A Light for the Gentiles

December 15

(Luke 2:28-32 NIV) "Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: {29} "Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace. {30} For my eyes have seen your salvation, {31} which you have prepared in the sight of all people, {32} a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.""

(Isaiah 42:5-7 NIV) "This is what God the Lord says-- he who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread out the earth and all that comes out of it, who gives breath to its people, and life to those who walk on it: {6} "I, the Lord, have called you in righteousness; I will take hold of your hand. I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people and a light for the Gentiles, {7} to open eyes that are blind, to free captives from prison and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness."

(Isaiah 60:1-3 NIV)  ""Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you. {2} See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the Lord rises upon you and his glory appears over you. {3} Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn."

(Acts 13:47 NIV)  "For this is what the Lord has commanded us: "'I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.'""

Light, and glory, and salvation go everywhere Christ goes. When Jesus came to Earth, light, and glory, and salvation came to all mankind. It is ours to claim -- a gift of that first Christmas. Jesus came as a Light of Revelation -- the Light of the World. He was born a Jew, to the Jews, but He came also for the Gentiles, because “God so loved the world”. Simeon saw the light, and if we wait upon God and pray for eyes to see, we can see the light too. The Creator of the universe has come to open our blind eyes, free us from our bondage, and bring us into His glorious light. Our Light has come. He came not only to bring us light, but to make us light -- light that the world can see. As we reflect His glory, people will be drawn to His light, and we will be His partners in bringing “salvation to the ends of the Earth”. What a great gift we’ve been given! -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

My Eyes Have Seen

December 14

(Luke 2:27-30 NIV) ""Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, {28} Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: {29} "Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace. {30} For my eyes have seen your salvation,""

(Luke 2:20 NIV) "The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told."

(Isaiah 52:8-10 NIV) "Listen! Your watchmen lift up their voices; together they shout for joy. When the Lord returns to Zion, they will see it with their own eyes. {9} Burst into songs of joy together, you ruins of Jerusalem, for the Lord has comforted his people, he has redeemed Jerusalem. {10} The Lord will lay bare his holy arm in the sight of all the nations, and all the ends of the earth will see the salvation of our God."

Simeon had been waiting for Christ to come. He had believed God’s word, and spent his life in anticipation. When he finally saw the Lord, he was filled with joy and praise. He had seen God’s salvation, and now was ready to die in peace. He had met Jesus. When the shepherds were told about Jesus, they went to see. When they saw the Christ, they too were filled with joy and praise for God’s salvation. One day we will all see God’s salvation. Jesus will come again “in the sight of all nations”. Some will attain salvation because they have believed God, and have been anticipating Christ’s arrival. But many will not attain God’s salvation. They have spent their lives in self-focused unbelief. There will be no peace in their eternity. Have you met Jesus? Have you seen God’s salvation? Are you waiting for Christ to come? If not, come to Bethlehem and see. Salvation has come. Believe God! -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Waiting is Good

December 13

(Luke 2:25-26 NIV) "Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. {26} It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord's Christ."

(Luke 12:35-36 NIV) "Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning, {36} like men waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet, so that when he comes and knocks they can immediately open the door for him."

(Hebrews 9:27-28 NIV) "Just as man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, {28} so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him."

(Lamentations 3:22-26 NIV) "Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. {23} They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. {24} I say to myself, "The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him." {25} The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; {26} it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord."

Waiting is good. You may have heard the saying: “Good things come to those who wait.” Some even mistake this prominent sales slogan for a Bible verse. It certainly has some biblical wisdom attached to it. One of the disciplines of Christmas is waiting. As the day approaches, anticipation builds. Simeon had been waiting for a long time, but was content because God had told him he would see the Christ before he died. God did not disappoint Simeon. We too, are waiting to see the Christ. Jesus lives in those who have believed through the Holy Spirit, but we anticipate His bodily return like children waiting for Christmas to come. As we wait, we do our best to be righteous and devout. We keep our lamps burning. Christ is coming in person to bring salvation to those who have been waiting for Him. Waiting is good. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Dedicated to the Lord

December 12

(Luke 2:22-24 NIV) ““When the time of their purification according to the Law of Moses had been completed, Joseph and Mary took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord {23} (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, "Every firstborn male is to be consecrated to the Lord"), {24} and to offer a sacrifice in keeping with what is said in the Law of the Lord: "a pair of doves or two young pigeons.””

(Exodus 13:2 NIV) “Consecrate to me every firstborn male. The first offspring of every womb among the Israelites belongs to me, whether man or animal.”

(Leviticus 12:1-6 NIV) ““The Lord said to Moses, {2} "Say to the Israelites: 'A woman who becomes pregnant and gives birth to a son will be ceremonially unclean for seven days, just as she is unclean during her monthly period. {3} On the eighth day the boy is to be circumcised. {4} Then the woman must wait thirty-three days to be purified from her bleeding. She must not touch anything sacred or go to the sanctuary until the days of her purification are over. {5} If she gives birth to a daughter, for two weeks the woman will be unclean, as during her period. Then she must wait sixty-six days to be purified from her bleeding. {6} "'When the days of her purification for a son or daughter are over, she is to bring to the priest at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting a year-old lamb for a burnt offering and a young pigeon or a dove for a sin offering.””

(Numbers 8:14-16 NIV) ““In this way you are to set the Levites apart from the other Israelites, and the Levites will be mine. {15} "After you have purified the Levites and presented them as a wave offering, they are to come to do their work at the Tent of Meeting. {16} They are the Israelites who are to be given wholly to me. I have taken them as my own in place of the firstborn, the first male offspring from every Israelite woman.””

After Christ’s birth, Joseph and Mary were obedient to the Law of Moses. Mary went through the forty day process of purification required by the Law. Then they took Jesus to the Temple for dedication. Firstborn sons were considered “first fruits” of the marriage, and like Samuel, were to be presented at the Temple as God’s property. After the Levites were instituted, firstborn could be redeemed by an offering brought by their parents. Joseph and Mary came to the Temple with an offering for her purification, and for Christ’s redemption. It’s ironic that God’s Son, sent to give His life to redeem mankind, would need to be redeemed and dedicated to the Lord. Today, let’s dedicate our children to the Lord who gave them to us. Let us pray that He will save them from sin and death, and redeem them for His holy purposes. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Jesus: The Lord is Salvation

December 11

(Luke 2:21 NIV) “On the eighth day, when it was time to circumcise him, he was named Jesus, the name the angel had given him before he had been conceived.”

(Matthew 1:21 NIV) “She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”

(Mark 1:15 NIV) ““The time has come," he said. "The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!””

