Category Archives: Worship

Songs for Sunday, January 12, 2025 @ Christ Community Church

Sunday’s coming, and I’m excited!

When I say that, I’m not talking about some sort or religious obligation for attending church or anything like that. My mind is drawn to my need for Jesus and the fact that He would deign to accept one like me.

There were times in my life when thinking of Sunday was more religious than relationship, but the older I get and the more I think about all that Jesus has done (and is doing and will do), the more I think of Sunday like the imagery in Hebrews 4:14-16.

The writer of Hebrews begins this section talking about Jesus as the “great high priest”. That phrase can definitely be acquainted with religious ideas and temple life and sacrifices, but Jesus is something different.

High priests are typically “chosen from among men” and “appointed to act on behalf of men in relation to God” (Hebrews 5:1). Jesus is different. He is God become man to be the sacrifice for men to be able to come to God.

High priests would typically need to “offer sacrifice” for their own sins “fust as [they do] for those of the people” (Hebrews 5:3). Jesus is different. He has no sins to sacrifice for because He “has been tempted as we are, yet without sin” (Hebrews 4:15). He is the Lamb of God bearing our sin.

High priests worked and worked and worked on behalf of the people before God, but all of their work was just a shadow of what was to come. Jesus is different. Jesus is all substance, and no shadow, being Himself “the source of eternal salvation to all who obey Him, being designated by God a high priest after the order of Melchizedek” (Hebrews 5:9-10).

Because Jesus is different, we are not limited to showing up for some religious observances over and over again, dwelling only in the suburbs of God’s grace and partaking only of shadows. Because Jesus is our high priest, He has made a way for us not just to be in relation to God but for us to be able to approach Him — to go directly to “the throne of grace” (Hebrews 4:16).

For those bringing their animals for the high priest to slaughter and make atonement for their sins, the idea of approaching God’s throne would be a frightening thing. Think of Isaiah’s “woe is me” talk when he had a vision of the holy, holy, holy God seated on His throne; he knew he was unclean and unworthy to look upon “the King, the LORD of hosts” (Isaiah 6:1-5)! The King of kings seated on the throne is still holy, holy, holy and we are still sinners. the King of kings seated on the throne is the divine word who discerns “the thoughts and intentions” of our hearts, laying us bare — “naked and exposed to the eyes of Him to whom we must give an account” (Hebrews 4:12-13).

Yes, Jesus is the King of kings.

Yes, Jesus is holy, holy, holy.

Yes, Jesus is Lord.

No, we are not any of those things and neither worthy nor holy. We are not God, and most of us could not stand even alongside Isaiah to state our “woe” in God’s presence. But Jesus is also our high priest! He has made atonement for our sins! He has made a way for us to come before Him (John 14:6, 2 Corinthians 5:21, 1 John 2:1-2)!

This is why the imagery of Hebrews 4:14-16 is so heavy on my mind. I have the opportunity and privilege to approach the throne of grace in my time of need. Because I have confessed Jesus as Lord and believed upon Him — but my trust in Him to save me, I have assurance to be able to approach Him without fear of death and punishment because He Himself has “bore [my] sins in His body on the tree, that [I] might die to sin and live to righteousness” (1 Peter 2:24). I don’t have to say “woe is me” because He put Himself through woes on my behalf.

Because of this, I can approach His throne with the confidence of a child waking a parent in the middle of the night for a drink of water. I can turn to Him with the assurance that I not only may approach Him for help but be confident that I will “receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).

That’s good news!

But it’s not just good news for me. It is good news for all who trust in Him, all who are saved by grace through faith in Him.

So, Sunday’s coming, and we have the opportunity to gather together on the first day of the week — the Lord’s day — and remember His death, burial, and resurrection. We have the opportunity to gather with brothers and sisters who have been saved by grace through faith and approach the throne of our Lord together, confident that His grace and mercy are enough, sufficient, and eternally flowing toward those He loves.

If this doesn’t describe you, know that there is good news and grace enough for you, too. Your sin can be forgiven. You can be saved. There is grace enough and room enough and good news enough for you and all who call on His name.

You won’t find anything relgiously impressive. You won’t find impressive priests or practices. You won’t find perfect people. You will find a bunch of sinners — and hypocrites — whose only hope is Jesus. He is who will will read about. He is who we will sing about. He is who we will preach about. And that’s because He’s our only hope. He’s our King. He’s our God. He made a way for us and there is no place we’d rather be than gathered around His throne in a small picture of how we will get to be when this world passes away and He gathers His people to Himself.

Won’t you join us?

Here are our Scriptures and songs:

14Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 15For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

4We were buried therefore with Him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.
5For if we have been united with Him in a death like His, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like His. 6We know that our old self was crucified with Him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin. 7For one who has died has been set free from sin.

“The LORD is a Stronghold” from Psalm 9 (#dailyPSALMSchallenge)

The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.

Psalm 9:9

Psalm 9 is a celebration of God’s justice, faithfulness, and salvation. David opens with a powerful declaration of praise to God: “I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart; I will recount all of Your wonderful deeds” (v. 1). Throughout Psalm 9, he does just that: recounting God’s past acts of deliverance and expressing praise through trusting in His eternal reign.

