TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
He has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David (as he said through his holy prophets of long ago), salvation from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us—to show mercy to our ancestors and to remember his holy covenant. Luke 1:69-72
Read: Luke 1:67-79
Listen: Luke 1
TODAY’S MESSAGE
The birth of John the Baptist brings to a close an incredible year for his father, Zechariah. The angel Gabriel unexpectedly visits Zechariah while he serves as a priest at the temple in Jerusalem. Gabriel delivers news that although advanced in years, Zechariah and his wife Elizabeth will finally have a child. Their son will be John the Baptist, who will prepare the way for the coming of Jesus. Stunned into disbelief, Gabriel tells Zechariah he will not speak again until his son is born. When John is born, and Zechariah finally does speak, he sings! He sings a song of hope of God’s faithfulness to his Word and promises.
The hope of which Zechariah sings is the hope we need today. World events, fragmented families and chronic health struggles can cause us to lose hope. We need the reminder that God still reigns, his promises are sure, and his Word can be trusted. When we feel overcome with fear and despair, Zechariah’s song speaks to our hope in Jesus, the One John came to proclaim.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Read the last part of Zechariah’s Song in Luke 1:76-79. These words speak of God’s faithfulness in providing salvation and the promise to lead us in peace. Pray about an area in your life where you need peace this Christmas season, “Father, I need peace in ________________________. May you be pleased to bring peace in this situation and my heart. Please help me trust in your goodness and faithfulness. Amen.”
2023 SPIRITUAL PRACTICES
Join us all of 2023 developing a different spiritual practice each month. SPIRITUAL PRACTICES are intentional regular activities to deepen our relationship with God and mold us to be more like Jesus.
December is CELEBRATION. Keep track of our spiritual practices at beyondtheweekend.org/spiritualpractices.
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
