Day by Day

[Soldier4Christ]

"Praising God"

Glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen. Luke 2:20
   

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION

The shepherds glorified and praised God for all they had heard and seen. Praising God is a natural response when people witness His salvation in their lives and in the lives of others.

THE JOURNEY—DAY 31
It was back to work on Tuesday. The children weren’t in school, so Bill was thankful for the extra 30 minutes of sleep—especially after a long day of exchanging gifts at the mall!

When he arrived, there was a message from Chuck to stop by during the day. That afternoon he was able to visit. Chuck began to talk about the party at Bill’s house. He liked meeting the guys from the church. He said, “My past and my troubles didn’t seem to matter to them. I felt like I was accepted for who I am.”

Then he began to talk about his experience while reading “The Christmas Story.” He said, “I wonder if Jesus can help me. I feel like I really do need a savior right now.”

Bill was amazed. He had just opened his mouth to respond when he got a page to fix a computer problem in accounting. He said, “Chuck, let’s have lunch together tomorrow.” Chuck confirmed the appointment.

As Bill walked away, he was praising God for how the Spirit was working in Chuck.

REALITY JOURNEY
When the fruit of your witness is seen in the desire of another person who wants to know more about Jesus, give thanks to God for His working in the life of that person and that He allowed you the privilege of being His witness.

[Soldier4Christ]

"Pondering the Work of God"

But Mary … pondered them in her heart. Luke 2:19
   

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION

As Mary considered the working of God surrounding the birth of His Son, she took time to ponder His work in her life and for the world.

THE JOURNEY—DAY 30
Monday was still a work holiday for Bill. He sat down with his morning coffee and began to reflect on all that had happened the past month.

He thought about the “Advent Challenge” and remembered how he wasn’t sure if he knew anybody who needed Jesus for Christmas. He considered all his fears about witnessing and how his attitude had changed. He contemplated the overwhelming love of God for him and all people.

He realized he had not really known Chuck a month ago. Now he considers him a friend, even though Chuck does not know Jesus as Savior, or come to church. He was amazed at the opportunities that seemed to unfold in front of his eyes to talk about God and His love.

He thought, “It’s been an incredible month. God is so amazing.” It was a good time of pondering and reflection in the quiet time of a new day. Bill was inspired by what God had done and was doing. He realized that now he had even more to witness about Jesus.

The quiet was broken by Julie’s voice, “Honey, when do you want to leave for the mall to exchange our Christmas presents?!?”

REALITY JOURNEY
In the mission of witness in your life, take time to ponder what God has done and is doing. Looking back affirms the working of His hand and prepares you for further witness as you talk about the “things you have seen and heard.”

[Soldier4Christ]

"Spreading the Word"

They spread the word. Luke 2:17
   

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION

Once the shepherds heard the message and saw the Christ child, they spread the word. The word concerning Jesus must continue to be spread today so all can be amazed at His love.

THE JOURNEY—DAY 29
Sunday after worship, some of Bill’s friends commented on how they enjoyed meeting Chuck. Bill shared some of Chuck’s story, being careful not to say anything he might not want shared.

The word about Chuck spread to other men in the church. They talked about how they could support Chuck and Bobby during this difficult time. Some committed to praying for them every day. Some talked about inviting Chuck and Bobby to the father-son trip to a basketball game. Others talked about praying for them at the weekly Men’s Prayer Breakfast. Some of the dads offered to pick up Bobby for youth events.

Bill observed how these men really cared and genuinely wanted to help Chuck. He said to one of his friends, “It is really amazing how quickly the word spread around church and how many are going to be praying for Chuck and Bobby.”

His friend replied, “That’s because we want to spread the Word of God to them so they will know Jesus as Savior and Lord, too.”

Bill left church that day in awe of how God was now working through so many people in order that Chuck would know Him.

REALITY JOURNEY
Spread the word about Jesus. Spread the word about your friends who need Jesus so others can be in prayer and support the witnessing effort. They can help spread the good news, too.

[Soldier4Christ]

"The Heavenly Host"

A great company of the heavenly host appeared. Luke 2:13
   

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION

The great news of the birth of Jesus brought forth “a great company of the heavenly host” that joined in the proclamation of His birth—giving glory to God and proclaiming peace.

