Ezekiel 2:1–3:3 Ezekiel is called to be a prophet and watchman, we also are to receive and spread the word, telling of the coming judgment.
Ezekiel 1:1–28 Ezekiel has a vision of the glory of the Lord. As exiles we need to see that God is the glorious ruler over all, it is a comfort, but there is also a coming judgment.
1 Timothy 2:1-7 One rule for all. That’s what people want. That’s why there was such anger about No.10 lockdown parties. If there are rules then they should apply equally to everyone. One rule for all is what we want – and that’s what we get with God, whoever we are. There is one God, one mediator, and one message for all.
1 Timothy 1:12-20 What’s so great about the gospel? Why does Paul call it ‘the glorious gospel’? Because through it God mercifully saves sinners, and enlists them in his service. In this passage we get to see what God did for Paul through the gospel, and what he has done, or could do, for each of us.
But even more important is spiritual health, and that concern is central to this letter. Churches and Christians grow spiritually healthy through a diet of sound, health-giving teaching – and by steering well away from spiritual junk food.
Numbers 6:24-26 ‘We wish you a happy and prosperous 2022’ say the cards. But such wishes lack any power, and are nothing more than saying that you hope things work out. By contrast the Aaronic blessing is a powerful prayer which asks God for what we need most in the year ahead.
The name Jesus means rescuer – but why do we need rescuing? Because of our spiritual poverty!
The angels show us how Jesus is the most qualified savior and the shepherds have the right attitude: they see for themselves and they rejoice!
The Time, Place, and way that Jesus was born shows us just how great our need for him is!
Luke 1:67-79 Christmas is a dark, cold time of year. It’s the time we get out the lights – candles on tables, fairy lights on trees. These lights are a good reminder about the true meaning of Christmas – Jesus came to ‘give light to those who sit in darkness’. But what is this darkness, and what is the light he brings?