God Knows Us “O Lord, you knew me before I was born! Nothing I do escapes your notice (Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18). Here am I, Lord. I am listening for your voice (1 Samuel 3:1-20). Jesus told his disciples, “You will see greater things than these” (John 1:43-51). Our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit, so we should shun sin (1 Cor.6:12-20).” – Thomas Oden in Ancient Christian Devotional
The Light of the World God is the creator of all things and the author of light (Genesis 1:1-5). He sent John the Baptizer to prepare the way for the Light (Mark 1:4-11). We praise God, who has given us the Holy Spirit (Acts 19:1-7). May the Lord give strength to His people! May the Lord bless his people with peace (Psalm 29). – Thomas Oden in Ancient Christian Devotional
Christ is Born!
Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice (Psalm 96), for Jesus Christ redeems us from all of our sins (Titus 2:11-14). The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light (Isaiah 9:2-7). Jesus Christ is born (Luke 2:1-20)!
– Thomas Oden, Ancient Christian Devotional
Nothing is Impossible for God
“The Lord was with David (2 Samuel 7:1-11,16); through his lineage and the Virgin Mary, the Son of God was born. Nothing is impossible for God (Luke 1:26-38). Glory to his name (Romans 16:25-27), the Rock of our salvation (Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26).”
– Thomas Oden, Ancient Christian Devotional
“John prepared the way for Jesus Christ (John 1:6-8, 19-28). God has done great things for us (Psalm 126); he brings good tidings to the afflicted and loves justice (Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11). Rejoice always, pray constantly, hold fast to that which is good (1 Thessalonians 5:16-24).” – Thomas Oden, Ancient Christian Devotional
God’s promise of redemption is rooted in his steadfast love and faithfulness (Psalm 85:1-3, 8-13). We quickly fade like flowers, but the eternal Word of God will save and renew his people (Isaiah 40:1-11). Prepare for his coming through repentance and expectation (Mark 1:1-8), for one day Christ will come again to renew creation and establish his righteous rule (2 Peter 3:8-15a).
“Our awe-inspiring heavenly Father knows our sins (Isaiah 64:1-9). Restore us, O Lord God, that we may be saved (Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19). God is faithful (1 Corinthians 1:3-9). We must keep an ever-present watch, for Jesus is coming again (Mark 13:24-37).”
