Monday, December 22, 2008

December 22, 2008 - Merry CHRISTmas!

Last week we talked of becoming “public address announcers” to proclaim the entrance of the “Substitute” into the “game of life.” Have you been doing that? Who should you announce it to?

I think that Luke 2 gives us a great picture throughout. In this chapter of Scripture we see the Christ-child being introduced to shepherds, a priest (Simeon), and a widow (Anna) that had served in the temple for 84 years.

What a mix of “players” in the game of life. It goes from the low end of the social scale with the shepherds, to the religious heights of a priest, to the humility and faithfulness of a widow that devoted 84 years to service. This is a picture from “bench-warmers to star player, to a great team-player.”

Basically the simple message to be found there is that no matter how “good” of a “player” someone appears to be, we all have the same need: to accept the Substitute.

Simeon said it best:
29 “ Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace,
According to Your word;
30 For my eyes have seen Your salvation
31 Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples,
32 A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles,
And the glory of Your people Israel.”
(Luke 2)

Anna realized this truth. Her faithfulness was not what brought her “peace” or “redemption.” The Christ-child was the fulfillment of that for her and all people. Therefore she, like the angels and the shepherds, began to tell people of this wonderful news!

38 And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem. (Luke 2)

Merry CHRISTmas everyone!

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