Day 356 - 22 December 2021 reflections
Day 356, 22 December 2021
1)
2 Timothy
2 Timothy 1
Salutation
1 (2Co 1:1; Eph 3:6) Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God,
according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus,
2 (1Ti 1:2; Ro 1:7) To Timothy, my beloved son:
Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
Loyalty to the Gospel
3 (Ro 1:8-9; Ac 23:1) I thank God, whom I serve with a pure conscience as my
forefathers did, as I continually remember you in my prayers night and day,
4 (2Ti 4:9; 4:21) greatly desiring to see you, remembering your tears,
that I may be filled with joy,
5 (Ac 16:1; 1Ti 1:5) remembering the genuine faith that first lived
in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and that I am persuaded
lives in you also.
6 (1Ti 4:14; 1Th 5:19) Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God,
which is in you by the laying on of my hands.
7 (Ro 8:15; Ac 1:8) For God has not given us the spirit of fear,
but of power, and love, and self-control.
8 (Mk 8:38; Eph 3:1) So do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord,
nor of me, His prisoner. But share in the sufferings of the gospel
by the power of God,
9 (Ro 16:25; Titus 1:2) who has saved us and called us with a holy calling,
not by our works, but by His own purpose and grace, which was given us
in Christ Jesus before the world began,
10 (Ro 2:7; 16:26) but is now revealed by the appearing of our Saviour,
Jesus Christ, who has abolished death and has brought life
and immortality to light through the gospel,
11 (1Ti 2:7) for which I was appointed a preacher, an apostle,
and a teacher of the Gentiles.
12 (2Ti 1:8; 1Ti 6:20; 1Pe 4:19) For these things I suffer, but I am not
ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is
able to keep that which I have committed to Him until that Day.
13 (1Ti 1:14; Titus 1:9) Follow the pattern of sound teaching
which you have heard from me in the faith and love that is in Christ Jesus.
14 (Ro 8:9; 1Ti 6:20) Guard the treasure that was committed to you through
the Holy Spirit who lives in us.
15 (2Ti 4:16; Ac 19:10) You know that all those who are in Asia have turned
away from me, including Phygelus and Hermogenes.
16 (2Ti 4:19; Ac 28:20) May the Lord grant mercy to the house of Onesiphorus,
for he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains.
17 But when he arrived in Rome, he searched me out very diligently
and found me.
18 (2Ti 1:12; Heb 6:10) May the Lord grant that he may find mercy
from the Lord on that Day. You know very well how many ways he ministered
to me at Ephesus.
2 Timothy 2
A Good Soldier of Christ Jesus
1 (Eph 6:10; 2Ti 1:2) So you, my son, be strong
in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
2 (1Ti 1:18; 6:12) Share the things that you have heard from me
in the presence of many witnesses with faithful men who will be able
to teach others also.
3 (1Ti 1:18; 2Ti 1:8) Endure hard times as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.
4 (2Pe 2:20) No soldier on active duty entangles himself
with civilian affairs, that he may please the enlisting officer.
5 Anyone who competes as an athlete is not rewarded without competing legally.
6 The farmer who labors should be first to partake of the crops.
7 Consider what I am saying, and may the Lord grant you understanding
in all things.
8 (Mt 1:1; Ro 2:16) Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead,
descended from David, according to my gospel,
9 (Php 1:7; 2Ti 1:8) in which I suffer trouble like a criminal,
even with chains. But the word of God is not bound.
10 (Col 1:24; 2Co 1:6; 4:17) Therefore I endure all things for the sake
of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ
Jesus with eternal glory.
11 (Ro 6:8; 1Th 5:10) This is a faithful saying:
If we die with Him,
we shall also live with Him.
12 (Mt 10:33; Ro 8:17) If we endure,
we shall also reign with Him.
If we deny Him,
He also will deny us.
13 (Nu 23:19; Ro 3:3) If we are faithless,
He remains faithful;
He cannot deny Himself.
An Approved Workman
14 (1Ti 5:21; 2Ti 2:23) Remind them of these things, commanding them before
the Lord that they not argue about words, which leads to nothing of value
and to the destruction of those who hear them.
15 (Mt 13:52) Study to show yourself approved by God, a workman who need
not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
16 (Titus 3:9; 1Ti 6:20) But avoid profane foolish babblings, for they will
increase to more ungodliness,
17 (1Ti 1:20) and their word will spread like gangrene: Among them are
Hymenaeus and Philetus,
18 (1Co 15:12; 1Ti 1:19) who have erred concerning the truth,
saying that the resurrection has already occurred,
and who overthrow the faith of some.
19 (Jn 10:14; Isa 28:16) But the firm foundation of God stands,
having this seal, "The Lord knows those who are His," and,
"Let everyone who calls on the name of Christ depart from iniquity."
20 (1Ti 3:15) In a large house there are not only gold and silver vessels,
but also those of wood and clay; some are for honor, and some for dishonour.
21 (2Ti 3:17; Isa 52:11) One who cleanses himself from these things will be
a vessel for honor, sanctified, fit for the Master's use,
and prepared for every good work.
22 (1Ti 6:11; 1:5; 4:12) So flee youthful desires and pursue righteousness,
faith, love, and peace, with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
23 (Titus 3:9; 2Ti 2:14) But avoid foolish and unlearned debates, knowing
that they create strife.
24 (1Ti 3:2-3; Titus 3:2) The servant of the Lord must not quarrel,
but must be gentle toward all people, able to teach, patient,
25 (1Ti 2:4; Ac 8:22) in gentleness instructing those in opposition.
Perhaps God will grant them repentance to know the truth,
26 (1Ti 3:7) and they may escape from the snare of the devil,
after being captured by him to do his will.
2 Timothy 3
The Last Days
1 (Eze 38:16; 2Pe 3:3) Know this: In the last days perilous times will come.
2 (Php 2:21; Jude 1:16) Men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money,
boastful, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
3 (Ro 1:31; 1Ti 3:11) without natural affection, trucebreakers, slanderers,
unrestrained, fierce, despisers of those who are good,
4 (1Ti 3:6) traitors, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasures
more than lovers of God, 51Ti 5:8; Mt 7:15having a form of godliness,
but denying its power. Turn away from such people.
