Christmas: Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Old Testament Lesson

Isaiah 25:1-9

One of the constant reminders in scripture, and particularly within the prophets is the notion that God will save His people.  No matter how dark it may look, no matter how dire the situation, God will save HIs people.  He will come to their rescue, and there will be that time with no more tears, hurt or pain. 

So, in the midst of the dark situations in our life, this is our hope: don't give up!  God will save His people!  Good will win in the end!  Love, grace, and peace will find a way!  God will wipe away those tears.  Rejoice. 

New Testament Lesson

Revelation 1:9-20

We see words of hope in Revelation: do not be afraid!  In a world filled with fear, we have no reason to fear.  In world filled with despair, we have no reason to be down hearted. Do not be afraid. For God is still God, and He is still on the throne.  We are not a people of fear, we are a people of faith. We are not the people of a small God, we are the people of a great and mighty God, God of God, King of Kings, Lord of Lords!  Have no fear!

Gospel Lesson

John 7:53-8:11

I could spend a lot of time talking about this passage.  In fact, I'm preaching on it on January 11.  So, I don't want to give too much away, but let's just say that we hear what grace sounds like in this passage. The sound of rocks falling as we each understand our own sinfulness and the command of Holy Scripture to forgive others as we have been forgiven.