David reflects on God’s role as judge. God is able to both rebuke the nations and destroy the wicked, blotting out their names forever (vv. 5-6). This righteous judgment reminds us that God’s justice is not limited by time; He is enthroned forever, ruling with fairness and protecting the oppressed (vv. 7-9). For those who trust in Him — in His name, God offers refuge and security as a mighty stronghold, never forsaking His people (v. 10).

Psalm 9 also highlights God’s concern and care for the weak and afflicted. He remembers their cries and avenges their suffering (v. 12). David pleads for deliverance himself, trusting that God is able and will lift him from the “gates of death” so he can praise God in the “gates of the daughters of Zion” (vv. 13-14). The reversal from near-death to rejoicing is a powerful testimony to God’s power and grace.

God’s justice is clear in Psalm 9. The wicked often fall into the traps that they have set for others (v. 15), yet ultimate justice belongs to the Lord, who will one day judge the world completely in His righteousness. Until then, the needy and poor can take comfort in the knowledge that He has not forgotten them — and that hope in Him will not perish (v. 18)!

Seeing Jesus in Psalm 9

Psalm 9 anticipates Jesus’s reign as the righteous Judge of all nations. As Paul declared in Acts 17:31, God has “fixed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom He has appointed” — Jesus is the appointed Judge as well as our assurance because of His resurrection.

In His first coming, Jesus brought hope to the oppressed and salvation to the lost. When He returns, He will bring final justice and an end to all evil.

David’s plea for deliverance also foreshadows Jesus and His gospel. Just as David was able to rejoice in God saving him from the “gates of death”, we can rejoice that Jesus conquered death itself through His resurrection. Through Him, believers are delivered from sin and eternal death and transferred into His Kingdom to rejoice in Him forevermore (Colossians 1:13-14)!

Reflection

Psalm 9 gives an example of David worshiping the Lord out of a grateful heart. Take time today to thank God for His faithfulness in your own life. Consider His acts of justice and salvation — both in the world around you and through Jesus. Follow David’s example and recount His wonderful deeds and sing His praises so that those around you can hear about Jesus.

The #dailyPSALMSchallenge gives us the opportunity to start 2025 in God’s Word by digging into a psalm a day. Each day will identify a key passage for us to meditate on as well as seeking to help us see Jesus in the psalm and reflect on what we have read.

Won’t you take the challenge?

“The Majesty of God’s Name” from Psalm 8 (#dailyPSALMSchallenge)

O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is Your name in all the earth! You have set Your glory above the heavens.

Psalm 8:1

Psalm 8 is a beautiful hymn of praise, celebrating the glory of God as seen in creation and the high calling He has given to humanity. David begins and ends with the same refrain: “O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is Your name in all the earth!” (vv. 1, 9) This bookends Psalm 8 with awe and reverence for the true God, Yahweh, the Creator and Sustainer of all that there is.

As David contemplates the vastness of the heavens — the moon and stars set in place by God’s fingers — he marvels at the smallness of humanity in contrast and asks “What is man that You are mindful of Him, and the son of man that You care for him?” (v. 4) Yet, despite our frailty, God has given us the honor of being entrusted with dominion over His creation (vv. 5-6) which reflects our unique position as His image-bearers (Genesis 1:26-28).

Psalm 8 also highlights how God uses the weak to display His strength: “Out of the mouth of babies and infants, You have established strength because of Your foes” (v. 2). This theme is echoed in Jesus’s ministry when He cited this verse in Matthew 21:16 to defend children’s praises in the temple. God’s majesty shines brightly when His power is displayed in (and despite) human weakness.

Seeing Jesus in Psalm 8

Psalm 8 points us to Jesus, the perfect fulfillment of humanity’s calling. The writer of Hebrews quotes this psalm, showing that Jesus was “made a little lower than the angels” and crowned with glory and honor through His suffering and resurrection (Hebrews 2:6-9). As the second Adam, Jesus restores what was broken by sin, exercising dominion over all things in heaven and earth (1 Corinthians 15:27, Ephesians 1:22).

Jesus’s victory over sin and death through His death and resurrection ensures that one day creation will be restored and that His followers will share in His reign (2 Timothy 2:12).

Reflection

Take time today to marvel at the majesty of God in His creation. Look at the stars or consider the intricate design of nature around you, and reflect on how small we are compared to God’s greatness. Yet, despite all of His majesty and everything He has made, He is mindful of you, cares for you, and has given you a purpose in His creation.

The #dailyPSALMSchallenge gives us the opportunity to start 2025 in God’s Word by digging into a psalm a day. Each day will identify a key passage for us to meditate on as well as seeking to help us see Jesus in the psalm and reflect on what we have read.

Won’t you take the challenge?

“A Righteous Refuge” from Psalm 7 (#dailyPSALMSchallenge)

My shield is with God, who saves the upright in heart.

Psalm 7:10

Psalm 7 offers a vivid picture of David’s reliance on God in the midst of slander and false accusations. Faced with an attack from Cush, a Benjamite likely allied with Saul, David turns to God as his refuge (v. 1). He describes his pursuers as lions ready to tear him apart (v. 2), yet, instead of seeking personal revenge or justifying himself to others, David brings his case before the ultimate Judge.

