We continue our top Christmas Favs as our celebration is only one week away, and our favorites for the day are Zechariah, Jesus' uncle and John the Baptist's dad, and a special friend of mine.
Zechariah was a good man of God. He served in the temple, cared for his family and was hugely respected by many, many people. Yet one day this dude lost his voice. He questioned God, and God wanted to use this happening to let others know that God is awesome. That is just what happened. A man chosen by God to influence the world and would pave the way for the forerunner or prophet that would get ready for Jesus' ministry. Here is what this giant of faith, Zechariah said after his son, John the Baptist, was born:
Luke 1:68-79 (nlt) --- "Praise the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has visited and redeemed his people. He has sent us a mighty Savior from the royal line of his servant David, just as he promised through his holy prophets long ago. Now we will be saved from our enemies and from all who hate us. He has been merciful to our ancestors by remembering his sacred covenant—the covenant he swore with an oath to our ancestor Abraham. We have been rescued from our enemies so we can serve God without fear, in holiness and righteousness for as long as we live. "And you, my little son, will be called the prophet of the Most High, because you will prepare the way for the Lord. You will tell his people how to find salvation through forgiveness of their sins. Because of God's tender mercy, the morning light from heaven is about to break upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, and to guide us to the path of peace."
That man spoke words that cannot be taken back (they are Bible, now). His son would see the world change but would also give his life for his ministry (literally as John died proclaiming Jesus as the Savior). What are we will doing to give people Jesus? Are we listening to God and sharing what God says? That's what Zechariah did. Pretty special Christmas for his family, I would say.
The next fav on our list is my precious wife. Now for over half our married life we have lived hundreds of miles from family, but we still love this season even with the challenges that travel and stress may stick with us. Here is my thought:
Proverbs 18:10,24 (nlt) --- The name of the L ord is a strong fortress; the godly run to him and are safe...a real friend sticks closer than a brother.
I get to celebrate all the holidays with Julie, not just Christmas. But this is the biggy. She loves nativity scenes and decorates our home in awesome ways. She loves to share with others around us and keeps up with me at church and whatever else is going on in our lives this time of the year. It is busy.
Julie pushes me to stay strong in Jesus and she is my friend, closer than a brother, and truly she is one of my Christmas Favs. Just had to share that with you 'cause I like those people who love this season since the season is about the Savior. Lets celebrate!
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