What Child is This? by Susan Barclay

There are a lot of songs I love at Christmas, but What Child is This? is one that I've always loved. Written in 1865 by William Chatterson Dix, its haunting melody, pacing, and lyrics draw me in every time.

"What child is this?" the writer asks. He then goes on to answer that this babe is the "King of kings," "Christ the King," and the "son of Mary."

Much has been made of this child from the time of His birth. Joseph, his earthly father, considered breaking his betrothal to Mary, thinking she'd been unfaithful. Angels spurred shepherds to visit Him at the manger site. The magi were inspired to follow a star and seek Him out. Herod ordered the execution of all the boys two years old and younger in vicinity of Bethlehem because he feared who He would become. Jesus astounded the teachers in the synagogue with His wisdom when He was only twelve, then there were the years of His ministry after His baptism around the age of thirty. And what discussion of Christ can avoid mentioning his trial, crucifixion and resurrection?

In the centuries since the New Testament account of His life, Jesus has been loved, hated, revered, feared, misunderstood. His name has been misused and applied to ungodly causes as well as been the reason for many good ones. But the most important question of all is this: Who is Jesus to you?

You see, the answer to this question has eternal consequences. Jesus said, 

I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me (John 14: 6), and

Anyone who isn’t with me opposes me, and anyone who isn’t working with me is actually working against me (Matthew 12:30)

These are bold words. Jesus doesn't allow for any wriggle room. What you decide about Him matters. Oh, I know there are those who say that Jesus was just a man who has gone the way of all men, or He was a good teacher, nothing more; I have prodigals of my own and my heart cries out for them (and for you). We have a fierce enemy who knows how to mislead and deceive and to blind eyes to the Truth. If you are reading this as a doubter, I encourage you to investigate the claims of the Bible wholeheartedly and without prejudgment. Don't just seek out sources that confirm the belief you already hold; really do your homework. Jesus can stand the scrutiny. Follow the examples of Lee Strobel, journalist and former atheist, the late Nabeel Quereshi, a former devout Muslim, and others like them, and commit to the research. God knows if you really want to know and follow Truth and He is faithful to do His part if you will do yours.

The book of Isaiah and the New Testament identify at least 31 reasons why Jesus left His throne in glory and came to earth to dwell among men. He is the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. Know Jesus, know peace. No Jesus, no peace. Know Him and live.

Who is Jesus to you? What child is this? These questions are too important to go unanswered. No answer is an answer, after all. God is reaching out. If you are stirred, I plead with you not to harden your heart. Every single one of us is going to die; no one is guaranteed tomorrow. Do not wait. God is the initiator and perfecter of faith. Seek Him and follow His life-giving ways. Those who are wise still search for Him. Today is the day of salvation. 

 

Instrumental version

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You can find out more about Susan Barclay's writing at www.susan-barclay.blogspot.com

The Centurion by Carol Harrison

Ten years ago our church decided to do a 'Living Museum' for an Easter celebration. Tour guides led groups of people to the various exhibits. At the push of a button a character from the Easter story appeared to come to life and offer a monologue telling the Easter story from their perspective. I wrote several of them including the one for the centurion which I will share with you on this blog post.

(The centurion speaks in a matter of fact voice - reciting facts.)

I am a centurion, an officer of the Roman Army in charge of one hundred men. My duty included supervising the punishment of common criminals with our Roman execution method called crucifixion.We nailed these criminals on rough wooden beams, then dropped these crosses with a thud into the ground. I believed my superiors when they said, "Let this serve as warnings to others who choose to disobey our laws."

I had been in charge of many crucifixions but this one was different. . .

( he pauses, deep in thought for a moment)

We hung three men today but the one in the middle. . . this Jesus. . . he was so beaten down by the time he was carrying his cross out to Golgotha, that place that appeared to be shaped like a skull, he fell under its weight. We grabbed a strong young man named Simon from the jeering crowds to finish carrying it for him. He obliged under duress.

We tacked the charge of thief on the crosses on either side. These common criminals had their charges printed for all to read. The charge we tacked above the head of this Jesus - the one in the middle - read King of the Jews. . . .

Was this true? Why would the Jews, the religious leaders want us to crucify one of their own, a leader too, a king?

Why was he here? I heard amazing rumors of him healing the sick and even casting out demons, but a King?