David’s prayer begins with self-examination. In vv. 3-5, he acknowledges the possibility of wrongdoing (because he knows he is a sinner) and invites God to judge him if he is guilty. This humble request reveals David’s heart toward God, seeking to be the man God called him to be rather than be vindicated. His appeal for justice (v. 8) is grounded in his trust that God is a righteous judge who sees all hearts and minds (v. 9).

When he talks about the pit and hole in vv. 14-16, he paints a striking illustration of how sin traps people. This sort of poetic justice reminds us that God’s judgment is perfect, but it is also active. Despite his situation, David concludes Psalm 7 with confident praise in his God: “I will give to the LORD the thanks due to His righteousness” (v. 17).

Seeing Jesus in Psalm 7

David’s plea for justice and his willingness to entrust himself to God foreshadows Jesus who endured what David did and more. Jesus was reviled and slandered but “continued trusting Himself to Him who judges justly” (1 Peter 2:23) — to the Father. Unlike David, though, Jesus was (and is) sinless leaving no doubt to His righteousness.

When David talks about God’s bow being “bend and readied” toward those who don’t repent in v. 12, we are reminded of the reality of what our sin deserves. We need to be reminded that God hung His bow in the clouds a long time ago, reminded that for those who trust in God for salvation His bow is pointed toward heaven — toward His Son Jesus — instead.

Reflection

Psalm 7 invites us to bring our hurts and accusations to God and let Him sort them out rather than seeking personal revenge.

Are you carrying such a burden today?

Lay it before the righteous Judge who knows every heart. His justice may not be immediate, but it is certain.

Let this psalm inspire you to trust in God as your refuge, examine your own heart, and rest in the assurance that God’s justice — and, thankfully, His mercy — will prevail.

The #dailyPSALMSchallenge gives us the opportunity to start 2025 in God’s Word by digging into a psalm a day. Each day will identify a key passage for us to meditate on as well as seeking to help us see Jesus in the psalm and reflect on what we have read.

Won’t you take the challenge?

Songs for Sunday, January 5, 2025 @ Christ Community Church

Sunday’s coming — Joy to the World!

I know, I know. Christmas was last week, really last year at this point. But it is still on my mind.

As I type this, Christmas break is coming to an end for me and my family. Candice is taking down the tree and putting away Christmas decorations. But there was one song that we just couldn’t get around to or get to work during our time of Christmas songs at Christ Community: “Joy to the World (Joyful, Joyful)”.

I know that we have sung other versions of “Joy to the World” which were lifted up with much enthusiasm and joy, but this other version that we will be singing this week gets to the heart of why Isaac Watts wrote it in the first place (which is even more fitting considering our #dailyPSALMSchallenge).

Watts originally published “Joy to the World” in a collection of poems and hymns called The Psalms of David Imitated in the Language of the New Testament and Applied to the Christian State and Worship. This was a publication taking the song/prayer book of the Psalms and translating it forward in light of Jesus’s birth, life, death, and resurrection. This tells us that “Joy to the World” points back to Jesus’s first coming (Christmas) in order to point us toward His imminent return!

That, in essence, is the substance of our weekly worship gatherings. We worship on the first day of the week in remembrance of Jesus raising from the dead on the first day of the week AND in recognizing and reminding that He is coming again!

We lift our voices in song not in memorial but in honor and directly to our resurrected King!

We read and preach and listen to God’s Word not as a holy book of a bygone era but as a representation of our living and active Savior who died, rose, and is coming again — who is actively at work in the world today!

So, while Christmas is over until, Lord willing, December 2025, we can and should still sing “Joy to the World”.

Joy! The Lord is coming. Let earth — and our own hearts — prepare to receive the King.

Joy! Lift your voice in song and repeat the joy in all areas of your life.

Joy! Sin and sorrow has an expiration date. Thorns and trials do, too. As far as the curse of sin reigns, Jesus has become curse for us to end it!

Joy! No matter the state of world affairs and terror of wicked rulers, Jesus is the King of kings and Lord of lords — fully in control and coming to crush the Serpent’s head under His heel!

Joy!

This Sunday, we will be singing “Joy to the World” in light of Jesus’s imminent return. We will be singing to and about what He has done for us on the cross and the beautiful hope that comes from His empty, borrowed tomb. We will be singing about the hope that comes from the surpassing worth of knowing Him and being His. John will open up God’s Word and share the gospel — the good news — of Jesus to us. May God prepare our hearts to listen and sing and look forward to Jesus’s return!

Won’t you join us?

Here are our Scriptures & songs:

  • Scripture | Psalm 150 —

1Praise the LORD! Praise God in His sanctuary; praise Him in His mighty heavens! 2Praise Him for His mighty deeds; praise Him according to His excellent greatness!

3Praise Him with trumpet sound; praise Him with lute and harp! 4Praise Him with tambourine and dance; praise Him with strings and pipe! 5Praise Him with sounding cymbals; praise Him with loud clashing cymbals! 6Let everything that has breath praise the LORD! Praise the LORD!

  • Scripture | 1 Peter 1:3-5 —

3Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to His great mercy, He has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, 5who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

“Let Earth Receive Her King” from Psalm 2 (#dailyPSALMSchallenge)

6“As for me, I have set my King on Zion, my holy hill.”

7I will tell of the decree: The LORD said to me, “You are my Son; today I have begotten you.