(Acts 2:38 NIV) “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”

When Jesus was eight days old, He was circumcised, in obedience to God’s command that was first given to Abraham, the father of faith. He was also named, and in obedience to the angel’s command, Joseph named Him Jesus. The name Jesus is a short form of the name, Joshua, a hero in the Jewish culture. The name Jesus has a meaning, as many Hebrew names do. It means, “the Lord is salvation”. The angel told Joseph that Jesus would “save His people from their sins”, and this is what He did. He preached repentance. He called people to believe the good news. He died on a cross for our sins. Jesus came to save sinners! The Lord is salvation. Have you acknowledged your sin and repented? Some call this outdated teaching, but how can something that is eternal be outdated? Call on His name. Jesus saves! -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day    

Pondering God’s Blessing

December 10

(Luke 2:19 NIV) “But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.”

(Psalm 111:1-3 NIV) “Praise the Lord. I will extol the Lord with all my heart in the council of the upright and in the assembly. {2} Great are the works of the Lord; they are pondered by all who delight in them. {3} Glorious and majestic are his deeds, and his righteousness endures forever.”

(Psalm 145:1-6 NIV) “I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name forever and ever. {2} Every day I will praise you and extol your name forever and ever. {3} Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom. {4} One generation will commend your works to another; they will tell of your mighty acts. {5} They will speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty, and I will meditate on your wonderful works. {6} They will tell of the power of your awesome works, and I will proclaim your great deeds.”

The night of Christ’s birth was marvelous and divine, but Mary must have been physically and emotionally drained. The birth itself would have been sufficient, but then the shepherds came, loudly praising God and telling everyone that this new baby was Christ the Savior. It must have been overwhelming for Mary. Wisely, she took a spiritual time-out. She took time to ponder the event. There would be no photos or video to view in years to come -- only what she treasured up in her heart. This Christmas, put down the cameras and the cell phones and soak up what is happening. Take a time-out from the technology. Store up some memories in your heart. Soak for a while in the love of God and family. Remember those who have neither. Ponder what God has done, both for you and in you, and have a blessed Christmas. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day    

Spread the Word

December 9

(Luke 2:17-20 NIV) “When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, {18} and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. {19} But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. {20} The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.”

(Mark 5:18-20 NIV) ““As Jesus was getting into the boat, the man who had been demon-possessed begged to go with him. {19} Jesus did not let him, but said, "Go home to your family and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you." {20} So the man went away and began to tell in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him. And all the people were amazed.””

(Acts 1:8 NIV) “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

The shepherds were not only the first to see and believe that Christ had come -- they were also the first in a long line of historical witnesses who have felt compelled to share the good news of Jesus. Luke reports that they spread the word about the child and who they believed He was. They had believed the angels and had the faith to go to Bethlehem. They saw the baby in the manger and believed that He was the Christ, their Lord and Savior. But they didn’t simply believe it and then go back to their regular life. They told everyone who would listen. They gave glory to God in a public way. They praised God with their words and deeds. This Christmas, consider following in their footsteps. Don’t just put up the tree and the lights. Do more than simply set up the nativity scene -- live it! Spend some time glorifying and praising God. Share the good news! Share the joy! Spread the word! -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Faith That Goes

December 8

(Luke 2:15-16 NIV) ““When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about." {16} So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.””

(Hebrews 11:8 NIV) “By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going.”

(Galatians 3:6 NIV) ““Consider Abraham: "He believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.””

(James 2:17 NIV) “In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”

The first thing the shepherds did after their angelic visitation was to take some steps of faith. They heard God, believed God, and in obedience went to Bethlehem to see what God had done -- and when they got there, they found Jesus. This is the essence of faith. God calls to us, we hear Him, in faith we obey, and we find Jesus. We leave where we are and go to Him. We may not know exactly where we are going or what we will find there, but we hear God, believe God, take steps of obedience, and in turn, we find the Lord. This is why James says that if action does not accompany faith, it is not a living faith. The shepherds could be called the first converts. They heard the angels, believed, and responded in faith. Genuine disciples today will do the same. We will believe God’s word, and follow Jesus wherever He calls us to go. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Glory and Peace

December 7

(Luke 2:13-14 NIV) ““Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, {14} "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.””

(Romans 4:18-5:2 NIV) ““Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, "So shall your offspring be." {19} Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead--since he was about a hundred years old--and that Sarah's womb was also dead. {20} Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, {21} being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised. {22} This is why "it was credited to him as righteousness." {23} The words "it was credited to him" were written not for him alone, {24} but also for us, to whom God will credit righteousness--for us who believe in him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead. {25} He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification. {5:1} Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, {2} through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.””

The angels sent to deliver the good news of Christ’s birth could not contain their praise. A large number gathered above the shepherds to give glory to God. Their worship contains two truths about the Lord. First, no one is greater or higher than God. There is only one God, and to Him belongs all glory, honor, thanks, power, and praise. Worship Him alone. Have no other Gods before Him. Second, coming to know Christ is the access key to peace on Earth. When we come to Christ, and God’s favor rests upon us, the incomprehensible peace of God settles over our lives. This is why the dark side works so hard to distract our hearts at Christmas time. Lights, presents, parties, and even family can diminish our worship and steal our peace. Hear the voices of heaven this Christmas. Focus your attention on the Christ child. Worship Him, and let the peace of God settle over you. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Lying in a Manger

December 6

(Luke 2:11-12 NIV) “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. {12} This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

(John 1:9-14 NIV) “The true light that gives light to every man was coming into the world. {10} He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. {11} He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. {12} Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—{13} children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God. {14} The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.”

The angels told the shepherds that Christ the Lord had been born in Bethlehem. The Messiah had come -- but in a way that no one could have imagined. He had not come as a conquering king, but as a baby. He would not be found in a palace bed with satin sheets, but wrapped in rags, in a manger where animals slobbered and drooled over their feed. He would appear poor and helpless, but they would be seeing the King of kings and Lord of lords. Would they believe the angels? Would they recognize the Savior that God had sent? Will you believe? Will you recognize Him? The baby in the manger is the Creator of the universe. He is God in flesh. He is the Judge who sits on the great white throne -- who separates the sheep from the goats, the wheat from the chaff, and the lost from the found. He is both Savior and Lord. Will you believe, and embrace the Christ of Christmas? -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

A Gospel For All People

December 5

(Luke 2:10-11 NIV) ““But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. {11} Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.””

(1 John 2:1-2 NIV) “My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense--Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. {2} He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.”

(Isaiah 40:5 NIV) “And the glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all mankind together will see it. For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.”

