“For to which of the angels did God ever say, ‘You are my Son, today I have begotten you’?” (Hebrews 1:5)

The author of Hebrews wants his listeners to know that Jesus is higher than the angels.  Back then, as now, the glory of the angelic choirs could morph into a colorful mythology as people experimented with spirituality and sought “new ways” to be with the Divine.  The message of Hebrews is clear: no other bridge between God and creation but Jesus, His Son!

That message gives Christmas its edge.  Christmas does not only proclaim that God became flesh, but it also promises that this Baby is the One and Only.   Whatever ways we have chosen to get the Good Life, they are nothing if they have nothing to do with to the little Lord Jesus.

He is the Good Life, He is the Divine, He is the bridge.  In Him, the One who bears our flesh and bore our sin, even difficult jobs are worth doing, and difficult people are worth loving—we even find ourselves worth more than gold, oil, or water, loved enough that God would suffer pain to be with us.  Merry Christmas, friends—which is just another way of saying, He’s the One, and He’s yours.

LET US PRAY: All praise and honor to You, dear Father, for the gift of Your Son!  Amen

Pastor Steven K. Gjerde

Zion, Wausau   

Wednesday, December 27, 2017 Devotion

“Who have sharpened their tongue like a sword.  They aimed bitter speech as their arrow, to shoot from concealment at the blameless; suddenly they shoot at him, and do not fear.” (Psalm 64:3-4)

The wicked of this world shoot arrows of contempt and lies at those who seek the Lord.  Calling others what is in their heart, they prey on the guilt of sin that is there, while they themselves could care less about truth or what is right.  It has always been this way.  The insensitive prey on the sensitive and blame them to shame them.  Be not one who blames, but one who turns to the Lord in every season.                                                                                                                                                                                                              

Lord, I have been affected by the wickedness of this world.  I have desired what is right, but listen to the voice of the wicked. Guide me according to Your purposes that I may forever hold fast to the truth You have revealed.  Let me not be distracted by those who would seek to destroy me, but to be led by Your Spirit all the days of my life.

Lord Jesus, You are the hope of every person.  You have come to save us from ourselves and the world.  Guide me in the salvation You have given that I may forever hold fast to the truth of Your presence and purpose through grace.  May I now and always look to You first for all things, knowing that You alone are the author and finisher of my faith.  Lead me this day, my Savior.  Amen.