The Bible

Hope in Scripture is based in God’s character rather than our circumstances More often than I’d like to admit, I discover that I’ve put my hope in something can’t sustain it.  A few years ago, I was looking for a new job, and, during my search, a job that seemed tailor-made for me popped to the top of my LinkedIn search. I was excited and quickly pulled together a customized cover letter and resume that highlighted my most pertinent experience and applied. In a couple of week

Today, take a few moments to ponder the truths you’ve encountered or phrases you’ve meditated on throughout this Advent reading plan. Journal your prayerful response, reflecting on what God has revealed to you through his Word during this Advent season.   Before the world began, God was already unfolding his plan of salvation.  To recognize the power of light, we have to first acknowledge the reality of darkness.  To experience true freedom, we must first acknowledge we’re en

Read Revelation 21:1-4  and 22:1-5 .  Ponder Revelation 21:1-4 and 22:1-5 Jesus didn’t just come to save us for the here and now. He came to save us for eternity and today’s readings help us to look forward to what eternity will be like.  As you read today’s verses, how do they help you to better understand the idea of being found and what it means for us in eternity?  Because of what Jesus has done, we have an eternal home with God. We are no longer aimlessly wandering throu

Read Galatians 4:4-7 .   Ponder Galatians 4:4-7 One of the primary analogies of salvation in Scripture is the idea of lost and found. How do these verses help you better understand that analogy?  The lost son of Luke 15 wanted to come back to his father as a slave, but he was restored as a son. How is that truth echoed in today’s passage?  Jesus didn’t just come into the world to tell us that we were hopeless sinners. He came so that we could live as children of the One True

Read Luke 2:1-38 .  Ponder Luke 2:1-38 What do you think this passage about Jesus’ birth has to do with the idea of being lost and found?  In Luke 2, God’s rescue plan took on flesh and entered into the story of the world. How is this also an example of God entering into your story of salvation?  Look at the angels message to the shepherds in Luke 2:10-12. How is Jesus’ birth good news to the whole world? Why is it good news to you?  Consider Simeon’s response to seeing Jesus