(Romans 1:16-17 NIV) ““I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. {17} For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith.””

The angels made a joyful announcement to the shepherds: a Savior had been born in Bethlehem. He was the long awaited Lord and Christ. God had come to Earth to save His people. The shepherds were the first people on our planet to hear the gospel -- the good news that Jesus saves. But this gospel was not just for the shepherds. Because “God so loved the world”, this good news was for “all people”. This Savior had come, not just for the Jews, but for all mankind. He had come to atone for “the sins of the whole world”. This is the “good news of great joy”. The angels told the shepherds not to be afraid -- God tells us not to be ashamed. The gospel is God’s gift of salvation to everyone who will believe it. The angels made the first gospel announcement -- it is now ours to make. Jesus still saves! We are His witnesses. Tell the world. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Do Not Fear

December 4

(Luke 2:9-10a NIV) “An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. {10} But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid.” 

(Matthew 17:4-8 NIV) ““Peter said to Jesus, "Lord, it is good for us to be here. If you wish, I will put up three shelters--one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah." {5} While he was still speaking, a bright cloud enveloped them, and a voice from the cloud said, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!" {6} When the disciples heard this, they fell facedown to the ground, terrified. {7} But Jesus came and touched them. "Get up," he said. "Don't be afraid." {8} When they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus.””

(1 Timothy 6:13-16 NIV) “In the sight of God, who gives life to everything, and of Christ Jesus, who while testifying before Pontius Pilate made the good confession, I charge you {14} to keep this command without spot or blame until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ, {15} which God will bring about in his own time--God, the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and Lord of lords, {16} who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light, whom no one has seen or can see. To him be honor and might forever. Amen.”

In the church today, we sing a lot about the “glory of God”. But in Scripture, when people encountered the glory of God, there was not much singing -- there was mostly fear and terror as they fell facedown. Were we to encounter the unveiled glory of God, a God who lives in “unapproachable light”, our reaction would be the same. The angels who came to announce the birth of Christ reflected the glory of God, and the shepherds were terrified by that glory. But the angels told the shepherds not to be afraid. Jesus said these same words to His disciples when He was revealed in glory on the Mount of Transfiguration. Rather than fearing His glory, our resplendent Lord wants us to experience His love. This is one reason for the incarnation -- God wants us to know Him and His great love for us. The angelic call to “fear not”, is a reminder of that truth. Merry Christmas! -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Shepherd’s Privilege

December 3

(Luke 2:8 NIV) “And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.”

(Luke 4:18 NIV) “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed,”

(Psalms 23:1-4 NIV) “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. {2} He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, {3} he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. {4} Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”

It is noteworthy that the first people to receive official notice of Christ’s birth were some minimum wage shepherds. One would think that the King of kings would warrant a royal reception in some opulent hall. But the Lord of lords had come to preach good news to the poor, and so that is where He started. In the dark of night, a Savior was born to shepherds and emperors alike. To those with power and to those with none, God sent His Son. But on this night, it was to the powerless that God sent notice of a birth in Bethlehem that would change the world. Perhaps the shepherds heard first because God has a shepherd’s heart. King David, a former shepherd boy himself, recognized this and wrote a song about it, which begins, “The Lord is my shepherd”. Christ came to gather the lambs that His Father provided. Are you one of His lambs? Have you answered the shepherd’s call? -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day  

No Room

December 2

(Luke 2:7b NIV) “She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.”

(Psalms 10:4 NIV) “In his pride the wicked does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God.”

(John 8:34-37 NIV) ““Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. {35} Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. {36} So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. {37} I know you are Abraham's descendants. Yet you are ready to kill me, because you have no room for my word.””

The Son of God was born in a stable because there was no room in the inn. And it wasn’t just the innkeeper who had no room. The vast majority of Israel’s religious people had no room for Jesus, and they missed His coming. When Jesus grew to manhood and began His preaching ministry, many had no room for His word. Rather than listen to Him, they plotted to kill Him. Today, the prideful have no room in their thoughts for God. Their minds are consumed by thoughts of achievement, status, and power. Many of us, in this hectic Christmas season, will miss the Christ child in the hustle and bustle of shopping and partying. Even in His church, Christ is often crowded out by the pageantry and the plays. Christians, we are called to make room for Jesus in our homes, our thoughts, our church, and our lives. Jesus has made a room for you. Make room for Him! -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Perfect Timing

December 1

(Luke 2:6-7 NIV) “While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, {7} and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son.”

(Galatians 4:4-5 NIV) “But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, {5} to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons.”

The timing of Christ’s birth was perfect. It was the right time religiously. The Scriptures had been compiled in an orderly fashion and there were synagogues in just about every town where people could hear the word of God. It was the right time culturally. The highly descriptive and accurate Greek language was predominant, and would provide the platform for the gospels and epistles to be written. It was the right time politically. The world was essentially under one government in Rome, and when the first disciples were commissioned to share the gospel with all the world, they had a first-class road system, an almost universal language, and an outstanding postal system. The timing of Christ’s birth was no accident. This is what Paul meant in Galatians when he said, “when the time had fully come”. God’s timing was perfect. It still is! -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Mary, Mother of God

November 30

(Luke 2:5 NIV)  "He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child."

(Matthew 1:18-25 NIV)  "This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. {19} Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. {20} But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. {21} She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins." {22} All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: {23} "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel" --which means, "God with us." {24} When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. {25} But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus."

Jesus came to us as the God-man. He serves as a model of humanity, as well as the atoning sacrifice for our sin. But the Son of God did not just magically show up. He was born of a woman who believed God. One human was chosen to provide Christ’s human nature, and through the Holy Spirit, become the mother of Immanuel, God with us. Mary was not perfect in the way God is perfect, but she was committed to purity and holiness. She was a virgin with a strong faith, and she was submissive to the will of God. To the casual observer, she would have looked like any ordinary, run of the mill young woman. But God saw something extraordinary in her -- something that, in His eyes, qualified her to be the mother of God. The Lord sees some extraordinary qualities in you as well, and by God’s Spirit and your faith, Christ can be born in you, and live in you. Believe God! -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Right Town, Right Family Line

November 29

(Luke 2:4 NIV) “So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David.”

(Matthew 1:1 NIV) “A record of the genealogy of Jesus Christ the son of David, the son of Abraham:”

(Matthew 20:30-31 NIV) ““Two blind men were sitting by the roadside, and when they heard that Jesus was going by, they shouted, "Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!" {31} The crowd rebuked them and told them to be quiet, but they shouted all the louder, "Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!””

