December 27, 2023: You’ve Been Invited

You’ve Been Invited

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“Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the King, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, saying, 'Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.'”

Matthew 2:1-2

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For the first time ever I see in these verses what I have never seen before. I have always assumed that the gospel was first available to me (Biblically speaking) in the book of Acts. First the Jew and then me. Jesus said it himself.

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”But He answered and said, “I was not sent except to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”“

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭15‬:‭24‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

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It’s not so black and white however. We see on several occasions throughout the Bible where those of non-Jewish (gentile) decent are given access to God, where only Jews were welcomed before.

Rahab and Ruth both gentile women who not only were given access but were written  into the lineage of Christ.

And here in our text today these wise men were invited into the presence of God incarnate. It wasn’t an accident or happenstance. It was God’s invitation to welcome the first of many gentiles to come close.

I want you to know that His invitation is for you too. Christmas is His invitation into relationship with Him. An invitation to come into His presence to come close.

After all, “God with us” implies His nearness. Immanuel- God dwells among us. He is no longer separated from us.

Will you, like the wise men respond to His invitation?

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”Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.“

‭‭Revelation‬ ‭3‬:‭20‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

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Respond to His invitation today. Open the door, welcome Him in, He is waiting to name all things new in you.

Prayer: What an amazing God You are! Thank you for inviting me into close relationship with You. I don't have to just be your acquaintance or a friend from afar. I can be nearer to You than any other friendship or relationship I've ever experienced. What an amazing gift of grace and mercy. Thank you for the gift of Christmas, thank you for the gift of You. In the most beautiful name I know- the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.

Take some time to recuperate from the Christmas Season.

I received a diffuser for Christmas. It's one I've been wanting for years but could never bring myself to purchase. It's so pretty. If you have a diffuser, I highly recommend making a blend that you enjoy. For me my current go to blend is: Northern Lights Black Spruce, Pine, Vanilla, and Peppermint. Grab a book you've been meaning to read. Kick those feet up and relax. Reset and get ready for the New Year.