6 (Titus 3:3; Jude 1:4) Those of this nature creep into houses
and captivate silly women who are burdened with sins
and led away with various desires,
7 (1Ti 2:4; 2Ti 2:25) always learning, but never able to come
to the knowledge of the truth.
8 (Ex 7:11; 1Ti 6:5) Now as Jannes and Jambres resisted Moses,
so these also resist the truth, men of corrupt minds
and worthless concerning the faith.
9 (Ex 7:12; 9:11) But they shall proceed no further,
for their folly will be revealed to everyone, as theirs also was.
Last Charge to Timothy
10 (Php 2:22; 1Ti 4:6) But you have observed my doctrine, manner of life, purpose,
faith, tolerance, love, patience,
11 (Ps 34:19; Ac 13:45) persecutions, and afflictions, which came to me
at Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra-what persecutions I endured!
But the Lord delivered me out of them all.
12 (Ac 14:22; Titus 2:12) Yes, and all who desire to live a godly life
in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.
13 But evil men and seducers will grow worse and worse, deceiving
and being deceived.
14 (2Ti 1:13) But continue in the things that you have learned
and have been assured of, knowing those from whom you have learned them,
15 (2Ti 1:5) and that since childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures,
which are able to make you wise unto salvation through the faith that is
in Christ Jesus.
16 (Ro 15:4) All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching,
for reproof, for correction, and for instruction in righteousness,
17 (1Ti 6:11; 2Ti 2:21) that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly
equipped for every good work.
2 Timothy 4
1 (Ac 10:42; 1Ti 5:21) I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus
Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing
and His kingdom:
2 (Titus 1:13; 2:15) Preach the word, be ready in season and out of season,
reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with all patience and teaching.
3 (1Ti 1:10) For the time will come when people will not endure sound
doctrine, but they will gather to themselves teachers in accordance
with their own desires, having itching ears,
4 (1Ti 1:4; 4:7) and they will turn their ears away from the truth
and turn to myths.
5 (Ac 21:8; 2Ti 1:8) But be self-controlled in all things,
endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist,
and prove your ministry.
6 (Php 1:23; 2:17) For I am already being poured out as a drink offering,
and the time of my departure has come.
7 (Ac 20:24; 1Ti 6:12) I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course,
and I have kept the faith.
8 (Col 1:5; 2Ti 1:12) From now on a crown of righteousness is laid up for me,
which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on that Day, and not only
to me but also to all who have loved His appearing.
Personal Instructions
9 (2Ti 1:4; 4:21) Diligently try to come to me soon.
10 (Ac 16:6; 17:1) Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present world,
and has departed to Thessalonica, Crescens to Galatia, and Titus to Dalmatia.
11 (Ac 12:12; Col 4:14) Only Luke is with me. Get Mark, and bring him with you,
for he is profitable to me for the ministry.
12 (Ac 20:4; Eph 6:21) I sent Tychicus to Ephesus.
13 (Ac 16:8) When you come, bring with you the cloak that I left
at Troas with Carpus, and the books, but especially the parchments.
14 (1Ti 1:20; Ps 28:4) Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil.
May the Lord reward him according to his works.
15 Beware of him, for he has greatly opposed our words.
16 (Ac 7:60) At my first defense no one stood with me,
but everyone forsook me. May it not be charged against them.
17 (Ac 9:15; Ps 22:21) But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me,
so that through me the preaching might be fully known, and that
all the Gentiles might hear. And I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.
18 (Ro 11:36; Ps 121:7) The Lord will deliver me from every evil work
and will preserve me for His heavenly kingdom, to whom be glory forever
and ever. Amen.
Final Greetings
19 (Ac 18:2) Greet Priscilla and Aquila and the household of Onesiphorus.
20 (Ac 20:4; 19:22) Erastus remained at Corinth, and I have left Trophimus
ill in Miletus.
21 (2Ti 4:9) Diligently try to come before winter. Eubulus greets you,
and so do Pudens, Linus, Claudia, and all the brothers.
22 (Gal 6:18; Col 4:18) The Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.
Grace be with you. Amen.
2) Our Daily Bread for 22 December 2021
https://odb.org/CA/2021/12/22/virtual-presence
entitled Virtual Presence
Colossians 2
1 (Col 1:29; Rev 1:11) I would like you to know what a great struggle
I am having for you, and for those at Laodicea,
and for everyone who has not seen my face in the flesh,
2 (Col 4:8; Ro 16:25) that their hearts may be comforted, being knit together
in love, and receive all the riches and assurance of full understanding,
and knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ,
3 (Ro 11:33; 1Co 1:24) in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom
and knowledge.
4 (Eph 5:6) Now this I say lest anyone beguile you with enticing words.
5 (1Co 14:40; 1Pe 5:9) For though I am absent in the flesh,
yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing and seeing your orderliness
and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ.
As the novel coronavirus marched across the globe, health experts advised
increased physical distance between people as a means to slow the spread.
Many countries asked their citizens to self-quarantine or shelter in place.
Organizations sent employees home to work remotely if they could,
while others suffered a financially debilitating loss of employment.
Like others, I participated in church and small-group meetings
through digital platforms. As a world, we practiced new forms
of togetherness despite being physically disconnected.
It isn’t just the internet that lets us maintain a sense of connection.
We connect to one another as members of the body of Christ through the Spirit.
Paul expressed this notion centuries ago in his letter to the Colossians.
Though he hadn't personally founded their church, he cared deeply
for them and their faith. And even though Paul couldn't be with them
in person, he reminded them that he was "with you in spirit" (Colossians 2:5).
We can't always be with those we love for financial, health,
or other practical reasons, and technology can help fill that gap.
Yet any form of virtual connection pales in comparison to the "togetherness"
we can experience as fellow members of the body of Christ
(1 Corinthians 12:27). In such moments, we can, like Paul,
rejoice in one another's firmness of faith and, through prayer,
encourage each other to fully
"knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ,"
(Colossians 2:2).
By: Kirsten Holmberg
Reflect & Pray
How have you experienced a sense of connection with other
members of the body of Christ? Who needs your prayers
of encouragement today?
Jesus, thank You for being with me even
when no other person can be physically present.