Old Testament Scripture prophesied Bethlehem as the birthplace of the Messiah. That is where Jesus was born. Even before His birth, Jesus began fulfilling Old Testament prophesy. The prophets also said that the Christ would be born in the family line of David. This fits Jesus. His family traced through David, all the way back to Abraham. Matthew and many others call Him the “son of David”. The life and death of Jesus fulfilled hundreds of Old Testament prophesies. The chances of that happening by accident are astronomical -- so astronomical as to be impossible. But with God nothing is impossible. The Divine One who drew up the plan is the same Divine One overseeing the fulfillment of the plan. Jesus Christ, God incarnate, fulfills Scriptural prophesy because He is the one who put those prophesies into the hearts and mouths of the prophets to begin with. Jesus is Lord! -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

When Life Yanks Us Around

November 28

(Luke 2:1-4 NIV) “In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. {2} (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) {3} And everyone went to his own town to register. {4} So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David.”

(Matthew 2:1-6 NIV) ““After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem {2} and asked, "Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him." {3} When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. {4} When he had called together all the people's chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Christ was to be born. {5} "In Bethlehem in Judea," they replied, "for this is what the prophet has written: {6} "'But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will be the shepherd of my people Israel.””

(Micah 5:2 NIV) “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.”

(Romans 13:1 NIV) “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.”

Ironically, the story of Christ’s birth begins with a government decree. It would appear that there is no separation of church and state where God is concerned. Caesar ordered that a census be taken -- a sovereign emperor, unknowingly working in concert with the most sovereign God -- a God he did not know, or acknowledge. Everyone had to return to their hometown to be counted, which took Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem. Had it not been for Caesar’s decree, it is unlikely that Jesus would have been born in Bethlehem, fulfilling God’s prophecy regarding the Messiah. Sometimes when life yanks us around, it yanks us right smack into the middle of God’s sovereign will. Christ’s earthly parents submitted to God, and to the state, which took them to the place where God would begin the greatest story ever told. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Strong in Spirit

November 27

(Luke 1:80 NIV) “And the child grew and became strong in spirit; and he lived in the desert until he appeared publicly to Israel.”

(Matthew 3:1-6 NIV) ““In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the Desert of Judea {2} and saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near." {3} This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah: "A voice of one calling in the desert, 'Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.'" {4} John's clothes were made of camel's hair, and he had a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey. {5} People went out to him from Jerusalem and all Judea and the whole region of the Jordan. {6} Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River.””

(Ephesians 6:10-13 NIV) “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. {11} Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. {12} For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. {13} Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.”

John grew and became strong in spirit. This should be the goal of every believer. The work of Christ’s church is hindered when Christians refuse to grow and become stronger in spirit. Many worship at the altar of “Status Quo”, rather than at the altar of the “Present and Coming King”. Growth and strength in spirit come from time spent in the desert, but many believers resist going there. It was in the desert that John became strong in the Lord. God used the desert to prepare him to be a public spokesman for the coming King. John waited there until God told him it was time to speak. Don’t fear the desert experience, Christian. You can grow stronger in spirit there. It will prepare you to take your stand. Eat what God provides. Wear what He has given you in life. Grow strong in the Lord, and speak out when it’s time. Become like “a voice of one calling in the desert”. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Called to Prophetic Ministry

November 26

(Luke 1:76-79 NIV) “And you, my child, will be called a prophet of the Most High; for you will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for him, {77} to give his people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins, {78} because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven {79} to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.”

(Luke 7:28 NIV) “I tell you, among those born of women there is no one greater than John; yet the one who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.”

Zechariah’s son would become John the Baptist. He would prepare the way for people to see and accept the Lord Jesus. He would help them see their sin, and their need for a Savior who offers forgiveness, mercy and salvation. He would speak of the Light of the World, who shines His light into the darkness of human hearts. He would give those trapped in lifestyles of death, a glimpse of the life found in Christ. He would guide those living in chaos to a path of peace which passes all understanding -- a peace found only in Jesus. He would become a prophet of truth and hope. Christians, our calling is similar, but greater. Jesus said that the least in His kingdom would be greater than John. Prepare the way for people to receive Christ. Call them to repentance. Show them God’s mercy. Be a light in the darkness. Lead them to the peace found in Jesus. This is our prophetic ministry. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Enabled to Serve

November 25

(Luke 1:74-75 NIV) “… and to enable us to serve him without fear {75} in holiness and righteousness before him all our days.”

(Acts 4:29-33 NIV) ““Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. {30} Stretch out your hand to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus." {31} After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly. {32} All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had. {33} With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and much grace was upon them all.””

Jesus did not come just to save us. That was a major goal of His mission, but He also came to equip and enable us to serve him. He came to enable us to speak His word with boldness here on Earth. Many serve to glorify themselves or their church. They want their name attached to deeds of kindness. Others serve out of fear. They figure God is up there somewhere keeping score, and if they do enough good stuff, they just might earn enough points to get into heaven. These are the wrong motivations. Disciples serve Jesus out of love. He has shown His love for us, and we love Him back. Jesus enables us to serve Him boldly and without fear, in holiness and righteousness. This is the right kind of enabling -- not enabling us to get what we want, but to do what God wants. When we serve Him with the right motivation, our lives will bear fruit that lasts. Let Jesus be your righteous enabler. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Rescued

November 24

(Luke 1:69-74 NIV) "He has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David {70} (as he said through his holy prophets of long ago), {71} salvation from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us-- {72} to show mercy to our fathers and to remember his holy covenant, {73} the oath he swore to our father Abraham: {74} to rescue us from the hand of our enemies, and to enable us to serve him without fear"

(Galatians 1:3-5 NIV) "Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, {4} who gave himself for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, {5} to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen."

(Psalms 25:20 NIV) "Guard my life and rescue me; let me not be put to shame, for I take refuge in you."

We all have enemies in this world. We may have human enemies who hate us. We certainly have a great spiritual enemy who seeks our demise. There is no salvation other than Jesus, who was sent by God to rescue us. But often, we are our own worst enemy. Our external enemies don’t need much help when we do most of the work ourselves. It is often said: “He backslid and fell into sin.” But most of us don’t slide or fall into sin. We run toward it. We wade into it. We soak in it like it was a hot tub. Most of our sins are not accidental. We may be blinded as to the consequences, but we are hardly ever ignorant about our direction. Zechariah sings that Jesus came to save us from our enemies. He came to rescue us from ourselves. The question for today is this: Will you reach up and take his rescuing hand, or will you continue to use your hands to swim in sin? It’s your choice. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Redeemer and Savior

November 23

(Luke 1:67-70 NIV) ““His father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and prophesied: {68} "Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has come and has redeemed his people. {69} He has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David, {70} (as he said through his holy prophets of long ago)””

(Titus 2:11-14 NIV) “For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. {12} It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, {13} while we wait for the blessed hope--the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, {14} who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.”

