WEEKLY WORSHIP FOR DECEMBER 27/28, 2025, LX627-55 "JESUS PRESENENTED AT THE TEMPLE"

 

SABBATH & SUNDAY WORSHIP MESSAGE

DECEMBER 27/28, 2025

{LX 627-55}

DECLARATION

For [we are not] ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith. { Rom 1:16-17 KJV}

SABBATH MEDITATIONS

"VAYIGAS" (Then He Drew Near)

Genesis 44:18-47:27; Ezekiel 37:15-28; Ephesians 2:1-22

Then Judah approached him and said, “I beg your pardon, my lord. Please let your servant say a word in my lord’s ears, and don’t be angry with your servant, since you are like Pharaoh. (Gen 44:18 TLV)

SUNDAY MESSAGE

"JESUS PRESENTED IN THE TEMPLE"

Luk 2:22-52

[Sing to the Lord, lift up your voices]

OPENING PRAYER

Our Father in Heaven, thank You for gathering all of us together as a congregation to fellowship and worship Your Holy Name. Grant us the favor of open ears, hearts and souls as we receive Your Word from on high and welcome the infant baby Jesus, AMEN.

MESSAGE

(Luk 2:22-52 NKJV) Now when the days of [Mary's] purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought [The infant Jesus] to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord,), and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, "A PAIR OF TURTLEDOVES OR TWO YOUNG PIGEONS."

And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ.

So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took [The Infant Jesus] up in his arms and blessed God and said: "Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel."

And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, "Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed." Theologian John Gill comments on this peculiar blessing delivered to Mary, the mother; Gill says; the sword is similar to the spear when alluding to the tongue, sharpened to a razor's-- edge speaking scandal. He warns young Mary of the dark cruelty of those who will oppose the One True King.

Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of [Jesus] to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.

Anna was an excellent example of someone who WAS COMMITTED fully to God. Surprisingly this group of precious souls is pretty rare, especially today. Most everyone else, all around the world, are involved in the church, but only a handful are COMMITTED. "

So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.

[Jesus and His parents]went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it; but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day's journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances. So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him.

Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers. So when [Mary and Joseph] saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, "Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously." And He said to them, "Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father's business?" But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.

Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.

(Luk 2:22-52 NKJV)

SUMMARY

Colonel Fred was an intelligence branch officer and served as our Commander for a time when I was in the Army in Germany. Colonel Fred grew up a farm boy, and when he was instructing us he would use stories, a few true, and a bunch made up, to help us understand missions and concepts he wanted us to focus on. When telling purposeful stories he could sound just like PAUL HARVEY, the radio commentator. Likewise, when the teaching story ended he expected all of us to "BE ON THE SAME FREQUENCY". If we were not yet on-board, his personality would then shift to ATTILA-THE-HUN. That was not a place we wanted him to be. We usually got on the right frequency very quickly!!

Now just bear with me; Fred's favorite example of COMMITMENT was a normal farmer's breakfast. "Just imagine a nice sized plate sitting on the kitchen table in front of you. Over here on the left we see 2, 3 or if you are really hungry, FOUR beautiful sunny side up eggs." Ummmm, smacking his lips.

The Colonel continues: "UP at the top of the plate a great big blob of home made Grits! OH MY GOODNESS, a couple of pats of butter and a bit of black ground pepper....." "Over here," he pointed, "on the right had side of the plate either thick cut bacon, or my favorite nice big and fat Pork Link sausages, three of them, please!"

I want each of you to be COMMITTED to our mission, COMMITTED to the soldiers, and COMMITTED to completing the assignments, no matter how tough they might be." "Now, back to the plate on the table. Those eggs on the left came from chickens and were INVOLVED in this breakfast. The GRITS, came from corn and they too were INVOLVED in this meal. Those LINK PORK SAUSAGES over on the right.....THEY WERE COMMITTED" That PIG oinks no more. He gave his all!"  Colonel Fred then pointed his finger at each of us while saying, "Now get out there and be COMMITTED to doing your best! "

The Lord is speaking to all of us today. This message originates with God, and applies to everyone in this room. The Lord Jesus expects us to be COMMITTED, not just involved! To be a critical part of His kingdom to come. You all have said YES to the Lord, and have been received. Now what? Use the gifts that He gave you at your earthly birth. Those things that you are very good with. Share them with others. Be YOU in HIS Glory! What ever it is you do, do it well and give glory to the Lord. Do what you do...do well!

