A Moment of Hope

by Marilynn Chadwick "Praise the LORD from the earth, you great sea creatures and all deeps" Psalm 148:7 It was Christmas Day and the entire family had gathered at our home. Our grandchildren gazed at their great grandfather with wonder as he unwrapped his special Christmas gift. We had just finished Christmas dinner and the children crowded around "Great Grandaddy" as he opened his present. What could it be? The mysterious gift was packaged in an unusual antique box that had to be at least as old as Harper Brame, their ninety-eight-year-old great grandfather, and my father. Great Grandaddy still had his razor-sharp mind, a twinkle in his eye, and an easy laugh. Turns out the gift box had been the carrying case for an antique auto harp, a hand-held stringed instrument often used to accompany folk music. Our good friend George had stumbled upon this beautifully carved box in a mountain antique shop and realized it was the perfect box to contain his special, hand-crafted gift for my dad. The dining room filled with gasps from children and grownups as my dad delicately unwrapped his gift. It was an exact replica of the USS Besugo, the US World War II era submarine Great Grandaddy had served on during the war. George, a more recent war veteran himself, had spent months painstakingly and lovingly assembling and painting the intricate model sub. George was as excited to give the submarine as Daddy was to receive it. "Wow, I've never seen a real submarine before," exclaimed little Joshua. "Tell us a submarine story, Great Grandaddy," the children pleaded. My Dad paused, carefully examining every inch of his new "toy." His mind drifted back to an earlier time. He searched for a memory he thought the children would enjoy. As he told this story, other memories from his war years flooded back, leading to a collection of childhood stories, growing up years, and life lessons. Some are stories I remember him telling me in my childhood, but this story was not one I had heard before. "Well, did I ever tell you about the time I saw the largest animal to live on the earth?" The children settled in, eager for the story. Great Grandaddy continued, "It happened one day when three of us sailors were standing lookout on our submarine deck. All of a sudden, our Captain cried out, "Y'all look ahead!" "There right in front of us was about the biggest thing I'd ever seen in my whole life..." To be continued on Monday.

by Marilynn Chadwick "Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, be courageous, be strong." 1 Corinthians 16:3 NIV Daddy is one of the few remaining World War II era submarine veterans, and the last man still alive from his submarine, the USS Besugo. "Guess I'll have to turn out the lights," he smiles. He and my mom vividly remembered the war—they didn't take our freedoms for granted. So, growing up, neither did we. One of the ways they helped us appreciate our heritage was to tell lots of stories—especially about our family. I grew up hearing about Daddy's submarine adventures in the South China Sea. About rations and blackouts, and brave young friends who lost their lives in the war. Mom and Dad were also proud of our family's long history in this country dating back to before the Revolutionary War. Captain Simon Hunt, from Daddy's mother's side, was one of the original 80 minutemen who fought the British in the famous battle on the Old North Bridge in Concord, Massachusetts. It was on that bridge that the "shot heard round the world" signaled the beginning of the Revolutionary War. Our youngest, Michael Hunt Chadwick, loved hearing his stories about the Hunt family and his namesake. Education was a given in our home. Mom and Dad were both college graduates back in the day where that was not common. Mom had been the valedictorian of her small country high school and Dad was a campus leader and played basketball at his high school, finishing early to go into the navy. He qualified for submarine school and left for his tour of duty, then returned after World War II to go to college at Virginia Tech on the GI Bill. Mom's mother, my Grandmother Eunice, taught first grade for about 50 years. I found her fascinating. One of eight children, her parents had died when she was very young, back in the late 1800s. She left home at an early age and somehow managed to go to college and become a teacher. Then she hopped on a cross-country train going west and taught school in various places along the way. My dad's mother, Grandmother Lois, was another special role model for me, and I adored her. Like my Grandmother Eunice, she also attended college and played on the very first women's basketball team at William & Mary College in Williamsburg, Virginia. But it was an episode at a recent family Christmas gathering and our grandchildren's fascination with one of Daddy's stories that sparked our interest in putting some of his memories into writing. I'm hearing some of my dad's stories, especially about his time on the submarine, for the very first time. Tomorrow, you'll read about one of those adventures.

by Marilynn Chadwick "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free." Galatians 5:1 Daddy was always proud of his family. Not only his parents and siblings, but also his grandparents, aunts and uncles, and cousins. He often shared stories from his growing up years and said the way he felt about his family reminded him of the old country music song by Merle Haggard, "The Roots of My Raising Run Deep." Growing up, I was incredibly fortunate to know my dad's parents, my grandparents, along with a wonderful collection of aunts, uncles, and cousins. Daddy often talked about his grandparents, with whom his family had shared farmland. I grew up hearing about "Mama Hunt" and "Papa Hunt" who had come from Massachusetts by way of Minnesota, to launch their sawmill business among the hardwoods of eastern Virginia. As a boy, Daddy spent a lot of time talking with Mama Hunt during the years leading up to World War II. She was quite interested in international politics and world affairs. She stayed up to date on the unrest brewing over in Europe through the radio broadcasts by the famed H. V. Kaltenborn. Dad was a young teen when World War II broke out, and the United States declared war after the shocking attack at Pearl Harbor in 1941. Dad's entire family became involved in the war effort, along with families all over our nation. His older cousins served in North Africa. A favorite cousin was a nurse in a medic tent on the battlefields of north Africa. His aunts and uncles were invested in the farming efforts, victory gardens, rations, and blackouts. He talks about how the country united. As he put it, "We were all in." Shortly before his eighteenth birthday, Dad entered the Navy. Japan had just surrendered, but the violent aftermath of World War II continued, erupting into the Korean War, China's Civil War, and what became known as the Cold War. After reporting to Pearl Harbor, Dad ended up in China during the turbulence leading up to the takeover by Communist Mao Tse Tung. Dad always said that any sacrifices made by his family were to "protect our freedom" and fight against the totalitarian regimes in Germany, Japan, and the Axis forces, and other threats to our democracy. "After those difficult years of the Great Depression, the war effort united us as a family and as a nation," he said. "Even as a youth, I knew that our freedom, our family, and our faith were well worth the fight.

by Marilynn Chadwick "Then the Lord God said, 'It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him'." Genesis 2:18 During our growing up years, Mom was more than just Dad's companion. She was what the Bible refers to in Genesis 2:18 as his "helper." The original word in Hebrew is ezer, which means a strong, often heroic, source of support. Mom was both strong and kind and she was Daddy's rock. Mom stopped teaching school when the kids came—family was everything to her. She especially loved Dad's parents and his three sisters and their families. Dad's job required quite a bit of travel, but Mom never complained. She kept life going for her three daughters. But invariably, most of our life crises seemed to hit when Daddy was away. Like the time I tried to do a cannonball dive into three feet of water and didn't tuck quite fast enough, hitting my head on the bottom of the swimming pool. After Mom and I took a fast trip to the emergency room and 27 stitches later, Daddy finally made it home. Recently, when I asked Daddy to describe my mom's strength, he pointed back to that incident. "I never worried when I was traveling," he said. "Even when you cracked your head open, I could always count on your mom to handle things. She was always so calm." Daddy's right. Mom honored him through her strong resolve and her ability to keep the family on track. The popular World War II expression "Keep Calm and Carry On" was originally created to inspire the Brits to keep up their courage during the war. And I think it also describes my mom quite well. Mom and Dad suffered two especially hard losses as a young couple. When I was two, Mom delivered a near term baby girl who died shortly after she was born. Today's neonatal technology could easily have saved the baby. I have no memories of this incident. Tragically, the very same thing happened again when I was five. This one I vividly remember. There were two of us girls now. My sister Susan and me. Mom went into premature labor again and delivered a baby—another nearly full-term baby girl, who died soon after birth. Mom, just 28 at the time, somehow managed to keep life moving forward. She had a quiet, but deep faith. I'm sure it was her faith that gave her the strength to persevere. She and Daddy kept hope alive, and two years later welcomed my youngest sister, Janice, whose name means "God's gracious gift," into our family. When I look back at those times in my mother's life, I don't know how she kept going. I'm amazed at how Mom and Dad refused to allow those terrible losses to overwhelm our lives as children. They didn't retreat to fear or hold us back from an active and happy childhood. They bravely kept moving forward—for us. Evidence, again, of their courageous and enduring faith. For more inspiration and to learn about honor within marriage, click here to download a free copy of Eight Great Ways to Honor Your Husband by Marilynn Chadwick and Eight Great Ways to Honor Your Wife by David Chadwick.

by Marilynn Chadwick "Let marriage be held in honor among all…" Hebrews 13:4a When people meet my 98-year-old dad, they often ask me, "What's his secret?" "How does he look so young and stay so sharp?" Daddy would be the first to tell you that part of his secret is that he had a great wife. When my mom went home to be with the Lord three years ago, she and my dad had been married just shy of 70 years. My mother was bedridden for the last ten of those years. A ruptured appendix and complications from subsequent surgeries robbed the once robust grandmother of her ability to walk. Some of her ability to think and talk also faded. But enough of her brilliant mind remained, so that conversation was possible, though difficult. Daddy insisted upon caring for her at home with the help of nurses' aides to help him with wheelchair transfers and daily care. If you asked them, Mom and Dad would each say they "married up." Mom would always tell us three girls how lucky she was to find Daddy. And Dad said he was just glad his "turn in line" with the other young men who wanted to date Mom finally came. To which Mom would answer back, "Well I was hoping you would ask me out!" One afternoon, near the end of her life, Daddy looked at my mom, lying in the bed after he had just brushed her hair, and said to me, "Doesn't she look pretty?" Few can imagine the daunting challenges Mom and Dad faced on a daily basis just so she could live at home. Daddy did the grocery shopping, the cooking, the cleaning, the laundry. There were medical procedures he performed each day. Catheters, baths, diapers. There were occasional trips to the emergency room and hospitalization because of infections. In good times and in hard times, Mom and Dad honored their wedding vows. That, just by itself, is a beautiful legacy which they passed on to David and me, to our children, and their children. But there is so much more. Sometimes when we're in the middle of daily life, we don't realize the truly heroic nature of the people right in front of us. It all seems so normal at the time. As I reflect, I feel enormous gratitude for my parents' sacrifices that paved the way for the life I have today. And especially for my faith, my family, and my freedom. Daddy and I are working together to collect and preserve these and other memories. We're also including important life lessons he learned as a World War II era submarine sailor. My dad especially wants to pass on this legacy to his great grandchildren, and as he puts it, "anyone else who will listen." So, over the next two weeks, I'll be sharing life lessons I've learned from my dad. For more inspiration and to learn about honor within marriage, click here to download a free copy of Eight Great Ways to Honor Your Husband by Marilynn Chadwick and Eight Great Ways to Honor Your Wife by David Chadwick.

by David Chadwick Matthew 2:19-23 is how we will wrap up our study of the Wise Men. Today also completes our eight-week series where we have looked at the many characters who found themselves connected to the cradle of Jesus. Herod finally died in 4 A.D. While in Egypt, an angel of the Lord appeared once again to Joseph in a dream. He told Joseph that it was now safe to return to Israel. Joseph rose and went back to Nazareth in Israel. As I have heard my daughter say to her children, obedience brings blessing, and disobedience brings discipline. Thankfully, once again, Joseph obeyed. Immediately. Fully. Completely. At this point in Joseph's life, he was very skilled in hearing the Lord and responding with both obedience and faith. Joseph heard that Archelaus, Herod's son, was now ruling over Judea, and he was not a good guy either. So, Joseph was afraid to go back to Bethlehem. Then it appears in verse 22 that Joseph may have had another dream with a warning that caused him to go to the district of Galilee. Back they went, specifically to Nazareth, the town where Mary and Joseph lived before Jesus's birth. You know there must have been some hesitation with this decision. Mary and Joseph had to live among many whispers that this child had been conceived before marriage. Others may have wondered if Mary had committed adultery. These rumors and shadows would always be there in Jesus's life and upbringing. But at least they had familiarity there, a carpentry business, something they most assuredly did not have in Egypt. And in spite of knowing the whispers surrounding them, they still obeyed! Perhaps this return to Nazareth would, in part, fulfill the prophecy that said that the Messiah would be despised and rejected (Isaiah 53:3). We also know that Nazareth was despised in the time of Jesus (John 1:46). But this part of the story shows, once again, that God can take the most despised, broken, insignificant people and places and use them for his glory. He does not need ability, but availability. Mary and Joseph were available. The Wise Men were available. And most of all, Jesus was available. And through all of these characters' availability, the world was forever and positively changed through a baby in a cradle. And from that moment on, the ministry of Jesus was ready to begin! Explore it further in your own study as you come face to face with the MAIN character at the cradle… Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior of the world.