Zechariah’s loosed tongue lifts a song of acknowledgement and praise toward heaven. He sings of the Christ who is coming to save his people -- not from the political oppression of Rome, but from the spiritual oppression of their sin. Salvation brings freedom. This Christ will also redeem the lives of His people. Like a paper coupon, redeemed in a store for something of value, He will take what was once worthless, and transform it into something usable in God’s Kingdom. When we are saved by God’s grace, our life is redeemed so that it brings glory to God. Even a shameful past can be redeemed and used for God’s glory. Have you allowed God to do this in your life? Have you given your past, present, and future to the Lord? He can take the rubble of your past and build something beautiful for today. Christ is our Redeemer and Savior. Be thankful! -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day      

Filled With Awe

November 22

(Luke 1:64-66 NIV) ““Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue was loosed, and he began to speak, praising God. {65} The neighbors were all filled with awe, and throughout the hill country of Judea people were talking about all these things. {66} Everyone who heard this wondered about it, asking, "What then is this child going to be?" For the Lord's hand was with him.””

(Matthew 9:5-8 NIV) ““Which is easier: to say, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Get up and walk'? {6} But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins. . . ." Then he said to the paralytic, "Get up, take your mat and go home." {7} And the man got up and went home. {8} When the crowd saw this, they were filled with awe; and they praised God, who had given such authority to men.””

(Acts 2:41-43 NIV) “Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. {42} They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. {43} Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles.”

John’s birth was unusual because his parents were aged, and had been unable to have children. John’s name drew attention because it did not come from any relative of Zechariah or Elizabeth. This, and the fact that Zechariah praised God after nine months of silence, caused the people of the region to be filled with awe and wonder: awe at the miracle of John’s birth, and wonder about who this child might be. John was already special. God’s hand was upon him. We see the phrase, “filled with awe” used to describe Christ’s ministry of deliverance and healing. It is also used as people witnessed the miraculous work of the early church. Although many have become cynical of miracles in this scientific age, people are still filled with awe by genuine conversion. When God visibly changes a life, there is an awe that rises up in the hearts of people. Be an “awe producing” disciple today. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day  

Freed by Obedience

November 21

(Luke 1:57-64 NIV) ““When it was time for Elizabeth to have her baby, she gave birth to a son. {58} Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown her great mercy, and they shared her joy. {59} On the eighth day they came to circumcise the child, and they were going to name him after his father Zechariah, {60} but his mother spoke up and said, "No! He is to be called John." {61} They said to her, "There is no one among your relatives who has that name." {62} Then they made signs to his father, to find out what he would like to name the child. {63} He asked for a writing tablet, and to everyone's astonishment he wrote, "His name is John." {64} Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue was loosed, and he began to speak, praising God.””

Zechariah received a message from an angel of the Lord -- after decades of being unable to have children, his wife would deliver a son, and they were to name him John. Zechariah doubted God’s word, and so the angel declared that he would not be able to speak until after his son was born -- nine months of silence to contemplate the ramifications of doubting God. When the baby was born, Elizabeth declared that his name would be John. People were puzzled, as there was no history of that name in the family. But Zechariah confirmed it in writing, and to their astonishment, his tongue was freed, and he began to praise God. We can learn from Zechariah. When we doubt God, our witness is muted. But when we believe God, and our faith steps out in obedience, our tongues are freed to praise Him. It’s a simple principle to consider as we walk through the holiday season with Jesus. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Mighty and Merciful

November 20

(Luke 1:50-55 NIV) "His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. {51} He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. {52} He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. {53} He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. {54} He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful {55} to Abraham and his descendants forever, even as he said to our fathers."

(Psalms 25:6-9 NIV) "Remember, O Lord, your great mercy and love, for they are from of old. {7} Remember not the sins of my youth and my rebellious ways; according to your love remember me, for you are good, O Lord. {8} Good and upright is the Lord; therefore he instructs sinners in his ways. {9} He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way."

(Lamentations 3:22 NIV) "Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail."

Our God is mighty and merciful. If He weren’t, we would be reduced to soot and ashes, for we have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. But we are forgiven freely because of what Christ did for us on the cross. God is merciful. It is by grace we are saved. This is the good news of the Gospel. Mary saw it and sang praises to God for what would come to us because of her Son. Have you given up your sins to Jesus and asked God for His forgiveness? Have you acknowledged what the Lord has done for you? Have you changed your life to reflect his love and mercy? Don’t be too proud to ask for His help. Pride is a killer, but Christ lifts up the humble, and fills the hungry with good things. What this world offers will never satisfy. Only Jesus can take away the hunger that gnaws in our hearts. Humble yourself. Appeal to His mercy. Be filled, and be thankful. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Singing God’s Song

November 19

(Luke 1:46-49 NIV) ““And Mary said: "My soul glorifies the Lord {47} and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, {48} for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, {49} for the Mighty One has done great things for me-- holy is his name.””

(Psalms 18:46 NIV) “The Lord lives! Praise be to my Rock! Exalted be God my Savior!”

(2 Peter 3:18 NIV) “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.”

Mary’s song is a theological statement. She humbly glorifies, praises, and worships the Lord. She also rejoices in her Savior. Our God is both Lord and Savior -- and Jesus, like His Father, is both Savior and Lord. Many people come to Christ in times of distress, seeking a Savior. Far fewer seek to live as though Jesus is their Lord. Mary sings of the Mighty One who has done great things for her. Our God is sovereign, powerful, and in control. He does not need man’s approval to move in history. We can trust in God’s power, just as Mary did. He will do great things for us too. Mary also declares that God is holy. This means God’s Son is holy. The profane world we live in mocks and lampoons anything holy and pure. Nothing is sacred. The darkness hates the Light. But Christ is holy. Holy is His name. Lord and Savior, Mighty One, Holy One of God -- this is the Jesus we serve. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Blessing in Trials

November 18

(Luke 1:45-49 NIV) ““Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!" {46} And Mary said: "My soul glorifies the Lord {47} and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, {48} for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, {49} for the Mighty One has done great things for me-- holy is his name.””

(Psalms 34:1-5 NIV) “I will extol the Lord at all times; his praise will always be on my lips. {2} My soul will boast in the Lord; let the afflicted hear and rejoice. {3} Glorify the Lord with me; let us exalt his name together. {4} I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. {5} Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.”