Psalm 2:6-7

Psalm 2 reminds me of the line in the hymn “Joy to the World”: “Let Earth receive her king”. This psalm proclaims the reign of God’s anointed King, Jesus, who is set over all creation. Though the nations rebel, Psalm 2 reveals that true peace and joy come only by receiving and submitting to this King. His authority is certain, and His rule is good.

The Rebellion of the Nations

Psalm 2 begins with the nations raging and plotting in vain against God and His Anointed (vv. 1-3). In their pride, they reject God’s authority by choosing to skewing it as oppressive and restrictive, yet their rebellion reflects the condition of sinful humanity — desiring to rule ourselves rather than submitting to our Creator and King.

God’s Response

God does not respond in fear or by some kneejerk reaction but with laughter (v. 4). He clearly declares His plan: “I have set my King on Zion, my holy hill” (v. 6). This King, the Son of God, has been appointed to rule all nations. How? Well, as God created everything and appoints the rise and fall of nations, it is His divine prerogative! The New Testament affirms that this King is Jesus, the Messiah — the Christ — who was divinely declared to be this Son at His baptism and resurrection (Matthew 3:17, Acts 13:33).

God’s plan is unshakable. The King of kings is enthroned. His reign is certain.

The Universal Reign of the King

God promises His Anointed authority over all nations, to the ends of the earth (v. 8). He will bring justice and restore order, breaking down opposition like shattering pottery (v. 9). His rule is both powerful and righteous, ensuring that evil will not (and cannot) prevail.

A Call to Submission and Joy

The call for earth is clear: receive your rightful King and rejoice in His rule. This is seen in the way Psalm 2 closes with a warning and an invitation: “Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son” (vv. 11-12). To “kiss the Son” is to honor Him, recognizing His authority and submitting to His reign. Though His wrath and power are real, His invitation is filled with grace and “blessed are all who take refuge in Him” (v. 12). True joy is not found in rebellion but in embracing Jesus as King — as Lord (Romans 10:9).

Seeing Jesus in Psalm 2

Psalm 2 make this pretty clear and explicit. Jesus is the King.

Reflection

Psalm 2 calls us to reflect on whether we will receive or resist Jesus. The nations rage, but we are invited to rejoice under His rule. To receive Him is to put our faith, hope, and trust in Him, finding refuge and joy.

Let earth — and each of us — receive the King.

The #dailyPSALMSchallenge gives us the opportunity to start 2025 in God’s Word by digging into a psalm a day. Each day will identify a key passage for us to meditate on as well as seeking to help us see Jesus in the psalm and reflect on what we have read.

Won’t you take the challenge?

Songs for Sunday, December 8, 2024 @ Christ Community Church

Sunday’s coming, and I’m ready. I need it.

I usually start off with “Sunday’s coming, and I’m excited”, but I’m not always excited. I don’t want to be disingenuous or depressing. The reality of that phrase “Sunday’s coming” is rooted in Jesus’s resurrection and His return. The reality of this fallen world is that there is sorrow and terror and unspeakable things; so I look to the hope that comes from Jesus’s resurrection, the expectation of peace that comes with His return, and echo my earlier sentiment: I’m ready. I need it.

This week’s Advent theme is peace.

If there was ever a week that I longed for peace, it has been this one. It seems that there are more pieces and shambles than peace. My heart has cried out, “Come, Lord Jesus” (Revelation 22:20), more in the past few days than in some time. I have prayed and pleaded with Him, seeking to intercede for folks I love, asking Him to pick up the broken pieces and mend mournful and sorrowful hearts giving His indescribable peace numerous times (1 Timothy 2:1, Psalm 147:3, Isaiah 61:1, Philippians 4:7, John 14:27). I pray it even now.

Peace is in short supply here on Earth, but it is in overflowing abundance in heaven where Christ is!

Look at the way Colossians 1:19-20 describes the peace of our Lord Jesus Christ:

For in Him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through Him to reconcile to Himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of His cross.

Read that last part again: “making peace by the blood of His cross”.

Isaiah gave us a picture of this centuries before Jesus’s life, His crucifixion:

But He was pierced for our transgressions; He was crushed for our iniquities; upon Him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with His wounds we are healed.

Isaiah 53:5

Read the part about peace again: “upon Him was the chastisement that brought us peace”.

Jesus makes peace. Jesus bears the sin, shame, and sorrows that we have a brings peace instead. Jesus is the Prince of Peace and gives peace to His people (Isaiah 9:6-7, Luke 2:14).

This is the reason I have been pleading with Him on behalf of hurting people (2 Corinthians 1:3-4, Philippians 4:6-7). This is the reason I come to Him in prayer. Peace is His (John 14:27). It is in short supply in our broken, sinful, fallen world — in this world of death and destruction (Romans 8:22), but in Jesus is Light (John 8:12), in Jesus is Love (1 John 4:9-10), in Jesus is Salvation (Acts 4:12, John 14:6), in Jesus there is peace (John 16:33). He manufactures it. He holds the trademark and copyright. Peace belongs to Him. Peace comes from Him. Peace is part of who He is (Ephesians 2:14, Isaiah 9:6).