by David Chadwick Herod came to the realization that he had been tricked by the Wise Men. He found out that they had departed and gone home instead of coming back to tell him where the new baby king was located. Now, Herod did not know fully who this baby was, but he knew enough to make him afraid. His paranoia heightened as he knew his throne was threatened. Fear makes people do crazy things! The most devastating part of this biblical account is that Herod, in his fury, sent out an edict to kill all male children in Bethlehem who were two years old or under. Herod's genocide fulfilled the prophecy in Jeremiah 31:15 about the groaning of Rahab. Imagine the tears, sadness, laments, and broken hearts of parents. The horror of Herod's actions is incomprehensible. He calculated from the Wise Men's arrival to the time of the child's birth and landed at the age of two years. This was a Satanic act. Demonic to the core! Again, Herod's actions were an attempt to destroy the seed of the woman who would crush Satan's head, as prophesied in Genesis 3:15 after the Fall of humanity. All evil in this world finds its ultimate source in Satan. Every child that dies, every genocide that occurs—especially against the Jews—but ALL EVIL, is caused by Satan. He tempts our fallen, selfish hearts by filling us with things like envy, jealousy, and selfish ambition. When we obey his temptations, anyone can be vulnerable to sinning in the worst possible ways. These are the kinds of terrible situations that cause many people to step back and wonder how a "good God" could ever let such bad things to happen. Especially to innocent children! I fully empathize with this question. We must go back to the reality of sin in these moments of questioning. When sin entered the world, brokenness became normal. Evil was unleashed on all of us. Outside of the grace and mercy of Jesus, there would be no hope for any of us. The moment sin came on the scene, destruction became everyone's destiny, and nothing could be worked for good. But God, rich in mercy, created a hope through Jesus (Ephesians 2:4). Now, for those who love Jesus, everything works together for good (Romans 8:28). Yes, even bad, horrific, catastrophic things. As you've heard me say many times, I looked up "all" in the dictionary, and guess what it means? It means ALL! And always remember this as well: Jesus came as a baby to grow up, die on a cross, be raised from the dead to defeat the works of the devil (1 John 3:8). In you. In the world. Forever. This baby born at a cradle would carry a message and live a life that would permanently alter Satan's previously existing narrative that destruction is the end of the story! While we live in a broken world, believe that Jesus is coming back to permanently make all things new! Hallelujah!

by David Chadwick Yesterday, we looked at the part in the story where the Wise Men found Jesus. Did you know that the three gifts from the Wise Men do NOT mean there were only three wise men? The Magi most likely traveled with a large number of attendants. There could have been numerous Magi who followed the star and found themselves with the Christ child. Today, let's look at Matthew 2:13-15. After the Magi departed to their home, an angel of the Lord came to Joseph in a dream. While described as an angel of the Lord, could it have been Gabriel again? Biblically, Gabriel is always sent from God to give messages about the Messiah. This dream that followed the Wise Men's visit came with a message that was very clear and intended to protect the Messiah. Notice how God uses dreams throughout the Bible as a powerful tool to warn, encourage, and share insights that a human mind, in its awake state, might otherwise miss. The angel warned Joseph to "Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you, for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him" (Matthew 2:13). Herod was motivated by Satan, who wanted the "seed" of Genesis 3:15 completely destroyed. Throughout biblical history, this has been Satan's consistent attempt to thwart God's plan of sending his Son, the "seed" into the world. But it never works. It always backfires. Anything he kills ALWAYS rises up stronger. Joseph obeyed. Immediately. Fully. Completely. There is really no other way to obey! By night, he took Mary and Jesus, departed, and went to Egypt. Egypt was a part of the Roman Empire. There were no borders. They were no immigrants. They remained there until the death of Herod. This part of the story fulfills the prophecy in Hosea 11:1 that says, "Out of Egypt I called my son." Israel was called out of Egypt with Moses to go to the Promised Land. And this time, God called his Savior back into Egypt to be protected for two years. Egypt provided safety for them because it was outside Herod's jurisdiction. Don't you wonder where they stayed? Who did they meet? How did God provide for them in Egypt? Was there something that happened there to help sow seeds for the gospel to come to Egypt years later? So many questions! In everything, Mary and Joseph experienced the protection of their Father in heaven. God is our safe place. He is our shelter. He is our protector from life's storms. And an ever-present help in times of trouble (Psalm 46:1-3).

by David Chadwick Matthew 2:7-12 is where the story of the Wise Men continues. After Herod heard of this Christ child they came to worship, Herod was troubled. While not exactly described with these words, one can assume that he grew in anger and jealousy at the thought of someone coming after his throne… especially a baby! Herod's desires were nefarious to the core. Verse 7 says that "Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared." He pretended to be an ally and told the Wise Men that he wanted to know exactly where in Bethlehem this child was born so that he could go and worship him as well. What a deceptive liar! The Wise Men listened to Herod and then went on their way. They followed the star with great joy until it rested over the place where they would find the child. Seeing the star, "they rejoiced exceedingly and with great joy" (Matthew 2:10). Verse 11 says they went "into the house." Don't you wonder whose house this was? Maybe some of Joseph's relatives? This verse implies that they were no longer in the manger. So, again, while not technically at the physical cradle, their lives had a divine intersection with the arrival of the Savior by way of a cradle in Bethlehem. The Wise Men saw the child with Mary, and Scripture says they fell down and worshiped him. Even as a young child! They just knew! The profound reality of Jesus as Lord is seen all over this story. Traveling from Babylon, most likely from pagan backgrounds, they recognized whispers of the one, true God revealed in the stars and in this small child. These Magi opened up their treasures and gave them to Mary. Gold. Frankincense. Myrrh. Precious commodities. Imagine Mary pondering all of this in her heart: Gabriel's appearance, Elizabeth's story, the birth of John, the shepherds' visit, the words from Simeon and Anna, and now these Magi. Remember that in their purification ceremony all they had to offer were turtledoves and not a lamb? A symbol of poverty? Now they have boundless riches! Thankfully, as we see in Matthew 2:17, the Wise Men were warned in a dream not to return to Herod. They had enough discernment to know Herod's evil intent. So after finding the Christ child in Bethlehem, they did not do as Herod had asked and instead, protected the location of the Messiah and went home another way. Let's be like the Magi in these two ways. May we always recognize the presence of Jesus when we see it. And may we always steward and protect what God reveals to us, even in the face of intimidation, evil plots, and fear to do otherwise. And once we have discovered the Christ child, to go home a different way. Never again to walk in sin, but righteousness for He is righteous!

by David Chadwick This week, we wrap up our Characters at the Cradle series by looking at the Wise Men, or the Magi, as they are sometimes called. If you have ever heard the Christmas carol "We Three Kings," you have heard of the Wise Men. An account of the Wise Men's story is only found in Matthew 2, not in Luke's gospel. So, we are going to take a break from our verse-by-verse study of Luke and turn to Matthew to understand the significant role these characters played at the cradle. It would be an oversight to not acknowledge the Wise Men's place in God's story. Turn with me to Matthew 2:1-6. Verse 1 tells us that Jesus was born in Bethlehem, the city where King David was born, which is about 6 miles from Jerusalem. As Anna said in Luke 2:38, Jesus would be the redemption of Jerusalem. But why Bethlehem? What is so important about this little city from which King David also came? Well, it is important because God made a covenant in 2 Samuel 7:12-16 that Jesus was to come through David's kingly heritage. Jesus is King of kings and Lord of lords. Matthew also points out that these were the days when Herod was king. He reigned from 37 B.C. to 4 A.D. From the tribe of Edom, Herod was known to be hostile to the Jews. If you have read the book of Genesis, you should remember Jacob and Esau. A family feud existed between Esau, the head of the Edomites, and his brother Jacob, the one God chose to found the Jews. Eventually, birthed through this lineage of Edomites, came King Herod, and he was evil and wicked in every possible way. The Wise Men came from the east to Jerusalem. Biblical historians think it was probably around two years after Jesus's birth. It probably took them a couple of months to arrive from Babylon, which was 800 miles away. Once they got to Jerusalem, they went to ask King Herod where they could find this king. Herod was "troubled" hearing this because he saw this king as a threat to his throne. He assembled his chief priests and scribes and asked the Magi where this child was born. They respond, "In Bethlehem," which perfectly fulfilled the prophecy in Micah 5:2, given 700-plus years beforehand. As astrologers and wise men, do you think the Magi studied the Old Testament prophets, perhaps even back to the days of Daniel? Did Babylonian "wise men" initially learn about the coming of this Messiah through the Hebrew prophets in captivity there? The Bible says they followed a star. Maybe a supernova? Could it have even been an angelic appearance that looked like a star? Or a conjunction of planets? Wherever this bright light came from, it led them precisely to a house with the King of the Jews, the baby they had come to worship. So, while technically not at the manger's cradle, they still saw the Christ child in his younger years. The providence of God, hundreds of years after being spoken by Daniel in Babylon, was perfectly fulfilled in that moment Jesus was born. What a mighty God we serve!

by David Chadwick Have you ever experienced something in your life that you had to wait a long time to see realized? Do you have any testimonies in your life of waiting for the Lord to answer a prayer and finally seeing it come to pass? This week's character at the cradle is Anna. She waited a long time to see the promise of her coming Messiah fulfilled, and she eventually saw it happen. Anna SAW Jesus in human form after all of her times worshipping, fasting, and praying in the temple. Described by Luke as a prophetess, she was able to witness all of her prophecies fulfilled. What did Anna speak over Jesus? Luke 2:38 says, "And coming up at that very hour she began to give thanks to God and to speak of him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem." To everyone who would listen, Anna said that this child was the one sent to redeem Jerusalem. Jerusalem. The holy city. The city of David. A central part of biblical history and of world history. But for no other reason than it being a profoundly important part of God's story. There is no river near it. It is not on the oceanfront. It is on a mount called Zion, which is surrounded by wilderness. And yet, it is the focal point of worldwide tension even today. As prophesied by the Old Testament prophets, Jerusalem will be the city that nations will attack in the end times. It will be the city that Jesus rescues. And it will be the city from which Jesus will rule in the establishment of his eternal kingdom. Don't allow anyone to convince you that Israel is not in God's end times plans. Anna's prophecy was especially powerful because back then, Jerusalem was controlled by the iron-fisted Romans. And before that, the Greeks, the Persians, and the Babylonians. Even in recent history, for the last 2,000 years, up until 1967, Jerusalem was trampled underfoot by Gentiles. But this won't always be the case! One day, Jesus WILL return to Jerusalem and rule forever from there, and the redemption of Jerusalem will happen in full. Anna knew that Jerusalem was key to God's eternal economy and that Jesus's birth was the key for the redemption of Jerusalem. We must all see its importance as well as we wait expectantly for that glorious day when Jesus brings full redemption to Jerusalem and to the world. This WILL happen. God's Word says so.