THE JOURNEY—DAY 28
On Saturday, Bill had planned a father-son gathering with some friends from church to watch football at his house. There would be chips, dips, cheese, chili, sausage, drinks, and definitely no veggies!

When he had planned the gathering weeks earlier, he didn’t know Chuck and Bobby. But that morning, he thought this would be a great time for Chuck to meet some of his church friends and for them to meet Chuck. So, he called and Chuck accepted.

It was a great afternoon of football. Chuck got along great with Bill’s friends. They also really liked Chuck. There was not much “God conversation.” Chuck was impressed that these seemed like “normal guys.” His image of Christians had been very different.

As everybody was leaving, Chuck thanked Bill for inviting Bobby and him to the party. “I really needed to get out of that house. And, well, today was great. I enjoyed meeting your other friends.”

Bill smiled and said, “You’re welcome, my friend. I hope someday you’ll get to know them all!”

REALITY JOURNEY
When Christians are together, they provide a tangible witness of the working of God in their lives. These settings also provide opportunity for an unchurched person to meet more Christians. Invite your friends who need Jesus to meet your churched friends in informal settings.

[Soldier4Christ]

"A Savior is Born"

“A Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:11
   

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION

The message of the angel is not equaled. God’s Son was born into the world to be our Savior. This is “good news of great joy.”

THE JOURNEY—DAY 27
Chuck was home alone the day after Christmas. Bobby had stayed with his mother and would not be back until evening. He thought about what a good friend Bill had become. He still couldn’t believe he had brought cookies and the manger the day before.

Chuck picked up the manger and began to read “The Christmas Story” from Luke 2 on the back:

“And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus … she brought forth her firstborn Son… and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn …Then the angel said to[the shepherds], “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord … and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (NKJV)

Chuck began to think about his situation. His wife had left him. His parents were across the country. He felt so alone. He was afraid, not knowing what was going to happen. He wondered if Jesus could help. “I could really use some joy and peace and everything else the angel said. I could really use a savior!”

REALITY JOURNEY
Everyone needs the Savior, Jesus. Not everyone realizes it. That realization comes through the Word of God and the conviction of the Holy Spirit. Share the Word of God with someone who needs a Savior.

[Soldier4Christ]

"The Mission is Nearby"

There were shepherds living out in the fields nearby. Luke 2:8
   

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION

While at first unsure, the shepherds would soon realize they were being given great news for the world, “A Savior is born.”

THE JOURNEY—DAY 26
Bill and his family always drove to his Grandma’s house for Christmas Day. She lived in a small town 100 miles away. There, they would eat lunch with the extended family and exchange Christmas gifts.

Today, Bill wanted to change the routine. “Let’s stop by Chuck’s house and give him the manger gift,” he suggested. “I know he’s going to be alone today. I want him to know I’m thinking about him; even more so, that Jesus is thinking about him!”

Bill loaded the family in the car a little earlier than normal. He even loaded a plate with Christmas cookies covered with Christmas-designed plastic wrap to leave for Chuck.

When he arrived, Chuck answered the door. He was really surprised to see Bill. Bill handed Chuck the cookies and the manger, and explained, “I wanted to give you the gift of Jesus for Christmas.”

Chuck was surprised. He’d never had a friend like Bill before. He thanked him for the cookies and the gift.

Bill thought, “This is the best Christmas gift I have ever given anybody!”

REALITY JOURNEY
The good news about the Savior is to be shared with the world and with the people who live nearby. Be a true Christian friend to somebody who needs Jesus. Let that person know you are thinking about him or her today.

[Soldier4Christ]

"In God's Time"

The time came for the baby to be born. Luke 2:6
   

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION

God's Son was born of Mary at the time appointed. In this humble birth, the world received its greatest gift—the Savior from sin.

THE JOURNEY—DAY 25
Christmas Eve was a work holiday. Bill called Chuck about coming to worship that evening. Chuck replied, “No. Bobby is going to his mom’s house tomorrow, so we’re staying home to exchange gifts.”

Bill was disappointed, but said, “I respect your decision. Maybe another time.”

