Righteous and Barren | Dec. 3rd

 “There was a priest named Zachariah. And he had a wife...and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking blamelessly in all the commandments and statutes of the Lord. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and both were advanced in years.”

   Luke 1:5, 6-7

  Beloved, our life may be blameless, but that does not mean it will be without trials. Sometimes Christianity is presented as a means to better your life. If you want to be happy or successful, serve God. If you want a good marriage and children who are obedient, serve God. If you want your best life now, think positively and include God in your life. These desires are not wrong, but God is not a means to an end. The chief end of our life is to live for the glory of God. Regardless of the experiences of life.

  Zachariah and Elizabeth were righteous and faithful, yet they faced the pain of unfulfilled longing. Their steadfastness teaches us that we live righteously, not for personal gain, but because we love God and He alone is worthy. Christ Himself is our reward, offering us true peace, joy, and contentment.

  Let us follow the example of faithful obedience left to us by Zachariah and Elizabeth. The grace of God proved sufficient for them, and that same grace will enable us to live for the glory of God.

In Christ Alone.

Pastor Wight

Be Certain | Dec. 2nd

  “It seemed good to me also, having followed all things closely for some time past, to write an orderly account for you...that you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught.”

  Luke 1:3,4

  Beloved, our salvation comes solely by the grace of God through faith in Christ. The historical accounts about Jesus in the Gospel of Luke provide a foundation for this faith.

  The Bible, inspired and preserved by the Holy Spirit, contains a variety of literary forms. Luke provides a historically detailed account of Jesus for Theophilus, who had already learned about Christ’s life and works. Luke’s intention was to give him assurance and certainty.

  Let us be thinking Christians who read and study the word of God daily, knowing it is the inspired testimony of Christ. Luke, under the Holy Spirit's inspiration, wrote an orderly account to avoid confusion about Jesus' actions and teachings, offering clarity and a sure testimony that Jesus is the God-Man who came to us and will come again. Let us be certain of the things we have been taught.

In Christ Alone.

Pastor Wight

Help for the Day | Dec. 1st

  “Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears us up; God is our salvation.”

   Psalm 68:19

  Beloved, we all feel weighed down by cares and responsibilities—deadlines at work and meals at home. These demands can weary even the strongest among us. Yet, scripture reminds us that we are not meant to carry this load alone.

  There are also the unplanned emergencies of life, the unwanted flu, and the conflicts that arise with others. Not to mention the reality of the spiritual fight that we are in day to day. Where should our strength come from? Should we have hope for tomorrow?

  The Psalmist reminds us that God is our help in times of need. He has promised to keep us from the evil one, to supply our physical needs, to be the counselor of our heart, and the good Shepherd who restores our weary souls for His name's sake.

  Remember, the Lord daily sustains you and carries you. Rest in Him, knowing He is your salvation. Talk with the Father today about your concerns. Bring your burden to Him in light of the promises from Scripture. This will lift your weary heart.

In Christ Alone.

Pastor Wight