Who is He that from His Throne

Now after the Sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to look at the grave. And behold, a severe earthquake had occurred, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled away the stone and sat upon it. And his appearance was like lightning, and his clothing as white as snow. The guards shook for fear of him and became like dead men. The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid; for I know that you are looking for Jesus who has been crucified. "He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said. Come, see the place where He was lying. Go quickly and tell His disciples that He has risen from the dead; and behold, He is going ahead of you into Galilee, there you will see Him; behold, I have told you." And they left the tomb quickly with fear and great joy and ran to report it to His disciples. Matthew 28:1-8

God's mighty power raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Christ conquered death once and for all. God was satisfied with Jesus' sacrifice and so brought Him back to life, to live forever and be seated at His right hand. Just as he healed people's sickness in His earthly ministry, He heals our sin-sickness by His death and resurrection.

Through His sacrifice and resurrection, we are justified. When God looks at me, instead of a sinner, He sees the righteousness of Christ!

Death has now lost its sting forever! Because of Jesus' death and resurrection, we have the hope of everlasting life. If you have trusted Christ as your Savior, you don't need to fear death, because our physical death is only the beginning of our eternal life in heaven with God and Jesus!

Christ is our living Lord AND our coming King! He has told us that He went to prepare a place for us. He has promised that He will return to earth to claim His own.

And He is our King who from His throne rules through all the world alone.

Then the seventh angel sounded; and there were loud voices in heaven, saying, "The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ; and He will reign forever and ever." Revelation 11:15

We have confidence that God is sovereign over all, including over Christ's triumphant return - and we trust Him to bring it about in His perfect time. Until then, we live our lives full of adoration and praise, worshiping our Sovereign Father; to Him be honor and eternal dominion!

I charge you in the presence of God, who gives life to all things, and of Christ Jesus, who testified the good confession before Pontius Pilate, that you keep the commandment without stain or reproach until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ, which He will bring about at the proper time--He who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who alone possesses immortality and dwells in unapproachable light, whom no man has seen or can see. To Him be honor and eternal dominion! Amen. I Timothy 6:13-16


Who is He in Yonder Stall?
Words by Benjamin Hanby

Who is He in yonder stall
At whose feet the shepherds fall?
Who is He in deep distress,
Fasting in the wilderness?

Refrain
’Tis the Lord! O wondrous story!
’Tis the Lord! the King of glory!
At His feet we humbly fall,
Crown Him! crown Him, Lord of all!

Who is He the people bless
For His words of gentleness?
Who is He to whom they bring
All the sick and sorrowing?

Who is He that stands and weeps
At the grave where Lazarus sleeps?
Who is He the gathering throng
Greet with loud triumphant song?

Lo! at midnight, who is He
Prays in dark Gethsemane?
Who is He on yonder tree
Dies in grief and agony?

Who is He that from the grave
Comes to heal and help and save?
Who is He that from His throne
Rules through all the world alone?

Who is He who Prays in Dark Gethsamane

Then Jesus came with them to a place called Gethsemane, and said to His disciples, "Sit here while I go over there and pray." Matthew 26:36

We can learn much from Jesus and His last hours before His crucifixion. In the last week of Jesus’ life on earth, He had just finished His last Passover, and had instructed His disciples to remember Him by breaking bread together, instituting the Lord’s Supper. Most of us know how the story continues: His disciples went with Him to Gethsemane, and Jesus told them to wait while He went away to pray. During this time, the disciples fall asleep, and Jesus comes and instructs them to watch and pray, so that they will not enter into temptation. But, you guessed it, they fall asleep again. It is here in the Garden of Gethsemane that Jesus prays this specific prayer three times:

"My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; yet not as I will, but as You will." Matt. 26:39

I’ve heard some commentaries about the Garden of Gethsemane and how it would have been possible for Jesus to get away from His pursuers at this point. But He didn’t. He knew that God would not take this cup away from Him. He was in conflict, so much so, that His sweat actually turned to blood. And what did He do? He prayed.

We can learn from Him how to pray when we face the tempter’s power, when we are in conflict, and in grief. Jesus faced all of this that night, and He turned to His Father in prayer. I’ve addressed prayer before in this blog – it is our great privilege to go before our Heavenly Father in prayer – to humbly bow before Him and seek His will – notice that’s what Jesus did. “Not as I will, but as you will.” Sometimes that’s a very difficult prayer to pray. God’s will is not always our will. But God uses our time in prayer and in studying His Word to bend our hearts to His will.

Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving. Col. 4:2

The story goes on: Jesus was betrayed by Judas, arrested, taken before Caiaphas, beaten, questioned by Pilate, and mocked. He was arraigned for a crime He didn’t commit – He took our sin as His own. He suffered for us.