Mary was pregnant, without a husband, in a culture that often stoned unmarried pregnant women to death. Yet Elizabeth calls her blessed, and Mary agrees as she glorifies the Lord. Mary praised God in the face of her trial, and sang of God’s great provision for her. How does one find blessing in trials like Mary did? It takes a faith that sees beyond immediate circumstances -- a faith that believes God’s plan is grander than ours. Mary believed God. She trusted that her personal Savior, the Mighty One, was doing something great through her. She looked to the Lord, and instead of being covered with shame, her face was radiant. Her soul rejoiced and boasted in the Lord as she extolled His name. Her situation was not ideal, but God delivered her from all her fears. She was doing God’s will. Join her, beleaguered Christian. Praise God in your trials. God is doing something grand. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Recognizing Jesus

November 17

(Luke 1:39-44 NIV) ““At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, {40} where she entered Zechariah's home and greeted Elizabeth. {41} When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. {42} In a loud voice she exclaimed: "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! {43} But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? {44} As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy.””

(John 1:29-37 NIV) ““The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, "Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! {30} This is the one I meant when I said, 'A man who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.' {31} I myself did not know him, but the reason I came baptizing with water was that he might be revealed to Israel." {32} Then John gave this testimony: "I saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on him. {33} I would not have known him, except that the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, 'The man on whom you see the Spirit come down and remain is he who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.' {34} I have seen and I testify that this is the Son of God." {35} The next day John was there again with two of his disciples. {36} When he saw Jesus passing by, he said, "Look, the Lamb of God!" {37} When the two disciples heard him say this, they followed Jesus.””

Elizabeth and Mary found themselves in tough situations. One was very old. The other was very young. Both carried babies who would become extraordinary men, but for now, each had their own anxieties to deal with. Yet when Mary went to visit Elizabeth, something miraculous happened. When Mary greeted Elizabeth, the baby in Elizabeth’s womb leaped for joy. That baby would become John the Baptist. John the Baptist, while still in his mother's womb, was the first to recognize Jesus and be filled with joy. Even before He was born, Jesus was bringing joy to those who recognized Him. When John grew up, he was again the first to recognize Jesus. When he saw Christ nearby, he called Him "the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world." We too can be filled with joy if we recognize Jesus as our Savior -- the One who takes away our sins. Have you? Will you? -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Submissive to God’s Plan

November 16

(Luke 1:38 NIV) ““I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. "May it be to me as you have said.””

(Psalms 81:11-12 NIV) “But my people would not listen to me; Israel would not submit to me. {12} So I gave them over to their stubborn hearts to follow their own devices.”

(2 Chronicles 30:8-9 NIV) “Do not be stiff-necked, as your fathers were; submit to the Lord. Come to the sanctuary, which he has consecrated forever. Serve the Lord your God, so that his fierce anger will turn away from you. {9} If you return to the Lord, then your brothers and your children will be shown compassion by their captors and will come back to this land, for the Lord your God is gracious and compassionate. He will not turn his face from you if you return to him.”

When Mary came to a fork in the road, she chose the faith way. She was submissive to God's plan. Scripture does not say that she understood it completely -- she was simply submissive to God’s plan. That is the challenge for today’s Christian. Submit to God. Do not be like those in Israel’s history who developed stubborn hearts and went their own way. Ignoring God’s will, and refusing to follow His ways, can be toxic to a nation. A stiff-necked people incur stiff penalties from the Lord. Their children suffer because of their stubborn refusal to live under God’s authority. Do not be found among those who refuse to submit to God. If you are among the rebellious, repent and return to the Lord. Christ is full of grace and mercy -- but to enjoy His grace and mercy, we must be among those who say to God, “I am the Lord’s servant. May it be to me as you have said.” --  Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Nothing Is Impossible With God

November 15

(Luke 1:36-37 NIV) “Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be barren is in her sixth month. {37} For nothing is impossible with God.”

(Matthew 17:18-20 NIV) ““Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of the boy, and he was healed from that moment. {19} Then the disciples came to Jesus in private and asked, "Why couldn't we drive it out?" {20} He replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.””

(Matthew 19:23-26 NIV) ““Then Jesus said to his disciples, "I tell you the truth, it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. {24} Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God." {25} When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished and asked, "Who then can be saved?" {26} Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.””

(Acts 2:23-24 NIV) “This man was handed over to you by God's set purpose and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross. {24} But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him.”

When Mary was told she would have a baby, she had questions. How could a virgin have a baby? Gabriel told her that God could do anything. Even Elizabeth, a relative who was beyond child bearing years could have a baby, because nothing is impossible for God. No demonic power is invincible to Jesus, for nothing is impossible with God. Mountains can be moved by “mustard seed faith”, because nothing is impossible with God. The worst of sinners can be saved, the leper can be cleansed, the drunk can become sober, the lost can be found, and the dead can be raised… because all things are possible with God. This was the God of Joseph and Mary. Is this your God? Or does your Jesus operate under limits that you have imposed upon Him? Reorient your theology to the truth of Scripture. Nothing is impossible for God. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Son of God

November 14

(Luke 1:34-37 NIV) ““How will this be," Mary asked the angel, "since I am a virgin?" {35} The angel answered, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God.””

(Matthew 8:28-29 NIV) ““When he arrived at the other side in the region of the Gadarenes, two demon-possessed men coming from the tombs met him. They were so violent that no one could pass that way. {29} "What do you want with us, Son of God?" they shouted. "Have you come here to torture us before the appointed time?””

(Matthew 14:29-33 NIV) ““Come," he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. {30} But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!" {31} Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?" {32} And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. {33} Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, "Truly you are the Son of God.””

(Matthew 26:62-66 NIV) ““Then the high priest stood up and said to Jesus, "Are you not going to answer? What is this testimony that these men are bringing against you?" {63} But Jesus remained silent. The high priest said to him, "I charge you under oath by the living God: Tell us if you are the Christ, the Son of God." {64} "Yes, it is as you say," Jesus replied. "But I say to all of you: In the future you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven." {65} Then the high priest tore his clothes and said, "He has spoken blasphemy! Why do we need any more witnesses? Look, now you have heard the blasphemy. {66} What do you think?" "He is worthy of death," they answered.””

(John 20:30-31 NIV) “Jesus did many other miraculous signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. {31} But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.”