Thank You for the connection You give me to others through the Holy Spirit.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 6 Showing Grace to Others - Day 4 "Formula" for Forgiveness
Luke 17:3 - 4
3 (Lev 19:17; Mt 18:21)"Take heed to yourselves."
"If your brother sins against you, rebuke him. And if he repents, forgive
him. 4 (Mt 18:21–22) If he sins against you seven times in a day,
and seven times in a day turns to you, saying,
'I repent,' you must forgive him."
The context of these verses give us an interesting perspective of Jesus'
disciples. In a corollary passage in Matthew 18, the disciples (through
Peter, the designated mouthpiece) ask Jesus,
21 (Mt 18:15; Lk 17:3–4) Then Peter came to Him and said,
"Lord, how often shall I forgive my brother who sins against me?
Up to seven times?" (Matthew 18:21)
The disciples wanted a "formula" for forgiveness: they wanted to be able to
develop a checklist. Once, twice, maybe three times a brother could be
forgiven, but after that, you could write him off. After all, if
he keeps on offending over and over again, he doesn't deserve to be forgiven!
But Jesus says, " Rebuke him - let him know his fault; if he repents,
forgive him - even seven times in the same day!"
And the disciplines' response is predictable: "Lord, increase our faith!" They
were more comfortable with their own formula for forgiveness than with the
outrageous demands of the love that Christ imposed upon them.
We are so like the disciples. We want to draw a line and say. "This far
- no more. I'll forgive you once, but don't do it again. Now that you're
forgiven, you'd better shape up!". Yet God's love doesn't recognise "again".
He forgives, and no matter how often we come to him in repentance
for repeated offenses, his arms of forgiveness are open to us.
That is the way God wants us to forgive. He wants us to lay aside our
checklists, put away our suspicions, abandon our scoreboards, and forgive.
Seven times, or seventy times seven, as often as we have sinned against God
and been forgiven, we are to forgive.
Application
a) Have I ever kept a "scorecard" of performance on someone I
have forgiven ? Why?
b) Why do I need "increased faith" to be able to forgive as
Jesus calls me to?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
3 John 2
2 Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be
in good health, even as your soul is well.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
God's Inexhaustible Strength
Is 40:27-31
27 Why do you say, O Jacob,
and assert, O Israel,
"My way is hidden from the Lord,
and my justice escapes the notice of my God"?
28 (Ps 147:5; Ge 21:33; Isa 57:15) Have you not known?
Have you not heard,
that the everlasting God, the Lord,
the Creator of the ends of the earth,
does not faint, nor is He weary?
His understanding is inscrutable.
29 (Isa 41:10) He gives power to the faint,
and to those who have no might He increases strength.
30 (Isa 9:17) Even the youths shall faint and be weary,
and the young men shall utterly fall,
31 (2Co 4:16; Ps 103:5; Ex 19:4) but those who wait upon the Lord
shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings as eagles,
they shall run and not be weary,
and they shall walk and not faint.
The Lord's prayer
Matthew 6:9-13
9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2021 edition?)
The Northern Territories of Canada
Yukon
Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69
In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families
in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,
they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Northwest Territories (NWT)
NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473
The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 in the past year.
To replace their inadequate facility, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million
Islamic Centre.
Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to
spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.
Nunavut (NU)
NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86
The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed
80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.
Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam
in the far Northern reaches of Canada."
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
Adding further
30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020
Under the Keep Praying page
When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month
and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days
of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that
usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,
of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be
decorated and festivals will be held.
For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the
distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of
Islam.
You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",
which means Blessed Eid!"
Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you
know, and Muslims around the world:
- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions
in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about
unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such
movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three
decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim
relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.
Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,
"What does this mean?"
13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."
Peter's Speech at Pentecost
14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice
and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,
let this be known to you, and listen to my words.
15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,
since it is the third hour of the day.
16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,
'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;
your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams.'
- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for
Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.
Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a
hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under
a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the
house."
Ideas for prayer
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further
call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity
(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...) .
7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada
http://www.ehc.ca
22nd Day of the Month
a) Pray for the Province of Quebec
I) Pray for the leaders of Quebec,
that God's Spirit would influence
then to act justly,
serve with integrity
and honour high moral standards. ( 1 Tim 2:1 - 4
1 Therefore I exhort first of all that you make supplications,
prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings for everyone,
2 (Ezr 6:10) for kings and for all who are in authority,
that we may lead a quiet and peaceful life in all godliness and honesty,
3(1Ti 1:1; Lk 1:47) for this is good
and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior,
4 (Eze 18:23; 18:32)who desires all men to be saved
and to come to the knowledge of the truth. )
II) Pray for the churches of the province,
that they would be lighthouses
beaming forth the illuminating truth of God's Word.
III) Pray that the Lord would use
the Finding the Hope Campaign
and booklet to turn many hearts to Jesus
b) Pray that the influence of the Holy Spirit would dissolve
every argument and pretension exalted against the knowledge
of God.
(
2 Cor 10: 3 - 5
3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh.
4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God
to the pulling down of strongholds, 5 casting down imaginations and every
high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every
thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,
)
Advent day 25
From C.S. Lewis A Grand Miracle by Joel Heck
"Enemy-occupied territory-that is what this world is.
Christianity is the story of how the rightful king has landed...
and is calling us all to take part in a great campaign of sabotage.
When you go to church you are really listening-in to the secret
wireless from our friends: that is why the enemy is so anxious
to prevent us from going." - C. S. Lewis
(Read this and more in Mere Christianity, p. 46.)
A Campaign of Sabotage
C. S. Lewis wrote his most influential book, Mere Christianity,
in the middle of World War Two. The talks that became the basis
for this book were broadcast on the BBC between 1941 and 1944.
Lewis used numerous military allusions in that book,
in one case describing this world as "enemy-occupied territory."
Humanity has been invaded by an enemy: Satan.
He occupies the territory in which we live. "The rightful king"
has arrived and is in the process of taking back the territory,
but not as the Allies did on D-Day, June 6, 1944,
invading the beaches of Normandy in a full-scale assault
on German positions.
Jesus did not use tanks, planes, or artillery.
