After all, the story of Christmas doesn't end on December 25th.
Can I get an AMEN!
That's what I'm talking about! Let's get started...
I think most of us have wondered at some point or another what our name means. My name is Elizabeth which translates from the original Hebrew meaning, "God's oath" or "My God is an oath". Now I don't think my parents ever realized that when naming me, but it's still really cool to think about the translation.
It also doesn't matter that Lisa is the diminutive form of Elizabeth. My parents named me Elizabeth but call me Lisa. It's still a pretty powerful promise.
Have you ever thought of the name, Jesus?
From the book Why the Nativity?
by David JeremiahDay 11 - December 11th (ok, so it's really the 15th)
"Why Call Him Jesus?"He writes:
"The name of Jesus. Easy enough for a small child to say; simple enough to be the last, hopeful word upon dying lips; powerful enough to bring us through any storm, through all the intervening years. Jesus, 'God saves,' is the greatest and most powerful word humanity has ever known, and it is the final word that will be spoken when this earth and its history are finally closed, and when you and I gather together in a better place."David Jeremiah goes on to quote Philippians 2:9-11 (NLT). Read it for yourself.
He finishes off by writing:
"Hope is in that name. So are power and authority, courage and consolation. And yes, there is unity. For together we will join hands and bow knees upon that day - every one of us - and pay homage to the greatest name in heaven or on earth."There is so much gooey goodness to chew on while reading the words that prefaced Dr. Jeremiah's conclusion. Not only did the name of Jesus grow in significance for me, but also Jesus himself. I didn't think that was possible. But then again, I know everyday is an opportunity to get to know God better. Christmas is the gift that continues to give.
And I'm not saying I'm the Grinch, but I'm sure feeling my heart grow.
Put this book on your Christmas list.
Blessings for your day,
Hey Lisa, my name is John. I read a lot of blogs on religion and prayer and I've i feel like I've ended up here once before. I'd love to hear your thoughts about this prayer exchange website PrayerMarket.com I thought it was an interesting idea and would be curious to hear what you (or other Christians) think about it
ReplyDeleteI'll check back here in the next day or two, thanks & God bless
John W.
I tend to refrain from making comments on my own blog...only in the interest of time. However, since you (John W.) were kind enough to post something you were curious about and asked for an opinion, I am obliged.
ReplyDeleteI have gone to the site and after doing some poking around, it seems to me that the overall incentive for praying for others is to make a little bit of money. Then there are other odd ways of "earning points" to have your prayers read.
Aside to praying intercessory prayers, nothing else seems to stand up to biblical truth.
There are so many people, places, and online organizations that are willing to pray for free...with only a Father's reward for what is done in private.
Another area of concern is the lack of a Church fellowship, and by that I mean the physical hands and feet of others -- the ones who know you best and can pray together. Where two or more are gathered in Christ's name is a powerful thing to not ever forget.
For example, our church has a prayer team that meets and prays every week together for any and all requests. There are also other members who pray on a regular basis throughout the week.
In our church, you can see faith in action.
In a nutshell, I believe your best option would be to connect to others in your community through your church and make an impact for Kingdom purposes that way.
Take care and may you find what you are looking for in His plans for you.