The angel told Mary that the baby conceived in her would be no ordinary infant. This child would be the Son of God. Mary had her doubts, but the angel was not the only one to declare that Jesus was the Son of God. When Jesus grew up, the demons immediately recognized Him, and they trembled. They knew who was Lord. It took the disciples a little longer, but eventually they too confessed that Jesus was the Son of God. More importantly, Christ Himself said that He was the Son of God. The religious gestapo killed Him for saying it, but Jesus died maintaining that He was the Son of God. Later, John would declare that eternal life is found only in believing that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Our salvation depends upon two things: that Jesus Christ is the Son of God -- and that we put our faith in Him to save us. Do you believe this? -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

A Kingdom That Never Ends

November 13

(Luke 1:31-33 NIV) “You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. {32} He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, {33} and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end.”

(Daniel 6:26 NIV) ““I issue a decree that in every part of my kingdom people must fear and reverence the God of Daniel. "For he is the living God and he endures forever; his kingdom will not be destroyed, his dominion will never end.””

(1 Peter 1:24-25 NIV) ““For, "All men are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, {25} but the word of the Lord stands forever." And this is the word that was preached to you.””

The angel Gabriel not only announced to Mary that she would have a baby boy; God’s messenger also told her who the child was destined to become. This baby would grow up to be someone great. He would even be called by many the Son of the Most High God. Jesus would be given the place of his ancestor David -- He would be a King. But Christ’s kingdom would be different. This kingdom would not come and go like other kingdoms before and after it. It would have no end. It would never fall or be destroyed. This baby born to Mary would be the King of kings and the Lord of lords. His Kingdom would be an eternal kingdom. This is the Jesus we are called to follow. This is the Lord we are called to serve. This is the Kingdom in which we are invited to take part. Have you committed yourself to God’s Kingdom? Is Jesus your King? Will you live as if He were your King today? -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

The Name Jesus

November 12

(Luke 1:28-31 NIV) ““The angel went to her and said, "Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you." {29} Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. {30} But the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. {31} You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus.””

(Matthew 1:21-23 NIV) ““She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins." {22} All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: {23} "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel" --which means, "God with us.””

(Philippians 2:8-11 NIV) “And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death-- even death on a cross! {9} Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, {10} that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, {11} and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

(Romans 10:8-11 NIV) ““But what does it say? "The word is near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart," that is, the word of faith we are proclaiming: {9} That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. {10} For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. {11} As the Scripture says, "Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame.””

Mary was disturbed by the angel’s visit. What the angel called “favor” seemed like big trouble to her. Being pregnant out of wedlock would bring her shame, and possibly even death. But Mary and Joseph both received the same message: “Don’t be afraid. What’s happening to you is a God thing. You will have a son and His name is to be Jesus.” The name Jesus comes from the Hebrew word "Joshua", which means “Jehovah is salvation”. In Scripture, Joshua was a great leader who saved God’s people from their enemies and led them into the Promised Land. This baby was to be given the name of “Savior”, because He would save His people from their sins. He would be the “God who saves”. Jesus is still the God who saves, and at His name, every knee will eventually bow. But only those who bow on this side of eternity will be saved. Bow before Him today. Jesus is Lord. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

The Virgin Mary

November 11

(Luke 1:26-27 NIV) "In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, {27} to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin's name was Mary."

(Matthew 1:19-25 NIV) "Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. {20} But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. {21} She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins." {22} All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: {23} "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel" --which means, "God with us." {24} When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. {25} But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus."

(Isaiah 7:14 NIV) "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel."

The virgin birth is an essential ingredient of the Christian faith. Isaiah prophesied three things about the birth of the coming Messiah: a virgin would become pregnant, the child born to her would be a male, and that child would be called Immanuel, which means “God with us”. The power of the Most High overshadowed Mary, and the Son of God was conceived in her. It brings back the imagery of “the Spirit of God hovering over the waters” in the first chapter of Genesis. God speaks a word, and Light comes to the world. God speaks, and Life happens. The virgin birth was a necessity if Jesus was to be “the spotless Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world”. If Mary was not a virgin, and Jesus had a human father, He could not have been “God with us”, and He could not “save His people from their sins”. But it is true, and because it’s true, we can be saved. Believe! -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

God’s Choice Couple

November 10

(Luke 1:26-28 NIV)  "In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, {27} to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin's name was Mary. {28} The angel went to her and said, "Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.""

(Matthew 1:18-21 NIV)  "This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. {19} Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. {20} But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. {21} She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.""

God chose the home where Jesus would grow up. He handpicked the Dad and Mom who would raise His Son -- the couple who would change the diapers of the Savior of the world. He chose Joseph and Mary. What did God see in these two that qualified them to be parents to the Lord of the universe? He saw a commitment to purity. He saw a couple with merciful hearts. He saw their spiritual sensitivity. They had a willingness to obey in spite of tough circumstances -- a faith that would act in spite of doubt. He saw a couple who would behave courageously in spite of adversity. They were a choice couple, and they are models for us today. We too, can make choices like they did. Recommit to purity. Hear the cries for mercy around you. Be sensitive to God’s leading. Obey God’s voice. Stretch your faith. Be courageous in adverse situations. You too, can become a “choice” disciple. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day    

Hometown to a Savior

November 9

(Luke 1:26 NIV)  "In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee…”

(Luke 4:16-37 NIV) ““He went to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and on the Sabbath day he went into the synagogue, as was his custom. And he stood up to read. {17} The scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to him. Unrolling it, he found the place where it is written: {18} "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, {19} to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor." {20} Then he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on him, {21} and he began by saying to them, "Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing." {22} All spoke well of him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from his lips. "Isn't this Joseph's son?" they asked. {23} Jesus said to them, "Surely you will quote this proverb to me: 'Physician, heal yourself! Do here in your hometown what we have heard that you did in Capernaum.'" {24} "I tell you the truth," he continued, "no prophet is accepted in his hometown. {25} I assure you that there were many widows in Israel in Elijah's time, when the sky was shut for three and a half years and there was a severe famine throughout the land. {26} Yet Elijah was not sent to any of them, but to a widow in Zarephath in the region of Sidon. {27} And there were many in Israel with leprosy in the time of Elisha the prophet, yet not one of them was cleansed--only Naaman the Syrian." {28} All the people in the synagogue were furious when they heard this. {29} They got up, drove him out of the town, and took him to the brow of the hill on which the town was built, in order to throw him down the cliff. {30} But he walked right through the crowd and went on his way. {31} Then he went down to Capernaum, a town in Galilee, and on the Sabbath began to teach the people. {32} They were amazed at his teaching, because his message had authority. {33} In the synagogue there was a man possessed by a demon, an evil spirit. He cried out at the top of his voice, {34} "Ha! What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are--the Holy One of God!" {35} "Be quiet!" Jesus said sternly. "Come out of him!" Then the demon threw the man down before them all and came out without injuring him. {36} All the people were amazed and said to each other, "What is this teaching? With authority and power he gives orders to evil spirits and they come out!" {37} And the news about him spread throughout the surrounding area."

