“This is a record of the ancestors of Jesus the Messiah, a descendant of David and of Abraham:
2 Abraham was the father of Isaac. Isaac was the father of Jacob. Jacob was the father of Judah and his brothers. 3 Judah was the father of Perez and Zerah (whose mother was Tamar).
Matthew 1:1-3 NLT
Father of us all,
It has been interesting finding out about my family history. Others may not think so. Hard workers not movers and shakers! But knowing our Bible, this genealogy comes to life in our minds. Visions of Sodom and escape from sin. Ram caught in a bush and Your provision of a sacrifice. Egypt and the provision of all they needed by a Son . . . All witnessing and leading to the coming of Your Son. The family You chose and planned to place Him into.
They were no different from us. Wanting the best for their family to live well and see the next generation growing up well. They were no better than us. Abraham, tried to provide a son with his wife’s handmaid. But You had a plan and gave Abraham and Sarah their own miracle son.
When Abraham was willing to sacrifice this grown up son, Isaac, You stopped him and You provided the true sacrifice. Then You sent us Jesus. Not tangled in a bush but wearing a crown of thorns (Mark 15:17).
Thank You that we can have our own advent calendar and open windows in Your Word and rejoice in the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world (John 1:29).
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Suggestions for prayer . . .
Father of us all,
For our family, friends, neighbours, those we promised to pray for.
For our Christian family and the plans for Christmas in our churches to draw in new people.
For our king and His family and all those in authority (1 Timothy 2:2).
For our Government and wise judgements.
For Ukraine and Russia. An end to war.
For all the conflict in the Middle East to ceasefire and find an end to the conflicts.
For those who do not have family and have nowhere to belong.
For those evicted and desperate to find somewhere safe and warm for their families.
For all those working in relief charities at home and overseas. Bless those who give.
For us to be prompted by Your Spirit that we are loved, wanted and have much to give thanks for.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Saturday 30th November 2024
King of kings, majesty,
God of Heaven living in me,
gentle Saviour, closest friend,
strong deliverer, beginning and end,
all within me falls at your throne.
Your majesty, I can but bow.
I lay my all before you now.
In royal robes I don’t deserve
I live to serve your majesty.
Earth and Heaven worship you,
love eternal, faithful and true,
who bought the nations, ransomed souls,
brought this sinner near to your throne;
all within me cries out in praise.
Your majesty, I can but bow…
Lyrics: Jarrod Cooper