BBD 12.24.06 Christmas Profiles in Courage
Posted by: wrather <wrather@...>
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The Burning Bush Devotional
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12.24.06
Christmas Profiles in Courage
And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar
Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took
place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered,
everyone to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city
of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem,
because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with
Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they
were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought
forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him
in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. - Luke 2:1-7.
During this holy and sacred season of Christmas, it has been noted that many
are depressed, lonely and discouraged - perhaps more so than at any other
time of the year. It can be very difficult as memories of the past come to
mind which conflict with the realities of the present. It can be very
difficult for some to continue living life. We all could use some courage
and inspiration during this time when so much is not right with the world
and so many face difficult times.
President John F. Kennedy wrote a book called "Profiles in Courage" which
described the political courage and integrity of eight United States
senators that occurred in history. We still need such courage and integrity.
With the Christmas story we are given several profiles of courage and
integrity. In wise men, called Magi, in the Bible we see men of great
courage. They followed a star not seen by others for many months from their
home country across dangerous lands to worship the newborn King of Kings.
The Magi were not only wise, they were also brave and determined to be
obedient to what they believed God had called them to do.
Mary although very young gives us a tremendous example of courage and
obedience to God. She was engaged and in all respects except for living with
Joseph was considered his wife. For her to have a child out of wedlock would
make her an adulteress. The penalty for adultery could be execution by
stoning. She knew that but was obedient to her Lord.
Joseph too demonstrates courage. He had already decided to put away Mary
privately so as to avoid additional unpleasantries (as in stoning) for her.
After he had the dream from God, he determined to proceed with his marriage
even though the child was not his and even though everyone would know that
it was not his child. It took courage and a determination to be obedient to
God for Joseph to do what he did.
We also have the example of the courage of our Lord and Savior. Jesus came
down from the glories of Heaven to be born into the family of a poor
carpenter to walk upon this earth for some thirty years as a human being. He
came for the purpose of suffering and dying as the perfect sacrifice in an
unspeakable death on the cross. Jesus knew this and yet He still came
because "God so loved the world.."
Yes, Heaven came down some 2,000 years ago to give us a Savior. Heaven came
down and we have the Christmas story because of incredible courage and
obedience of all those involved. Let their courage, let their obedience
encourage you and give you strength to move forward to see God's ultimate
will and purpose to be fulfilled in your own life.
May you have a most blessed and wonderful Christmas!!
Merry Christmas!!
Copyright © 2006. Ed Wrather. Permission is given for use of the devotionals
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