CLOSING PRAYER

O Precious Lord, in this Christmas season our hearts are filled with the awesome glory that is You. We also hold dear those who are alone, feeling helpless, whose hopes need to be recharged. Won't You grant favor to those who are hurting, those who need Your gentle touch, those who would benefit from Your protective cloak? As we close in on a new year, this is our collective prayer in the name of Jesus the Christ, AMEN

[THE LORD'S SUPPER]

[Sing a song to the Lord, lift up your voices]

DOXOLOGY

Praise God, from Whom all blessings flow;

Praise Him, all creatures here below;

Praise Him above, Ye heav'n-ly host;

Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost

AMEN

THE CALL

If you have never invited Jesus to be your Lord and savior, or, if you have in the past yet remain unsure of salvation and forgiveness of sin, Please pray with me now: Lord Jesus I need to fill a hole in my life that follows me where ever I go. I am a long-time Sinner and I CONFESS and REPENT of all my sins. I believe that You JESUS are the Lord, that you were hung on a cross and died. I believe that you were raised back to life by God, Your Father, ascended into heaven and presently sit at the right hand of The Almighty. Please come into me, clean me, take me and make me Yours and let me serve from this day forward and forever, Thank-You Jesus, AMEN

If you sincerely prayed with me, your salvation has been assured. {Rom 10:9 KJV} -That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.

Waste no time in finding like minded folks, to fellowship with, who also know the lord Jesus. Be introduced to a church that preaches the BIBLE. Email me. Begin the journey that you will never tire of; the discovery of the Majesty, Beauty and loving Power of Jesus the Christ. Welcome to the family!

Chaplain Gary

BENEDICTION: Num 6:24-26  The LORD bless you, and keep you;  The LORD make His face shine on you, And be gracious to you;  The LORD lift up His countenance on you, And give you peace.'AMEN

Christ go with you now...until we meet again

Christ go with you now...keep praying on till then

It really doesn't matter what the weather...

Just as long as we all are TOGETHER...

Christ go with you now...Till we meet again!

SUPPORTING SCRIPTURE Rom 1:16-17/1 Cor:9/Deu7:9/2Tim 2:13/Psa 89:8,11:5,35:5/Num 23:19/Lam 3:22-23/Eph 3:14-21/1 Jn4:15, 3:24/ Num 6:24-26

SABBATH & SUNDAY WORSHIP MESSAGE

(Published every Friday evening)

CHRIST ETERNAL SENIOR MINISTRIES

HAVE YOU READ YOUR BIBLE TODAY?

We would love your feedback, send to afndelago@gmail.com

 

CHRISTMAS EVE WORSHIP SPECIAL FOR DECEMBER 24, 2025, LX-625-53, "BIRTH OF JESUS" --The Rifle and the Widow

 

CHRISTMAS EVE SPECIAL WORSHIP MESSAGE

DECEMBER 24, 2025

{LX 625-53}

DECLARATION

For [we are not] ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith. { Rom 1:16-17 KJV}

SABBATH MEDITATIONS

Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. (Isa 53:4 KJV)

CHRISTMAS EVE MESSAGE

"THE BIRTH OF THE CHRIST"

AND

"THE RIFLE AND THE WIDOW"

Luke 2:1-21

[Sing to the Lord, lift up your voices]

OPENING PRAYER

O' Lord, on this Holy Eve may it be Your will to grant this globe a period of calm and peace throughout as we welcome the birth of our Lord and King, Jesus the Christ, may it so be! Tonight, the KING of KINGS will be born of a woman, of flesh, blood and bone. The Living Spirit of God Himself will walk among us, in the flesh, and we the remnant shall be saved from eternal death and be redeemed by His blood, and in His Name, JESUS the CHRIST, AMEN

WE BEGIN in (Luk 2:1-21 KJV)-- And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.

