Moving into 2008

Isaiah 52:6,10-12
6) My people, you will learn Who I am and Who is speaking because I am here...10) The Lord has shown all nations his mighty strength, now everyone will see the saving power of our God. 11) Leave the city of Babylon! Don't touch anything filthy. Wash yourselves. Be ready to carry back everything sacred that belongs to the Lord. 12) You won't need to run. No one is chasing you. The Lord God of Israel will lead and protect you from enemy attacks.

Babylon, at the time this was written, was probably the most progressive, beautiful city in the known world. It was the pinnacle of modernization--can you imagine what the Israelites must have thought when they saw the city for the first time! I like to imagine that, even though they were slaves, the city was beyond comparison and a wonderful place to live. But this passage commands the Israelites to leaves Babylon (would it really have to be a command if it were an awful place to live). I wonder where this year will take me?

You won't need to run. No one is chasing you. The first part of 2007 felt like an uphill battle and there were a lot of things that I had to fight both outward and inward. I understand that we are all human and are constantly warring within ourselves,but I love the fact that this verse reassures that no one is chasing, no need to run.

The Lord God of Israel will lead and protect you from enemy attacks. My only job is to trust and to follow.

Merry Christmas!

Not a long post. It is Christmas and there are people to see and places to be--presents waiting for me (sorry, just had to add the last line--it rhymes!) But in all seriousness just a reminder why we celebrate Christmas:

A Child Has Been Born!

Isaiah 9

6)A child has been born for us. We have been given a son who will be our ruler. His names will be Wonderful Advisor and Mighty God, Eternal Father and Prince of Peace. 7)His power will never end; peace will last forever. He will rule David's kingdom and make it grow strong. He will always rule with honesty and justice. The LORD All-Powerful will make certain that all of this is done.

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Luke 2

10) But the angel said, "Don't be afraid! I have good news for you, which will make everyone happy. 11) This very day in King David's hometown a Savior was born for you. He is Christ the Lord.

Merry Christmas!