by David Chadwick This week we are looking at Anna, a beautiful figure in the early days of Jesus's life. At 84 years old, this woman shows us a real-life example of what happens when someone abides in Christ. Jesus says in John 15:4, "Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me." There is no replacement for a life that has been marked by the Spirit, is full of the Spirit, and is producing the fruit of the Spirit. As we saw yesterday, Anna regularly worshiped, fasted, and prayed in the temple, even at the age of 84! She was a prophetess who sought God's wisdom for Israel's future. Don't you think that Anna must have seen baby Jesus while worshiping, fasting, and praying in the temple day and night? At that moment, she just knew, deep within her soul, that he was the Messiah, the one for whom she and many others longed, prayed, and hoped. How do we know that she saw him? Because Luke 1:38 says, "And coming up at that very hour she began to give thanks to God…" All her years of waiting were now realized, and all of her prophecies about the coming of the Messiah were now satisfied. At that very moment when her eyes saw Jesus, her prayers were answered. She saw the one who would redeem Israel and the world. You and me. When your prayers are answered, what else can you do except give thanks? That is what Anna did. It is also what we should do whenever God finally gives us our breakthrough. We should also train ourselves to praise God BEFORE the breakthrough occurs, believing we've received, knowing God's promises are true, and claiming them before we actually see them. I want to challenge each of you as you read about the life of Anna. Do you have a life that would recognize Jesus if he were standing right in front of you? Anna knew it was Jesus because she KNEW Jesus. Too often, people learn about Jesus through other people but don't actually encounter him personally. An abiding life is marked by worship, prayer, and fasting. It prioritizes King Jesus and wants to see glimpses of his kingdom here on earth as it is in heaven.

by David Chadwick Anna is this week's character at the cradle. Her story is found alongside Simeon's story in the temple where Mary and Joseph took Jesus to present him to the Lord at their purification ceremony. Anna lost her husband after being married seven years and is described by Luke as a prophetess and a widow at 84 years of age. She did not depart from the temple, seeking God with all her heart. How did she seek God? Luke made sure to outline very precisely how Anna lived a life that was fully dedicated to seeking the Lord. First, she worshiped. Evidently she had a deep love for worshiping God and being in his presence. Worship seemed to be the foundation of everything else that Anna did to cultivate a deep walk with her Creator. I can almost picture in my imagination a faithful, older woman who loved to simply sit and praise God. Do you think she sang the psalms? Maybe meditating on the greatness of her God? Do you think she replayed the stories she had heard through generations of the Messiah who would come? Secondly, the Bible says that Anna worshiped with fasting. When the Bible references fasting, it was typically from food. Fasting forces our bodies to be in submission to the Spirit who lives in us. Every growl of the stomach should remind us to seek God for our needs, our hopes, and our desires. As followers of Jesus, we, too, should practice this spiritual discipline of fasting. Did you know that even in the secular world, medical professionals speak to the benefits of fasting for your physical health? But remember, as evidenced in Isaiah 58, that God cares more about our hearts than anything. Whatever we abstain from, God's desire is that we increase in holiness, purity, humility, and repentance. So, maybe it's food. Or maybe you need to take a break from social media, entertainment, shopping, or anything that could take the place of God. So that you can fully and clearly focus on him and his promises to you. Finally, Anna worshiped with prayer. Prayer is simply a conversation with God. Anna most likely expressed her love for God, and God expressed his love for her. She did this "night and day." Day and night, night and day, she worshiped, fasted, and prayed. Even at 84 years of age! Anna should be an example for all of us of how to abide no matter our age. No wonder Dr. Luke wanted to include Anna in the Christmas story. What a godly woman who lived in adoration of her loving God!

by David Chadwick Anna, a prophetess, is this week's character at the cradle. The name Anna means "grace" and "favor." True to her name's meaning, Anna was a beautiful display of the grace that would fully be made known to the world through the life of Jesus. Anna was also the daughter of Phanuel from the tribe of Asher, one of the 12 tribes of Israel. Do you think Dr. Luke interviewed Anna personally? He certainly gave details of her family line in great specificity. I can't help but wonder what kind of father Phanuel was to have raised such a wonderful daughter like Anna. A really good one I'd bet! Along with Simeon, Anna was in the temple when Mary and Joseph presented Jesus for the purification ceremony. Her presence there was divinely ordained, and both she and Simeon were used to prophetically confirm all Gabriel had already told Mary and Joseph. In the context of this story, we see in verse 36 that Anna was advanced in years. Let me first stop and point out the importance of knowing people who are older than you. Proverbs 16:31 says, "Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life." It is reflected in those who have gained a measure of wisdom simply because of the number of years they've lived. We also see that Anna had gotten married later in life and had been married for seven years before her husband died. She clearly understood grief and the sadness of losing a loved one. At the age of 84, she found herself a widow after only a short time of being married. Again, notice the specifics of Luke's writing. We are able to deduce based on his fine details that she was a virgin until she was married and now lives alone again. Anna was a shining display of maturity and integrity and the Biblical virtue of chastity. Paul talks about the command to honor older women in all purity in 1 Timothy 5:2. Then in Titus 2:3-5, Paul addresses how older women are to teach younger women how to be self-controlled, wise, and pure. Anna's life modeled the exhortations Paul had for young people. This is such a good message for younger women and men today. Find older mentors who really love the Lord and have lived a faithful life to the Lord. Let them speak into your life. Learn from them. There are certain things that can only be learned by someone who has lived life. Learn from their stories of how to get up when knocked down, how to persevere, how to pray, how to be faithful to your spouse, and how to live for God's "Well done."

by David Chadwick Following Simeon, our next character at the cradle is Anna. Join me in Luke 2:36-38. In just three simple verses, we will learn so much about the life of Anna. Described in the Bible as a "prophetess," Anna had a spiritual gift from God to be able to rightly hear the heart of God and declare it accordingly for particular situations, sometimes even for future situations. In this case, Anna was testifying and prophesying to the fact that Jesus was the fulfillment of all of God's promises. We know that the prophets in the Old Testament were from God because their prophecies came true. Over 300 were about the coming of the Messiah, and every one of them was fulfilled in Jesus. The probability factor of all these 300 coming true, given hundreds of years before Jesus came into the world, is astonishing. Let's take a look at some of the notable ones. Micah 5:2 says the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem, 700-plus years before Jesus's birth. Psalm 22 prophesies of Jesus's death, 900-plus years before Jesus died on the cross. Isaiah 53 prophesied 600-plus years before Jesus's death that a Messiah would come to pay for our sins. The probability factor of just eight prophecies to be accurately fulfilled in specificity through Jesus is off the charts! Much less 300 of them accurately fulfilled! We can wholeheartedly trust the reliability of God's Word, at least in part, because of fulfilled prophecies. Don't forget that one out of four verses in the Bible is prophetic. In the New Testament, they point not to Jesus's First Coming, but to his Second Coming. While this hasn't happened yet, these prophecies will also come to pass. Are you living each day in anticipation of his Second Coming? It will happen! Are you ready? I am! I can't wait for this glorious day! But for this week, let's look at Anna. She was a widow. Therefore, she knew heartbreak and loss. She loved God. Therefore, she trusted God in her pain and hurt. But she also exercised a gift of prophecy that God had given her about Jesus. She saw in this baby in the temple the redemption of all humanity. The way to heaven for those who believe in him. May her words of prophecy give us all great hope this week and beyond.

by David Chadwick Luke 2:33-35 wraps up this week's character at the cradle named Simeon, a righteous and devout man who knew of the Christ child's arrival through the Holy Spirit's revelation. He just prophesied over Jesus and knew that God had just fulfilled a promise he had made to him to let him see the salvation of the Lord through the Messiah before he passed away. Mary and Joseph marveled at all that Simeon had prophesied over their child. They obviously knew all of this to be true from the angelic visitation from Gabriel giving them insight about Jesus. But can you imagine how it felt to hear another person confirm all of God's promises over their son? This baby boy named Jesus. The Savior of the world. Called by God. Miraculously conceived. Simeon blessed both Jesus and his parents with his word of prophecy and encouragement. Mary and Joseph needed courage as they parented this special child. Simeon then spoke a special, specific word to Mary about the appointed child God had given her. "Behold, this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed" (Luke 2:35). It's as if the Lord used Simeon to take Mary aside and speak words directly to her soul to help her endure the calling she had ahead of her. This child would divide Israel; some would believe in Christ, and others would not. Simeon knew this. "A sign that is opposed" alluded to that great opposition that would come upon Jesus. "The sword" referred to the future crucifixion of Jesus. The accuracy of Simeon's word would prove to be true over the course of Jesus's life. As Mary saw the opposition arise over her son, I can imagine Simeon's words came back to her remembrance. Paul says that prophecy is meant to be used as a weapon for believers. They are words we should use to fight in the midst of opposition and spiritual warfare. I am sure Mary did this. As Jesus began to be scrutinized and questioned. As the anger of Rome and religious leaders intensified. As she stood at the base of the cross and watched her son die. Even in Mary's sorrow, she had faith. She believed that God had sent her his son to carry in her womb, to raise up, and to love deeply. Simeon's words gave her courage to live this out. Mary, too, was an essential part of God's redemptive history. You and I have a role to play as well. You are not just saved for eternity. You are saved to build the kingdom on earth as it is in heaven.

by David Chadwick We are following the story of Simeon. Mary and Joseph were in the temple with Jesus, awaiting his purification according to the Law of Moses. Simeon had just realized that Jesus was the Messiah, the fulfillment of all of the prophecies. Let's keep reading to see what happens with this character at the cradle whose life intersects with the Son of God. As we learned yesterday, Simeon's life was led by the Holy Spirit. On the very day that Jesus and his family were going in for Jesus's purification, Simeon, who had been waiting for years for "the consolation of Israel" to be born, was led to the temple by the Holy Spirit at the exact moment when Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus would be there. This alone should be enough to stir all of our faith to believe that God is always working from every angle, with every person, to accomplish his plans on the earth. Nothing. And I mean nothing is outside of God's sovereign control and timing! God knew when Jesus would be in the temple. Therefore, the third person of the Godhead, the Holy Spirit, guided Simeon, this devout and righteous man, to the temple at that exact moment. In doing so, the Father answered all of Simeon's prayers for years as Simeon came face to face with his Messiah. According to Luke 2:28-32, Simeon took baby Jesus in his arms, blessed God, and then began to prophesy over the child, "Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel." Can you imagine what Simeon must have been feeling at this moment? He was fully aware that everything happening was divinely authored by God himself. One can presume that he was fully present and fully aware of the miraculous majesty of the moment. If I can, let me encourage you for a moment in this new year. Stay alert. Don't become numb to all that God is doing in your life and in the lives of those around you. So often, in a broken world, people become hardened to the ordained wonders of the Lord, to the little whispers of grace, and to his glimpses of glory. Like Simeon, keep your eyes open to the promises fulfilled all around you. Simeon knew he could die in peace after seeing Jesus; the greatest desire of his heart had been met. He knew he was holding in his arms the only one who could save all people, Jews and Gentiles alike. This baby would become a light to Gentiles on how to live and how to go to heaven, and Israel would be glorified through his life. Through the life of Jesus, Israel's purpose in salvation history was unfolding.