Were we making a mistake? I kept my thoughts to myself for I would never question my orders. But I wondered.

Jesus remained mostly silent throughout his ordeal on that cross. He uttered a few things but not the angry outbursts or the cursing I usually hear from the scoundrels we hang. He cried out for His Father to forgive all of us and said we didn't know what we were doing. How could he say that? How could he choose to forgive us? I hadn't done anything wrong by following my orders had I?

(The centurion's voice takes on a more wavering quality)

Only three hours after we nailed Jesus to the cross the sky went as black as night even though it was the middle of the day. The earth shook beneath my feet. Rocks split open. For three hours these strange, frightening occurrences continued and then. . .

This Jesus said the strangest thing. "It is finished. Father I give you my spirit." and with those words he breathed his last breath. Just like that it was over. He died. We didn't even have to break his legs to hurry his death. No one dies that quickly on the cross. I didn't believe he could either so I plunged my spear into his side to check. Blood and water poured out. There could be no doubt. This Jesus was dead!

I did my job today. I made sure the three men sentenced to die were hung up on crosses. While I waited for them to die, I watched. I listened. I saw this Jesus die like I have seen no others die. I can only conclude that surely this was the Son of God!

Pilate summoned me for a report on the death of Jesus. I must obey.

( He reports to Pilate in the authoritative voice of a commander of men)

All who are listening, all who are skeptical, believe my report for I am a centurion, an officer of the Roman army in charge of the crucifixion of Jesus. I was there watching and listening to every word he uttered.I jabbed my spear into his body to make sure of his death. Believe my account of the strange occurrences I witnessed. This Jesus died today at the ninth hour. According to his final words He chose to give up his spirit.

(voice fades from authoritative to more reverent and quieter at the end.)

Jesus - surely He was the Son of God.

To hear this monologue acted out gave me a new appreciation for the depth of awe the centurion must have felt as he said those words aloud - surely He was the Son of God. We are not told of his reactions to the empty tomb three days later but I wonder if he chose to follow the resurrected Jesus who offered his life as a sacrifice for all. The price has been paid. The gift of salvation is waiting for all who choose to accept it.

May we praise the One who loves us so much he stretched out his arms and died.

Carol Harrison, B.Ed. from Saskatoon, has published one book, Amee’s Story, and has short stories in over a dozen anthologies. She has a passion for sharing stories from real-life experiences and God’s Word to help others find a glimmer of hope and a glimpse of joy.

Pardon My Exclamation Marks! by Susan Barclay

"If anyone belongs to Christ, then he is made new. The old things have gone; everything is made new!" (2 Corinthians 5:17, ICB)

Hope springs eternal

It's a fact that salvation is the greatest miracle of all. Knowing how sinful, weak and prone to temptation we are, it's amazing that anyone gets saved. The work of the Holy Spirit is so incredible that "...there is joy in the presence of the angels of God when one sinner repents” and comes to Jesus (Luke 15:10, TLB). 

Angels rejoice! That is powerful!

Not only does He give us the gift of salvation freely (but at great cost to Him), but He also grants newness of life! No longer do we need to be slaves to sin; instead we have a new master in  righteousness (Romans 6:17-22). Pulled from the darkness, we bask in glorious light. 

Amazing grace!

The Christian faith is unlike any other. Jesus, our perfect sacrifice,  gave up His life for us, defeated our greatest foe, and resurrected from the dead to sit at the right hand of God. 

What hope we have in Him! 

Forgiven and free, we have the hope of eternal life, the hope of heaven, the hope of purposeful work, the hope of peace. Being in relationship with Him, we know that He has good plans for us that He is bringing to fruition (Jeremiah 29:11); that He sees, hears and cares for us; that we have a perfect Father who knows us personally and meets us in intimate, meaningful ways. 

These hopes buoy me up!

The God who has good plans for me; sees, hears and cares; and knows me personally, is not slow, but patient (2 Peter 3:9). His timing is perfect and His ways are higher. As I walk with God faithfully, align my prayers with His will and trust Him for the outcomes, my hope is properly placed in Him. 

"Thy will be done" is the prayer that never fails. 

