Larry Lilly's Journal The Most Wonderful Night Vol 18 Issue 12
LLJ 12-2018 A Most Wonderful Night
It’s what is often called the; “Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” the time when sanity is set aside and myriads worship they know not what, who or why. I like the hoopla, for it gives cranky old preachers such as I the opportunity to state the reality of the times from a biblical perspective, and at least a person or two will read this month’s issue of the Journal.
Matthew records the account as though he were reporting on the birth of a king.
Matthew 1:18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: After His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit.
19 Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not wanting to make her a public example, was minded to put her away secretly.
20 But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.
21 "And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins."
22 So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying:
23 "Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel," which is translated, "God with us."
24 Then Joseph, being aroused from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord commanded him and took to him his wife,
25 and did not know her till she had brought forth her firstborn Son. And he called His name JESUS. (NKJV).
These few verses from Holy Writ encapsulate the wonder of God’s incomprehensible love for the world. Note:
Joseph was faced with a perplexing problem: He was betrothed to Mary, they were not married, he had not performed the right of the husband in marriage, yet Mary, a virgin was “with child.” What to do Joseph?
A Virgin, The Virgin of Isaiah 7:14 turned out to be the foreshadowing of Mary and not the son of Isaiah and his young wife, the prophetess of Isaiah 8:1, who was a type only. The angel of Matthew makes this very plain. So, at the outset, we see Joseph as a kind man, who demonstrates the love of 1Corinthians 13, a kind, understanding love. He was going to handle this quietly. True love is like that. You see the benefit of not acting too fast for an Angel appeared to him in a dream and shared a profoundly better solution, rooted in truth. Notice:
The angel shares eight things with Joseph; Do not be afraid! When fear reigns, poor decisions result. Go ahead and marry Mary. The child is of the Holy Spirit; This is the Prophecy of Isaiah 7:14, so the child is a Son. You will call His name Jesus. He will save His people from their sins. His Other name is Immanuel, meaning “God with us.”
In the passage, the messenger of the Lord gives the primary purpose of what we call the Christmas Story: God keeps His promises. Jesus will save His people from their sins. God in Christ is with us. We understand this a what’s called The Holy Trinity.
In the deepest, darkest and most fearsome valleys of life, we take comfort knowing that Immanuel, God is with us.
Joseph being wakened from sleep, set about doing what God’s messenger told him to do. He practiced the fruits of patient love, and respected the unique state of Mary, and held off on “knowing” her until after Jesus Christ was born.
From the meaning of this passage, we see the physical embodiment of God’s kept promise. Coupled with John 3:16;
"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”
We grasp, slightly, the truth that God gave heaven’s best for the world’s worst, sinners! The Father gave the only, the best, the perfect gift for the benefit of sinners. If we give gifts at this time, we should do so with no strings attached, full well knowing that we, as did God, are giving, hopefully, the perfect gift to an imperfect person!
Concerning the Primary Purpose, the salvation of sinners, the grand lyrics writer, Dottie Rambo penned these lines, lines which are in the spirit of the Primary Purpose:
He left the splendor of heaven
Knowing His destiny
Was the lonely hill of Golgotha
There to lay down His life for me
Even in death, He remembered
The thief hanging by His side
Then he spoke of love and compassion
And He took him to paradise
And if that isn't love
Then the ocean is dry
There's no stars in the sky
And the little sparrows can't fly
Yeah if that isn't love
Then heaven's a myth
There's no feeling like this
If that isn't love
*****
Did you know that on Dec. 24, 1868 President Andrew Johnson granted an unconditional pardon to all confederates involved in the Civil War? When Jesus made His apperance in Bethlehem God did the same thing to whosoever will!
It’s what is often called the; “Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” the time when sanity is set aside and myriads worship they know not what, who or why. I like the hoopla, for it gives cranky old preachers such as I the opportunity to state the reality of the times from a biblical perspective, and at least a person or two will read this month’s issue of the Journal.
Matthew records the account as though he were reporting on the birth of a king.
Matthew 1:18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: After His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit.
19 Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not wanting to make her a public example, was minded to put her away secretly.
20 But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.
21 "And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins."
22 So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying:
23 "Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel," which is translated, "God with us."
24 Then Joseph, being aroused from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord commanded him and took to him his wife,
25 and did not know her till she had brought forth her firstborn Son. And he called His name JESUS. (NKJV).
These few verses from Holy Writ encapsulate the wonder of God’s incomprehensible love for the world. Note:
Joseph was faced with a perplexing problem: He was betrothed to Mary, they were not married, he had not performed the right of the husband in marriage, yet Mary, a virgin was “with child.” What to do Joseph?