by David Chadwick The birth of Jesus changed the course of history forever. God, in flesh, came to mankind in the greatest rescue mission the world has ever seen. Mary and Joseph traveled to Jerusalem for Jesus's purification ceremony, a cultural practice in the Jewish faith where the parents presented their child to the Lord. They brought a humble sacrifice of two turtledoves and two young pigeons. It was all they could afford, but God always honors whatever sacrifice someone is able to bring. Today, let's look at Luke 2:25-27, where a man in Jerusalem named Simeon comes on the scene. Verse 25 says, "This man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him." While there is not a great deal revealed to us in this verse about Simeon, what is revealed is important. Simeon was a man of integrity who was dedicated to the Lord. As a strong man of faith, he was contending for what God had promised to Israel, and he was awaiting the day that God would come and rescue and comfort his chosen people. Aware of and alert to all of God's unfolding plans, Simeon must have been a student of Scripture, and he must have been aware of all of the times where God promised to come rescue and comfort his people (Isaiah 40:1, Isaiah 49:13, Isaiah 51:3). But there is one more unique description for Simeon in this verse that should capture all of our attention: "The Holy Spirit was upon him." Luke 2:26 goes on to explain that the Holy Spirit revealed to Simeon that he would not see death before he had seen "the Lord's Christ," God's Son, the Messiah. God had made a promise to him, and God always makes good on his promises. Simeon then came "in the Spirit" to the temple where Mary and Joseph would bring Jesus as was the custom of the Law (Luke 2:27). Simeon was led by, engulfed by, and overcome by the Holy Spirit, who guided his entire life. We should learn from his example. The Holy Spirit should guide every part of our lives! When Simeon saw Jesus with his parents, he knew. He just knew, undoubtedly by the Spirit, that this child was the Messiah. The chosen one of God. The one for whom he had waited so long. At that moment, all of Simeon's patience, prayer, and waiting was finally rewarded. May all of us learn how to be patient as we wait in faith for God to fulfill all he has promised!

by David Chadwick There are so many characters whose lives purposefully and divinely intersect at the cradle with the main character we know as Jesus, the King of kings and Lord of lords. We have looked at Zechariah, Elizabeth, Mary, and Joseph. Last week, we saw how all of these characters' lives were leading up to, anticipating, and preparing for the birth of Jesus. From there, we looked at the angels who visited the shepherds in the field. Following one angel's instructions, the shepherds set out to find the manger and the Christ child. Today, we are going to look at Luke 2:24. Mary and Joseph went to bring their offering to the Temple for Jesus's purification. This was a historical practice of the Jewish culture. What did they bring to offer as their sacrifice? A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons. This seems like a basic enough verse to understand until you realize that this kind of simple offering indicates that Mary and Joseph were poor. The turtledoves and pigeons were a sacrifice of modest means. Look at Leviticus 12:8, "And if she cannot afford a lamb, then she shall take two turtledoves or two pigeons, one for a burnt offering and the other for a sin offering. And the priest shall make atonement for her, and she shall be clean." This kind of offering was the Old Testament option given to people who did not have as much. Wealthier people were able to offer a lamb as the sacrifice, but turtledoves and pigeons were typically the offerings of those who couldn't afford more expensive things. Unlike Hinduism and other religions that have caste systems and look at the poor with contempt, the God of Christianity came for the least and the lost. He loves the humble sacrifice. He holds a special place in his heart for those who are poor, destitute, and lacking material wealth. The God of the Bible loves both a small sacrifice of two turtledoves and a larger sacrifice of a grand lamb. He cares more about a genuine love of God and a heart of faith than the size of a gift. Mary and Joseph's simple offering shows that great kids can come from even the poorest of homes! Two parents who love God, love one another, and are committed to raising their kids in the nurture and admonition of the Lord can produce fantastic kids who are great in the sight of the Lord. A great reminder for us all.

by David Chadwick This week, we continue to look at the characters at the cradle. These are the people whose lives divinely intersected with the incarnation of Jesus. Even from the womb, Zechariah and Elizabeth's lives were impacted by the miraculous conception of this soon-coming King of kings. So, what is currently happening in the story? And what character is at the cradle this week? His name is Simeon. You will find his story in Luke 2:22-35 and we start by looking at verses 22 and 23. Before Simeon comes on the scene, it is important to understand the context of what is happening in the story. Today and tomorrow, we will look at what is happening before Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus meet Simeon. The birth of Jesus had just occurred. An angel, along with an angelic host, appeared to the shepherds and told them that the Savior of the world had just been born. The angel told them to go to the city of David, Bethlehem, where they would find the baby lying in a manger. Luke 2:22-23 says that the time had come for their purification. Mary and Joseph brought Jesus "up to Jerusalem." What does this mean? It implies walking up on Mount Zion, where the Temple was built. This was where they needed to take Jesus for the purification ceremony. As written in Leviticus 12:3-4, this "time" was 40 days after birth, 33 days after circumcision (which is eight days after birth). According to the Law of Moses, the firstborn male child was to be presented to the Lord and called holy to the Lord. Notice how devoted Mary and Joseph were to keeping the Law of God. Why did God choose them to be the mom and dad of his Son, the second person of the Godhead? I supposed it had a lot to do with their total devotion to God and obedience to his Law. They were not casually committed. They loved God with all their hearts. Think about what most parents want for their kids—prestige, popularity, success, position, and prosperity. Now look at what God wanted for his Son: a mom and dad who would raise him in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. This should make all parents pause and refocus our priorities for our kids. Just as Jesus was brought to the temple for purification, we should live our lives in a way that always asks God to give us clean hands and pure hearts. A fervent love for God and a willingness to wholeheartedly follow Jesus should be the primary aim. There should then be an intentional desire for husband and wife to love one another and extend that love to their children. From there, love should overflow into the world. That is what is most important in a family. That's the strong foundation and Christlike environment that is needed to raise great and godly kids.

by David Chadwick Philippians 2:10-11 says, "that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." There is power in the name of Jesus. Wonder-working power. Even at conception, his name caused John to leap in his mother's womb and Elizabeth to be filled with the Spirit. His mere presence on the earth, even in utero, began to have a profound impact on the world. After Jesus was born. What happened next? Today we will finish by looking at Luke 2:21. It says, "And at the end of eight days, when he was circumcised, he was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb." Two important things took place. Mary and Joseph's new baby was circumcised and given the name Jesus. Mary and Joseph were committed, orthodox Jews. Remaining true to their Jewish faith, they desired to obey every requirement of the Law and Jewish tradition. Oh, that all parents would be like this! Hungry and humble. Obedient and pure. Out of all of the parents that God could have ordained for Jesus, these are the types of people who the Father wanted for his Son on earth. The one who wrote this Law is now obeying what he wrote! I pray that those of us who follow Christ would model the same with our kids, obeying all that God requires of us. A home full of grace and truth, righteousness and holiness, obedient of the Word of God, and filled with the Spirit is the kind of environment in which God wants to raise his children. For eight days Mary and Joseph waited. Loving this new baby. Can you imagine the conversations that occurred between them over these eight days? The long looks at the baby. The cuddling. The feedings. Wonder and awe! On the eighth day, in fulfillment of the Law, Jesus was presented for circumcision. His name was also given to him, just as the angel Gabriel had instructed: the name Jesus. Both John and Jesus's names were given in heaven to their parents before they were conceived in the womb to their respective moms. Again, never forget to take note of Mary and Elizabeth's hearts of obedience in every detail, big and small. God will always honor a heart desirous of obedience to him. Jesus, the main character at the cradle, the most important person in the entire story, is now alive in the story! There are more characters to come, but his presence in the world, God in human form, has marked history forever!

by David Chadwick Did you know Jesus is alive? Not just in the Christmas story, but today and forevermore! As we continue to study the birth of Jesus, the most compelling reality of the Christmas story is that the same wonder and glory that came with his birth is still available to us today. His birth unlocked an eternal promise. Jesus's birth impacted all of history and all of eternity. The first coming of Jesus was a foretaste of his second coming. As we read Luke 2:1-21, we should swell with anticipation in our hearts for our soon and coming King! Today, we are going to look at Luke 2:15-20 where the angels ascended to heaven and the shepherds set out to find the manger. Verse 16 says that the shepherds went "with haste" to find the couple and the baby. Haste. What a powerful word; meaning excessive speed, urgency, hurry. They knew they had been given a very important assignment and they acted swiftly! I love to presume all that might have happened along the way with the shepherds. Did they have to ask around to find the manger? Do you think they found the innkeeper and asked if he knew of a couple giving birth in a manger? Was this one of only a few mangers in Bethlehem, making it relatively easy to find? Maybe the only manger? Although Luke, once again, left some of these details missing, he was detail-oriented enough to show us the most important thing–that with very little information, these shepherds found Jesus. When they saw the baby, they remembered the angel's words. Everything was just as they had told him it would be. After all, angels can't lie! The shepherds went on to tell Mary and Joseph all that had just happened. The appearance of the angel. The message of how to find them. The angelic choir proclaiming the glory of God. The shepherds returned to their fields praising God. They saw and heard exactly as they had been told by the angel. Their lives would never be the same! Don't you know Mary and Joseph must have added this info to their own list of angelic appearances, to the many stories they were already collecting, and to the promises that had been made to them through the birth of their son? This was prophetic fulfillment happening before their very eyes. From that day forward, they surely had a lot to talk about in their newly married lives. After the birth of her son and subsequent events, what did Mary do? The Bible says that "she treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart." Do you think she ever shared all of the intricacies with Jesus? Or directly to Dr. Luke? She clearly told someone. Otherwise, we wouldn't have this account today. Not only did Mary treasure and ponder, but she also shared it. Because when you know something is life-changing, you can't help but share it! It changed Mary personally, but it changed everyone around her. And even more, it's changed all of us today! Praise be to God for this good and Godly woman.

by David Chadwick Joseph and Mary traveled to Bethlehem to be registered for taxes. While there, Jesus was born in a smelly manger instead of a nice inn. The God of all creation chose to enter the world in the most humble of states. Jesus is the main character at the cradle. His birth was the catalyst to draw every other character to the cradle. So what happens next in the story? Let's look at Luke 2:8-14 to see who were the first characters at the cradle following Jesus's birth. Verse 8 says that the shepherds were "out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night." Suddenly, an angel appeared to them. Like we see in many biblical accounts, when an angel would show up, the shepherds were filled with great fear as God's glory shone around them. Do you remember how Zechariah and Mary responded? They were afraid. But this fear is different from sinful fears. Think more of an awe and reverence as sinful humans stand before holy angels. The angel said to the shepherds, "Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord." The angel's message, one of enormous joy, would both change their lives forever and touch all of humanity for all of time. The angel went on to tell the shepherds where they would find this baby, "wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger." This is all the detail Luke included. Somehow, some way, the simplicity of that statement would take the shepherds straight to the Christ child. Could it be that God chose the most radically humble of locations to be the very way that people would find the King of kings? Following the angel's message, astoundingly, a mass heavenly angelic choir appeared, saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!" While the Bible clearly says that the angels were "saying" this, I can't help but hear it put to music every time I read these words! Whenever I hear Christmas songs that say, "Glory to God," I immediately think of this verse. I picture a multitude of angels singing, almost like a military choir singing in perfect harmony because, after all, angels are God's armies! The shepherds heard the news! God had finally come! Immanuel. The 400 years of silence had been deafeningly broken. Per the angel's instructions, it was time for some to begin to visit him! Can you believe it? The first human guests to come visit God in human flesh were the shepherds. Not the rich and powerful, but lowly shepherds. Another theme of humility invading the Christmas story. God made a statement by inviting the lowly, seemingly insignificant ones to be the first to come to his birth party. How great is our God!

