The Christmas story did not end with the birth of Jesus. That was just the beginning. The Bible records little about baby Jesus. We know He was taken to the temple to be dedicated to the Lord when Mary’s time of purification was over as the law of Moses commanded. A sacrifice of a pair of turtle doves or two young pigeons.
While at the temple Mary and Joseph met two people. Today we will talk about Simeon.
He was righteous and devout and was eagerly waiting for the Messiah to come and rescue Israel. The Holy Spirit was upon him and had revealed to him that he would not die until he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. That day the Spirit led him to the Temple. So when Mary and Joseph came to present the baby Jesus to the Lord as the law required, Simeon was there. He took the child in his arms and praised God, saying,
Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. Luke 2:29-32
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9
Mistletoe symbolizes the love we are able to offer to others only because of Christ who “first loves us.”
This year, tell family and friends about the true meaning of mistletoe.
Be sure to let them know that the corresponding kiss is a symbol of peace, romance and the love of a Heavenly Father who sent His Son, Jesus, to die on the cross, was buried and rose again on the third day, as the payment for all our sins.
God’s love for us is the true meaning of Christmas.
1 John 4:19 We love him, because he first loved us
God’s gift to us, JESUS! Today as you go about your Sunday, remember to thank GOD for His gift to us. Without Jesus we would have no hope. no Heaven, no healing, no comfort. Jesus the most wonderful gift!
One of the beautiful symbols of Christmas is the pointsettia plant that we like to decorate with for the holiday. In Florida and other warm climates the plants grow and bloom in December.
The shape reminds us of the star that led the wise men to Bethlehem to worship Jesus.
The red color the precious blood of Jesus, shed for us, the only we can have our sins forgiven. White plants, a symbol of Jesus’ purity.
The poinsettia, a wonderful reminder of the true meaning of Christmas.
1 John 1:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin
The First Day of Advent marks the beginning of a beautiful season of anticipation. As Christians, we use this time to prepare our hearts to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and to remember the hope He brought into a dark world. Advent invites us to pause, reflect, and look forward with expectation—both to Christmas and to the promise of Christ’s return.
On this first day, let us begin with gratitude for God’s gift and with renewed hope for what He is still doing in our lives. May this Advent season draw us closer to Him and fill our days with peace, joy, and expectation.
The next 30 days for a lot of people will be the busiest time of year preparing for that perfect Christmas gift. Shopping in crowded stores, looking at catalogs, shopping on line.
The best gift you can give anyone is telling them about Jesus. For your unsaved friend, coworker or relative their best gift would be receiving Jesus as their Savior.
For your Christian loved ones a time of fellowship, a phone call or a message. Your time is more precious than any gift you could possibly buy.
Enjoy the Christmas season but don’t forget the best gift ever given…..Jesus.
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord
I am so thankful to God for His love. Sending His Son, Jesus, to come to earth, be crucified, buried and rise from the dead, so I can have all my sins forgiven.
I am thankful for the wonderful family God has blessed me with.
The friends God has given me over the years that make my life so meaningful.
God has provided every need and most of my wants. Praise His name.
When I think of all God has done for me, the blessings are too numerous to count. Thank you, Lord.
May God bless you today as you give thanks. Happy Thanksgiving!
Center for Evangelists 
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