When I think about how people desire peace in the world today, I am reminded of the reason that comic books were so great a draw for me as a kid. There was nothing like seeing someone in their most desperate moment have the hero swoop down in between them and danger. Superman was always my favorite. You could have a train bearing down on you, and he could fly down, take the impact of the train, and never even slide toward you. He could catch bullets with his hands. He could do, well, whatever danger and come out unscathed and unhurt. But Superman isn’t real. Comic book rescues are make believe, barely a genre away from fairy tales and nursery stories.

There is danger in this world. There is destruction. There is death. There is no caped crusader swooping in to save the day, and even if there was, he or she can only save some. They are limited. Regardless, the fact that they are fictional limits them altogether.

Jesus, however, is real. He did not swoop in and come out unscathed. He came and lived the life we couldn’t live — remaining sinless through it all (Hebrews 4:15, 2 Corinthians 5:21). God put on flesh and lived here on the earth with us (John 1:14) and then bore our sin and shame on the cross (1 Peter 2:24, Isaiah 53:5-6), taking the full brunt of God’s wrath due our sin, and paying the ultimate price for the wages of our sin (Romans 3:23-25, 6:23). We deserve death, and Jesus did that for us (Romans 5:8, 1 Peter 3:18).

In comic books, like in soap operas, death is just a momentary hindrance. A few strokes of the pen can come up with some cavalier and clever explanation for why the hero wasn’t really dead. Not Jesus, though. He really died (John 19:30, 34; Mark 15:37). He was buried (Mark 15:46). But, praise be to God, He rose from the dead (Matthew 28:5-6, 1 Corinthians 15:3-4)! We have looked at passages above that show how He made our peace and brings us peace by His chastisement and cross (Isaiah 53:5, Colossians 1:19-20, Romans 5:1), but He keeps that peace because He is alive (Romans 8:34, Hebrews 7:25, Revelation 1:18).

One of the coolest, most awe-inspiring hero scenes in a movie comes at the end of The Passion of the Christ. This is just a movie’s representation, but it points to the awesome reality and real life event of Jesus’s resurrection. Check it out here:

Whatever troubles and sorrows plague you now have an expiration date. Jesus is alive. Jesus is coming. Jesus has made a way for us to have peace in Him and is the only One who can give it.

Won’t you look to Him in your time of need?

That’s why we are singing about how we are in awe of Him tomorrow. We don’t sing to and praise Him out of some religious obligation; no, we have just never seen anything like Him. We have never experienced anything like Him. This world has troubles and tribulations, but He has already overcome this world (John 16:33).

So, tomorrow, we at Christ Community invite you to come and seek the Prince of Peace with us. We invite you to come and read from His Word. We invite you to come and hear His Word sung — and to lift your own voice to sing as well. We invite you to sit under the preaching of His Word. We invite you, more than anything, to come to Him. His is worthy. He is willing to save. And what’s better news than that?

Here are our Scriptures and songs:

  • Advent Reading | Peace —

As the second candle of peace shines, consider the profound peace brought by Jesus, the Prince of Peace, mentioned in Isaiah 9:6-7 and Luke 2:14. His birth signifies reconciliation between God and humanity, offering a deep, lasting peace found only in a personal relationship with Christ. His teachings guide us towards peace with God, ourselves, and others. Let this candle inspire a desire for reconciliation and peacemaking in a divided world.

This portion of Advent also draws attention to Bethlehem. Reflecting on Bethlehem’s seemingly insignificant setting reminds us of God’s penchant for using ordinary places for extraordinary purposes. In this portion of Advent, amidst feelings of insignificance, remember that God loves you dearly. Take a moment to pause, acknowledging how God specializes in using the small and insignificant for His glory. Pray that God uses you for His purpose—to bring peace and reconciliation to those around you, to bring people to Him.

5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. 9 Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

1 I will extol You, my God and King, and bless Your name forever and ever. 2 Every day I will bless You and praise Your name forever and ever. 3 Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised, and His greatness is unsearchable.

Join us in our Good News of Great Joy advent readings:

"Worthy is the Lion, the Slain Lamb Who Lives" from Revelation 5 (The KING is Coming) – Refresh & Restore | A JustKeithHarris.com Podcast

📖 Revelation 5:1–14In this episode of The King is Coming, Keith Harris and Jamie Harrison continue into the throne room of heaven—and what unfolds in Revelation 5 is one of the most powerful and familiar scenes in all of Scripture. A scroll appears in the right hand of the One seated on the throne, sealed with seven seals. A mighty angel asks a question that echoes through heaven and earth: Who is worthy to open the scroll?At first, no one is found—and John weeps. But then everything changes. The Lion of the tribe of Judah has conquered… and when John turns, he sees not a lion, but a Lamb standing as though slain—and alive.Together, Keith and Jamie discuss:✔️ The significance of the sealed scroll and why only the rightful heir can open it✔️ The difference between ability and worthiness—and why no one but Jesus qualifies✔️ Why John hears “Lion” but sees a slain Lamb—and what that reveals about Christ✔️ How Jesus conquers not by force, but through His death and resurrection✔️ The connection to the Passover Lamb and the redemption of God’s people✔️ The overwhelming worship of heaven declaring Jesus alone is worthyThis chapter is the turning point: the Lamb who was slain is alive—and He alone is worthy to carry out God’s plan.“Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!” (Revelation 5:12)🔗 If you would like to see a written version of this podcast, complete with footnotes and cross-references, you can find it here.
  1. "Worthy is the Lion, the Slain Lamb Who Lives" from Revelation 5 (The KING is Coming)
  2. "Before the Throne of God Above" from Revelation 4 (The KING is Coming)
  3. " Lukewarm Yet Not Without Hope: Jesus’s Letter to the Church at Laodicea" (The KING is Coming)
  4. "Kept Through the Trial: Jesus's Letter to the Church at Philadelphia" (The KING is Coming)
  5. Christ Has Come: The Promised King & His Gift of Love" (Advent 2025)

Songs for Sunday, December 1, 2024 @ Christ Community Church

Sunday’s coming, and I’m excited!

