John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Love is often spoken of as a feeling, something warm and internal. Scripture, however, consistently portrays love as something God does. John 3:16 does not begin with…
Advent
Week 3 Advent
December 15 Advent: Get Ready to Rejoice! Luke 1:26-28 In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. The angel went to her and said,…
Week 2 Advent
December 8 Advent: Jesus our Peace Romans 12:18: “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” In addition to its excitement, the Christmas season often presents its own challenges: financial stress, seasonal overwhelm, loneliness, and especially relational friction. Some of the very moments that make Christmas special…
Week 1 Advent
December 1 Advent: Don’t be Afraid, Just Believe Mark 5:21-43 35 While Jesus was still speaking, some people came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue leader. “Your daughter is dead,” they said. “Why bother the teacher anymore?” 36 Overhearing what they said, Jesus told him, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.” In the story of Jairus and his 12-year-old daughter, told in all…