Although He was a Son, He learned obedience from the things which He suffered. Hebrews 5:8

Because of His suffering for us, we can learn from Him. We learn to bear the cross. Many of us suffer, in fact, it’s the only thing guaranteed in our lives. Paul encourages us:

For just as the sufferings of Christ are ours in abundance, so also our comfort is abundant through Christ. II Corinthians 1:5

For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us. Romans 8:18

For this reason I also suffer these things, but I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day. II Timothy 1:12

We will suffer, no question about it – but our suffering is a time of being made more like Jesus. When we learn to bear the cross, we learn to obey, to be humble, to be selfless, and to trust in the One who healed our wounds through His death. Peter exhorts us that we have been called for this purpose!

For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps, WHO COMMITTED NO SIN, NOR WAS ANY DECEIT FOUND IN HIS MOUTH; and while being reviled, He did not revile in return; while suffering, He uttered no threats, but kept entrusting Himself to Him who judges righteously; and He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed. I Peter 2:21-24

Our story doesn’t end with Jesus betrayal and arraignment. They hung Him on the cross, and He suffered physical pain and agony for many hours before giving up His spirit. He died.

Therefore when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, "It is finished!" And He bowed His head and gave up His spirit. Then the Jews, because it was the day of preparation, so that the bodies would not remain on the cross on the Sabbath (for that Sabbath was a high day), asked Pilate that their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away. So the soldiers came, and broke the legs of the first man and of the other who was crucified with Him; but coming to Jesus, when they saw that He was already dead, they did not break His legs. But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water came out. John 19:30-34

We learn from Jesus Christ to die. Jesus physically died. And He calls us to die to our fleshly desires, and to live for Him.

Therefore, my brethren, you also were made to die to the Law through the body of Christ, so that you might be joined to another, to Him who was raised from the dead, in order that we might bear fruit for God. Romans 7:4

Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Gal. 5:24

So then, brethren, we are under obligation, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh--for if you are living according to the flesh, you must die; but if by the Spirit you are putting to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. Romans 8:12-14

For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God. Col. 3:3

Who is He on yonder tree who dies in grief and agony? 'Tis the Lord, o wondrous story! But it's not the end of the story. There's one more very important verse in this hymn....


Who is He in Yonder Stall?
Words by Benjamin Hanby

Who is He in yonder stall
At whose feet the shepherds fall?
Who is He in deep distress,
Fasting in the wilderness?

Refrain
’Tis the Lord! O wondrous story!
’Tis the Lord! the King of glory!
At His feet we humbly fall,
Crown Him! crown Him, Lord of all!

Who is He the people bless
For His words of gentleness?
Who is He to whom they bring
All the sick and sorrowing?

Who is He that stands and weeps
At the grave where Lazarus sleeps?
Who is He the gathering throng
Greet with loud triumphant song?

Lo! at midnight, who is He
Prays in dark Gethsemane?
Who is He on yonder tree
Dies in grief and agony?

Who is He that from the grave
Comes to heal and help and save?
Who is He that from His throne
Rules through all the world alone?

Who is He that Stands and Weeps

And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28

I think one of the best illustrations of Jesus' humanity AND deity is the story of Lazarus' death and resurrection.

Now a certain man was sick, Lazarus of Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. It was the Mary who anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped His feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick. So the sisters sent word to Him, saying, “Lord, behold, he whom You love is sick.” John 11:1-3

Clearly, Jesus loved Lazarus. And we would expect that upon hearing these words, Jesus would do everything in His power to get to Bethany right away. After all, He is the One who heals the sick! But that's not what happens.

But when Jesus heard this, He said, “This sickness is not to end in death, but for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified by it.” Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. So when He heard that he was sick, He then stayed two days longer in the place where He was. John 11:4-6

Wow - these verses seem to be contradictory, don't they? At least to our human way of thinking. Jesus loved Martha, Mary and Lazarus (who is very sick) and so he STAYS in the place where He was... Hmmm. It does seem contradictory, until we realize what Jesus said at the beginning of that section - He tells the people with Him that this sickness is to bring glory to God and that it won't end in death.

This He said, and after that He said to them, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I go, so that I may awaken him out of sleep.” The disciples then said to Him, “Lord, if he has fallen asleep, he will recover.” Now Jesus had spoken of his death, but they thought that He was speaking of literal sleep. So Jesus then said to them plainly, “Lazarus is dead, and I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, so that you may believe; but let us go to him.” John 11:11-15

Lazarus is dead. And what Jesus will do next will show His humanity and His deity, bring tremendous glory to God and bring many people to faith in His Son.