(John 1:45-46 NIV) "Philip found Nathanael and told him, "We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote--Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph." {46} "Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?" Nathanael asked. "Come and see," said Philip."

(John 19:19 NIV)  "Pilate had a notice prepared and fastened to the cross. It read: JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS."

Jesus was born in Bethlehem, but grew up in a small town called Nazareth. Many times, our Lord was referred to as “Jesus of Nazareth”. The demons called Him this, as well as those who came to arrest Him at Gethsemane. Pilate identified Jesus with Nazareth at His crucifixion, by hanging a sign on the cross. Nazareth did not have a good reputation. When told that Jesus was from Nazareth, Nathanael, a future disciple, asked sarcastically if anything good could come out of that town. The people of Nazareth even tried to kill Jesus when He returned home and preached a message they didn’t like. What this means is that Jesus began His life and ministry as “despised and rejected”. Isaiah’s prophetic words about Christ were fulfilled, even before the cross. This is what makes it so ironic that the most famous man ever to live was none other than Jesus of Nazareth. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Dispensing With Disgrace

November 8

(Luke 1:23-25 NIV) ““When his time of service was completed, he returned home. {24} After this his wife Elizabeth became pregnant and for five months remained in seclusion. {25} "The Lord has done this for me," she said. "In these days he has shown his favor and taken away my disgrace among the people.””

(Genesis 30:22-23 NIV) ““Then God remembered Rachel; he listened to her and opened her womb. {23} She became pregnant and gave birth to a son and said, "God has taken away my disgrace.””

(Ephesians 2:4-9 NIV) “But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, {5} made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions--it is by grace you have been saved. {6} And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, {7} in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. {8} For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-- {9} not by works, so that no one can boast.”

When the muted Zechariah finished serving at the temple, he went home, and the angel’s words came to be -- Elizabeth became pregnant. She hid her pregnancy for five months, probably because no one would have believed her until it became obvious. Her words portray a woman who was grateful for God’s grace. She knows God has done her a favor, and gives Him glory for the life growing inside her. There is no complaint about the timing -- only praise for a prayer answered. She echoes the words of an ancient relative, Rachel, and declares that by God’s grace, her disgrace has been taken away. God still dispenses with disgrace today. Jesus will deal with whatever has disgraced us. He can even redeem it for God’s glory. The Lord will dispense with our disgrace and replace it with joy. It is by grace you have been saved. Trust in Christ to dispense with your disgrace. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

The Proper Time

November 7

(Luke 1:20-22 NIV) "And now you will be silent and not able to speak until the day this happens, because you did not believe my words, which will come true at their proper time." {21} Meanwhile, the people were waiting for Zechariah and wondering why he stayed so long in the temple. {22} When he came out, he could not speak to them. They realized he had seen a vision in the temple, for he kept making signs to them but remained unable to speak."

(Galatians 6:9 NIV) "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."

(Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV) "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven:"

(Psalms 31:15 NIV) "My times are in your hands; deliver me from my enemies and from those who pursue me."

The angel spoke, and Zechariah was silenced. He would be unable to speak again until the proper time. That proper time had already been determined by the Lord. Not until Gabriel’s God given words came to pass would Zechariah regain his voice. There was nothing he could do but wait for the proper time. God has a proper time for everything. Part of our rebellion against God comes in not waiting for that proper time. Often, we take action before the proper time. We run ahead of God like we know the way, but the road ends, and we crash. We grow weary and cease action before the proper time. We give up and miss the blessing that would have come in its proper time. Too often, we forget that our times are in His hands. We live as if we owned the future. Seek out God’s schedule. Accept His “interruptions”. His timing is always proper. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Muted By Lack of Faith

November 6

(Luke 1:18-20 NIV) ““Zechariah asked the angel, "How can I be sure of this? I am an old man and my wife is well along in years." {19} The angel answered, "I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to tell you this good news. {20} And now you will be silent and not able to speak until the day this happens, because you did not believe my words, which will come true at their proper time.””

(Mark 16:11-14 NIV) “When they heard that Jesus was alive and that she had seen him, they did not believe it. {12} Afterward Jesus appeared in a different form to two of them while they were walking in the country. {13} These returned and reported it to the rest; but they did not believe them either. {14} Later Jesus appeared to the Eleven as they were eating; he rebuked them for their lack of faith and their stubborn refusal to believe those who had seen him after he had risen.”

(Matthew 21:32 NIV) “For John came to you to show you the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes did. And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him.”

After Zechariah recovered from his initial fear, the angel Gabriel shared some incredible news. He would become a father, and Elizabeth, in her old age, was going to be a mother. Zechariah was flabbergasted, and doubted that this could be true. Gabriel told him that this prophecy came directly from the mouth of God and that since he did not believe God’s word, he would be unable to speak until after the baby was born. We can protest that we would have had the same reaction, but the truth is this: Zechariah was muted by a lack of faith. Many today have been also muted by a lack of faith -- not by an angel, but by a fear of being ostracized for speaking the truth in love. We have hit the mute button on our witness because we doubt God’s word. We doubt His command to share the gospel, and we doubt His miraculous ability to change the hearts of lost people. Un-mute your life today! -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day

Prepared For The Lord

November 5

(Luke 1:16-17 NIV) "Many of the people of Israel will he bring back to the Lord their God. {17} And he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous--to make ready a people prepared for the Lord."

(Matthew 11:12-15 NIV) "From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been forcefully advancing, and forceful men lay hold of it. {13} For all the Prophets and the Law prophesied until John. {14} And if you are willing to accept it, he is the Elijah who was to come. {15} He who has ears, let him hear."

The angel told Zechariah that the son born to him and Elizabeth would have a role in bringing people back to God. John would grow up to be a prophet. He would go before the Lord preaching repentance as Elijah had done in ages past. His preaching would cause people to turn around -- to turn away from sin and turn toward the Lord. Instead of mocking righteousness, the disobedient would begin to see the wisdom in following God’s way. Their hearts would turn and become open to something new: a new direction, a new answer, a new covenant. John would have the privilege of preparing people for the coming Messiah, Christ the Lord. This is our calling today, believers. We were born again to proclaim with our lives the value of repentance and righteousness. In the time we have left here, we are to “make ready a people prepared for the Lord”, starting with ourselves. Are you ready? -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day