Isaiah 7:10-16 and Matthew 1:18-25
The scene is George and Mary Bailey’s Wedding day that was interrupted by a “run” on George’s Savings and Loan where panic motivated people to withdraw all their money immediately. Mary even gave up her honeymoon savings to save her husband’s business. Her trust in George was tested that day… much like Joseph’s trust in both God and his wife Mary, even though common sense and society’s rules told him otherwise.
Isaiah 11:1-10 and Matthew 3: 1-12
Uncle Billy “brags” about George telling off Mr. Potter and standing up for the little people against the giants trying to control them. We have hope that God’s Kingdom will come to earth the liberate us from life’s imperfections because that’s what God did by becoming human at the birth of Jesus Christ.
Based on the classic Christmas movie, “It’s a Wonderful Life”. This week we’ll start with a scene from George and his father, Peter Bailey. George’s dreams seem to far overshadow working for his dad’s old Savings and Loan. Then we’ll look at Isaiah 2:1-5 and Matthew 24:36-44.
Leviticus 7:11-15, 28-36
Leviticus??! That book is dry as toast. It’s the graveyard for persons who try to read the entire Bible by beginning with Genesis. Yet God gives these rules, rituals and instructions to teach valuable lessons. Over time, many became indifferent to the meanings and began to lose touch with God. Rediscovering the offering of thanksgiving revitalizes our perspective and brings a deeper joy to this holiday.
Romans 10:8-15
Today we celebrate “graduation” from the book study “A Disciples Path.” There will be opportunity for persons to give a testimony about what they have learned. Our text shows the importance of telling what we know or have experienced. In telling what we know, we become even stronger in what we know. This is a powerful benchmark in our spiritual growth.