And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them. And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb. (Luk 2:1-21 KJV)

MESSAGE

Since 2015, this tiny Bible Church Ministry has been so very blessed by God to serve the precious residents of seven seperate Assisted Living Facilities. For a few years, we were so blessed with servuce to all seven at the same time. I recently came across a letter from a most Godly man relating a true story passed down to him by his father. Daniel Goodman's father and grandfather were "Circuit Preachers", traveling and preaching at a serise of churches on a recurring schedule. His father traveled by automobile, and his grandfather by horse. I am sharing this letter with you for the first time on this Christmas Eve.

Daniel Goodman, Watermark/Camillia ALF

Gulf breeze, FL

December 18, 2019

Dear Chaplain Gary,

Digging through a pile of old papers I came across a letter that I received many years ago. I almost forgot about it, but I never forgot the lesson learned.

The top of the first page was torn off years ago, so we don't know from where it came. Here is the text of that letter; Merry Christmas and God's Blessings: Sincerly, Daniel

{TEXT OF HAND WRITTEN LETTER}

"Pa never had much compassion for the lazy or those who squandered their

means and then never had enough for the necessities. But for those who were

genuinely in need, his heart was as big as all outdoors. It was from him

that I learned the greatest joy in life comes from giving, not from

receiving.

It was Christmas Eve 1881. I was fifteen years old and feeling like the

world had caved in on me because there just hadn't been enough money to buy

me the rifle that I'd wanted for Christmas. We did the chores early that

night for some reason. I just figured Pa wanted a little extra time so we

could read in the Bible.

After supper was over I took my boots off and stretched out in front of the

fireplace and waited for Pa to get down the old Bible. I was still feeling

sorry for myself and, to be honest, I wasn't in much of a mood to read

Scriptures. But Pa didn't get the Bible, instead he bundled up again and

went outside. I couldn't figure it out because we had already done all the

chores. I didn't worry about it long though, I was too busy wallowing in

self-pity.

Soon Pa came back in. It was a cold clear night out and there

was ice in his beard. "Come on, Matt," he said. "Bundle up good, it's cold

out tonight." I was really upset then. Not only wasn't I getting the rifle

for Christmas, now Pa was dragging me out in the cold, and for no earthly

reason that I could see.

We'd already done all the chores, and I couldn't think of anything else that needed doing, especially not on a night like this. But I knew Pa was not very patient at one dragging one's feet when he'd told them to do something, so I got up and put my boots back on and got my cap, coat, and mittens. Ma gave me a mysterious smile as I opened the door to leave the house. Something was up, but I didn't know what..

Outside, I became even more dismayed. There in front of the house was the

work team, already hitched to the big sled. Whatever it was we were going

to do wasn't going to be a short, quick, little job. I could tell. We never

hitched up this sled unless we were going to haul a big load. Pa was

already up on the seat, reins in hand. I reluctantly climbed up beside him.

The cold was already biting at me. I wasn't happy. When I was on, Pa

pulled the sled around the house and stopped in front of the woodshed. He

got off and I followed. "I think we'll put on the high sideboards," he said.

"Here, help me." The high sideboards! It had been a bigger job than I

wanted to do with just the low sideboards on, but whatever it was we were

going to do would be a lot bigger with the high side boards on.

After we had exchanged the sideboards, Pa went into the woodshed and came

out with an armload of wood - the wood I'd spent all summer hauling down

from the mountain, and then all fall sawing into blocks and splitting. What

was he doing? Finally I said something. "Pa," I asked, "what are you

doing?"

"You been by the Widow Jensen's lately?" he asked. The Widow Jensen

lived about two miles down the road. Her husband had died a year or so

before and left her with three children, the oldest being eight. Sure, I'd

been by, but so what?

