Books authored by Dr. James Dyet. Purchase on JamesDyet.com

Saturday, December 5, 2009

What Shall We Give Him?

Manger scenes often display two sets of visitors: shepherds and wise men, but their visits may have been separated by nearly two years. The shepherds visited the baby Jesus in a stable immediately after His birth. The wise men visited the infant Jesus in a house.

The shepherds presented only themselves to Jesus. The wise men presented gifts. As lost sinners, we have nothing to present to Jesus when we first meet Him. We simply present ourselves and receive the gift of eternal life that God bestows on all who believe on His Son. As Christians, we can—and should—offer Him gifts: worship, purity, and sacrificial service. Such gifts are appropriate not only at Christmas but also all year round.

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

An Uncertain Future

I’m sure every American is concerned about our nation’s future. The economy is grim, the war on terror claims young soldiers’ lives, an unpredictable nuclear-capable Iran challenges our security, national healthcare seems imminent, and mass killings flare up in unexpected places. What will 2010 bring?

In spite of the uncertainty of our modern era, one thing is certain: Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). Nothing takes Him by surprise. Nothing diminishes Hs love and faithfulness. Nothing thwarts His purposes. Yes, these are rocky times, but we do not fear because the Rock of Ages keeps us secure and gives us hope.  As Adoniram Judson said, “The future is as bright as the promises of God.”