He will do it!
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Susan maintains a website and currently blogs infrequently at www.susan-barclay.blogspot.com

The Hope and Experience of Easter by Susan Barclay

This month we’re asked to answer the question “What do Lent and the death and resurrection of Christ mean to you?”

I come from a tradition that doesn’t observe Lent, though I have personally observed it a few times. More important to me is the remembrance of Christ’s death and resurrection, which give me hope for a future spent with Him.

When you have a prodigal child, as I do, it gives new perspective on your relationship with God. This season is certainly drawing me closer to Him, recognizing my dependence on Him and on His goodness. I have pressed more closely into prayer, into Scripture reading, into praise. That last – praise – may surprise you since my circumstances (the spiritual condition of one who is precious to me) are not favourable. But we are told to give thanks in all things and I thank God for who He is.

What is the character of God? He is love, mercy, forgiveness, grace. He is holy. He judges all things righteously and perfectly. He made the earth and everything in it. Everything that breathes He loves and cares for – especially people, who are made in His image. He loves my child more deeply and well than I ever could. He is a keeper of promises. He is provider, healer, and more, so I can trust Him as He works in the life of my child, that He pursues lost sheep, redeems and restores.

The story of the prodigal, an exaggeration as parables are, provides a marvelous example of roles we all play, or may play. As one-time prodigals ourselves we can identify with the son who has wandered away and turned his back on the right path. As parents we can identify with the father who lovingly gives the child what he wants and lets life be the difficult teacher. The father prays, waits and watches. I love this song by Rich Mullins on the theme:

Growing Young

As I reflect on Easter and the work Christ did on the cross, I’m reminded that all have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory. That means I too have missed the mark. I was just as guilty as anyone and in need of a Saviour. Thank God, for providing the Way back to Him!

I am posting this later in the day than I planned on. Suddenly it was April 4^th and I didn’t have my piece completed. Perhaps that’s just as well, for it allows me to end with this familiar song sung by Celtic Woman, a rendition I only heard tonight. Amazing grace, how sweet the sound. How very sweet indeed.

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Please visit Susan at www.susan-barclay.blogspot.ca

Did You Fact Check That? By T. L. Wiens

How much time does a writer spend researching while writing a manuscript? How many times do they get a manuscript edited before publishing? One study I looked at said the average fiction manuscript gets read through about thirty-five times before it gets published. Non-fiction averaged about fifteen reads. A lot of time and effort go into getting a good finished product.

Did you know that every book in the New Testament with the exception of Philemon warns about falsehoods coming into the lives of believers?

Matthew 7:15

Mark 12:24-27

Luke 6:26

John 8:41-44

Acts 20:28-30

Romans 16:17-18

1 Corinthians 3:3-9

2 Corinthians 11: 12-13

Galatians 2:3-4

Ephesians 4:14

Philippians 3:2

Colossians 2:8

1 Thessalonians 3:5

2 Thessalonians 2:11-12

1 Timothy 4:1-3

2 Timothy 4:3-4

Titus 1:9-11

Philemon

Hebrews 13:9

James 5:19-20

1 Peter 5:8

2 Peter 2:1

1 John 4:1

2 John 1:9-11

3 John 1:9-10

Jude 1:4

Revelations 2

This is far from a comprehensive list and yet it’s not a subject I’ve heard much preaching on in comparison to the emphasis God put on it. In fact, I’ve heard more sermons on passages where there is only one point of reference in scripture on the matter.

We need to be diligent in our faith, making sure our theology is on track. That means checking our sources. Is the translation of the Bible you use accurate? Is your minister preaching truth? What does your denomination believe?

You put the work into a manuscript to get a good end result. Is not your eternal destiny worth the same amount of effort?

Gift(s) of Everlasting Life by Sharon Espeseth

Everlasting and Eternal Gifts

This Christmas I'd like spiritual gifts for myself, my loved ones, and anyone really. . . Using the Bible as our catalogue, we will find an abundance of things free for the asking--God's love, forgiveness, salvation and eternal life. We, created by God, can admit we need help.







Emmanuel: God with Us

God loved us so much He sent His Son to be our Emmanuel,  God living with us. People thought God's Son would be a political king or a man of means. Instead He came as a baby, born of a young virgin, engaged to Joseph, a descendant of David. The angel Gabriel came to Mary and explained the role God wanted her to take in His plan. Mary couldn't know what this meant in the future, but she trusted God and became the vessel to bring God's son to us. Joseph accepted his call to be Jesus' earthly father.