Yeah," I said, "Why?"

"I rode by just today," Pa said. "Little Jakey was out digging around in the

woodpile trying to find a few chips. They're out of wood, Matt." That was

all he said and then he turned and went back into the woodshed for another

armload of wood. I followed him. We loaded the sled so high that I began to

wonder if the horses would be able to pull it. Finally, Pa called a halt to

our loading, then we went to the smoke house and Pa took down a big ham and

a side of bacon. He handed them to me and told me to put them in the sled

and wait. When he returned he was carrying a sack of flour over his right

shoulder and a smaller sack of something in his left hand. "What's in the

little sack?" I asked. Shoes, they're out of shoes. Little Jakey just had

gunny sacks wrapped around his feet when he was out in the woodpile this

morning. I got the children a little candy too. It just wouldn't be

Christmas without a little candy."

We rode the two miles to Widow Jensen's pretty much in silence. I tried to

think through what Pa was doing. We didn't have much by worldly standards.

Of course, we did have a big woodpile, though most of what was left now was

still in the form of logs that I would have to saw into blocks and split

before we could use it. We also had meat and flour, so we could spare that,

but I knew we didn't have any money, so why was Pa buying them shoes and

candy? Really, why was he doing any of this? Widow Jensen had closer

neighbors than us; it shouldn't have been our concern.

We came in from the blind side of the Jensen house and unloaded the wood as

quietly as possible, then we took the meat and flour and shoes to the door.

We knocked. The door opened a crack and a timid voice said, "Who is it?"

"Lucas Miles, Ma'am, and my son, Matt, could we come in for a bit?" Widow

Jensen opened the door and let us in. She had a blanket wrapped around her

shoulders. The children were wrapped in another and were sitting in front

of the fireplace by a very small fire that hardly gave off any heat at

all. Widow Jensen fumbled with a match and finally lit the lamp.

"We brought you a few things, Ma'am," Pa said and set down the sack of

flour. I put the meat on the table. Then Pa handed her the sack that had

the shoes in it. She opened it hesitantly and took the shoes out one pair

at a time. There was a pair for her and one for each of the children -

sturdy shoes, the best, shoes that would last. I watched her carefully. She

bit her lower lip to keep it from trembling and then tears filled her eyes

and started running down her cheeks. She looked up at Pa like she wanted

to say something, but it wouldn't come out.

"We brought a load of wood too, Ma'am," Pa said. He turned to me and said,

"Matt, go bring in enough to last awhile. Let's get that fire up to size

and heat this place up."

I wasn't the same person when I went back out to bring in the wood. I had a big lump in my throat and as much as I hate to admit it, there were tears in my eyes too. In my mind I kept seeing those three kids huddled around the fireplace and their mother standing there with tears running down her cheeks with so much gratitude in her heart that she couldn't speak.

My heart swelled within me and a joy that I'd never known before, filled my

soul. I had given at Christmas many times before, but never when it had

made so much difference. I could see we were literally saving the lives of

these people.

I soon had the fire blazing and everyone's spirits soared. The kids started

giggling when Pa handed them each a piece of candy and Widow Jensen looked

on with a smile that probably hadn't crossed her face for a long time. She

finally turned to us. "God bless you," she said. "I know the Lord has sent

you. The children and I have been praying that he would send one of his

angels to spare us."

In spite of myself, the lump returned to my throat and the tears welled up

in my eyes again. I'd never thought of Pa in those exact terms before, but

after Widow Jensen mentioned it I could see that it was probably true. I

was sure that a better man than Pa had never walked the earth. I started

remembering all the times he had gone out of his way for Ma and me, and many

others. The list seemed endless as I thought on it.

Pa insisted that everyone try on the shoes before we left. I was amazed

when they all fit and I wondered how he had known what sizes to get. Then I

guessed that if he was on an errand for the Lord that the Lord would make

sure he got the right sizes.

Tears were running down Widow Jensen's face again when we stood up to leave.