Therefore, when Mary came where Jesus was, she saw Him, and fell at His feet, saying to Him, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died.” When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews who came with her also weeping, He was deeply moved in spirit and was troubled, and said, “Where have you laid him?” They said to Him, “Lord, come and see.” Jesus wept. So the Jews were saying, “See how He loved him!” But some of them said, “Could not this man, who opened the eyes of the blind man, have kept this man also from dying?” John 11:32-37

Clearly, Mary and Martha are disappointed that Jesus didn't come earlier since they know He could have saved Lazarus. And when Jesus sees Mary weeping, and all the people weeping with her, He is moved and troubled. When He sees where Lazarus is laid, our Lord weeps. (Humanity!) The Jews realize that this display of emotion shows how much Jesus loves Lazarus. But they wonder why this Healer didn't prevent His death - clearly they knew He had the power to do that.

So Jesus, again being deeply moved within, came to the tomb. Now it was a cave, and a stone was lying against it. Jesus said, "Remove the stone.” Martha, the sister of the deceased, said to Him, “Lord, by this time there will be a stench, for he has been dead four days.” Jesus said to her, “Did I not say to you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?” So they removed the stone. Then Jesus raised His eyes, and said, “Father, I thank You that You have heard Me. I knew that You always hear Me; but because of the people standing around I said it, so that they may believe that You sent Me.” When He had said these things, He cried out with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come forth.” The man who had died came forth, bound hand and foot with wrappings, and his face was wrapped around with a cloth. Jesus said to them, “Unbind him, and let him go.”
John 11:38-44

Jesus brought Lazarus back to life! (Deity!) And He did it so that all the people would believe that He was sent from God. He did it so that God would be glorified in a bigger way than if Jesus had "just" healed Lazarus while he was sick. God's power raised Lazarus from the dead. And because of this, many people believed and put their trust in Him.

Who is He that stands and weeps at the grave where Lazarus sleeps? He is the Lord, the King of Glory!

What can we learn from this story to apply to our lives? For me, it shows that God will choose to bring Himself glory, and may not do something he COULD do, if there's something BETTER He could do to make His name even greater. That doesn't always make sense to us. It didn't make sense to Mary and Martha, who wondered why the Lord didn't come RIGHT AWAY to save their brother. If you're a believer, the Lord is working things out for your good and His glory. But it might not be the way you think it's going to work out. That's because He is God and we are not!

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” declares the LORD. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts." Isaiah 55:8-9

God has a purpose and a plan and He is working it out. He is the King of Glory.

Who is He in Yonder Stall?
Words by Benjamin Hanby

Who is He in yonder stall
At whose feet the shepherds fall?
Who is He in deep distress,
Fasting in the wilderness?

Refrain
’Tis the Lord! O wondrous story!
’Tis the Lord! the King of glory!
At His feet we humbly fall,
Crown Him! crown Him, Lord of all!

Who is He the people bless
For His words of gentleness?
Who is He to whom they bring
All the sick and sorrowing?

Who is He that stands and weeps
At the grave where Lazarus sleeps?
Who is He the gathering throng
Greet with loud triumphant song?

Lo! at midnight, who is He
Prays in dark Gethsemane?
Who is He on yonder tree
Dies in grief and agony?

Who is He that from the grave
Comes to heal and help and save?
Who is He that from His throne
Rules through all the world alone?

Who is He the People Bless

Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near.
Philippians 4:5

During Jesus' earthly ministry, if there's one thing He was "known" for, it was His miracles. He turned water into wine, healed the sick, and even raised men from the dead. And He didn't just do it once. The gospels are full of accounts of His healing people who were sick. Who is He to whom they bring all the sick and sorrowing? He is the King of glory!

Jesus was going throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every kind of disease and every kind of sickness among the people. Matthew 4:23

When He went ashore, He saw a large crowd, and felt compassion for them and healed their sick. Matthew 14:14

While the sun was setting, all those who had any who were sick with various diseases brought them to Him; and laying His hands on each one of them, He was healing them. Luke 4:40

But the news about Him was spreading even farther, and large crowds were gathering to hear Him and to be healed of their sicknesses.
Luke 5:15

Jesus didn't just heal people physically though. I think an important part of His ministry was how He dealt with people. He was gentle. I believe that His gentleness was another form of healing. Our world is a harsh place. Because of sin, our relationships are difficult and we can get beat up just by being in the world - in the marketplace, at school, and even at home and at church. Jesus was gentle. I'm sure that those whom He interacted with noticed this immediately, and I'm sure that the treatment they received from Him was a sort of healing for their hearts, minds and souls.

