“You should have the same attitude toward one another that Christ Jesus had, who though he existed in the form of God did not regard equality with God as something to be grasped, but emptied himself by taking on the form of a slave, by looking like other men, and by sharing in human nature.” Philippians 2:5-7 NET
Lord God,
The Christmas adverts are on already and Christmas edibles in abundance on shelves. And there are the Christmas romance movies making an appearance on TV. But they are always filmed in large warm houses that never get dusty or dirty. None seem to worry about money and they always have happy ever after endings! Christmas can be stressful, busy and expensive.
But I love Christmas even though in some ways celebrate that You came to earth every day. But this special celebration is part of my church celebration and brings some people into church at least once a year. You became one of us in Jesus, so You understand us, you teethed, grew through childhood, walked in our shoes, were rejected and suffered and yet still died for us.
It reminds me that You, Lord, knowing what men and women and like, sent Your Son as a vulnerable embryo. Stars pointed to Him, Angels pronounced to Shepherds about Him and, wealthy wise men brought timeless gifts for Him. Not mentioning the mother who committed to bear Him and the husband who committed to raise Him as His own.
I will not be putting up my lights and trimmings yet, (I love anything sparkly at Christmas), but will advertise the wonderful message of Christmas. You cannot buy love of God this Christmas it is a free gift and will bless You every day of Your life and for ever if You accept it.
In Jesus name we give thanks, Amen.
Suggestions for prayer . . .
Lord God,
For our family, friends, neighbours, those we promised to pray for.
For our fellowship members, our ministers.
For our king and His family and all those in authority (1 Timothy 2:2).
For our Government, advisors, diplomats and ambassadors.
For Ukraine and Russia.
For Israel, Lebanon, the Middle East. Countries in conflict.
For world leaders.
For all those who foster and adopt babies and children. Those who take siblings together.
For agencies seeking to support children in war areas and in famine.
For Jesus to be seen through all the marketing hype.
For the fragrance of Jesus to fill the homes in our community as they start to plan for Christmas.
For the NHS and the proposed improvements and change and turmoil.
For the NHS – all those having consultations and treatment. The special needs baby wards.
For us to live in today, give thanks for today and that You are the source of life, hope and our eternity. For all the work, chores, errands, mundane tasks to be fulfilled and smoothly.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Thursday 14th November 2024
Rick Founds wrote the song during his morning devotion, while reading scripture on his computer and watching television. He plucked at his guitar thinking about the “cycle of redemption”, and comparing it with the water cycle. As a worship leader he used it in his church and it was spotted by a Christian publisher.
Lord I lift Your name on high
Lord I love to sing Your praises
I’m so glad You’re in my life
I’m so glad You came to save us
You came from heaven to earth
To show the way
From the earth to the cross
My debt to pay
From the cross to the grave
From the grave to the sky
Lord I lift Your name on high
Lyrics: Rick Founds