He arrived almost incognito. Few knew, even though it had been
predicted for centuÂries. Jesus came in disguise-as a baby.
No one would expect much opposition from a baby, but babies
have the power to wrap their parents around their little finger.
This baby had a lot more power than that, in fact, all power
and authority, and one day that auÂthority will be visible
for all to see. But not yet.
Until then, we Christians acknowledge the power and authority
of this rightful king. We participate in his campaign of sabotage
against the enemy. We arm ourselves with the sword of the Spirit,
the Word of God, and with the shield of faith, the breastplate
of righteousness, the belt of truth, and the shoes of the gospel
of peace. The message of the gospel is our best sabotage
against the power of Satan. Its power to forgive sins
is our best weapon.
Jesus, my King, make me aware of the enemy,
aware of your power over him, and especially
aware of your power to forgive sins. Amen.
10 (Eph 1:19; 1Co 16:13) Finally, my brothers, be strong in the Lord
and in the power of His might.
11 (Eph 6:13; Ro 13:12; Eph 4:14) Put on the whole armour of God that
you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.
Ephesians 6:10-11
From Follow the Story by Marva J. Dawn
WEDNESDAY, FOURTH WEEK OF ADVENT
Exactly The Right Time
In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus
that the entire inhabited earth should be taxed.
-Luke 2:1
God's timing is always stunning! When it was exactly the right
moment for the Christ Child to be born, "all the world" cooperated.
The Emperor Augustus issued an order,
and everyone had to go to their ancestral home.
This was the first registration, we are notified in verse 2,
to be commanded when Quirinius was governor of Syria.
Whether this means that other enrollments were levied later on we
are not told, but this one made history-not because of its intention
to number the extent of the Roman Empire or to record the names
of Rome's conquerees for taxation purposes, but because the titles
of those rulers are now perpetually associated with the Messiah's birth.
You were born, too, at exactly the right time. God planned all your gifts
and calculated at what point in history your presence would be pivotal.
How we adore the All-Knowing One for his incredible timing!
Prayer
How can we adequately praise you, Great Designer,
that we were born when we could best serve you? Amen.
Read Luke 2:1-7.
Luke 2
The Birth of Jesus
Mt 1:18-25
1 (Lk 3:1; Mt 24:14) In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus
that the entire inhabited earth should be taxed.
2 (Lk 3:1) This taxation was first made when Quirinius was governor of Syria.
3 And everyone went to his own city to be taxed.
4 (Jn 7:42; 1Sa 16:1) So Joseph also departed from the city of Nazareth
in Galilee to the City of David which is called Bethlehem, in Judea,
because he was of the house and lineage of David,
5 to be taxed with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.
6 So while they were there, the day came for her to give birth.
7 (Mt 1:25; Lk 2:11-12) And she gave birth to her firstborn Son,
and wrapped Him in strips of cloth, and laid Him in a manger,
because there was no room for them in the inn.
From the Ah-Has of Advent by Rich Bimler
FOURTH WEDNESDAY
AH-HA! Ambassadors of Health, Hope and ADORATION!
And his name shall be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.ISAIAH 9:6
In the days leading up to Christmas we're counting the days. The malls
are full. The carols continue. The Santas are weary. The mail carriers are
burdened. The children are hyper. And we can almost hear the cattle
lowing (whatever lowing is!.
In theses days we're ready to adore the Baby Jesus. as well we should.
Today's lesson spells it out so well: "A child has been born for us, a son
given to us." "Oh, come let us adore him. Christ the Lord!"
But look again in the stable. For too long we've seen the manger as
a "sanitary shed," white and neat and clean and perfect. But it wasn't
that way at all. It was messy and smelly and germy and . .. well ... human.
And that's exactly why we adore him! Because Christ didn't wait for us
to clean up our dirty and messy lives before he came to redeem us.
Not at all:H e entered our sin-filled stables "lust as we are." He came as
a God sized man to rid us of our man-sized gods.
Check out the Christmas cards you are receiving. How many of them really
'depict the human stable where Jesus was born? He may look "adorable,"
but that is not why we adore him. We adore him because he has come
to be our Saviour. And we might add: our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace!
Lord, we come to adore you because you have come to us. Keep coming,
Lord. into our messy lives. Clean us up as only you can do.
In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Read Isaiah 9:2-7.
2 (Eph 5:8; Mt 4:16) The people who walked in darkness
have seen a great light;
those who dwell in the land of the shadow of death,
upon them the light has shined.
3 (1Sa 30:16; Isa 26:15) You have multiplied the nation
and increased the joy;
they rejoice before You
according to the joy of harvest
and as men rejoice
when they divide the spoil.
4 (Isa 14:25; 10:26-27) For You have broken the yoke of his burden
and the bar of his shoulder,
the rod of his oppressor
as in the day of Midian's defeat.
5 For all the sandals of the tramping warriors
and all the garments rolled in blood
shall be burned as fuel for the fire.
6 (Isa 7:14; Mt 28:18; Lk 2:11) 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 Counselor, Mighty God,
Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.
7 (Isa 37:32; Da 2:44) Of the increase of his government and peace
there shall be no end,
upon the throne of David
and over his kingdom,
to order it and to establish it
with justice and with righteousness,
from now until forever.
The zeal of the Lord of Hosts
will perform this.
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to be inspired by Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Pray to the Lord "Jesus, thank You for being with me even
when no other person can be physically present.
Thank You for the connection You give me to others through the Holy Spirit."
Pray to the Lord and pray to be boundlessly forgiving.
Pray to the Lord and pray for spiritual well being.
Pray to the Lord and pray to renew His strength in Him.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to
spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
Pray that the influence of the Holy Spirit would dissolve
every argument and pretension exalted against the knowledge
of God.
Jesus, my King, make me aware of the enemy,
aware of your power over him, and especially
aware of your power to forgive sins. Amen.
Pray: How can we adequately praise you, Great Designer,
that we were born when we could best serve you? Amen.
Pray: Lord, we come to adore you because you have come to us. Keep coming,
Lord. into our messy lives. Clean us up as only you can do.
In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Pray for the perseverance of the church in Cameroon
in areas where Boko Haram militants remain active.
Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.
and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness
Remember eternity starts now -
Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.
1)
2 Timothy
2 Timothy 1
Salutation
1 (2Co 1:1; Eph 3:6) Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God,
according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus,
2 (1Ti 1:2; Ro 1:7) To Timothy, my beloved son:
Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
Loyalty to the Gospel
3 (Ro 1:8-9; Ac 23:1) I thank God, whom I serve with a pure conscience as my
forefathers did, as I continually remember you in my prayers night and day,
4 (2Ti 4:9; 4:21) greatly desiring to see you, remembering your tears,
that I may be filled with joy,
5 (Ac 16:1; 1Ti 1:5) remembering the genuine faith that first lived
in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and that I am persuaded
lives in you also.
6 (1Ti 4:14; 1Th 5:19) Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God,
which is in you by the laying on of my hands.
7 (Ro 8:15; Ac 1:8) For God has not given us the spirit of fear,
but of power, and love, and self-control.
8 (Mk 8:38; Eph 3:1) So do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord,
nor of me, His prisoner. But share in the sufferings of the gospel
by the power of God,
9 (Ro 16:25; Titus 1:2) who has saved us and called us with a holy calling,
not by our works, but by His own purpose and grace, which was given us
in Christ Jesus before the world began,
10 (Ro 2:7; 16:26) but is now revealed by the appearing of our Saviour,
Jesus Christ, who has abolished death and has brought life
and immortality to light through the gospel,
11 (1Ti 2:7) for which I was appointed a preacher, an apostle,
and a teacher of the Gentiles.
12 (2Ti 1:8; 1Ti 6:20; 1Pe 4:19) For these things I suffer, but I am not
ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is
able to keep that which I have committed to Him until that Day.
13 (1Ti 1:14; Titus 1:9) Follow the pattern of sound teaching
which you have heard from me in the faith and love that is in Christ Jesus.
14 (Ro 8:9; 1Ti 6:20) Guard the treasure that was committed to you through
the Holy Spirit who lives in us.
15 (2Ti 4:16; Ac 19:10) You know that all those who are in Asia have turned
away from me, including Phygelus and Hermogenes.
16 (2Ti 4:19; Ac 28:20) May the Lord grant mercy to the house of Onesiphorus,
for he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains.
17 But when he arrived in Rome, he searched me out very diligently
and found me.
18 (2Ti 1:12; Heb 6:10) May the Lord grant that he may find mercy
from the Lord on that Day. You know very well how many ways he ministered
to me at Ephesus.
2 Timothy 2
A Good Soldier of Christ Jesus
1 (Eph 6:10; 2Ti 1:2) So you, my son, be strong
in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
2 (1Ti 1:18; 6:12) Share the things that you have heard from me
in the presence of many witnesses with faithful men who will be able
to teach others also.
3 (1Ti 1:18; 2Ti 1:8) Endure hard times as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.
4 (2Pe 2:20) No soldier on active duty entangles himself
with civilian affairs, that he may please the enlisting officer.
5 Anyone who competes as an athlete is not rewarded without competing legally.
6 The farmer who labors should be first to partake of the crops.
7 Consider what I am saying, and may the Lord grant you understanding
in all things.
8 (Mt 1:1; Ro 2:16) Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead,
descended from David, according to my gospel,
9 (Php 1:7; 2Ti 1:8) in which I suffer trouble like a criminal,
even with chains. But the word of God is not bound.
10 (Col 1:24; 2Co 1:6; 4:17) Therefore I endure all things for the sake
of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ
Jesus with eternal glory.
11 (Ro 6:8; 1Th 5:10) This is a faithful saying:
If we die with Him,
we shall also live with Him.
12 (Mt 10:33; Ro 8:17) If we endure,
we shall also reign with Him.
If we deny Him,
He also will deny us.
13 (Nu 23:19; Ro 3:3) If we are faithless,
He remains faithful;
He cannot deny Himself.
An Approved Workman
14 (1Ti 5:21; 2Ti 2:23) Remind them of these things, commanding them before
the Lord that they not argue about words, which leads to nothing of value
and to the destruction of those who hear them.
15 (Mt 13:52) Study to show yourself approved by God, a workman who need
not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
16 (Titus 3:9; 1Ti 6:20) But avoid profane foolish babblings, for they will
increase to more ungodliness,
17 (1Ti 1:20) and their word will spread like gangrene: Among them are
Hymenaeus and Philetus,
18 (1Co 15:12; 1Ti 1:19) who have erred concerning the truth,
saying that the resurrection has already occurred,
and who overthrow the faith of some.
19 (Jn 10:14; Isa 28:16) But the firm foundation of God stands,
having this seal, "The Lord knows those who are His," and,
"Let everyone who calls on the name of Christ depart from iniquity."
20 (1Ti 3:15) In a large house there are not only gold and silver vessels,
but also those of wood and clay; some are for honor, and some for dishonour.
21 (2Ti 3:17; Isa 52:11) One who cleanses himself from these things will be
a vessel for honor, sanctified, fit for the Master's use,
and prepared for every good work.
22 (1Ti 6:11; 1:5; 4:12) So flee youthful desires and pursue righteousness,
faith, love, and peace, with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
23 (Titus 3:9; 2Ti 2:14) But avoid foolish and unlearned debates, knowing
that they create strife.
24 (1Ti 3:2-3; Titus 3:2) The servant of the Lord must not quarrel,
but must be gentle toward all people, able to teach, patient,
25 (1Ti 2:4; Ac 8:22) in gentleness instructing those in opposition.
Perhaps God will grant them repentance to know the truth,
26 (1Ti 3:7) and they may escape from the snare of the devil,
after being captured by him to do his will.
2 Timothy 3
The Last Days
1 (Eze 38:16; 2Pe 3:3) Know this: In the last days perilous times will come.
2 (Php 2:21; Jude 1:16) Men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money,
boastful, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
3 (Ro 1:31; 1Ti 3:11) without natural affection, trucebreakers, slanderers,
unrestrained, fierce, despisers of those who are good,
4 (1Ti 3:6) traitors, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasures
more than lovers of God, 51Ti 5:8; Mt 7:15having a form of godliness,
but denying its power. Turn away from such people.
