Good morning,
Christmas has passed but hopefully the joy of knowing that our Savior came into the world for us, hasn’t.
In Luke we read the story of His birth and the manger.  And 8 days later he was circumcised.  I wonder how long they remained in the stable before other lodging could be found.
Then in Matthew we read about the visit from the Magi in chapter 2:11 where they came and found them just by following the star which remained to show the way to those seeking Him for the right reasons.  He’s still leading us if we look for Him in the right places.
“  When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.  On coming to the house, they saw the Child with His mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped Him.  Then they opened their treasures and presented Him with gifts of gold, incense and myrrh.”  Matthew 2:10-11.
Things really moved quickly in those days of slow transportation.  A young Child and his parents now leaving on their trip to Egypt for safety.  Amazing how things can happen when God is in charge and those who believe are listening for their instructions.  Not only hearing but obeying without hesitation.
God, today out of gratitude for Your great love for us, help us to listen, be obedient and go when You say go, and stay when You say stay, and trust You to know what is best for us.  In Jesus’ name.  Amen.
In His service,
Fran

Good morning,
On this cool Florida morning, it is good to know that we can rest in the warmth of a God whose love never fails.  This also helps answer the questions put to us yesterday in the sermon by Tara.

1. Who am I?
2. Whose am I?
3. Who is Lord in my life?

Most of us would quickly give our name when asked who we are.  But we are more than just a name.  Jesus asked His disciples the question:  “Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?” (Matthew 16:13).  14. “So they said, “Some say John the Baptist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”  But then Jesus asked the question that He still asks us today:  “But who do you say that I am?”  Until we can answer that correctly, we don’t know whose we are or who is Lord of our lives.
Simon Peter gave the answer that each of us needs to give with confidence:  “You (Jesus) are the Christ, the Son of the Living God.” (v.16).
Father we come today confessing You as our Lord and Savior.  Rather than just being born, let us live lives that show that we have been “born again” in You and Your love.  Thank You for the sacrifice made on our behalf for our salvation.  In Jesus’ name. Amen.
In His service,
Fran