by David Chadwick When Caesar Augustus gave a decree mandating everyone to be registered for taxes, Joseph and Mary's journey to Bethlehem began. Remember as you read the Christmas story that there was not one aspect that was outside of God's control or plan. In fact, every moment was a part of his plan. The twists and turns, the ups and downs – all of them point to our great need for redemption through Jesus. While in Bethlehem, the time came for Mary to give birth. Let's look at Luke 2:5-7, where God, through Jesus, entered the world. The main character of the entire story! For being such a detail-oriented author, Luke does leave some mystery in these verses surrounding Jesus's actual birth. So many questions and so few answers! I can't help but wonder if Luke intentionally left some mystery around the birth of Jesus. Sometimes humans become fixated on understanding all of the details and lose sight of the wonder of the Savior. As we follow Jesus, we must embrace mystery, realizing that some things will only make sense in heaven. While we don't know for sure what the exact context was of Joseph and Mary's wedding celebration, we know from Luke's account that Joseph was with Mary, caring for her during the trip from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Determined to obey God to be her caring husband. In verse 7, God in human flesh entered the world. Baby Jesus was born. In a stable. With straw. Surrounded by animals who were probably quite smelly. They were the first invited guests for the actual birth. Mary wrapped him in swaddling clothes, which, as a side note, was the same material used to wrap him up and lay him in the empty tomb following his crucifixion. The King of kings and Lord of lords was born in a smelly stable, as there was no place in the inn. He came in humility, not splendor. Surroundings that were so meager and so humbling. The God of the universe led the way in a life that was opposed to the proud. Humility is the heart of God and the beginning point for eternal salvation. As his followers, we, too, should choose humility. The Bible says that if we do, he will lift us up to a place of honor.

by David Chadwick This week, we are going to look specifically at the birth of Jesus and the important role that the shepherds and angels played as characters at the cradle. However, before we look at some more of these secondary characters, we must first STOP and look at the main character. Jesus is the main event. He IS the ultimate character at the cradle, around whom God's entire story is written. He is the pinnacle of all creation, the peak of all prophecies, and the climax of the story! Join me today as we look at Luke 2:1-4. Did you know that everything in human history is under God's control? There is not one atom outside of his creation. Even the disappointing, confusing, and discouraging parts of life are used for the glory of God and for his purposes to be accomplished both in us as individuals and in the world. Luke 2 starts with a decree from Caesar Augustus to conduct a census. In his decree, everyone had to return to their hometowns to register for the taxation. What began as a tax request paved the way for the birth of Jesus to take place in Bethlehem! Before we continue, notice Dr. Luke's detail-oriented insights. His medically trained mind, once again, gives us details that others may have overlooked. He shares the name of the emperor and the governor of Syria. Because of that, we now know that the history of Jesus's birth took place during the same time as Quirinius was governor of Syria, which confirms that history aligns with God's Word! While Caesar Augustus was the emperor of Rome and Quirinius was over Syria, God remains the eternal "emperor" of the world! He is the King of kings. The Emperor of emperors. God is in control and every intricate detail exists to fulfill Old Testament prophecy. From Nazareth to Bethlehem, everything took place the way it did in order to carry out God's plan! Jesus had to be born in Bethlehem to fulfill prophecy in Micah 5:2, specifically in the city of David, called Bethlehem, where David, too, was born. Did you know Joseph was from Bethlehem as well? Jesus was in the lineage of King David, another fulfillment of prophecy. Always remember this truth: man proposes, God disposes. Daniel 2:21 says that God "changes times and seasons; removes kings and sets up kings…" Augustus, so mighty and powerful, was nothing but a mere puppet in God's hands, used strategically for God's glory. This is true of every ruler and authority throughout human history, and it's true of rulers today. Take heart. God is always in control. The Father is the master author, Jesus is the main character and, through his Spirit, he continues to be the conductor of the world!

by David Chadwick Zechariah concluded his prophecy in verse 79 by proclaiming that John the Baptist would "give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace." John the Baptist would proclaim a message that would give light to the shadow of death, which is often people's greatest fear. But this light would also guide our feet to the way of peace. So we don't misstep, trip, or fall! As we discussed yesterday, God gives us the sunrise every morning, simply because of his grace. The sun gives us light for the day. In the same way, the SON of God shines light on the darkness of our sin. What a wonderful insight for Jesus's advent, his coming to us! Jesus aimed to give us light in the midst of our darkness. In fact, in John 8:12, Jesus called himself the light of the world. Why is this significant? Because when sin cursed the world, darkness overtook the light. We became a world without hope. A story without promise. A life with no future. But God! Jesus saved us from all darkness and all sin. Peter said that we were delivered out of the kingdom of darkness into Jesus's marvelous kingdom of light (1 Peter 2:9). If we follow Jesus and his light, we, too, are called to be lights in this dark world! Once Jesus invades our hearts and his light dwells in us, we are salt and light (Matthew 5:13-16). We bring light to the darkness of the world and salt to that which has no flavor. Sometimes that light will cause unbelievers to squint in pain as our light exposes their sin. But it's needed to reveal the purity of the Gospel! The light of Christ helps us see each step clearly that ultimately guides us home to our Father in heaven. Luke 1 concludes in verse 80 by saying, "And the child grew and became strong in spirit, and he was in the wilderness until the day of his public appearance to Israel." Every day that John got older in body, he became older in the Lord. We see in Scripture that God's greatest saints often spent long hours in solitude and contemplation before their ministries became public. This was certainly true of Jesus! Think about him between the ages of 12 and 30. He spent that time in tremendous preparation for his public ministry. As for John the Baptist, God eventually called him into the wilderness until he was to go public. How long was that? We don't know. But by the time God finally made John public, he was preaching a message of repentance that drew thousands to baptism. He spent his life continually preparing the way of the Lord, Jesus, the Savior of the world!

by David Chadwick Zechariah's prophecy gives strong gospel implications to the importance and need for repentance. Luke 1:77-78 says that John, in preparing the way for the Lord, would "give knowledge of salvation to his people in the forgiveness of their sins, because of the tender mercy of our God, whereby the sunrise shall visit us from on high…" Zechariah knew that John's life's mission would be to point to Jesus. John the Baptist would bring a message of repentance before people even heard Jesus's message. His words would prime the hearts of people to receive the Word (John 1:1). Jesus's message would then bring people the knowledge of salvation and offer the forgiveness of sins. Through him, all of mankind would be offered the perfect union that had once existed between God and his creation. Jesus would restore everything that had been broken. He would repair, reunite, redeem, and rebuild! My dear friends, our greatest need as humans is not more "stuff" that we don't actually need. Rather, it is to know that we are forever forgiven, that our eternity is secure through Jesus, and that our lives are meant to bear fruit for his Kingdom while living on this broken earth. If we truly understood these realities, we would never need to worry about anything again! God made this salvation message known first through John and then through Jesus. Because of the "tender mercy of our God," he does not want any of us to receive what we deserve. If karma is true, then all of us deserve an eternity in hell for our sins, disobedience, unrighteousness, and godlessness. None of us are blameless and without fault. Any sin, even the slightest one, scars us. God knew this! Instead of leaving us to wallow in our brokenness, God, rich in grace and mercy, came to us. He came to us from "on high," heaven, and visited us like the sunrise visits us every morning of every day. What do we do to cause the sun to rise each day? Absolutely nothing! It's only because God loves us SO much that he gives us this daily reminder of his mercy and grace. Lamentations 3:22-23 says, "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." What a great God we serve!

by David Chadwick The Godhead - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, are present throughout the biblical narrative. Much like in Genesis 1, where the Trinity is present during creation, the same holds true with these characters at the cradle. The Bible tells us that many of these characters at the cradle were specifically marked with the Holy Spirit during their encounters with the Christ child. The Spirit "came upon" Mary (Luke 1:35). Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit as she first met Jesus in the womb of her cousin, Mary (Luke 1:41). And then in verse 67, Zechariah is filled with the Holy Spirit. Zechariah continued his Spirit-filled prophecy in verse 76 by specifically addressing his child, John, given to Zechariah and Elizabeth in their old age. He would be called "the prophet of the Most High." John's divine purpose would be to go before the Lord and prepare his ways. What a powerful calling! John's life would be marked as a human mouthpiece for the Most High God. Did you know that Malachi prophesied about John's arrival as the forerunner of Jesus in Malachi 4:5? Malachi was the last of the Old Testament prophets, prophesying right around 420 BC before the 400 years of silence. Take note of the wonder of this situation! The last Old Testament prophet prophesied the coming of the final prophet, who would prepare the way for Jesus's arrival. God chose, ordained, and sent John to prepare the way for his son, Jesus. Both John's and Jesus's miraculous births were a sovereign part of God's plan to redeem the world. Through their providential lives, the grace and mercy of Jesus were displayed, restoring the ability to have restoration between creation and the Creator. John would carry the same spirit of the great Old Testament prophet Elijah, who constantly preached repentance, which paved the way for Jesus to share God's message of rich forgiveness, grace, and mercy. But remember, without the message of repentance, God's grace and mercy are just sloppy sentimentality. True life change should always propel you into a new life of holiness and righteousness that can only be found in Jesus.

by David Chadwick We are looking at the characters at the cradle, the people who found their lives intersecting with the life of Jesus, with divine precision. Each person carried a unique role and responsibility and stewarded his or her place in history with great purpose. Zechariah was one of those characters. In spite of his initial unbelief, which left him deaf and mute for a season, he allowed his time in silence to shape him and refine him for what was to come with the birth of John. Once Zechariah's speech was restored, he was filled with the Spirit and began to prophesy. About what, you might ask? So many things! Let's take a look over the next few days. In verse 70, Zechariah spoke of Jesus being the fulfillment of all the prophecies in the Old Testament. There were 300 plus prophecies in total, all of which were perfectly fulfilled in Jesus. Jesus is the connection between the Old and New Testaments. He is the one who ushered in the new covenant of grace to his people. The birth of Jesus ushered in the long-awaited Messiah to save Israel from its enemies. His birth sounded the alarm that Rome's oppression would not last forever. Through his birth, all the enemies of Israel for all of time would now be judged by God for their anger and fury against God's chosen people. My dear friends, you may not like Israel, but they are still God's chosen people with whom he made an everlasting covenant for the salvation of the world. Every nation, for all of time, will have good and evil. We must live in this ongoing tension until Jesus's return. But this does not change the fact that Israel has always been and will always be an instrument of God's plans for the earth. Jesus extended mercy to Israel, not giving them what they deserved. Fulfilling the holy covenant that God made with Abraham in Genesis 12:1-3, Zechariah gave a reminder that through Jesus, God would make them a great people and a great land (Luke 1:72-73). Through Abraham, the nation of Israel would be formed. From his "seed," through his lineage, all the nations of the earth would be blessed. Delivered from their enemies time and time again, these people were set apart to serve the Lord in righteousness and holiness for all their days (Luke 1:74-75). Through them, the Israelites, the nations of the earth, would be drawn to God as they witnessed how blessed these holy people were by their holy God.

by David Chadwick This week, we cover Zechariah's prophecy found in Luke 1:67-79. This passage is powerful and full of revelation and insight. If you remember where we have been, Zechariah's words come on the heels of Elizabeth's prophetic exclamation in verse 42, Mary's song of praise in verses 46-56, and the birth of John in verses 57-66. Zechariah is coming off his nine months of silence. Because he expressed words of doubt and unbelief when the angel Gabriel had told him that he would finally have a son named John, Zechariah was rendered mute and deaf. By the time John arrived, everyone thought the name of the boy would be "Zechariah," after his father. You can imagine everyone's surprise when he wrote "John" on the tablet. At that very moment, his speech and hearing were restored. Immediately. Miraculously. These verses lay out Zechariah's words after nine long months of listening, observing, thinking, and praying. Not to mention all he had just seen through the miraculous birth of his son. Imagine what you would say after such a long time of silence! When his speech and hearing were restored, Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and said, "Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel." His silence was broken with praise to God. Pent up praise exploded from his mouth. Zechariah was a front-row witness to an answered prayer and to God's will being accomplished and knew the only proper response was to give him all the glory. Why praise? Because God was visiting his people after 400 years of silence! The Lord had redeemed his people. What started through the angel Gabriel's appearance to Zechariah in the temple continued through the birth of John, who would be a forerunner to the Messiah, and then finally to the birth of Jesus, placed in Mary's womb as the Savior of the world. In verse 69, Zechariah talks about how God has raised up "the horn," which is always a symbol of strength and power. Picture a horn on a rhinoceros, full of brute force. This is what salvation through Jesus would mean for God's people. As prophesied in the Old Testament, Jesus would come through the house of David and bring salvation to the world. How great is our God!

