,” cried a woman one day to Jesus, “is she that bare thee” He added “Yea, rather blessed are they that hear the Word of God and keep it.” This Mary is blessed among women. The word of the Lord’s angel is true. She is highly favored of God. It is a personal blessing. Gabriel said twice that Mary was favored by God. God favored Mary, but she is not our intercessor between us and God. 1 Timothy 2:5 ‘For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus”

The Bible never says that Mary is anything more than a regular human being who found favor with God. And she is the one who humbly believes and receives with joy the good news. In that is she most blessed.

What has the eyes of the angels seen? They have seen the Lord up in the heavens preparing his coming. They have seen how in his sovereignty he has planned out each person’s part to fulfill prophecy and those he picks are humble, but blessed. Gabriel was picked to give the word to Mary. The angel understood the blessing of that appointment. Gabriel was in awe that an earthly woman would be chosen of God to deliver Jesus, divine in a fully human body.

This was a once in a lifetime experience never to be repeated again. She was to be the object of the grace of God. This was not a position she earned, but received. Many other people can share in the grace of God with various tasks. Eve was the first woman and God’s grace to be a mother. There were women leaders and judges too. There are men chosen to lead Israel as prophets and priests and kings. But to deliver God the Son into the world is a privilege granted to just Mary. Gabriel understood how highly favored she was.

Can you image the responsibility it would be to raise from babyhood the Son of God? Can you imagine the many thoughts that went through her mind? Who would be worthy? No one. But by God’s grace he involves humans in his greater plan for various purposes and tasks. To all of that we see the blessing from above and give God the praise.

Pastor Dale

Sermon Nuggets Weds Dec 7 Fear Not

Verse Luke 1: 30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.

31 And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.

32 He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:

33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.

Fear Not

Can you imagine the scene as Mary is about her business and this heavenly messenger materializes and Gabriel stands before her? Of course she would be afraid. But Gabriel wanted to put her mind to rest. Good things would came from this message. The good news was she had found favor with God. The angel wanted her to know what he knew. She was to be blessed for grace was given to her. This gift had noting to do with anything she did. It happened to her.

Obviously the explanation needed to be required. Since she is a virgin what happened was impossible from a human perspective. It was a child unlike any other. He would be hers, but without any husband or man. The Lord would see to it He would come through her.

The angel had seen some of the script, but not all of it 1 Peter 1:12 “It was revealed to them (prophets) that they were not serving themselves, but you, in these things which now have been announced to you through those who preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven — things into which angels long to look.”

Interesting that angels are outsiders looking in like a FedEx delivery person watching as we open up a package addressed to us. They were excited for us. For not only did they know the sovereignty of God who could do the impossible but they knew what was in the package and what wonderful gift that was given. It was to be the gift that would bring about salvation. This was promised from the line of David. As king he shall rule over the house of Jacob and of his kingdom there shall be no end. The angel knew Mary and Joseph were descendants of David, Jacob, Judah, and Abraham, just as the script said it would be.
The angel was revealing that when God makes a promise, He keeps His Word, even if it takes thousands of years .We usually have a very difficult time waiting on God, but not the angels because they see things we do not. They see a sovereign God who will do what he says in his time. They have the insight of eternity. We do not. This angel of the Lord revealed that God keeps His promises long after many would forget for He is faithful.

But more importantly that being a king over the household of Judah He shall be called Son of the Highest. He is Gods’ son. His name shall be Jesus. The name Jesus means Jehovah saves! There is salvation in no other! Had salvation been possible any other way Jesus wouldn’t have had to be born those many years ago. But there’s salvation no other way. Jesus said that He was the way, the only way, "for no man comes to the Father except through me." The plan was to see this son grow to take our place for the punishment of sin by dying as the punishment so we can be free.

What Gabriel was proclaiming was not only a Sovereign God, but a Saving God. The saving of human beings and the keeping and blessing of the saved is the greatest business that even God Himself in Heaven, and Christ the Son and the Holy Spirit and all the angels of God, can occupy themselves with! Up in Heaven their attention is centered primarily on earth. How the angels delight to see sinners converted! And how lovingly they minister to the saved! And this gift is given to you and me and all who by faith will receive Him. That certainly would take away any fear.

Pastor Dale

Sermon Nuggets Thurs Dec 8

Verses- Luke 1: 34 Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?

35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.

