THE SECOND SUNDAY IN ADVENT
 
"This is the day the LORD hath made, let us rejoice and be glad in it."
 
Malachi 3:1-4
Phil. 1:3-11
Luke 3:1-6
Psalm 126
 
God's preparations for John's ministry did not simply begin with His decision to send John before the Savior's arrival on the scene. We can trace his line of preparation back over several hundred years to the prophecy of Isaiah that Luke quotes. This shows how carefully the LORD laid out His plan of . . .

THE SECOND SUNDAY IN ADVENT
 
"This is the day the LORD hath made, let us rejoice and be glad in it."
 
Malachi 3:1-4
Phil. 1:3-11
Luke 3:1-6
Psalm 126
 
God's preparations for John's ministry did not simply begin with His decision to send John before the Savior's arrival on the scene. We can trace his line of preparation back over several hundred years to the prophecy of Isaiah that Luke quotes. This shows how carefully the LORD laid out His plan of saving the world of sinners.
 
We are preparing to celebrate Christmas and the birth of Jesus. He came as promised and has saved us from our sins through His perfect life and innocent death. Though tested by the devil, Jesus never strayed from His straight path that led Him to His death on the cross for us.
 
In the busyness of preparing for the coming holiday, we want to take time to be near our LORD in His Word. He works through His Word to comfort and calm us with His gracious news of forgiveness and new life in Christ.
 
Today we light the Bethlehem Candle. We think of Mary and Joseph making the long journey to Bethlehem. It was necessary as preparation for the great event of the first Christmas.
 
Joy to the world! The LORD is come!
Let earth receive her King;
Let every heart prepare Him room.
And heaven and nature sing.
 
PRAY - Stir up our hearts, O LORD, to make ready the way of Your only-begotten Son that at His second coming we may worship Him in purity. Amen