Jesus Begins His Ministry

We don't read much of Jesus' life until the Wedding at Cana, where Mary asked her son to turn water into wine. The hosts had run out of wine. Jesus performed His first miracle--turning water into wine, and He did it for his mother and as a kindness to the wedding party.

Fully human and fully divine, Jesus needed to spend time with His Heavenly Father. While Jesus,  was with us, He taught us how to relate to God and how to relate to our fellow human beings.

In Mark 12:30, we read the New Commandments Jesus gave. First, Jesus says, "Love the Lord, your God, with all your heart and with all your mind and with all your strength." Secondly, "Love your neighbour as yourself." Not only did Jesus give us these new commandments, but he also practiced them in daily life.

God's Son was tempted and tested, like we are, but even more so. The Pharisees and Sadducees watched his every move and asked questions to "trick" him into saying he was the Messiah, the Son of God. Admitting his divinity would be considered blasphemous and then they would have reason to kill him.

In the meantime, Jesus walked among ordinary people like us and talked to people of any race, creed, or moral standing. He visited and ate with tax collectors, prostitutes,  lawyers, and common people in all walks of life.

Loving Us As We Are

One example of His acceptance is the story of Jesus asking the Samaritan woman for a drink of water. Jesus stepped over the "rule" that Jews didn't talk to Samaritans. The woman expressed her surprise

"If you knew the gift of God."

at Him, a Jew, asking her, a Samaritan for a drink. (Story in John 4:7-42.)

Jesus replied, "If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water. Whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed the water I give will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life."

Jesus told this common  woman that He was the Messiah. She believed and went to tell the people of her town what had happened. By her testimony, they also believed. Jesus didn't talk to the leaders of the town, he spoke to a woman he knew had had five husbands and she wasn't married to the man she presently lived with.

The Gift of Eternal Life

When it was God's time, Jesus obedientl took our sins upon Himself and made His way down the streets of Jerusalem. With the help of Simon, a passer-by, Jesus carried the burden of the heavy cross, but Jesus alone carried the sins of the world.

In the Garden of Gethsemane the night before His crucifixion, Jesus agonized and prayed to His Father, "If it is possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not my will but Thy will be done." (Luke 22:42)

God loved us so much that He gave us His Son. Jesus loved God and loved us so much that He surrendered to God's will. Through Jesus' death and resurrection, we have the gift of eternal life.

The Fruits of the Holy Spirit

Before ascending to heaven, Jesus promised He would send the Holy Spirit as our Comforter. The
Holy Spirit, as part of the Godhead Three, also comes with a basket full of gifts to make our lives more abundant. By living close to God and listening to the Holy Spirit, we will receive His fruits as listed by Paul in Galatians 5:22--love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. ,

The Gift of Availability

In Revelations 3:20, Jesus reminds us, "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with this person, and they with me."

God Answers Prayers

Jesus said, "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened." (Matt. 7:7-8)

The Gift of the Eucharist

At the Last Supper, Jesus shared a meal with his disciples. . . "He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, 'This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.' In the same way, after the supper he took the cup saying, 'This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.'"

The Eucharist is spiritual food. By eating it we are giving thanks, remembering Christ, and asking for help in serving God.

The Gift of God's Word

God has entrusted prophets, teachers and writers to record the books and stories that make up the Bible which is God's Word. Paul in his second letter to Timothy says of God's word, "Every part of Scripture is God-breathed and useful one way or another--showing us truth, exposing our rebellion, correcting our mistakes, training us to live God's way. Through the Word we are put together and shaped up for the tasks God has for us." (2 Timothy 3:16 The Message)

One More Gift

I stand corrected by God's Word, for there is one more important gift that we may humbly receive. That is grace, God's grace. After receiving all these wonderful gifts, we don't need to think we are something special.

Paul says, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God--not of works, so that no one can boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9)

My Prayer for You at Christmas

Throughout the Christmas Season and through the New Year, may God grant you the Love, Peace

Merry Christmas to all and to all a goodnight!

and Joy that comes from Faith, Family and Friends. May God season you with large sprinkles of Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Gentleness and Self-control. Amen.