6 (Titus 3:3; Jude 1:4) Those of this nature creep into houses
and captivate silly women who are burdened with sins
and led away with various desires,
7 (1Ti 2:4; 2Ti 2:25) always learning, but never able to come
to the knowledge of the truth.
8 (Ex 7:11; 1Ti 6:5) Now as Jannes and Jambres resisted Moses,
so these also resist the truth, men of corrupt minds
and worthless concerning the faith.
9 (Ex 7:12; 9:11) But they shall proceed no further,
for their folly will be revealed to everyone, as theirs also was.
Last Charge to Timothy
10 (Php 2:22; 1Ti 4:6) But you have observed my doctrine, manner of life, purpose,
faith, tolerance, love, patience,
11 (Ps 34:19; Ac 13:45) persecutions, and afflictions, which came to me
at Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra-what persecutions I endured!
But the Lord delivered me out of them all.
12 (Ac 14:22; Titus 2:12) Yes, and all who desire to live a godly life
in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.
13 But evil men and seducers will grow worse and worse, deceiving
and being deceived.
14 (2Ti 1:13) But continue in the things that you have learned
and have been assured of, knowing those from whom you have learned them,
15 (2Ti 1:5) and that since childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures,
which are able to make you wise unto salvation through the faith that is
in Christ Jesus.
16 (Ro 15:4) All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching,
for reproof, for correction, and for instruction in righteousness,
17 (1Ti 6:11; 2Ti 2:21) that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly
equipped for every good work.
2 Timothy 4
1 (Ac 10:42; 1Ti 5:21) I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus
Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing
and His kingdom:
2 (Titus 1:13; 2:15) Preach the word, be ready in season and out of season,
reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with all patience and teaching.
3 (1Ti 1:10) For the time will come when people will not endure sound
doctrine, but they will gather to themselves teachers in accordance
with their own desires, having itching ears,
4 (1Ti 1:4; 4:7) and they will turn their ears away from the truth
and turn to myths.
5 (Ac 21:8; 2Ti 1:8) But be self-controlled in all things,
endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist,
and prove your ministry.
6 (Php 1:23; 2:17) For I am already being poured out as a drink offering,
and the time of my departure has come.
7 (Ac 20:24; 1Ti 6:12) I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course,
and I have kept the faith.
8 (Col 1:5; 2Ti 1:12) From now on a crown of righteousness is laid up for me,
which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on that Day, and not only
to me but also to all who have loved His appearing.
Personal Instructions
9 (2Ti 1:4; 4:21) Diligently try to come to me soon.
10 (Ac 16:6; 17:1) Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present world,
and has departed to Thessalonica, Crescens to Galatia, and Titus to Dalmatia.
11 (Ac 12:12; Col 4:14) Only Luke is with me. Get Mark, and bring him with you,
for he is profitable to me for the ministry.
12 (Ac 20:4; Eph 6:21) I sent Tychicus to Ephesus.
13 (Ac 16:8) When you come, bring with you the cloak that I left
at Troas with Carpus, and the books, but especially the parchments.
14 (1Ti 1:20; Ps 28:4) Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil.
May the Lord reward him according to his works.
15 Beware of him, for he has greatly opposed our words.
16 (Ac 7:60) At my first defense no one stood with me,
but everyone forsook me. May it not be charged against them.
17 (Ac 9:15; Ps 22:21) But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me,
so that through me the preaching might be fully known, and that
all the Gentiles might hear. And I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.
18 (Ro 11:36; Ps 121:7) The Lord will deliver me from every evil work
and will preserve me for His heavenly kingdom, to whom be glory forever
and ever. Amen.
Final Greetings
19 (Ac 18:2) Greet Priscilla and Aquila and the household of Onesiphorus.
20 (Ac 20:4; 19:22) Erastus remained at Corinth, and I have left Trophimus
ill in Miletus.
21 (2Ti 4:9) Diligently try to come before winter. Eubulus greets you,
and so do Pudens, Linus, Claudia, and all the brothers.
22 (Gal 6:18; Col 4:18) The Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.
Grace be with you. Amen.
2) Our Daily Bread for 22 December 2021
https://odb.org/CA/2021/12/22/virtual-presence
entitled Virtual Presence
Colossians 2
1 (Col 1:29; Rev 1:11) I would like you to know what a great struggle
I am having for you, and for those at Laodicea,
and for everyone who has not seen my face in the flesh,
2 (Col 4:8; Ro 16:25) that their hearts may be comforted, being knit together
in love, and receive all the riches and assurance of full understanding,
and knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ,
3 (Ro 11:33; 1Co 1:24) in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom
and knowledge.
4 (Eph 5:6) Now this I say lest anyone beguile you with enticing words.
5 (1Co 14:40; 1Pe 5:9) For though I am absent in the flesh,
yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing and seeing your orderliness
and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ.
As the novel coronavirus marched across the globe, health experts advised
increased physical distance between people as a means to slow the spread.
Many countries asked their citizens to self-quarantine or shelter in place.
Organizations sent employees home to work remotely if they could,
while others suffered a financially debilitating loss of employment.
Like others, I participated in church and small-group meetings
through digital platforms. As a world, we practiced new forms
of togetherness despite being physically disconnected.
It isn’t just the internet that lets us maintain a sense of connection.
We connect to one another as members of the body of Christ through the Spirit.
Paul expressed this notion centuries ago in his letter to the Colossians.
Though he hadn't personally founded their church, he cared deeply
for them and their faith. And even though Paul couldn't be with them
in person, he reminded them that he was "with you in spirit" (Colossians 2:5).
We can't always be with those we love for financial, health,
or other practical reasons, and technology can help fill that gap.
Yet any form of virtual connection pales in comparison to the "togetherness"
we can experience as fellow members of the body of Christ
(1 Corinthians 12:27). In such moments, we can, like Paul,
rejoice in one another's firmness of faith and, through prayer,
encourage each other to fully
"knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ,"
(Colossians 2:2).
By: Kirsten Holmberg
Reflect & Pray
How have you experienced a sense of connection with other
members of the body of Christ? Who needs your prayers
of encouragement today?
Jesus, thank You for being with me even
when no other person can be physically present.