The Bill Wood family had certain Christmas Eve traditions. One was to make Christmas cookies decorated with icing and sprinkles. Another was to attend the Candlelight Service. That night the pastor explained that Jesus was born at that time for the purpose of living a perfect life, dying on a cross for our sins, and being raised again from the dead to conquer the power of sin, death, and hell for us. He said, “This is what the angel proclaimed, ‘There is born to you this day in the city of David, a Savior.’ ”

The congregation lit candles and sang, “Silent Night.” Afterwards, the pastor said, “I will stay to talk with anyone who needs the gift of Jesus for Christmas.”

As they exited, each family received a paper manger set with the Christmas Story printed on the back. These instructions were attached: “Give this gift to a friend who needs Jesus.”

Bill thought, “I’m going to give Chuck the gift of Jesus for Christmas.”

REALITY JOURNEY
God sent His Son in the fullness of time to accomplish salvation (reference Galatians 4:4-5). Now is the time of your salvation (reference 2 Corinthians 6:2). Now is the time to give somebody the gift of Jesus for Christmas.

[Soldier4Christ]

"In My Hometown"

Everyone went to his own town to register. Luke 2:3
   

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION

The birth of Jesus was not set for some extravagant location. It would happen in the simple town of Bethlehem, the place of Joseph’s lineage, as prophesied (reference Micah 5:2).

THE JOURNEY—DAY 24
Bill called Chuck Tuesday afternoon, hoping to invite him to Christmas Eve services. But Chuck was extremely busy and invited Bill to stop by his home after work.

Chuck invited Bill into the house. Chuck apologized, “Sorry the place is a bit messy. Since my wife left, it’s just us guys and house cleaning is not our thing.”

Bill didn’t mind. In fact, he thought it looked quite comfortable and was glad Chuck felt at ease to invite him over.

Chuck continued, “So, Bill, what’s on your mind?”

Bill summoned the courage to ask, “I don’t want you to feel uncomfortable or pressured, but, would you like to come with me and my family to the Christmas Eve Candlelight Service tomorrow evening?”

Chuck thought about it and responded, “I don’t know. I’m not sure I’m ready for that. Can I think about it? Can you call me in the morning?”

Bill said, “Sure.” He left without any doubt knowing that God had sent him into a new mission field. Amazingly, he thought, “It was Chuck’s living room.”

REALITY JOURNEY
The work of God’s mission happens in your hometown, and sometimes, in the living room of a friend’s house. Be prepared to give a witness of the hope within you wherever the Lord may lead.

[Soldier4Christ]

"Prepare the Way"

“You will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for Him.” Luke 1:76
   

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION

John’s role as the one who would “prepare the way for the Lord” was determined by God and prophesied by Zechariah. This preparing involved giving “His people the knowledge of salvation” (Luke 1:77).

THE JOURNEY—DAY 23
Bill wondered if Chuck would come to Christmas Eve worship with him. He had a better understanding of the barriers, yet he didn’t want Chuck to have a negative response. But if he never asked, who would?

Bill thought about the “Advent Challenge” and giving the gift of Jesus to Chuck for Christmas. God had been in their conversations, but had Jesus really been given if Chuck didn’t believe? Then he wondered, “What more can I do so Chuck will believe?”

Bill’s cell phone rang. Considering the thoughts that had been going through his head, he was amazed to discover it was Pastor Greer calling to inquire about Chuck. Bill filled him in.

Pastor Greer responded, “Bill, think of yourself as one who was sent to prepare the way for the Lord to Chuck. You are the one who can share your faith and tell him about salvation in Christ through the forgiveness of sins. But, only by the power of the Holy Spirit will he believe. You cannot make Chuck believe, but you can prepare the way through your witness.”

Bill nodded his head and said, “Thanks for the call, Pastor. How did you know?!?” Pastor Greer laughed and said, “I think God did.”

REALITY JOURNEY
Your witness of God’s love in Christ Jesus prepares the way for the Holy Spirit to work salvation in the Lord Jesus Christ. You have an important role in “preparing the way of the Lord.”