Pa took each of the kids in his big arms and gave them a hug. They clung to

him and didn't want us to go. I could see that they missed their Pa, and I

was glad that I still had mine.

At the door Pa turned to Widow Jensen and said, "The Mrs. wanted me to

invite you and the children over for Christmas dinner tomorrow. The turkey

will be more than the three of us can eat, and a man can get cantankerous

if he has to eat turkey for too many meals. We'll be by to get you about

eleven. It'll be nice to have some little ones around again. Matt, here,

hasn't been little for quite a spell." I was the youngest. My two brothers

and two sisters had all married and had moved away.

Widow Jensen nodded and said, "Thank you, Brother Miles. I don't have to

say, May the Lord bless you, I know for certain that He will."

SUMMARY

Out on the sled I felt a warmth that came from deep within and I didn't even notice the cold. When we had gone a ways, Pa turned to me and said, "Matt,

I want you to know something. Your ma and me have been tucking a little

money away here and there all year so we could buy that rifle for you, but

we didn't have quite enough. Then yesterday a man who owed me a little money

from years back came by to make things square. Your ma and me were real

excited, thinking that now we could get you that rifle, and I started into

town this morning to do just that, but on the way I saw little Jakey out

scratching in the woodpile with his feet wrapped in those gunny sacks and I

knew what I had to do. Son, I spent the money for shoes and a little candy

for those children. I hope you understand."

I understood, and my eyes became wet with tears again. I understood very

well, and I was so glad Pa had done it. Now the rifle seemed very low on my

list of priorities. Pa had given me a lot more. He had given me the look

on Widow Jensen's face and the radiant smiles of her three children.

For the rest of my life, whenever I saw any of the Jensens, or split a block

of wood, I remembered, and remembering brought back that same joy I felt

riding home beside Pa that night. Pa had given me much more than a rifle

that night, he had given me the best Christmas of my life."

This true story from nearly 150 years ago is a divine gift from the Author of Light, our Lord and Savior. It was handed down to a father, to a son, to a stranger, and today....the miracle of the heart of God was shared with you. This eve, our Father handed down to us -- this precious record of HIS Love, TWO-THOUSAND-TWENTY-FIVE YEARS AGO!

CLOSING PRAYER

Father God, in in a few hours we will have the wondrous privlege of celebrating the birth of Your only begotten Son. This child, this birth, this Savior came to save, and through His perfect blood being shed on that rugged cross, we have received not only the Holy Spirit but salvation and eternal life in the kingdom to come. Words cannot express the depth of joy for this miracle at Your hand-and-will, through YOUR SON and our LORD Jesus the Christ, AMEN

[THE LORD'S SUPPER]

[Sing a song to the Lord, lift up your voices]

DOXOLOGY

Praise God, from Whom all blessings flow;

Praise Him, all creatures here below;

Praise Him above, Ye heav'n-ly host;

Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost

AMEN

THE CALL

If you have never invited Jesus to be your Lord and savior, or, if you have in the past yet remain unsure of salvation and forgiveness of sin, Please pray with me now: Lord Jesus I need to fill a hole in my life that follows me where ever I go. I am a long-time Sinner and I CONFESS and REPENT of all my sins. I believe that You JESUS are the Lord, that you were hung on a cross and died. I believe that you were raised back to life by God, Your Father, ascended into heaven and presently sit at the right hand of The Almighty. Please come into me, clean me, take me and make me Yours and let me serve from this day forward and forever, Thank-You Jesus, AMEN

If you sincerely prayed with me, your salvation has been assured. {Rom 10:9 KJV} -That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.

Waste no time in finding like minded folks, to fellowship with, who also know the lord Jesus. Be introduced to a church that preaches the BIBLE. Email me. Begin the journey that you will never tire of; the discovery of the Majesty, Beauty and loving Power of Jesus the Christ. Welcome to the family!

Chaplain Gary

BENEDICTION: Num 6:24-26  The LORD bless you, and keep you;  The LORD make His face shine on you, And be gracious to you;  The LORD lift up His countenance on you, And give you peace.'AMEN

Christ go with you now...until we meet again

Christ go with you now...keep praying on till then

It really doesn't matter what the weather...