Thank You for the connection You give me to others through the Holy Spirit.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 6 Showing Grace to Others - Day 4 "Formula" for Forgiveness
Luke 17:3 - 4
3 (Lev 19:17; Mt 18:21)"Take heed to yourselves."
"If your brother sins against you, rebuke him. And if he repents, forgive
him. 4 (Mt 18:21–22) If he sins against you seven times in a day,
and seven times in a day turns to you, saying,
'I repent,' you must forgive him."
The context of these verses give us an interesting perspective of Jesus'
disciples. In a corollary passage in Matthew 18, the disciples (through
Peter, the designated mouthpiece) ask Jesus,
21 (Mt 18:15; Lk 17:3–4) Then Peter came to Him and said,
"Lord, how often shall I forgive my brother who sins against me?
Up to seven times?" (Matthew 18:21)
The disciples wanted a "formula" for forgiveness: they wanted to be able to
develop a checklist. Once, twice, maybe three times a brother could be
forgiven, but after that, you could write him off. After all, if
he keeps on offending over and over again, he doesn't deserve to be forgiven!
But Jesus says, " Rebuke him - let him know his fault; if he repents,
forgive him - even seven times in the same day!"
And the disciplines' response is predictable: "Lord, increase our faith!" They
were more comfortable with their own formula for forgiveness than with the
outrageous demands of the love that Christ imposed upon them.
We are so like the disciples. We want to draw a line and say. "This far
- no more. I'll forgive you once, but don't do it again. Now that you're
forgiven, you'd better shape up!". Yet God's love doesn't recognise "again".
He forgives, and no matter how often we come to him in repentance
for repeated offenses, his arms of forgiveness are open to us.
That is the way God wants us to forgive. He wants us to lay aside our
checklists, put away our suspicions, abandon our scoreboards, and forgive.
Seven times, or seventy times seven, as often as we have sinned against God
and been forgiven, we are to forgive.
Application
a) Have I ever kept a "scorecard" of performance on someone I
have forgiven ? Why?
b) Why do I need "increased faith" to be able to forgive as
Jesus calls me to?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
3 John 2
2 Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be
in good health, even as your soul is well.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
God's Inexhaustible Strength
Is 40:27-31
27 Why do you say, O Jacob,
and assert, O Israel,
"My way is hidden from the Lord,
and my justice escapes the notice of my God"?
28 (Ps 147:5; Ge 21:33; Isa 57:15) Have you not known?
Have you not heard,
that the everlasting God, the Lord,
the Creator of the ends of the earth,
does not faint, nor is He weary?
His understanding is inscrutable.
29 (Isa 41:10) He gives power to the faint,
and to those who have no might He increases strength.
30 (Isa 9:17) Even the youths shall faint and be weary,
and the young men shall utterly fall,
31 (2Co 4:16; Ps 103:5; Ex 19:4) but those who wait upon the Lord
shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings as eagles,
they shall run and not be weary,
and they shall walk and not faint.
The Lord's prayer
Matthew 6:9-13
9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2021 edition?)
The Northern Territories of Canada
Yukon
Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69
In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families
in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,
they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Northwest Territories (NWT)
NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473
The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 in the past year.
To replace their inadequate facility, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million
Islamic Centre.
Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to
spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.
Nunavut (NU)
NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86
The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed
80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.
Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam
in the far Northern reaches of Canada."
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
Adding further
30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020
Under the Keep Praying page
When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month
and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days
of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that
usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,
of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be
decorated and festivals will be held.
For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the
distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of
Islam.
You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",
which means Blessed Eid!"
Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you
know, and Muslims around the world:
- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions
in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about
unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such
movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three
decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim
relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.
Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,
"What does this mean?"
13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."
Peter's Speech at Pentecost
14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice
and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,
let this be known to you, and listen to my words.
15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,
since it is the third hour of the day.
16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,
'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;
your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams.'
- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for
Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.
Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a
hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under
a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the
house."
Ideas for prayer
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further
call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity
(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...) .
7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada
http://www.ehc.ca
22nd Day of the Month
a) Pray for the Province of Quebec
I) Pray for the leaders of Quebec,
that God's Spirit would influence
then to act justly,
serve with integrity
and honour high moral standards. ( 1 Tim 2:1 - 4
1 Therefore I exhort first of all that you make supplications,
prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings for everyone,
2 (Ezr 6:10) for kings and for all who are in authority,
that we may lead a quiet and peaceful life in all godliness and honesty,
3(1Ti 1:1; Lk 1:47) for this is good
and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior,
4 (Eze 18:23; 18:32)who desires all men to be saved
and to come to the knowledge of the truth. )
II) Pray for the churches of the province,
that they would be lighthouses
beaming forth the illuminating truth of God's Word.
III) Pray that the Lord would use
the Finding the Hope Campaign
and booklet to turn many hearts to Jesus
b) Pray that the influence of the Holy Spirit would dissolve
every argument and pretension exalted against the knowledge
of God.
(
2 Cor 10: 3 - 5
3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh.
4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God
to the pulling down of strongholds, 5 casting down imaginations and every
high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every
thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,
)
Advent day 25
From C.S. Lewis A Grand Miracle by Joel Heck
"Enemy-occupied territory-that is what this world is.
Christianity is the story of how the rightful king has landed...
and is calling us all to take part in a great campaign of sabotage.
When you go to church you are really listening-in to the secret
wireless from our friends: that is why the enemy is so anxious
to prevent us from going." - C. S. Lewis
(Read this and more in Mere Christianity, p. 46.)
A Campaign of Sabotage
C. S. Lewis wrote his most influential book, Mere Christianity,
in the middle of World War Two. The talks that became the basis
for this book were broadcast on the BBC between 1941 and 1944.
Lewis used numerous military allusions in that book,
in one case describing this world as "enemy-occupied territory."
Humanity has been invaded by an enemy: Satan.
He occupies the territory in which we live. "The rightful king"
has arrived and is in the process of taking back the territory,
but not as the Allies did on D-Day, June 6, 1944,
invading the beaches of Normandy in a full-scale assault
on German positions.
Jesus did not use tanks, planes, or artillery.