Tomorrow, we kick of the Advent season at Christ Community. The first week is all about hope. We’ll be singing Christmas songs and lighting the first Advent candle, but it’s about more than that — hope is about and found in Jesus!

The hope that comes from Jesus is not a vague, hypothetical wish but a confident expectation based on the promises of God. Advent draws our attention to God’s faithfulness, seen in His fulfillment of the prophecies surrounding Jesus’s first coming AND His promise that Jesus will return!

Isaiah 7:14 declares, “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call His name Immanuel.” Centuries before Jesus’s birth in Bethlehem, God promised our redemption through His Son Jesus.

Romans 15:12-13 reminds us that hope isn’t limited to just Israel — or us — but extends to all peoples and nations: “The root of Jesse will come, even He who arises to rule the Gentiles; in Him will the Gentiles hope. May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” If you’re reading this, it is likely that you are one of the Gentiles. Paul wrote this letter to the church at Rome longer ago than Isaiah was before Jesus’s birth, and we can hope in it just the same! That’s good news, especially since we find out that this hope is not based on our feelings but on the Holy Spirit’s power within us!

So, we wait. We wait with expectation. We hope.

Lamentations 3:26 gives us a good picture of this: “It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.” Well, Israel had centuries of silence, centuries without a prophet with a thus-saith-the-Lord, until the silence was broken by the cry of an infant — by the literal and divine Word of God (John 1:1-14)! We don’t have to wait in silence, though, waiting for a Word because we HAVE THE WORD FULLY — in Jesus and in His written Word! And it is in His Word — in Him — that we find hope as we wait for His promised return, trials and troubles and worldly sorrow notwithstanding because God’s hope has been poured out on us in love by the Holy Spirit to carry us through (Romans 5:1-5)!

Tomorrow, at Christ Community, we are going to sing a version of “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” that has quickly become one of my favorite songs — not just at Christmas but of all time. This song captures the heart of Advent and calls us to reflect on the longing that Israel had for Jesus and see how our anticipation of Jesus’s return should be.

Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel!
Shall by His Word our darkness dispel!

O Come, Thou King of nations bring
An end to all our suffering
Bid every pain and sorrow cease
And reign now as our Prince of Peace!

Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel!

Rejoice! Emmanuel (God with us) has come and is coming again! Rejoice!

We can hope in Him because He has promised, and “He who promised is faithful” (Hebrews 10:23)!

Won’t you gather with us as we read from God’s Word, sing from God’s Word, and hear John open and preach from God’s Word tomorrow?

Here are our Scriptures & songs:

  • Scripture | John 1:1-5 —

1In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2He was in the beginning with God. 3All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. 4In him was life, and the life was the light of men. 5The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

  • Scripture | John 1:9-14 —

9The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. 10He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. 11He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. 12But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, 13who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.

14And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.

Good News of Great Joy | December 2 — “Glory in the Highest”

Luke 2 invites us to glorify God for His mercy in sending Jesus. Whether through the angelic announcement, the worship of Simeon and Anna, or the wonder of the shepherds, Christ’s birth is a moment of praise, joy, and transformation. Let us respond by teaching His truth, treasuring His promises, and telling of His glory this Advent season.

"Worthy is the Lion, the Slain Lamb Who Lives" from Revelation 5 (The KING is Coming) – Refresh & Restore | A JustKeithHarris.com Podcast

📖 Revelation 5:1–14In this episode of The King is Coming, Keith Harris and Jamie Harrison continue into the throne room of heaven—and what unfolds in Revelation 5 is one of the most powerful and familiar scenes in all of Scripture. A scroll appears in the right hand of the One seated on the throne, sealed with seven seals. A mighty angel asks a question that echoes through heaven and earth: Who is worthy to open the scroll?At first, no one is found—and John weeps. But then everything changes. The Lion of the tribe of Judah has conquered… and when John turns, he sees not a lion, but a Lamb standing as though slain—and alive.Together, Keith and Jamie discuss:✔️ The significance of the sealed scroll and why only the rightful heir can open it✔️ The difference between ability and worthiness—and why no one but Jesus qualifies✔️ Why John hears “Lion” but sees a slain Lamb—and what that reveals about Christ✔️ How Jesus conquers not by force, but through His death and resurrection✔️ The connection to the Passover Lamb and the redemption of God’s people✔️ The overwhelming worship of heaven declaring Jesus alone is worthyThis chapter is the turning point: the Lamb who was slain is alive—and He alone is worthy to carry out God’s plan.“Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!” (Revelation 5:12)🔗 If you would like to see a written version of this podcast, complete with footnotes and cross-references, you can find it here.
  1. "Worthy is the Lion, the Slain Lamb Who Lives" from Revelation 5 (The KING is Coming)
  2. "Before the Throne of God Above" from Revelation 4 (The KING is Coming)
  3. " Lukewarm Yet Not Without Hope: Jesus’s Letter to the Church at Laodicea" (The KING is Coming)

The Birth of Jesus: God’s Plan Unfolds (2:1-20)[1]

2 In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3 And all went to be registered, each to his own town. 4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, 5 to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. 6 And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. 7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

8 And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. 10 And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,

14 “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”

15 When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. 17 And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. 18 And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. 20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.

