The Spirit’s Joy-Galatians 5:22

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, peace, joy…” The Holy Spirit is the gift of the Father to His Children.  He was given at the request of His Son who sent Him to aid us in our lives and mission on earth until Jesus returns.  Jesus promised that...

The Joy of Jesus-John 15:11

“These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full.” The joys we experience in life are many and wonderful.  They joy of marriage, births of children, getting a new job or going on a faraway trip make our...

The Maji’s Joy-Matthew 2:10

“And when they saw the star, the rejoiced with great joy.” In the entire Christmas story there are no characters or events except the incarnation stranger that the coming of the Maji (Wise Men) to Bethlehem.  Their presence in the Christmas story is indeed...

The People’s Joy-Luke 2:10

“For behold, I bring you good news of great joy which shall be for all the people….” The angel who delivered the good news to the shepherd the night Jesus was born announced something that went far beyond the starlit fields near Bethlehem. The birth...

The Virgin’s Joy-Luke 1:47

“My spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior.” (Lk. 1:47) The news Mary received from the Angel Gabriel that she would conceive and bear a son was not only a surprise it was a miracle about to happen.  She was engaged to Joseph but had not lived with him or...

The Joy of Christmas-Luke 2:10

Yesterday we lit the candle of Joy representing the joy of the Lord which He sent to the world in His Son Jesus.  The events which surround the birth of Christ and the people mentioned in the birth narratives are filled with joy.  There is joy at the birth of John the...

The Good Shepherd-John 10:1-18

At birth we are given names, usually because our parents (specifically our mothers) like how they sound.  Later on, however, many people choose what they prefer to be called.  Those with nicknames may drop them for their more mature sounding given names.  Individuals...

The Restoring Shepherd-Isaiah 40:1-11

Whenever persons endure a conflict that threatens their relationship, there is an awkward moment that occurs just before reconciliation happens.  It usually requires apologies, requests for forgiveness, and promises to do better in the future.  All of life is about...

The Saving Shepherd-Psalm 80

What do you belong to?  Human beings typically belong to families, groups, clubs, churches, societies, unions, and organizations.  We belong because of birth, achievements, common interests, professional standards or interests in community service.  Belonging often...

The Seeking Shepherd-Luke 15:1-7

Lost. That word chills anyone who has ever endured it.  Being lost and the helpless feelings, the fears and disorientation  make it one of the worst experiences possible.  Last summer while on vacation we were in a store to get some things we needed when I noticed a...