“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

Jesus is gentle and humble in heart. When we turn to Him, we find rest in His gentleness. Just as we need that today, the people living in Jesus' time needed it too. The people were waiting for a King to save them, but I'm sure they didn't expect this kind of king.

This took place to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet: “SAY TO THE DAUGHTER OF ZION,‘BEHOLD YOUR KING IS COMING TO YOU, GENTLE, AND MOUNTED ON A DONKEY, EVEN ON A COLT, THE FOAL OF A BEAST OF BURDEN.’” Matthew 21:4-5

This King came to them in gentleness, surprising the people. Even though you and I aren't kings, I think we can surprise people by interacting with them in gentleness. Our world now is even harsher than in Jesus' time, especially with all the media and other "substitutes" for human interaction. When we are gentle to those we love and to strangers, we show people the character of Jesus. We have been called to this!

Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, implore you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love, being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Ephesians 4:1-3

As God's chosen people, we have a responsibility to fulfill.

So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. Colossians 3:11-12

How can you treat people today with gentleness?

Who is He in Yonder Stall?
Words by Benjamin Hanby

Who is He in yonder stall
At whose feet the shepherds fall?
Who is He in deep distress,
Fasting in the wilderness?

Refrain
’Tis the Lord! O wondrous story!
’Tis the Lord! the King of glory!
At His feet we humbly fall,
Crown Him! crown Him, Lord of all!

Who is He the people bless
For His words of gentleness?
Who is He to whom they bring
All the sick and sorrowing?

Who is He that stands and weeps
At the grave where Lazarus sleeps?
Who is He the gathering throng
Greet with loud triumphant song?

Lo! at midnight, who is He
Prays in dark Gethsemane?
Who is He on yonder tree
Dies in grief and agony?

Who is He that from the grave
Comes to heal and help and save?
Who is He that from His throne
Rules through all the world alone?

Who is He in Yonder Stall?

He is Lord of lords and King of kings, and those who are with Him are the called and chosen and faithful. Revelation 17:14

Now that the hustle and bustle of Christmas is (nearly) over, I thought it would be beneficial to spend the next few days thinking about what the birth of Jesus means to us today. Just who is this baby born in a manger? How does His work on earth change who I am? And what is my response?

He is the baby born in a manger in Bethlehem.

And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. Luke 2:7

Shepherds left their flocks to go see this new baby, the One who was their King!

In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.”

When the angels had gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds began saying to one another, “Let us go straight to Bethlehem then, and see this thing that has happened which the Lord has made known to us.” So they came in a hurry and found their way to Mary and Joseph, and the baby as He lay in the manger. When they had seen this, they made known the statement which had been told them about this Child. And all who heard it wondered at the things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary treasured all these things, pondering them in her heart. The shepherds went back, glorifying and praising God for all that they had heard and seen, just as had been told them. Luke 2:8-20

Jesus grew up just like the rest of us - day by day, year by year. The Bible reminds us that He grew physically, mentally AND spiritually.

The Child continued to grow and become strong, increasing in wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him. Luke 2:40

Just a few verses later, God reminds us again.

And Jesus kept increasing in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men. Luke 2:52

It's important to remember that Jesus was a man - a human being just like you and me. It's important to keep that in mind when we read about some of His experiences on earth. Before His ministry began, He was baptized, and then He spent 40 days alone in the desert.

Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. And after He had fasted forty days and forty nights, He then became hungry. Matthew 4:1-2

Our hymn writer asks "Who is He in deep distress, fasting in the wilderness?" Remember, Jesus is a human man in the desert, having had nothing to eat for 40 days or nights. Deep distress is putting it lightly. But Jesus was obeying His Father - the Bible tells that He was LED UP BY THE SPIRIT into the wilderness. And while He was there, Satan tried to undo Him. But, thanks be to God, He could not be undone!

And the tempter came and said to Him, “If You are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread.” But He answered and said, “It is written, ‘MAN SHALL NOT LIVE ON BREAD ALONE, BUT ON EVERY WORD THAT PROCEEDS OUT OF THE MOUTH OF GOD.’” Matthew 4:3-4

Do you see how Jesus responded to the devil? By quoting Scripture! And He does it again!

Then the devil took Him into the holy city and had Him stand on the pinnacle of the temple, and said to Him, “If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down; for it is written,‘HE WILL COMMAND HIS ANGELS CONCERNING YOU' and‘ON their HANDS THEY WILL BEAR YOU UP, SO THAT YOU WILL NOT STRIKE YOUR FOOT AGAINST A STONE.’” Jesus said to him, “On the other hand, it is written, ‘YOU SHALL NOT PUT THE LORD YOUR GOD TO THE TEST.’” Matthew 4:5-7

And again!