36 And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren.

37 For with God nothing shall be impossible.

Impossibilities

“The power of the Most high will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. “ What was Mary’s response? I am the Lord’s servant,” and her song is the soul glorifies the Lord, nothing about praise for the angel. But all the praise goes to God. Gabriel is delighted to do the marvelous work seeing God get glory.

What the angels see at Christmas is the power of God to do what he wants and the excitement that it is going to be revealed so others will get a glimpse of his glory. God can do the impossible. He is to be praised. They saw God create the world out of the power of his WORD. They saw the way he fashioned mankind out of dust and decided to make it a living soul. They saw the God who does the impossible by taking a rib and creating a helpmate for man. He can blow the waters of the Red sea part. He can make rock give water. He can change dew into bread. There is nothing he cannot do. So it takes angels eyes to know this lady needed convincing that virgin can give birth to a son if this is what the sovereign director says He wants. It will be. For nothing is impossible with God!”

How do we reveal the power of God to so whatever He wants? The angel told Mary that God had the power to make her cousin Elizabeth to get pregnant, even though she was too old to have kids and she had so far been barren. Gabriel was telling Mary that if God had the power to make a woman have a child who was an old woman and who had never been able to have any kids, then he could surely cause Mary to have a child without having a husband and this child was going to be Son’s son. If God had the power to create the universe by simply speaking it into being, He can surely create a child in a virgin! If God had the power to create Adam from the dust of the earth with no father OR mother whatsoever, then He could surely create a child from just a woman! If God had the power to use a small shepherd boy to kill a nine-foot-tall giant, He could surely create a child in a virgin! If God had the power to cause a great rain to flood the entire earth, He could surely create a child in a virgin! If God had the power to start a fire on a heavily water-soaked pile of wood, He could surely create a child in a virgin!
I heard recently there are companies that take an ultrasound picture of unborn children to give the parents their first pictures of their child. It takes a few weeks in the womb before they can determine if it is a boy or girl. In Mary’s case, however, the divine messenger declared that Mary is to give birth to a son, and this declaration was made before the child was even conceived.

But the angel delighted to bring the message of how a great God was going to accomplish benefits for you and me in their life. And what they saw was the power of God to do the impossible. This time he was going to outdo Himself, by becoming a baby from a virgin.

The message of power is summed up in these words “Nothing is impossible.”

Pastor Dale

Sermon Nuggets Fri Dec 9 -

Verse Luke 1:38 And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.

Trust

As we have been looking at the angelic visit to Mary to announce God’s plan for this virgin to deliver the Son of God, we should remind ourselves some things about Mary. She was young. Mary was pledged to be married. At that time, it was customary for girls to be engaged around the time of reaching puberty. One reason was to ensure girls maintained their virginity until marriage. It’s very possible that Mary could have been as young as 13, or as old as 16 when Gabriel visited her.
She was poor. We understand that also from when Mary and Joseph went to the temple to have Jesus circumcised. Their sin offering was two doves used by the poor instead of a lamb for those with more money.

She also was rural, from Nazareth. Is that reason for humility? We know lots of prideful people out in the country. Remember what Nathanael said when He learned Jesus from Nazareth? “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” I am assuming that was so because of being less educated, less economy, maybe a reputation of poorer communities with crime and lack of social skills.

Yet Mary had two vital characteristics God looks for: humility and faith. She knew she wasn’t worthy of the honor God offered her. Yet she still believed God could use her, if she trusted Him. Do you believe God can use you? Or do you think you’re too small—too young, too poor, too weak to be used by Him?
“If you think you are too small to be effective, you have never been in bed with a mosquito.” - Betty Reese.
Do you think you are useless to God? Think again. God is searching for humble people to use. Mary teaches us no matter who you are, God can use you.

When she heard she was a going to have a baby without being with a man and God’s Spirit would provide the conception, she didn’t doubt it. God can do whatever He chooses. “Let it happen just as you said.” Even though the angel’s news was unbelievable, she believed it. Mary didn’t understand it, but she also didn’t doubt it. She believed that no matter what He has promised, the Lord is sovereign.

Mary believed that “nothing is impossible with God.” Whatever God promises, He will do it. She believed!
What promises of God are you tempted to doubt? Are there areas of your life that you do not wish to yield to the Lord’s control? Are you willing to do whatever He asks of you? Do you realize His power is manifested in people who are obedience, of faith, and humble?

Our job is to trust. His job is to do the wondrous works for His glory.

Pastor Dale