Just as long as we all are TOGETHER...

Christ go with you now...Till we meet again!

SUPPORTING SCRIPTURE Rom 1:16-17/ Luke 1:5-25;26-45/ Num 6:24-26

SABBATH & SUNDAY WORSHIP MESSAGE

(Published every Friday evening)

CHRIST ETERNAL SENIOR MINISTRIES

HAVE YOU READ YOUR BIBLE TODAY?

We would love your feedback, send to afndelago@gmail.com

 

WEEKLY WORSHIP FOR DECEMBER 20/21, 2025 LX624-52 "JOHN & MARY

 

SABBATH & SUNDAY WORSHIP MESSAGE

DECEMBER 20/21, 2025

{LX 624-52}

DECLARATION

For [we are not] ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith. { Rom 1:16-17 KJV}

SABBATH MEDITATIONS

"Miketz" (At the End)

Genesis 41:1-44:17; Zechariah 2:10;4:7;

Numbers 28:9-15;7:42-49; John 1:1-18

Now at the end of two whole years, Pharaoh was dreaming. Behold, there he was standing by the Nile. (Gen 41:1 TLV)

SUNDAY MESSAGE

"JOHN & MARY"

Luke 1:5-25; 26-45

[Sing to the Lord, lift up your voices]

OPENING PRAYER

O' Lord, on this Holy day and in this Holy week leading to the birth of our Savior. Grant us favor in our meditations and prayers through Your indwelling Holy Spirit, guide our hearts and refine our speech. May it be Your will to grant a period of calm and peace throughout the earth as we welcome the birth of our Lord and King, Jesus the Christ, AMEN

MESSAGE

   Nearly a thousand years before the birth of Messiah, David penned this prophetic prose in Psalm 22: verses 16-18: For dogs have surrounded Me; The congregation of the wicked has enclosed Me. They pierced My hands and My feet; I can count all My bones. They look and stare at Me. They divide My garments among them, And for My clothing they cast lots.

   From the very moment that God escorted Adam and Eve out of the Garden of Eden, never permitting them to return because of their sin. Thus begins a long list of chosen souls being enlisted by God to be a celestial puzzle piece in biblical history; and the coming birth and rule of the one true Eternal King of Kings, named Jesus.

   Major participants in this glorious journey included Abraham, Moses, Noah, Jonah, Samuel, Solomon and David. So many of God's chosen became and functioned as a unique place marker of events that now brings us to this week, and in just a few days, our joint celebration of the birth of our Savior.

   There is another birth that will precede the Lord Jesus, His name will be John. Our biblical guide will be a very unsuspecting father-to-be;

   There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both well advanced in years. So it was, that while he was serving as priest before God in the order of his division, according to the custom of the priesthood, his lot fell to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. And the whole multitude of the people were praying outside at the hour of incense.

(Luk 1:5-10 NKJV)

   The Temple leadership had a multitude of priestly assignments related to the day to day operation and maintenance of the temple. Those having served in the military will recognize a list of assignments called the DUTY ROSTER.

   I remember a love/hate relationship with that ROSTER. It covered duties like CHARGE OF QUARTERS, not unlike an overnight baby sitter when the officers were off duty. Zacharias was serving in his service rotation attending to the burning of incense on the ALTAR during hours of prayer. {Since mandatory retirement from temple duties was 50 years of age, Zacharias and Elizabeth were likely at or about 49 years old when this visitation occurred.}

   

   Our story continues: (Luk 1:11-16 NKJV)--Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him. But the angel said to him, "Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother's womb. And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. The Angel's name was Gabriel, he stood in the very presence of GOD to deliver this good news.

   After Zacharias heard all that Gabriel had spoken, it is a reasonable conclusion that old Zach got a bit uppity and challenged the veracity of Gabriel. The angel did not take this lightly and locked Zacharias MOUTH and he could no longer speak until the birth of JOHN was complete. When Zacharias came out of the temple, his inability to talk got everyone's attention!!

