And preached, saying There comes one mightier than I after me the latched of who’s shoes I am not worthy to stoop down and unloose. Mark 1:7….Sometimes when we try to be the best, we’re often dismayed to find there is always someone smarter more successful than we are, so we become discouraged , disappointed that we are second place.–second best. John the Baptist understood second place, following Jesus, who was his superior in every way. His life’s purpose was to prepare the way for Jesus. Yet he never viewed his role as second best. Rather, he understood the honor of an unworthy servant being chosen for such a task.What fulfillment and freedom he found in humility. We too can find fulfillment by faithfully following Jesus and being content in our God-given tasks, even though they may not seem as important as others tasks.We need to humbly submit to Jesus and experience His freedom and fulfillment, and be happy in what we do.

And when they were come into the house, they saw a young child with Mary his mother, and fell down and worshiped him; and when they had opened their treasures, they presented them gifts; gold and frankincense, and myrrh. Matthew 2:11….There was nothing convenient about the wise men’s worship. they traveled many miles, made countless inquiries , and followed His star faithfully because the King was worthy of their devotion. throughly prepared with gift in hand, they were surprised only by the glory of His presence; and they fell in adoration before Him. Lets all worship our Lord and Savior this Christmas. And if your church has a worship service, make it convenient to attend and worship Him.

 MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL AND MAY GOD BLESS.

And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou who art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among woman. Luke 1:28. Lots of books and songs have been written about Mary the mother of Jesus. Many stories have been told, and many girls have been named after her. Schools and hospitals have been named in her honor. She’s been praised and worshiped, and talked about through the ages. But one of the best gifts she left to the world is her humility in accepting Gods grace. How does this relate to us today? The story of Jesus birth is a story of Gods grace to all of us.We are all recipients of Gods grace.The true gift is the one that is pleasing to God and comes from Him because of Gods grace. With Jesus as the greatest gift, then we must accept that Jesus’ coming is the greatest example of Gods grace. Mary knew firsthand Gods grace.

Blessed is the man that endureth temptation; for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord has promised to them who love him..James 1:12….James was encouraging Christians, who were tempted to give in, to hang in there, He reminded them that they too would have a reward coming if they would endure the temptation and persecution of the present age. As we deal with the pressures and temptations , of life today we need to remember that we have a reward awaiting us that is better than any temporary pleasure this world has to offer. The greatest gift of all time the birth of Jesus, and the gift of eternal salvation.

It has always given me great pleasure seeing our children enjoying the gifts that was chosen just for them. Our heavenly Father loves to give his children gifts! One of his best gifts is wisdom. In James 3:17 God’s wisdom is distinguished from the world’s knowledge The wisdom we ask for is “pure, then peaceable, gentle, easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits”. This gift helps us make difficult choices as we go through life’s challenges. James also warns us not to doubt Gods desire to give us wisdom generously. Whatever trials we face today whenever we need discernment to make healthy decisions, God invites us to ask. The request seems simple, but we just have to do it He will provide guidance through His Word.

If any of you like wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given to him. James 1:5

We all love surprises! It’s great to receive gifts on our birthdays or at Christmas, but that usually expected. I have always experienced a greater joy when someone gives me a gift unexpected or maybe recognizes me in a special way on a usual day. What makes these gifts special is because their not based on the occasion or anything I’ve done. Such a gift is simply a gesture of love and appreciation. I could be as simple as a lunch invitation. God did  something for us we didn’t deserve as a demonstration of His love. He showed His love by giving the greatest gift of all time His Son Jesus Christ, to die for our sins. Sin isn’t always something wicked or grossly immoral; sin is our self-centered life that fall short of Gods righteousness. In our own power we are helpless to do anything about out sin nature. We deserve separation from our Holy God, but He loves us anyway.

But God commandeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8