A Virgin, The Virgin of Isaiah 7:14 turned out to be the foreshadowing of Mary and not the son of Isaiah and his young wife, the prophetess of Isaiah 8:1, who was a type only. The angel of Matthew makes this very plain. So, at the outset, we see Joseph as a kind man, who demonstrates the love of 1Corinthians 13, a kind, understanding love. He was going to handle this quietly. True love is like that. You see the benefit of not acting too fast for an Angel appeared to him in a dream and shared a profoundly better solution, rooted in truth. Notice:
The angel shares eight things with Joseph; Do not be afraid! When fear reigns, poor decisions result. Go ahead and marry Mary. The child is of the Holy Spirit; This is the Prophecy of Isaiah 7:14, so the child is a Son. You will call His name Jesus. He will save His people from their sins. His Other name is Immanuel, meaning “God with us.”
In the passage, the messenger of the Lord gives the primary purpose of what we call the Christmas Story: God keeps His promises. Jesus will save His people from their sins. God in Christ is with us. We understand this a what’s called The Holy Trinity.
In the deepest, darkest and most fearsome valleys of life, we take comfort knowing that Immanuel, God is with us.
Joseph being wakened from sleep, set about doing what God’s messenger told him to do. He practiced the fruits of patient love, and respected the unique state of Mary, and held off on “knowing” her until after Jesus Christ was born.
From the meaning of this passage, we see the physical embodiment of God’s kept promise. Coupled with John 3:16;
"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”
We grasp, slightly, the truth that God gave heaven’s best for the world’s worst, sinners! The Father gave the only, the best, the perfect gift for the benefit of sinners. If we give gifts at this time, we should do so with no strings attached, full well knowing that we, as did God, are giving, hopefully, the perfect gift to an imperfect person!
Concerning the Primary Purpose, the salvation of sinners, the grand lyrics writer, Dottie Rambo penned these lines, lines which are in the spirit of the Primary Purpose:
He left the splendor of heaven
Knowing His destiny
Was the lonely hill of Golgotha
There to lay down His life for me
Even in death, He remembered
The thief hanging by His side
Then he spoke of love and compassion
And He took him to paradise
And if that isn't love
Then the ocean is dry
There's no stars in the sky
And the little sparrows can't fly
Yeah if that isn't love
Then heaven's a myth
There's no feeling like this
If that isn't love
*****
Did you know that on Dec. 24, 1868 President Andrew Johnson granted an unconditional pardon to all confederates involved in the Civil War? When Jesus made His apperance in Bethlehem God did the same thing to whosoever will!
Letters & Comments
Dr. Tom Wallace
Unwrapping The Gift of God Dr. Tom Wallace
Each Christmas morning my mind fills with memories of slipping downstairs with my five siblings at the first sign of daylight to see the bikes, wagons, dolls, and BB guns, sitting around under the tree.
One Christmas was really different because the order for Sears did not make it on time and Mom explained that Santa Claus had told her he was so far behind that would be late, and that Mrs. Claus would make his delivery on New Years Eve.
Sure enough Mrs. Claus cam through right on schedule. Mom would always wrap socks, work shirts and pants and more for Dad and place them under the tree. All of us urged him to join in and open his gifts. He would always say; “I’ll do it later.” He never did.
Mom would wait several days then unwrap them and put them away for him. Years later I was preparing a semon on “The Gift of God.” My thoughts went back to those times and I could see in my mind those unopened gifts. He was not a Christian and I could see the parallel.
The Bible says; “The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ the Lord.” (Rom 6:23). I also remembered what James wrote;
“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above and cometh down from the Father of lights.”
Satan makes every effort to keep God’s gift wrapped up in tradition and false teaching. The Holy Spirit came to unwrap His so that people might see and know who He really is and accept the gift of God.
Jesus explained to Nicodemus, that he would need to be born again in order to see or understand who He was and what He come to do. Morning Devotions, 366 Bible Truths. Wallace Pub. www.wallaceministries.com/
***
“Christmas reminds us that, in the words of one of the ancient theologians of the church, "the Lord did not come to make a display ... [God came] to put himself at the disposal of those who needed him and to be manifested according as they could bear it."
Athanasius, On the Incarnation.
***
A cartoon depicts a husband and wife sitting in a living room that is gaily decorated for the Christmas season. The wife, however, has a deep frown on her face, and looks completely exhausted. In the caption the husband is saying: "Of course you're depressed - 'tis the season to be jolly."
***
Q: Why did Mary and Joseph end up in a stable when Jesus was born?
A: Because they had Affordable Health Care!