   So it was, as soon as the days of his service were completed, that Zacharias departed to his own house. Now after those days his wife Elizabeth conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying, "Thus the Lord has dealt with me, in the days when He looked on me, to take away my reproach among people." (Luk 1:23-25 NKJV)

   Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin's name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, "Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!" But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end." Then Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, since I do not know a man?" (Luk 1:26-34 NKJV)

   Notice here that Gabriel's reaction to Mary's questioning was very kind, not hostile or threatening. Certainly different than the mouth closing action taken with Zacharias; And the angel answered and said to her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible." Then Mary said, "Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word." And the angel departed from her. (Luk 1:35-38 NKJV)

SUMMARY

   Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord." (Luk 1:39-45 NKJV)

   Just as Gabriel, an Angel of the Lord delivered God's message true and clear, and upon his speaking, the events began immediately moving forward. In all probability, Elizabeth was likely moved to tears that at her seniority of years, she would now carry, deliver and raise the man who would introduce to the entire world the Messiah, the Lord Jesus!

   This week, in a few more days, we all will gather to celebrate the culmination of God's work that the Angel Gabriel spoke about nearly two-thousand-and-twenty-five years ago; The Births of John the BAPTIST, and our LORD and SAVIOR's Birth in Bethlehem. At maturity, John would clear the path for the arriving Lord of Lords, teaching that the time for salvation was here. He being the ordained WITNESS of the Ministry of JESUS THE CHRIST! If you have not done so, Its time to confess and repent and receive the Holy Sprit into you. Your eternity awaits!

CLOSING PRAYER

Father God, in just three short days we will have the wondrous privlege of celebrating the birth Your only begotten Son. This child, this birth, this Savior came to save, and through His perfect blood being shed on that rugged cross, we have received not only the Holy Spirit but salvation and eternal life in the kingdom to come. Words just cannot express our deep joy for this miracle at Your hand-and-will, through Jesus the Christ, AMEN

[THE LORD'S SUPPER]

[Sing a song to the Lord, lift up your voices]

DOXOLOGY

Praise God, from Whom all blessings flow;

Praise Him, all creatures here below;

Praise Him above, Ye heav'n-ly host;

Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost

AMEN

THE CALL

If you have never invited Jesus to be your Lord and savior, or, if you have in the past yet remain unsure of salvation and forgiveness of sin, Please pray with me now: Lord Jesus I need to fill a hole in my life that follows me where ever I go. I am a long-time Sinner and I CONFESS and REPENT of all my sins. I believe that You JESUS are the Lord, that you were hung on a cross and died. I believe that you were raised back to life by God, Your Father, ascended into heaven and presently sit at the right hand of The Almighty. Please come into me, clean me, take me and make me Yours and let me serve from this day forward and forever, Thank-You Jesus, AMEN

If you sincerely prayed with me, your salvation has been assured. {Rom 10:9 KJV} -That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.

Waste no time in finding like minded folks, to fellowship with, who also know the lord Jesus. Be introduced to a church that preaches the BIBLE. Email me. Begin the journey that you will never tire of; the discovery of the Majesty, Beauty and loving Power of Jesus the Christ. Welcome to the family!

Chaplain Gary

BENEDICTION: Num 6:24-26  The LORD bless you, and keep you;  The LORD make His face shine on you, And be gracious to you;  The LORD lift up His countenance on you, And give you peace.'AMEN

Christ go with you now...until we meet again

Christ go with you now...keep praying on till then

It really doesn't matter what the weather...

Just as long as we all are TOGETHER...

Christ go with you now...Till we meet again!

SUPPORTING SCRIPTURE Rom 1:16-17/ Luke 1:5-25;26-45/ Num 6:24-26

SABBATH & SUNDAY WORSHIP MESSAGE

(Published every Friday evening)

CHRIST ETERNAL SENIOR MINISTRIES

HAVE YOU READ YOUR BIBLE TODAY?

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