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Advent as Preparation and Engagement

“He who testifies to these things says, ‘Surely I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” (Revelation 22:20). Advent reminds us to wait and prepare for the Lord’s second coming as we remember how He came in human flesh and dwells with us always.
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God With Us, and Us With God (Revisited)

Jesus is “God-with-us.” My mission in 2016 is to be “Mike-with-God.”
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Saying “Yes” to God’s Will

Mary said, “Behold, the Lord’s bond-servant; may it be done to me according to your word.” Will we say “yes” to God’s plan for our lives?
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Christmas: Phase 1 of Redemption

Christmas is Phase 1 of God’s invasion to rescue humanity from the dominion of sin and Satan. His birth, life, death, resurrection, ascension, and second coming are all part of God’s plan to offer us eternal life. Let us cling to that gift.
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Beyond Belief: Advent, Christmas, and Leaps of Faith

The biblical account of Jesus’ birth is not like what we see in many movies and TV specials. Much like our lives, it was messy, stressful, and complicated. Mary and Joseph had to confront their doubts and fears, the skepticism of others, and other challenges. It sounds simple, but the Bible tells a story about…
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Christ Meets Us in the Mundane (Micah 5:2)

Jesus came to an ordinary, mundane part of the world. This is where He chose to meet us.
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A Divine Name That Says a Lot (Isaiah 9:6-7)

“For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.”
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God’s Righteousness and Justice. V: The Birth and Life of Christ

“Behold, the days are coming,” declares the LORD, “When I will raise up for David a righteous Branch; And He will reign as king and act wisely And do justice and righteousness in the land. In His days Judah will be saved, And Israel will dwell securely; And this is His name by which He…
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Christmas: God’s Light in the Darkness

Christmas reminds us that God’s light is always shining, even in the midst of darkness. We need to keep our eyes on Him.
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Christmas: The Love of God Revealed To and Through Us

The entire life of Christ—from conception, to birth, His earthly life and ministry, to His death, resurrection, and ascension—revealed the love of God. It was an invitation to unite the life of God with the lives of mankind. May His love guide us as we celebrate His life, not just on Christmas but throughout the…