[Soldier4Christ]

"Serve Him Without Fear"

“Serve Him without fear in holiness and righteousness.” Luke 1:74-75
   

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION

Filled with the Holy Spirit, Zechariah prophesied concerning what God had done in redeeming His people. Because of God’s redemption, people are enabled to serve Him in holiness.

THE JOURNEY—DAY 22
This Sunday morning, Bill’s church was having its annual “Children’s Christmas Worship Service.” Jenny had a role as an angel. Sam was a narrator.

Bill and Julie observed their children serving God in this way. Their worship that day not only included thanks to God for His working in their lives, but also in the lives of their children. Bill reflected on His conversation with Chuck the day before and confirmed the Lord’s presence in his family.

He was so proud of the way Jenny stood with the other angels and proclaimed, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” Sam had done quite well narrating the story of Christ’s birth.

The pastor affirmed the children in his message and concluded with this point, “These children have told the story of the birth of Jesus, and its reason, so well. They have done so without fear or shame, simply out of love for Christ. Wouldn’t it be great if we, as adults, were as bold and natural in our witness? God enables us by His Spirit to give the gift of Jesus by telling without fear what He has done for us in Christ—from His birth to His resurrection.”

Bill was realizing the truth of that statement.

REALITY JOURNEY
Serving God without fear in witness involves the holy life to which you have been called. The core of your witness is telling what God has done in bringing His holiness to you in Christ.

[Soldier4Christ]

"The Lord's Hand"

For the Lord’s hand was with him. Luke 1:66
   

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION

When the people saw the Lord’s hand at work in Zechariah and John, they were filled with awe. The work of the Lord’s hand brings awe to those who recognize it.

THE JOURNEY—DAY 21
Chuck and Bobby arrived just after noon on Saturday. Julie had cooked a big pot of her grandmother's recipe chicken-and-vegetable soup for lunch. The wonderful aroma filled the house.

After introductions, the two families sat down to eat. Bill said grace. The meal continued with casual conversation. Afterwards, Bobby and Sam played video games as Chuck and Bill settled in the den. Chuck commented that he liked Bill’s family. “Everyone seems to respect each other and get along so well.”

Bill chuckled, “Everyone was on their good behavior today. It’s not always this calm. But, I do thank God for the good family life we have.”

Chuck said, “I wish I had a better family life.”

Bill replied, “Chuck, that’s one difference being a Christian makes.” Bill explained how, as a response to Jesus’ love, he and his family study God’s Word and try to follow it in their lives. He concluded, “Chuck, it really makes a difference when the Lord’s hand is guiding your life.”

Chuck replied, “I can see that it does.”

After Chuck and Bobby left, Bill went Christmas shopping.

REALITY JOURNEY
The Lord is known through His Word and Sacrament. The Lord’s hand is exhibited through the holy lives of God’s people. “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).

[Soldier4Christ]

"An Unfamiliar Name"

“There is no one among your relatives who has that name.” Luke 1:61
   

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION

It was strange that Elizabeth didn’t want her son to be named after his father or another relative. But this child was something special and received a special name from God.

THE JOURNEY—DAY 20
Bill and Chuck met for lunch on Friday. Bill ventured, “I hope you don’t mind me asking, Chuck, but what do you know about Jesus?”

Chuck replied, “I have to admit, I don’t know much. When I married my wife, she wanted me to go to church, but it seemed so hypocritical. She only went at Christmas and Easter. So, what difference would it make for me? In fact, my family ridiculed me for marrying her.”

Bill inquired, “What do you mean?”

“Well, my parents said that church people always thought they were better than everybody else. They teased me about becoming some “goody-goody boy.” I wasn’t about to give them the satisfaction. I didn’t want to become somebody who wasn’t normal.”

Bill said, “Chuck, do you think that I’m normal?” Chuck replied, “Sure, but what’s the difference—I mean, about being a Christian?”

Bill said, “How about if you and Bobby come to my house tomorrow for lunch? We can talk about it.” Chuck said, “Okay.”

REALITY JOURNEY
God puts the name of Christ upon us in Baptism. For those who have not been raised in the Christian faith, this name and life in Christ may be unfamiliar, or a source of ridicule. Yet, it is a name to cherish and share. For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” (Romans 10:13).