Each Christmas morning my mind fills with memories of slipping downstairs with my five siblings at the first sign of daylight to see the bikes, wagons, dolls, and BB guns, sitting around under the tree.
One Christmas was really different because the order for Sears did not make it on time and Mom explained that Santa Claus had told her he was so far behind that would be late, and that Mrs. Claus would make his delivery on New Years Eve.
Sure enough Mrs. Claus cam through right on schedule. Mom would always wrap socks, work shirts and pants and more for Dad and place them under the tree. All of us urged him to join in and open his gifts. He would always say; “I’ll do it later.” He never did.
Mom would wait several days then unwrap them and put them away for him. Years later I was preparing a semon on “The Gift of God.” My thoughts went back to those times and I could see in my mind those unopened gifts. He was not a Christian and I could see the parallel.
The Bible says; “The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ the Lord.” (Rom 6:23). I also remembered what James wrote;
“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above and cometh down from the Father of lights.”
Satan makes every effort to keep God’s gift wrapped up in tradition and false teaching. The Holy Spirit came to unwrap His so that people might see and know who He really is and accept the gift of God.
Jesus explained to Nicodemus, that he would need to be born again in order to see or understand who He was and what He come to do. Morning Devotions, 366 Bible Truths. Wallace Pub. www.wallaceministries.com/
***
“Christmas reminds us that, in the words of one of the ancient theologians of the church, "the Lord did not come to make a display ... [God came] to put himself at the disposal of those who needed him and to be manifested according as they could bear it."
Athanasius, On the Incarnation.
***
A cartoon depicts a husband and wife sitting in a living room that is gaily decorated for the Christmas season. The wife, however, has a deep frown on her face, and looks completely exhausted. In the caption the husband is saying: "Of course you're depressed - 'tis the season to be jolly."
***
Q: Why did Mary and Joseph end up in a stable when Jesus was born?
A: Because they had Affordable Health Care!
The Book Worms' Corner Comments on Helpful Books. Joyce D. Lilly
Joyce Lilly TgB
Joy for a Woman’s Soul. Promises to Refresh Your Spirit. Women of Faith. 204 Articles, 205 pages.
The authors of the articles are headliners, well know to most women and men. Gloria Gaither, Sheila Walsh, Luci Swindoll and several more Women of Faith. Short, to the point articles, each one designed to warm your heart, encourage your spirit and build your faith in the Lord Jesus and the manner in which He is growing you in Grace!
Marilyn Meberg writes: Not only is my identity known, but also Isaiah 43:1 says; “I have called you by name. You are Mine!”
Barbara Johnson writes; “Like it or not life is constant change. Don’t get stuck in a rut or hung up on an outdated blessing. You serve a God of Change!”
Concerning those moments when you want to scream Sheila Walsh suggests; “I encourage you to invite Christ into the moment and to let those old patterns go. You can choose. You can be a drip of rain or a ray of sunshine.”
Here’s a gem from Gloria Gaither;
“Women ponder the meaning and quality of life. This pondering produces great souls who ask Why instead of merely what and how. Women, after all, are about the industry of the heart.”
Luci Swindoll reminds us: “Surround yourself with whatever it takes to be reminded. God is faithful. Don’t ever forget that.”
The book fits you purse well and is highly recommended. It is a blessing to me on tough days. JDL
The authors of the articles are headliners, well know to most women and men. Gloria Gaither, Sheila Walsh, Luci Swindoll and several more Women of Faith. Short, to the point articles, each one designed to warm your heart, encourage your spirit and build your faith in the Lord Jesus and the manner in which He is growing you in Grace!
Marilyn Meberg writes: Not only is my identity known, but also Isaiah 43:1 says; “I have called you by name. You are Mine!”
Barbara Johnson writes; “Like it or not life is constant change. Don’t get stuck in a rut or hung up on an outdated blessing. You serve a God of Change!”
Concerning those moments when you want to scream Sheila Walsh suggests; “I encourage you to invite Christ into the moment and to let those old patterns go. You can choose. You can be a drip of rain or a ray of sunshine.”
Here’s a gem from Gloria Gaither;
“Women ponder the meaning and quality of life. This pondering produces great souls who ask Why instead of merely what and how. Women, after all, are about the industry of the heart.”
Luci Swindoll reminds us: “Surround yourself with whatever it takes to be reminded. God is faithful. Don’t ever forget that.”
The book fits you purse well and is highly recommended. It is a blessing to me on tough days. JDL
Page Four What About Swaddling Cloths? Larry Lilly
Pastor Larry Lilly
What About Swaddling Cloths ? Larry Lilly
Reading about the Swaddling Cloths that Mary wrapped Jesus in, brings to light a precious account of the care Jesus Christ received at His Birth. Swaddling Cloths appear much like the wrappings of a Mummy. This is significant when you factor in the purpose of The Incarnation. Jesus came to die as ransom to pay for the sins of the world.