by David Chadwick "And fear came on all their neighbors. And all these things were talked about through all the hill country of Judea, and all who heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, 'What then will this child be?' For the hand of the Lord was with him." Luke 1:65-66. When Zechariah's voice returned, he started blessing God for all that had happened to him and Elizabeth. He was incredibly grateful for the birth of his child. The text goes on to tell us that all the neighbors were filled with fear. The "fear" talked about here is not dread or being afraid. On the contrary. It's the awesome respect that one has for another. It's a holy awe. This is what I felt toward my dad growing up. This large, godly man caused me to revere him in every way. Proverbs 1:6 says, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." Our society and nation have forgotten the fear of the Lord. The reverence of God has become non-existent. To some, he is often treated as a best pal or buddy. For others, he is treated as a genie in a bottle to whom people only go to get their needs met. When God does a mighty work like miraculously bringing John the Baptist into the world, people are forced to come face to face with his divine grace and mercy. And the fear that this produces is good! It should make us want to love, serve, and worship our Daddy in heaven even more! When people thought about John and his arrival, they began to wonder about his future. "What would this child be?" They knew the hand of the Lord was upon John, and they could already sense it was for something great. They were right! This special child went on to be the forerunner for the life and ministry of Jesus, as prophesied in Malachi 4:5. John the Baptist was the beginning of the inauguration of God's kingdom through Jesus. He would go on to baptize Jesus and point people to his earthly ministry. Find Jesus and you will find his kingdom. Find his kingdom and you will hunger to find your place in his story. You will hunger to see the kingdom of heaven come on earth as it is in heaven. His will is to give us glimpses of glory here on earth until the King named Jesus comes again! Awe and wonder filled the hearts of all who heard the news of John the Baptist's birth. I pray that awe and wonder will swell in each of your hearts this Christmas season!

by David Chadwick When Zechariah wrote down, "His name is John," for all to see and read, he obeyed in specificity all the angel of the Lord had commanded him to do. At that moment, something significant happened. Let's take a look. "And immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, blessing God" (Luke 1:64). Immediately. What a powerful word! Not gradual, not slowly… immediately! Zechariah's act of obedience led to his immediate breakthrough. At that moment, he was able to speak again. And the words that poured forth blessed the one true God. This might be one of my favorite stories in the Bible. The salvation of the Lord is so evident in the life of Zechariah. Did you notice how the last words spoken by Zechariah before becoming mute were words of unbelief and doubt, but the first words that he spoke after his tongue was loosened were words of faith that blessed God? Over the nine months of silence, Zechariah learned his lesson! His fear turned to faith. Words of doubt into words of praise. Words of unbelief became words of worship. His hesitation became dedication. What a profound transformation Zechariah had. He learned the power of words, praise, and worship. Because of Zechariah's willingness to yield to the transformative work of God in his life, his words and his actions would never be the same. He would be forever marked by an experience with the awesome power of an awesome God. Zechariah had a deep appreciation for his prison of silence because it taught him to praise in ALL things. He understood like never before the power of his words. He learned to worship God no matter what the situation may be. From prison to praise. From silence to worship. This story shows the greatness of our God! This Christmas season, I would encourage you to practice praise. Learn to find words of worship. No matter what circumstance you find yourself in, choose to thank God.

by David Chadwick The ultimate name of the Christmas story is born into a cradle. His name is Jesus. But there are many characters at the cradle who play significant roles in highlighting the Savior of the world. One, in particular, is the forerunner to the message of Jesus. His name is John. Luke 1:61-63 continues the story of John's circumcision. Even though everyone thought this special baby would be named after his father, Gabriel instructed Zechariah to name him John. Because Zechariah was still mute, Elizabeth had just spoken up to tell everyone the name. No one who gathered for this special event understood. They said, "None of your relatives is called by this name" (Luke 1:61). Thinking Elizabeth was wrong, they turned to Zechariah and started to make signs to him, asking him if this was what he really wanted. Why is this so important? Because making signs implied that Zechariah was not only mute, but also could have been deaf! We don't know for sure, but he clearly needed a sign language of sorts to understand what they were saying. Zechariah asked for a writing tablet and wrote, "His name is John." I would imagine this is probably how Zechariah mostly had communicated with Elizabeth and others during these long nine months. After hearing from Zechariah himself, the people all wondered, "Why? How?" This suggests that they didn't know what had happened in the temple with the angel Gabriel. It was apparently a secret between Zechariah and Elizabeth. What a beautiful nod to the sacredness of marriage. Sometimes there are secrets that only a husband and wife hold dear to their hearts. Can you imagine how Zechariah and Elizabeth communicated their hearts and expressed their faith to one another during those quiet nine months together? Maybe a longing look? A squeezed hand? A silent prayer together? They were one flesh, clinging to the goodness of God and claiming his promises together. A special love language was most assuredly forged between them! A language that most assuredly was imprinted on the heart of John even while growing in the womb You'll have to join me tomorrow to see what happens next.

by David Chadwick What's in a name? There is power in a name. Meaning in a name. Purpose in a name. In Scripture, names often point to someone's God-ordained purpose. Today, you will learn why John's name was significant. After John was born, Zechariah and Elizabeth took him to be circumcised on the eighth day, as was the Jewish custom. This was also the time when the father would pronounce the name of the child. Often in biblical times, the child would be named after the father. This actually still happens a lot in today's culture as well. So for John's circumcision, everyone gathered on that day anticipating that this baby's name would be Zechariah, after his daddy. Now remember, Zechariah is still without his voice. It's been nine months since Gabriel closed Zechariah's vocal cords, and not a word has been spoken in all these months. So it was Elizabeth who responded, "No; he shall be called John." Somehow, Zechariah had clearly communicated with Elizabeth all that Gabriel had told him, including the fact that they were to name their son John. In that moment, Elizabeth communicated with precise obedience from all that Zechariah had been commanded to do. The name John means "God is gracious." This name spoke prophetically to the fact that John would pave the way for the life of Jesus to grace this earth, a life that would forever change the course of history and the trajectory of the world. Do you get a sense as to why God chose Zechariah and Elizabeth to parent this special child named John? I believe it is because God knew that they had a heart of obedience to accomplish ALL that God would command them to do. A heart of obedience often precedes God's gifts of miracles. This still holds true for us today. Do you have a heart of obedience? Do you desire to obey God in whatever he asks of you? I would encourage all of us to posture ourselves to be the kinds of people to whom he will entrust his plans.

by David Chadwick This week, we are going to look at another character at the cradle. Join me as we explore the birth of John the Baptist, found in Luke 1:57-66. We will start today by looking at verses 57 and 58. Elizabeth's time to give birth has finally arrived! After her five months of hiddenness and Zechariah's nine months of silence, the divine time for John to enter the world had arrived! Think about all that must have happened to Elizabeth over those nine months. Somehow, Zechariah figured out a way to tell her about Gabriel's visit to him in the temple. The shock, the unbelief, the awe, the acceptance. You know there must have been a wide range of emotions. Then, as alluded to earlier, for five months, Elizabeth hid herself and spent time absorbing the magnitude of this news. After so many long years of praying and waiting, they would finally have a son. And oh, how great this son would be! Because Gabriel had shut Zechariah's mouth after displaying unbelief, Elizabeth was left with a lot of time to ponder quietly during her pregnancy. She probably spent a lot of time in prayer and meditation. Then, if you remember, Elizabeth also had that special designated time with her cousin, Mary. When Mary visited Elizabeth, John leaped in her womb in the presence of Jesus. Even in the womb, John knew he was in the presence of the Son of God. It's yet another pro-life verse people should study. A child in the womb can leap for joy! When John was born, Elizabeth's neighbors came and shared in her joy. They rejoiced in the Lord's mercy toward her, giving her a child in old age, and ultimately removing the reproach of barrenness for her and Zechariah. JOY! It's what they all experienced. One of the greatest producers of joy is answered prayer. In fact, the Bible says that "hope deferred makes the heart sick" (Proverbs 13:12). Think about the many answered prayers that you have seen take place in your life. As you do, let faith arise that God still may answer the deepest desires of your heart. Answered prayers always produce great joy. Have faith and continue to believe even before you have received the promise! This produces faith, which cannot be taken away. And this faith realized produces great joy!

by David Chadwick Let there be praise! While Mary's Magnificat ends with verse 55, Luke 1:56 tells us what Mary did after she completed this psalm of praise. I often find that the practical action steps that follow a spiritual encounter are equally as important, if not more, than the encounter itself. It is important to put action behind our experiences. Mary did just that. The Bible says that Mary remained with Elizabeth for about three months and then returned to her home. What do you think happened in those three months? I can think of 3 things that I think happened. First, I think Mary prayed and worshiped God, soaking in his unfailing love. I think she probably reflected on the words that she cried out to God in "The Magnificat." The magnitude of the story unfolding. The faithfulness of God through generations. Secondly, I think Mary processed with Elizabeth. If you remember, Elizabeth kept herself hidden for five months after finding out John was on the way. During that time, Elizabeth probably had times of worship and quiet reflection where she contemplated God's mercy and grace. I'm sure she sat and reflected on all Gabriel had said to her husband, Zechariah. I can remember my Marilynn, after long years of waiting for a child, finally learning that our first baby was on the way. She spent hours in prayer, praise, and contemplation. As her belly grew, she would often rub her tummy and thank God. Sing praises. Quote Bible verses. Mary and Elizabeth probably also shared similar stories as they sat together in reflection. Can you imagine the conversations, prayer, and praise? The joy of sharing these two miracle stories? Possibly even writing things down to preserve the memories for generations to come. Whatever happened, I'm sure it was full of wonder. Third, I think Mary prepared her heart to return home. You can't stay on a mountaintop experience forever. When God speaks, it requires action. She probably began to prepare a room in her heart before she ever had to prepare a room in that manger bed. Here's one final thought. Do you think Mary stayed long enough to help deliver John? Her cousin was a bit older. So maybe Mary remained to ensure her cousin and baby were safe. It really is fun to think about how this story unfolded in real life. May we all praise God for his goodness, mercy, miracles, and many gifts to us. May gratitude fill our hearts! God is truly good. He has done great things, and his favor is for all of us. Walk in humility, not pride. And taste and see that the Lord is good.

by David Chadwick Mary's Magnificat in Luke 1:46-56 depicts a profound display of praise and adoration from Mary toward God. In the Latin Vulgate translation, "magnificat" means "magnifies." These verses are designed to purely magnify the Lord God. In verses 54 and 55, Mary said, "He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, as he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his offspring forever." These verses mark a shift in Mary from praise for what God had done for her personally to praise for what this child would do for Israel. Mary knew that this gift of a Savior would be the greatest display of salvation that Israel had ever seen. Jesus would fulfill the promise of a Messiah, as promised throughout the Old Testament. Through Jesus, the Israelites would remember God's mercy for them in spite of their rebellion. They deserved dispersion and God's punishment forever. But God, rich in mercy, not only brings the Israelites back to the land, but also shows them mercy, restoration, blessing, and hope. God spoke to Abraham with covenant promises and then to his offspring through Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, and Moses. Throughout history, God continued to speak. And now, through Jesus, God would speak again! Jesus, the Son of God, the second person of the Trinity, and God in human flesh, would invade a dark world to reclaim all that was lost because of sin. Jesus was the ultimate display that God was not finished with Israel yet and that he still had a plan for salvation for Israel. God's love for Israel is clearly seen here. It was revealed through Jesus's life, death, resurrection, ascension, and Second Coming. But this love didn't stop with Israel. This message has always been for the masses! The love of Jesus is so radical that it was always designed to spill out onto the whole world. Salvation belongs to Jews and Gentiles, male and female, young and old, rich and poor. This salvation message has transcended generations and times. The love of God for Israel was the seedbed in which the miracle message of salvation was able to grow, multiply, and touch the ends of the earth. To you and me. All praise to our God for his lovingkindness!