Jesus Presented in the Temple: A Light for the Nations (2:21-40)[2]

21 And at the end of eight days, when he was circumcised, he was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

22 And when the time came for their purification according to the Law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord 23 (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, “Every male who first opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”) 24 and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the Law of the Lord, “a pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.” 25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26 And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. 27 And he came in the Spirit into the temple, and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the Law, 28 he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said,

29 “Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace, according to your word; 30 for my eyes have seen your salvation 31 that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, 32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel.”

33 And his father and his mother marveled at what was said about him. 34 And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed 35 (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.”

36 And there was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived with her husband seven years from when she was a virgin, 37 and then as a widow until she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day. 38 And coming up at that very hour she began to give thanks to God and to speak of him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem.

39 And when they had performed everything according to the Law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. 40 And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom. And the favor of God was upon him.

The Boy Jesus: Growing in Wisdom and Grace (2:41-52)[3]

41 Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. 42 And when he was twelve years old, they went up according to custom. 43 And when the feast was ended, as they were returning, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. His parents did not know it, 44 but supposing him to be in the group they went a day’s journey, but then they began to search for him among their relatives and acquaintances, 45 and when they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem, searching for him. 46 After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. 47 And all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. 48 And when his parents saw him, they were astonished. And his mother said to him, “Son, why have you treated us so? Behold, your father and I have been searching for you in great distress.” 49 And he said to them, “Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” 50 And they did not understand the saying that he spoke to them. 51 And he went down with them and came to Nazareth and was submissive to them. And his mother treasured up all these things in her heart.

52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man.

[1] God fulfilled His promise through the birth of Jesus (vv. 1-7). Even Caesar Augustus’s decree served God’s purpose, ensuring that the Messiah was born in Bethlehem, as prophesied (Micah 5:2). Shepherds, were the first to hear the angel’s announcement of “good news of great joy” (v. 10). Their response—hurrying to see Jesus and sharing the news—teaches us to proclaim God’s glory boldly.

[2] Mary and Joseph faithfully obeyed God’s law by presenting Jesus at the temple (vv. 21-24). Two devout individuals, Simeon and Anna, recognized Jesus as the promised Messiah. Simeon declared that Jesus is “a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel” (v. 32). Simeon’s prophecy reminds us that following Christ may bring division but leads to ultimate hope and peace. Anna’s lifelong worship encourages us to remain faithful, praising God for His mercy.

[3] At age twelve, Jesus amazed the teachers in the temple with His understanding of God’s Word (vv. 46-47). When His parents found Him, He revealed His identity and purpose by saying, “Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” (v. 49). Jesus also modeled humility, returning to Nazareth in submission to His earthly parents (v. 51). His growth in “wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man” (v. 52) sets a perfect example for young believers.

Good News of Great Joy | December 1 — “The Dawn of Salvation”

Luke 1 sets the stage for the arrival of Jesus, showing God’s faithfulness to His promises. The angelic announcements and prophetic songs highlight God’s plan to bring salvation to His people through Christ. During Advent, we can join Mary and Zechariah in praising God for His mercy and preparing our hearts to receive the light of Christ.

"Worthy is the Lion, the Slain Lamb Who Lives" from Revelation 5 (The KING is Coming) – Refresh & Restore | A JustKeithHarris.com Podcast

📖 Revelation 5:1–14In this episode of The King is Coming, Keith Harris and Jamie Harrison continue into the throne room of heaven—and what unfolds in Revelation 5 is one of the most powerful and familiar scenes in all of Scripture. A scroll appears in the right hand of the One seated on the throne, sealed with seven seals. A mighty angel asks a question that echoes through heaven and earth: Who is worthy to open the scroll?At first, no one is found—and John weeps. But then everything changes. The Lion of the tribe of Judah has conquered… and when John turns, he sees not a lion, but a Lamb standing as though slain—and alive.Together, Keith and Jamie discuss:✔️ The significance of the sealed scroll and why only the rightful heir can open it✔️ The difference between ability and worthiness—and why no one but Jesus qualifies✔️ Why John hears “Lion” but sees a slain Lamb—and what that reveals about Christ✔️ How Jesus conquers not by force, but through His death and resurrection✔️ The connection to the Passover Lamb and the redemption of God’s people✔️ The overwhelming worship of heaven declaring Jesus alone is worthyThis chapter is the turning point: the Lamb who was slain is alive—and He alone is worthy to carry out God’s plan.“Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!” (Revelation 5:12)🔗 If you would like to see a written version of this podcast, complete with footnotes and cross-references, you can find it here.
  1. "Worthy is the Lion, the Slain Lamb Who Lives" from Revelation 5 (The KING is Coming)
  2. "Before the Throne of God Above" from Revelation 4 (The KING is Coming)
  3. " Lukewarm Yet Not Without Hope: Jesus’s Letter to the Church at Laodicea" (The KING is Coming)

Introduction and Angelic Announcements (1:1-25)[1]

1 Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile a narrative of the things that have been accomplished among us, 2 just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word have delivered them to us, 3 it seemed good to me also, having followed all things closely for some time past, to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, 4 that you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught.