He arrived almost incognito. Few knew, even though it had been
predicted for centuÂries. Jesus came in disguise-as a baby.
No one would expect much opposition from a baby, but babies
have the power to wrap their parents around their little finger.
This baby had a lot more power than that, in fact, all power
and authority, and one day that auÂthority will be visible
for all to see. But not yet.
Until then, we Christians acknowledge the power and authority
of this rightful king. We participate in his campaign of sabotage
against the enemy. We arm ourselves with the sword of the Spirit,
the Word of God, and with the shield of faith, the breastplate
of righteousness, the belt of truth, and the shoes of the gospel
of peace. The message of the gospel is our best sabotage
against the power of Satan. Its power to forgive sins
is our best weapon.
Jesus, my King, make me aware of the enemy,
aware of your power over him, and especially
aware of your power to forgive sins. Amen.
10 (Eph 1:19; 1Co 16:13) Finally, my brothers, be strong in the Lord
and in the power of His might.
11 (Eph 6:13; Ro 13:12; Eph 4:14) Put on the whole armour of God that
you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.
Ephesians 6:10-11
From Follow the Story by Marva J. Dawn
WEDNESDAY, FOURTH WEEK OF ADVENT
Exactly The Right Time
In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus
that the entire inhabited earth should be taxed.
-Luke 2:1
God's timing is always stunning! When it was exactly the right
moment for the Christ Child to be born, "all the world" cooperated.
The Emperor Augustus issued an order,
and everyone had to go to their ancestral home.
This was the first registration, we are notified in verse 2,
to be commanded when Quirinius was governor of Syria.
Whether this means that other enrollments were levied later on we
are not told, but this one made history-not because of its intention
to number the extent of the Roman Empire or to record the names
of Rome's conquerees for taxation purposes, but because the titles
of those rulers are now perpetually associated with the Messiah's birth.
You were born, too, at exactly the right time. God planned all your gifts
and calculated at what point in history your presence would be pivotal.
How we adore the All-Knowing One for his incredible timing!
Prayer
How can we adequately praise you, Great Designer,
that we were born when we could best serve you? Amen.
Read Luke 2:1-7.
Luke 2
The Birth of Jesus
Mt 1:18-25
1 (Lk 3:1; Mt 24:14) In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus
that the entire inhabited earth should be taxed.
2 (Lk 3:1) This taxation was first made when Quirinius was governor of Syria.
3 And everyone went to his own city to be taxed.
4 (Jn 7:42; 1Sa 16:1) So Joseph also departed from the city of Nazareth
in Galilee to the City of David which is called Bethlehem, in Judea,
because he was of the house and lineage of David,
5 to be taxed with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.
6 So while they were there, the day came for her to give birth.
7 (Mt 1:25; Lk 2:11-12) And she gave birth to her firstborn Son,
and wrapped Him in strips of cloth, and laid Him in a manger,
because there was no room for them in the inn.
From the Ah-Has of Advent by Rich Bimler
FOURTH WEDNESDAY
AH-HA! Ambassadors of Health, Hope and ADORATION!
And his name shall be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.ISAIAH 9:6
In the days leading up to Christmas we're counting the days. The malls
are full. The carols continue. The Santas are weary. The mail carriers are
burdened. The children are hyper. And we can almost hear the cattle
lowing (whatever lowing is!.
In theses days we're ready to adore the Baby Jesus. as well we should.
Today's lesson spells it out so well: "A child has been born for us, a son
given to us." "Oh, come let us adore him. Christ the Lord!"
But look again in the stable. For too long we've seen the manger as
a "sanitary shed," white and neat and clean and perfect. But it wasn't
that way at all. It was messy and smelly and germy and . .. well ... human.
And that's exactly why we adore him! Because Christ didn't wait for us
to clean up our dirty and messy lives before he came to redeem us.
Not at all:H e entered our sin-filled stables "lust as we are." He came as
a God sized man to rid us of our man-sized gods.
Check out the Christmas cards you are receiving. How many of them really
'depict the human stable where Jesus was born? He may look "adorable,"
but that is not why we adore him. We adore him because he has come
to be our Saviour. And we might add: our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace!
Lord, we come to adore you because you have come to us. Keep coming,
Lord. into our messy lives. Clean us up as only you can do.
In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Read Isaiah 9:2-7.
2 (Eph 5:8; Mt 4:16) The people who walked in darkness
have seen a great light;
those who dwell in the land of the shadow of death,
upon them the light has shined.
3 (1Sa 30:16; Isa 26:15) You have multiplied the nation
and increased the joy;
they rejoice before You
according to the joy of harvest
and as men rejoice
when they divide the spoil.
4 (Isa 14:25; 10:26-27) For You have broken the yoke of his burden
and the bar of his shoulder,
the rod of his oppressor
as in the day of Midian's defeat.
5 For all the sandals of the tramping warriors
and all the garments rolled in blood
shall be burned as fuel for the fire.
6 (Isa 7:14; Mt 28:18; Lk 2:11) 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 Counselor, Mighty God,
Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.
7 (Isa 37:32; Da 2:44) Of the increase of his government and peace
there shall be no end,
upon the throne of David
and over his kingdom,
to order it and to establish it
with justice and with righteousness,
from now until forever.
The zeal of the Lord of Hosts
will perform this.
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to be inspired by Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Pray to the Lord "Jesus, thank You for being with me even
when no other person can be physically present.
Thank You for the connection You give me to others through the Holy Spirit."
Pray to the Lord and pray to be boundlessly forgiving.
Pray to the Lord and pray for spiritual well being.
Pray to the Lord and pray to renew His strength in Him.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to
spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
Pray that the influence of the Holy Spirit would dissolve
every argument and pretension exalted against the knowledge
of God.
Jesus, my King, make me aware of the enemy,
aware of your power over him, and especially
aware of your power to forgive sins. Amen.
Pray: How can we adequately praise you, Great Designer,
that we were born when we could best serve you? Amen.
Pray: Lord, we come to adore you because you have come to us. Keep coming,
Lord. into our messy lives. Clean us up as only you can do.
In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Pray for the perseverance of the church in Cameroon
in areas where Boko Haram militants remain active.
Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.
and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness
Remember eternity starts now -
Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.
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