by David Chadwick The greatness of God is one of the profound mysteries of the Christian faith. His glory, his majesty, his dominion, his power. Our God is mighty! But in his greatness and might, he chose to come down to earth, taking on the form of a servant, to live the perfect life none of us could live, die the death we deserved, and restore anyone who responds to his salvation by grace through faith back into relationship with the Father. In Luke 1:50-53, Mary expounded upon what the birth of Jesus would mean for those who are weak or feel insignificant, for those who are hungry and desperate. She emphasized the mercy of God that extends for all generations. The same mercy available to Mary is available to us. Isn't that wonderfully good news? God doesn't give us what we deserve. He gives mercy to everyone who fears him; to those who have a deep, awesome respect for him. This was Mary. Is this you? Do you ever contemplate how awesome and great God is? There was nothing significant about this 13-14-year-old virgin girl except her faith. And God chose to use her magnificently. He wants to do the same for you and me. The same God who pursued Mary for his will to be done on earth, pursues you and me as well. For a moment, pause and think about all the great things God has done for you. As you reflect on his goodness, you will begin to count all of the miraculous deeds accomplished for you. And you will be reminded of his strength. God's strength is big enough to overshadow any problem we face. Under God's humility and strength, the proud are scattered (verse 51). Just like with the Tower of Babel, God refuses to allow the proud to gather together for harm. He scatters enemies to thwart their malicious plans. Don't wrestle and fight against God's will. Rather, surrender to it. Yield to his mighty hand. In fact, James 4:8 says that those who humble themselves in the sight of the Lord will be lifted up to a place of honor. God fills the hungry and the humble with good things. But to the rich and haughty, they will be sent away empty-handed. God uses the seeming foolish things of this world to confound the wise (1 Corinthians 1:27). Being a fool for Jesus is always the better choice. When we are weak, only then are we actually strong because our strength is found in his strength (2 Corinthians 12:9)!

by David Chadwick Today we will focus on Luke 1:48-49, which says, "For he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name." God looked at Mary. He saw her. But think about this for a moment. Mary spent her life looking to Yahweh, the God of Abraham, Jacob, and Isaac. In turn, God looked to Mary to help him accomplish the greatest mission ever accomplished: the salvation of the world. The gospel of Jesus is a "to you, through you" gospel. God did not just save us for eternity. He has invited us into a partnership with him to reveal his nature and character and to release the message of salvation to a dying and hurting world. We see this evidenced in Mary's life. Mary's praise parallels Hannah's similar hymn of praise in 1 Samuel 2:10 when Hannah learned that she was finally with child after years and years of waiting. In both situations, it appears that God "looked" and pursued these women to give birth to special people: Hannah to Samuel and Mary to Jesus. God's pursuit of us should prompt lives of praise. His love for us should build hearts of worship. Mary knew this. She understood the unworthiness of her life apart from her Creator. She knew that she was just an ordinary human, and she lived from that humble place. God's greatest servants recognize that they are nothing great in the world's eyes. This should serve as a reminder to all of us that God looks for availability more than ability. Mary continued to be overwhelmed with praise as she realized future generations would look upon her life and call her blessed; that for all time people would know that she was the special vessel through whom God chose to reveal himself in human form. From there, Mary's praise extended beyond the impact that Jesus's life would have on the physical world. She began to express profound magnification of the greatness of God. She had an eternal perspective. Mary was overwhelmed by God's goodness and by his decision to choose her to bear, give birth to, and raise the Christ child. She could hardly believe this "great thing" God had done for her and for the world. She began to sing, "Holy is his name." She knew the name of God was set apart. It was different from any other name. The power of God, which would be displayed through the name of Jesus, would be totally perfect in every way. For Jesus alone deserves all worship, all praise, and all glory!

by David Chadwick The Christmas season is truly upon us! As a church, we are going through the book of Luke, studying the many characters at the cradle who surrounded the birth of Jesus. Luke 1:46-55 is one of the most beautiful passages in all of the Bible. Known as Mary's Magnificat, which means "magnifies" in the Latin Vulgate translation, these verses reveal Mary's song of praise to the Lord after being given the news that she was pregnant with the Savior of the world. We now see Mary as a songwriter. A psalmist. A hymn writer! In this chapter, Mary was visiting Elizabeth, her cousin, who was also pregnant. At the point of her visit, John the Baptist had been growing in Elizabeth's womb for six months. If you remember from last week, Mary was carrying the miraculously conceived Son of God in her womb by the power of the Holy Spirit. As Mary and Elizabeth greeted one another, John the Baptist leaped for joy in the womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. The worship of Jesus was displayed, and the recognition of his coming kingdom was detected, even from the womb! In verse 45, Elizabeth blessed Mary's great faith for believing Gabriel's prophecy. The Magnificat was Mary's response to all that was taking place, and it was an eruption of praise. Like David's psalms of thanksgiving, which always began by thanking God for what he had done, this song of praise does the same. Today, let's look specifically at verses 46 and 47. Mary started off by saying, "My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior." Praise was her weapon. Much like in Psalm 103:1, all that was within her was praising her God and his holy name. Her cry out to God as her Savior showed that she was fully aware before Jesus ever arrived of her great need for a Savior. Notice also that God is a personal Savior. He is loving, good, and kind. Surely Mary's beautiful relationship with God and her deep, abiding faith were important in God choosing her to carry and give birth to the second person of the Godhead. Mary truly was a beautiful human in so many ways. During this Christmas season, I pray that we will all develop a personal faith in God that is as special as the one Mary had! And that we all will sing the Christmas hymns with a renewed passion for the power of praise.

by David Chadwick This week, we have looked at Mary and Elizabeth, two characters at the cradle who loved one another deeply and who both played a significant role in ushering in the birth of Jesus to this world. These two women were full of faith and chose to play their part in God's redeeming story with the utmost humility. They are both to be admired and respected. Especially Mary, as the mother of Jesus, the Savior of the world. Today, I would like to wrap up our week by focusing on one more specific insight to Elizabeth and Mary's relationship. Imagine for a moment what it must have been like for Mary and Elizabeth to share their stories about the angelic visitation. Elizabeth waited for years, even decades, for the promise of a child to come true. She had been hoping for a child. But for Mary, she was a virgin, so her news was startling. It came out of nowhere. She had to fully hear and accept what had been said to her by Gabriel. Knowing the role that Gabriel played in Old Testament prophecies to foreshadow the coming of the Messiah, it could be that Mary and Elizabeth were both pondering the significance and greatness of Gabriel's appearance to each of them. I bet they chatted back and forth with questions like, "Why me? Why us? Why cousins? What does the future hold? And for the nation of Israel?" Neither one of them knew all the answers, but both women gladly accepted what God had chosen to do. They embodied lives of full surrender. And don't forget Zechariah. Surely, he was there as the two cousins chatted. While unable to speak up, I am sure he listened to Mary's story with his own sense of wonder. With a heart of worship. With utter fascination. Full of humility. Fascinated once again by grace and more aware than ever of the salvation that was about to come through this child soon to be born. With every passing word, Zechariah probably thought about the first words he would speak when his son and Mary's child were eventually born. It would now only be a few more months. May we, too, ponder with wonder of our awesome God! May we cherish the power of the gospel once again. Oh, how great is our God!

by David Chadwick Elizabeth's next words to Mary are amazing. Follow along with me as we look at Luke 1:45. Elizabeth said, "And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord." Did you catch what Elizabeth blessed in this verse? She blessed Mary's faith. Mary heard from the mighty angel Gabriel and she believed that every word that he had said to her was true. We all need examples of faith. It doesn't matter if we are old or young, we all need the gift of faith. We must fight to believe that all of God's promises are true. We must train our minds to believe that faith can cause mountains, the seemingly impossible situations of life, to move from here to there (Matthew 17:20). We must believe that what God has promised to us is received even when we can't see it (Hebrews 11:1). We can find many examples of people who modeled this kind of faith both in the Bible and throughout history. Historically, consider missionaries like Hudson Taylor who went to China with little resources to claim it for God's glory. Or Jim Elliott who endured tremendous hardship to reach the unreached in Ecuador, ultimately losing his life. How about David Livingston? He spent decades evangelizing in Africa. There are countless more examples. Or biblically speaking, take a look at Abraham. He waited 25 years for Isaac, the child God had promised him. Or what about Joshua? Even though the Promised Land was within reach, he had to wait 40 years before entering it. Or King David, who was faithful in the pasture before he was ever entrusted with the palace. How about Paul? He spent years in prison for the sake of the Gospel where he had to wait on the Lord. Yet in prison was where he wrote most of the New Testament. Then, there's Mary. Perhaps she should be at the top of the list! As a virgin, she believed the child in her womb truly was the fulfillment of biblical prophecy. That this Jesus whom she bore was the Savior of the world. And that all of God's promises really are true! This is the kind of faith we must seek to emulate!

by David Chadwick Mary and Elizabeth had a very special relationship. They were cousins. They were pregnant at the same time, Elizabeth with John and Mary with Jesus. Both of their pregnancies were supernatural in nature. Both of them were very blessed. Today, we see how extra significant Elizabeth's honor was for her cousin Mary. Let's take a look at Luke 1:42-44. Mary travelled from Nazareth to the hill country of Judea to visit her cousin Elizabeth. If you remember yesterday, when she entered Elizabeth's home, the baby John leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Then Elizabeth proclaimed to Mary, "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And why is this granted to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me?" Notice Elizabeth's posture as a great woman of God. She took a position of humility. She didn't start talking about her situation and what had happened to Zechariah in the temple. Nor how great it was for her personal prayers to have been answered. No, she immediately humbled herself before her cousin, Mary. This scene is almost a preview to John 3:30 when Elizabeth's child, John, would go on to say that he must decrease and Jesus must increase! John was raised by a good and godly mom who was humble before her God as well. Elizabeth knew her place in God's story and took the lower seat. She referred to Mary not as her cousin or her friend, but as "the mother of my Lord." Somehow, Elizabeth knew that this child in Mary's womb was her Lord! The Savior of the world. Could it be that God shared very special things with Elizabeth during her quiet months of pregnancy? It's certainly possible. Elizabeth knew that Mary held a special place in God's heart and that he chose her to carry his Son, our Savior, in her womb. He chose Mary to raise this child in the wisdom and admonition of the Lord. Before Jesus ever went to the cross or was raised from the dead, the power of the Gospel was so very real to both Mary and Elizabeth! We will continue the story tomorrow!