5 In the days of Herod, king of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah, of the division of Abijah. And he had a wife from the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. 6 And they were both righteous before God, walking blamelessly in all the commandments and statutes of the Lord. 7 But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and both were advanced in years.

8 Now while he was serving as priest before God when his division was on duty, 9 according to the custom of the priesthood, he was chosen by lot to enter the temple of the Lord and burn incense. 10 And the whole multitude of the people were praying outside at the hour of incense. 11 And there appeared to him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. 12 And Zechariah was troubled when he saw him, and fear fell upon him. 13 But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. 14 And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, 15 for he will be great before the Lord. And he must not drink wine or strong drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. 16 And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God, 17 and he will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready for the Lord a people prepared.”

18 And Zechariah said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is advanced in years.” 19 And the angel answered him, “I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I was sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news. 20 And behold, you will be silent and unable to speak until the day that these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their time.” 21 And the people were waiting for Zechariah, and they were wondering at his delay in the temple. 22 And when he came out, he was unable to speak to them, and they realized that he had seen a vision in the temple. And he kept making signs to them and remained mute. 23 And when his time of service was ended, he went to his home.

24 After these days his wife Elizabeth conceived, and for five months she kept herself hidden, saying, 25 “Thus the Lord has done for me in the days when he looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”

The Birth of Jesus Foretold (1:26-38)[2]

26 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, 27 to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin’s name was Mary. 28 And he came to her and said, “Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!” 29 But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be. 30 And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.”

34 And Mary said to the angel, “How will this be, since I am a virgin?”

35 And the angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God. 36 And behold, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son, and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren. 37 For nothing will be impossible with God.” 38 And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.

Mary’s Visit to Elizabeth and the Magnificat (1:39-56)[3]

39 In those days Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country, to a town in Judah, 40 and she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. 41 And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit, 42 and she exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! 43 And why is this granted to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 For behold, when the sound of your greeting came to my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. 45 And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.”

46 And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 48 for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; 49 for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name. 50 And his mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. 51 He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts; 52 he has brought down the mighty from their thrones and exalted those of humble estate; 53 he has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. 54 He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, 55 as he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his offspring forever.”

56 And Mary remained with her about three months and returned to her home.

The Birth of John the Baptist (1:57-80)[4]

57 Now the time came for Elizabeth to give birth, and she bore a son. 58 And her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown great mercy to her, and they rejoiced with her. 59 And on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child. And they would have called him Zechariah after his father, 60 but his mother answered, “No; he shall be called John.” 61 And they said to her, “None of your relatives is called by this name.” 62 And they made signs to his father, inquiring what he wanted him to be called. 63 And he asked for a writing tablet and wrote, “His name is John.” And they all wondered. 64 And immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, blessing God. 65 And fear came on all their neighbors. And all these things were talked about through all the hill country of Judea, 66 and all who heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, “What then will this child be?” For the hand of the Lord was with him.

67 And his father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and prophesied, saying,

68 “Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has visited and redeemed his people 69 and has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David, 70 as he spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets from of old, 71 that we should be saved from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us; 72 to show the mercy promised to our fathers and to remember his holy covenant, 73 the oath that he swore to our father Abraham, to grant us 74 that we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies, might serve him without fear, 75 in holiness and righteousness before him all our days. 76 And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways, 77 to give knowledge of salvation to his people in the forgiveness of their sins, 78 because of the tender mercy of our God, whereby the sunrise shall visit us from on high 79 to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.”

80 And the child grew and became strong in spirit, and he was in the wilderness until the day of his public appearance to Israel.

[1] Luke begins his Gospel by explaining his purpose: to provide an orderly account so that readers may have certainty about Jesus (vv. 1-4). The narrative opens with the angel Gabriel announcing to Zechariah that he and his wife, Elizabeth, will have a son, John (the Baptist). John will prepare the way for the Lord, turning hearts back to God and fulfilling prophecy (vv. 16-17). Zechariah’s doubt leads to his temporary muteness as a sign of God’s power (v. 20).

[2] Gabriel appears to Mary, a young virgin in Nazareth, announcing that she will conceive by the Holy Spirit and give birth to Jesus, the Son of God. Gabriel declares that Jesus will reign forever on David’s throne (vv. 32-33). Mary humbly accepts her role in God’s plan, saying, “Let it be to me according to your word” (v. 38).

[3] Mary visits Elizabeth, and the baby John leaps for joy in Elizabeth’s womb. Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, blesses Mary for her faith. In response, Mary sings what is known as the Magnificat, praising God for His mercy, justice, and faithfulness to His promises (vv. 46-55) and echoing themes from Old Testament scriptures.

[4] John is born, and at his naming ceremony, Zechariah’s speech is restored. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Zechariah praises God in what is known as the Benedictus, proclaiming that John will prepare the way for the Messiah and shine light on those in darkness (vv. 76-79). Luke concludes the chapter by noting that John grew strong in spirit and lived in the wilderness until his public ministry began.