Ancient Temple Shepherds wrapped newborn sacrificial lambs in Swaddling Cloths, and it was a common practice to do the same for loved children. The cloths were a sign of love, love that would be returned in spades by “The Babe.”
Luke 2:7 And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Luke 2:12 "And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger." Here’s a brief comment on Swaddling:
“Swaddling creates a slight pressure around the baby's body, which may give him a sense of security. The sensation mirrors the pressure he once felt in the womb (uterus). It may help to encourage the baby to sleep.” Harriet Gibbs https://www.babycentre.co.uk/x7660/what-are-the-dos-and-donts-of-swaddling
Job 38:9 When I made the clouds its garment, And thick darkness its swaddling band;
God is speaking to His creation, and He proclaims His love for with the above proclamation letting the Sea know of His care, security, by setting its restraints.
Most believe Luke’s Shepherds watching their flocks by night were Temple Shepherds well trained in Messianic traditions. When they heard the phrase “Wrapped in Swaddling cloths,” they knew this was a sign, and they rushed to Bethlehem.
The importance of Swaddling cloths is mentioned in Ezekiel 16:4:
"As for your nativity, on the day you were born your navel cord was not cut, nor were you washed in water to cleanse you; you were not rubbed with salt nor wrapped in swaddling cloths.”
The entirety of Ezekiel 16 treats of the poverty of Jerusalem until God came and rescued her and set her as the greatest city in antiquity. (Read the chapter, for a heart warmer).
You may not have been wrapped in Swaddling Cloths, but for sure if you know Jesus Christ, you are “swaddled” in His unspeakable love and care.
Larry Lilly Share this with friends, for Twitter here https://www.larrylilly.net/journal-december-2018.html
******
"I stopped believing in Santa Claus when I was six. Mother took me to see him in a department store and he asked for my autograph." – Shirley Temple
Reading about the Swaddling Cloths that Mary wrapped Jesus in, brings to light a precious account of the care Jesus Christ received at His Birth. Swaddling Cloths appear much like the wrappings of a Mummy. This is significant when you factor in the purpose of The Incarnation. Jesus came to die as ransom to pay for the sins of the world.
Ancient Temple Shepherds wrapped newborn sacrificial lambs in Swaddling Cloths, and it was a common practice to do the same for loved children. The cloths were a sign of love, love that would be returned in spades by “The Babe.”
Luke 2:7 And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Luke 2:12 "And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger." Here’s a brief comment on Swaddling:
“Swaddling creates a slight pressure around the baby's body, which may give him a sense of security. The sensation mirrors the pressure he once felt in the womb (uterus). It may help to encourage the baby to sleep.” Harriet Gibbs https://www.babycentre.co.uk/x7660/what-are-the-dos-and-donts-of-swaddling
Job 38:9 When I made the clouds its garment, And thick darkness its swaddling band;
God is speaking to His creation, and He proclaims His love for with the above proclamation letting the Sea know of His care, security, by setting its restraints.
Most believe Luke’s Shepherds watching their flocks by night were Temple Shepherds well trained in Messianic traditions. When they heard the phrase “Wrapped in Swaddling cloths,” they knew this was a sign, and they rushed to Bethlehem.
The importance of Swaddling cloths is mentioned in Ezekiel 16:4:
"As for your nativity, on the day you were born your navel cord was not cut, nor were you washed in water to cleanse you; you were not rubbed with salt nor wrapped in swaddling cloths.”
The entirety of Ezekiel 16 treats of the poverty of Jerusalem until God came and rescued her and set her as the greatest city in antiquity. (Read the chapter, for a heart warmer).
You may not have been wrapped in Swaddling Cloths, but for sure if you know Jesus Christ, you are “swaddled” in His unspeakable love and care.
Larry Lilly Share this with friends, for Twitter here https://www.larrylilly.net/journal-december-2018.html
******
"I stopped believing in Santa Claus when I was six. Mother took me to see him in a department store and he asked for my autograph." – Shirley Temple
Friendly Reminder,
If this ministry has blessed you, consider supporting our work online and in prisons. Thank you for your prayers and gifts! Together, we can make a major difference in the lives of our readers!
You may send your offering to the address below this block.
My New booklet, Amazing Grace, 8 Essentials for Growth, is available for a free will offering. FREE if in prison, let me know if I have to remove staples.
Larry Lilly
P.O. Box 5212
Terre Haute, IN 47805