by David Chadwick Mary and Elizabeth. Two women called by God, both of whom were carrying children with tremendous purpose. Jesus, the perfect God-man, was conceived in Mary's womb by the power of the Holy Spirit. The angel Gabriel delivered the news to her. In addition to this news of her supernatural pregnancy, Mary was also informed of her cousin Elizabeth's miraculous conception in her later years. If we think family news spreads fast, imagine how quickly this news must have spread from family to family and from village to village. The fulfillment of biblical prophecy was happening before people's very eyes. I can only imagine the relief, the excitement, and the wonder that filled the hearts of all who heard. Mary went to visit her cousin Elizabeth in the hill country of Judea. We don't know exactly where Zechariah and Elizabeth lived, but one could suspect that it was relatively near Jerusalem because Zechariah had regular rounds of service in the temple. Elizabeth's pregnancy with John was 6 months ahead of Mary's pregnancy with Jesus. I am sure that both of them could not wait to share their stories with one another. Especially with the angel Gabriel being at the center of both narratives! Let's not forget the significance of Gabriel. He is the mighty angel who was always delivering news about the Messiah. He did so in the book of Daniel hundreds of years earlier and now was also the one to bring the news of Jesus's birth. Mary entered Elizabeth's home. As she greeted her cousin, the baby John the Baptist leaped in Elizabeth's womb, and at that moment, Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. There are three significant takeaways that I want to give you when it comes to John's leaping inside the womb. First, this leaping could very well have been prophetic, as John's calling was to rise up as the forerunner of the Messiah, Jesus. Much like a leap displays energy and action, John's fiery message called the world to attention. Secondly, John's leaping was a sign of worship, as John seemingly acknowledged, even from the womb, that Jesus was God's chosen instrument to save the world, not himself. Finally, this leap is an undeniable pro-life statement. The term "baby" used in this passage is also the term for a "child" that Jesus later used when he said, "Let the little children (child) come unto me." Only a life can worship Jesus. And the Bible recognizes this baby as a child. To God, this is so very clearly a life both inside and outside the womb. Jesus came to give life and life abundantly, and this message held power even while he was in the womb!

by David Chadwick This week, we will continue to look for glimpses of glory throughout the life of Mary, but specifically in the context of her very special relationship with Elizabeth. Both called by God to very high, very important tasks. Let's briefly recap where we are in the story. Zechariah was visited by Gabriel and given the news that he was going to have a son named John. But because of his unbelief, he was made silent until the birth of his son. Can you imagine for a moment how Zechariah communicated the news to his wife without the ability to speak? Did he write down what the angel Gabriel had said to him? Or maybe he used hand signals like a game to get her to guess that she would have a child in her old age? It's fun to think about this! Now, try to imagine what Elizabeth must have felt as she processed Gabriel's visit to her husband. To know that she was called by God. After years of prayers and waiting, she would finally have a son! Per Gabriel's specific instructions, she was to name the baby John, a name that means "God is gracious." John sure lived up to his name! He was a demonstration of God's grace to both Zechariah and Elizabeth, and his life's mission was to pave the way for Jesus, the fullness of grace (John 1:16), to walk out his life on earth. Afterwards, Gabriel appeared to a young virgin girl named Mary, who we began to study last week. Also called by God, Mary loved God and was a true example of Godly womanhood. God chose Mary to bear the Son of God, Immanuel, which means "God with us." Her child would be named Jesus. He would be the Savior of the world, forgiving humanity of its sin and restoring people to the heart of the Father. The Holy Spirit's presence overshadowed Mary's humanity and paved the way for the incarnation of Jesus, God in human form. This week, as we look at Mary and Elizabeth's very special relationship, remember that their closeness was deeper than being biological cousins or even being close friends. They carried similar callings. They were both called by God to extremely hard tasks for his kingdom. I like to think that there is no greater closeness than the kind that is formed while living on a common mission for Jesus. There is no greater joy than to work alongside other believers to see the gospel message go forward. Mary and Elizabeth shared this kind of closeness and joy with one another! I would encourage you, too, to prioritize relationships with others who are called by God to live on mission for Jesus and his kingdom!

by David Chadwick I hope you are enjoying these characters at the cradle. These are stories of biblical figures who find their lives intersecting with the entrance of Jesus into the world. In each story, you will see so much wonder, purpose and significance. After Mary had the encounter with the angel Gabriel, her response spoke volumes. However, before we see how she responded, do you remember what Zechariah's response was when Gabriel told him that he would have a son after many years of waiting and praying? Zechariah spoke words of doubt and unbelief, and because of that, he was made mute throughout Elizabeth's pregnancy. As you consider the implications of unbelief in Zechariah's life, let us finish this week by pondering Mary's response to the angel Gabriel after all that she heard. Mary was different. Of course, she was initially stunned. But after realizing what Gabriel came to tell her, Mary showed nothing but faith. She said, "Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word" (Luke 1:38). There was not even a shred of unbelief in her response. Only words of faith. Mary was the kind of woman who all women (and men!) should admire. Though not sinless, she should be a model for how to relinquish control of our lives and submit to God's call. Instead of shrugging her shoulders with a casual, compromising "whatever" in unbelief, she held herself strong and said, "Whatever you will, my God." God wants all of us to have a heart that is postured toward this kind of surrender and trust. A disposition that is willing to do whatever God calls us to do, no matter the cost. After Mary's response, Gabriel departed from her. It is almost as if he knew his task was complete. The message was delivered. Her faith was evident. Job well done. Gabriel then returned to the Father in heaven for his next assignment…

by David Chadwick Mary. Cousin to Elizabeth. Betrothed to Joseph. Visited by the angel Gabriel. While she wore many hats, the most important one was this: Mary, mother of Jesus! After Gabriel visited Mary, she became aware of the divine conception that would take place in her womb. She also found out that her formerly barren cousin, Elizabeth, was now with child. The story of Mary is full of faith, hope, and wonder. Threaded throughout Mary's life is a strong and fervent belief that with God, nothing is impossible! In fact, these were Gabriel's last words to Mary (Luke 1:37). Take a moment to break down this verse with me today. It starts with these two words: "for nothing." As I often joke, I looked up nothing in the dictionary. Guess what it means? Nothing. Not a single thing. Then comes that word "impossible." Did you know there is not one single hurdle, roadblock, or setback that is impossible for the Lord? The next two words are also very important: with God. Communion with the Father. A life of abiding. Perfect union with the God of creation. The Savior of the world was ushered in on a foundation of faith and a life deeply connected to the Father. What a firm foundation! This theme of faith is found throughout the Bible. Do you remember Sarah? After 25 years of waiting for a promised son, she was told that one year later she would finally have a son (Genesis 18:14). Then in Jeremiah 32:17, we are told that nothing is beyond the power of our God who created the heavens and the earth. Consider Jesus's own words in Matthew 19:26: "But Jesus looked at them and said, 'With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."' Meditate on Ephesians 3:20-21: "Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen." We should contemplate these truths today and forever. Whatever you are facing, consider Sarah, consider Jeremiah. Meditate on Scripture that strengthens your faith. Now consider again this beautiful story of Mary. And remember that with God, nothing is impossible. Just as Mary did, let us all contemplate these last words for our lives today as well. Nothing is impossible for God.

by David Chadwick Gabriel's initial appearance to Mary left her "greatly troubled" as she tried to figure out why he said, "Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!" The angel went on to tell Mary not to fear and explained that she had found favor with God. Mary settled into the news that she would bear a son and would call him Jesus. He would be the Son of God and the Savior of the world. Gabriel went on to say that the Holy Spirit would come upon her and the power of the Most High would overshadow her. With every word that she held in her heart, her fear turned to faith. After a powerful proclamation of the news of the coming King, Gabriel gave Mary an "Oh, by the way." What did he tell Mary, you might ask? He said, and I paraphrase, "Oh, by the way, your cousin Elizabeth, in her old age, is also with child." He told her that Elizabeth, too, was pregnant with a son and was just six months ahead of Mary. If you remember, Elizabeth was barren and she had been totally healed! Can you imagine Mary trying to process all this information? In those moments following Gabriel's message, Mary had to contemplate that she was a virgin who would be having a child who was the Son of the Most High God. She also had to wrap her head around the fact that her cousin Elizabeth was also going to have a miracle child as well. In Elizabeth's old age, she found herself miraculously pregnant. Without Gabriel telling her, Mary could not have known of her cousin's pregnancy because Elizabeth had been in solitude and quiet for five months. In those quiet early months of Elizabeth's pregnancy, without a soul ever knowing, promise was growing, hope was arising, and promise was flourishing. Every word of the story God was writing would point to the ultimate hero, Jesus, the Savior of the world. I wonder if Mary had enough time to even contemplate all that was happening in those moments. Do you think she had the wherewithal to recognize God's redemptive purpose for all of mankind? Did she feel the anticipation swelling inside of her? Was she overjoyed? Was she stunned? I'm sure there was a mixture of many emotions! Whether she fully knew it or not, Mary was watching the early stages of God's plan of salvation begin to unfold before her very eyes!

by David Chadwick There are many holy and purposeful connections that took place between the Creator of the universe and his creation leading up to Jesus's entrance into the world. Join me as we continue to look at some of the special characters at the cradle. I love the significance of both Gabriel and Joseph as characters at the cradle. But today, I want to place our focus more specifically on Mary, who played the very special role as mother of the Savior of the world. I left you with a cliffhanger yesterday, thinking about the profound question Mary asked after hearing from Gabriel of the coming Savior. Mary said to Gabriel, "How will this be, since I am a virgin?" The answer: it was only done by the power of the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Godhead, who is also known as the silent sovereign. Mary's conception as a virgin is the reality that Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit. It is one of the most profound mysteries of the Christian faith. Some false theologians have tried to downplay the importance of the Virgin Birth. They have implied that it is not an essential doctrine of the Christian faith. Hear me loud and clear, my dear friends, and I don't use this phrase lightly, but this is a false teaching. Anyone teaching this could not be more wrong, and their teaching is heretical. You should never ascribe to it as a follower of Jesus. It's a biblical teaching. The early church's credal statements affirmed it. So should we if we are faithful followers of Jesus. The Holy Spirit overshadowed Mary's humanity to conceive a holy child in her womb. Jesus, the Son of God, would be different. He would live as a perfect human and the Savior of the world. Perfect God and perfect human at the same time. A mystery, for sure, but it's what the Bible clearly teaches. Jesus's perfect holiness came from a divine conception. He had to be perfectly human in order to die for our sins, but perfectly God in order to forgive us for our sins. The Incarnation, God coming to earth as a man, paved the way for the greatest story ever told! As we wrap up the miracle of divine conception, do you notice the Trinity here? The Father, the Most High God, ordained the entrance of Jesus, his Son, who was then created by the Holy Spirit in the womb of a virgin. Father, Son, and Holy Spirit all present in the divine conception!

by David Chadwick This week, we will continue to look at some more characters whose lives had profound intersections with the cradle of Jesus. Over the past two weeks, we studied Zechariah and Elizabeth. This week, we study Mary, the mother of Jesus. But in order to understand Mary, we have to understand Gabriel and Joseph as well. After Gabriel visited Zechariah with the amazing news that his wife would give birth to a baby named John (the Baptist), God gave him a second assignment. He told him to go visit a young virgin girl named Mary in the town of Nazareth in Galilee. She was betrothed to a man named Joseph who was from the house of David. In those days, the betrothal time was a set apart year-long period during which a couple could get to know one another before marriage. In order to fully understand the significance of Mary and Joseph, you must know these two important biblical truths. First, Mary was a virgin. She had to be a virgin in order to fulfill the Isaiah 7:14 prophecy. The Christ child had to be conceived by the Holy Spirit to a virgin woman in order to bypass the way that Adam's sin was transmitted through humanity ever since the Fall in Genesis 3. Secondly, Joseph had to be in the household of David in order to fulfill the prophecy that the Messiah would come from David's lineage (Jeremiah 23:5). Joseph, too, is an important part of the story. Gabriel appears to him in Matthew's gospel to assure him that Mary is impregnated by the Holy Spirit. He obeyed and must have been a great father. Gabriel, the same angel that appeared to Zechariah, also appeared to Mary saying, "Greetings, O favored one." He announced the coming Messiah, telling Mary she would have a son named Jesus, which means Savior, for he will save the world of its sins. Jesus would be the Son of the Most High God. He would reign over Israel and God's Kingdom. Mary was a Godly woman, likely a young teenager, who was specifically chosen by God to carry out a very important mission. She was not perfect, as Catholics assume, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). But I do think she should be honored more than many Protestants tend to honor her. Much like Zechariah, Mary was troubled, startled, and overwhelmed. Mary wondered, "How will this be, since I am a virgin?" This question is profound, and I will help answer it tomorrow. Stay tuned.