[Soldier4Christ]

"Share the Joy"

They shared her joy. Luke 1:58
   

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION

When Elizabeth gave birth, her neighbors and relatives “shared her joy” in what God had done. The joy received in God’s mercy is something to be shared.

THE JOURNEY—DAY 19
Bill told Julie about his conversation with Chuck. As Bill talked about the mercy of God in Jenny’s healing, tears began to stream down Julie’s face. She remembered how difficult it had been. More so, she reflected on the mercy of God. She said, “God has given us an amazing gift in Jenny. First, when she was born and baptized—then, when she was healed—and now, He has used her story to reach out to someone else with Jesus.”

Bill’s eyes became misty, too. He had not made that final connection—Jenny’s life was a witness of the mercy of God to somebody else! God had been doing so many things in his life that were being used to reach another person for Him!

Bill was convinced that God was at work. Even though Chuck was uncertain about God’s ability to help, Bill was joyful that he had been given the opportunity to talk about Jesus without fear.

There was more Chuck needed to know, but Bill felt like Chuck had gotten a glimpse of Jesus. For that, and many things, Bill and Julie shared the joy of God’s amazing work in their lives.

REALITY JOURNEY
God is constantly at work. As He weaves together the various events of every day, consider it all joy. Draw upon the stories of your sanctified life as examples of witness to His mercy and love.

[Soldier4Christ]

"God Helps His Servant"

“He has helped His servant Israel, remembering to be merciful.” Luke 1:54
   

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION

In Mary’s response, known as the Magnificat, she recounts the wondrous and merciful acts of God toward His people.

THE JOURNEY—DAY 18
Bill arrived at work on Wednesday, hoping to talk to Chuck. That afternoon, Chuck stopped by his office. He said, “Bill, I really didn’t mean to snap at you the other day. I’m just having a really difficult time right now.”

Bill responded, “Chuck, I know I don’t understand your situation very well. I certainly didn’t mean to offend you. I can’t even imagine everything you are experiencing.”

Chuck replied, “It’s really tough. I never thought my marriage would end in divorce. And, now, trying to raise Bobby on my own—well, it’s just really hard. He needs special attention I can’t seem to give him right now.”

Bill said, “Chuck, whenever I’ve gone through difficult challenges, I’ve relied on my faith in God to help. That’s why I said what I did the other day. I believe Jesus really can help. In fact, just yesterday, I was thinking about when Jenny had pneumonia as a baby …” Bill went on to tell him how God had been merciful and helped Jenny and his family during that time.

Chuck listened and said, “I feel like I am losing everything right now. I’m not sure God can help.”

REALITY JOURNEY
God is merciful. He sent His Son to make His mercy known in the forgiveness of sins. In every circumstance, He helps us—in difficult times and in our witness of Him. Rely on His mercy and love in Christ.

[Soldier4Christ]

"God Does Great Things"

“The Mighty One has done great things for me.” Luke 1:49
   

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION

Mary’s spirit rejoiced at all the Lord had done in her life. All generations would call her blessed, for these things that God had done would be made known.

THE JOURNEY—DAY 17
Bill awoke on Tuesday morning with gift-wrapping on his mind. On the one hand, he realized he had not purchased a single present the evening before. On the other hand, he was excited about the idea of “gift-wrapping” Jesus for Chuck. Yet, he wasn’t certain what that meant.

Julie wasn’t feeling well that morning, so Bill loaded Sam and Jenny into the car to take them to school. He had dropped off Sam and was on the way to Jenny’s school when she asked, “Daddy, why do you love me?” He stammered for a bit, then replied, “Because you are my daughter and a special gift of God to me and your Mommy.”

After he left Jenny at school, he began to think about the special gift she was. Jenny had nearly died of pneumonia as a baby. Bill remembered thanking God for healing her. He remembered saying, “Jesus was truly with her.” Yes, he thought, she was a true gift. He was blessed to have her as a daughter.

Then it struck him. This is the story he would tell Chuck—how Jesus had wrapped His arms around his little girl and his whole family during that difficult time. This was the “gift-wrap.”

REALITY JOURNEY
God has done great things in your life, beginning with your salvation. Make known the great things God has done in your life in your witness about Jesus to others.