Again, the devil took Him to a very high mountain and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory; and he said to Him, “All these things I will give You, if You fall down and worship me.” Then Jesus said to him, “Go, Satan! For it is written, ‘YOU SHALL WORSHIP THE LORD YOUR GOD, AND SERVE HIM ONLY.’” Matthew 4:8-10

Jesus used the Word of God to defeat the devil; and it worked beautifully. And what sweet relief came His way after Satan departed!

Then the devil left Him; and behold, angels came and began to minister to Him. Matthew 4:11

Truly, He is the Lord and the King! We humbly fall at His feet and crown Him Lord of ALL!

What can we learn from Jesus through His experience in the wilderness? It certainly shows me how important the Word of God is, and how critical it is that we hide the Word in our hearts so that we might use it to defeat the wily ways of our enemy, the devil.

God told His chosen people that His words should be ever before them.

You shall therefore impress these words of mine on your heart and on your soul; and you shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontals on your forehead. Deuteronomy 11:14

When we know God's word, and treasure it in our hearts, it prevents us from sinning!

Your word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against You. Psalm 119:11

How?

For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Hebrews 4:12

The Word of God has the power to save - and the power to show us our sin. When it dwells in us, we can overcome the devil, bring comfort and encouragement to others as well as strengthen our own faith as we bring His Word to mind.

Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Colossians 3:16

Spend some time thinking about how you can you more deeply dwell in the Word of God this year. It might be through focused and regular Bible study or through Scripture memorization. Pray and ask the Lord to guide you and give you the desire to know His Word so that you, like Jesus, can use Scripture every day to grow in wisdom and in the grace of God.


Who is He in Yonder Stall?
Words by Benjamin Hanby

Who is He in yonder stall
At whose feet the shepherds fall?
Who is He in deep distress,
Fasting in the wilderness?

Refrain
’Tis the Lord! O wondrous story!
’Tis the Lord! the King of glory!
At His feet we humbly fall,
Crown Him! crown Him, Lord of all!

Who is He the people bless
For His words of gentleness?
Who is He to whom they bring
All the sick and sorrowing?

Who is He that stands and weeps
At the grave where Lazarus sleeps?
Who is He the gathering throng
Greet with loud triumphant song?

Lo! at midnight, who is He
Prays in dark Gethsemane?
Who is He on yonder tree
Dies in grief and agony?

Who is He that from the grave
Comes to heal and help and save?
Who is He that from His throne
Rules through all the world alone?

Jerusalem, Lift up Thy Voice!

Get yourself up on a high mountain, O Zion, bearer of good news. Lift up your voice mightily, O Jerusalem, bearer of good news; Lift it up, do not fear. Say to the cities of Judah, “Here is your God!” Isaiah 40:9

Can you imagine what it would have been like to live at the time when Jesus was born? You would have seen all the prophecies coming true before your eyes! The King who had been promised to reign over the land with justice and righteousness would be walking among you!

"Behold, the days are coming," declares the LORD, "when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch; And He will reign as king and act wisely and do justice and righteousness in the land." Jeremiah 23:5

Can you imagine if you were a Jew in the time of Jesus? They had been waiting and waiting for their Messiah, and here He was! If you were a child, you had heard your parents, grandparents and great grandparents talk about waiting for their deliverer. And what about if you were a Gentile? Jesus came for every tribe and race; He is the Savior of Jews and the Gentiles alike. He was the messenger of truth and grace. Truth and grace were realized through Jesus Christ!

And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth. John testified about Him and cried out, saying, “This was He of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me has a higher rank than I, for He existed before me.’” For of His fullness we have all received, and grace upon grace. For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ. John 1:14-17

What if you had been waiting to see how God would keep His promise? God had made a covenant to save His people and He kept His word. God kept His promise by sending Jesus to the earth to die for the sins of the world. God sent salvation that blessed Christmas morn.

And it will be said in that day, “Behold, this is our God for whom we have waited that He might save us. This is the LORD for whom we have waited; Let us rejoice and be glad in His salvation.” Isaiah 25:9

If you had lived at that time, I think you would do as the fourth verse of this old Swedish hymn says, "Let all the world with one accord, now hail the coming of the Lord!"

"Sing for joy and be glad, O daughter of Zion; for behold I am coming and I will dwell in your midst," declares the LORD. Zechariah 2:10

Jerusalem, Lift up Thy Voice!
Words by Johan Wallin

Jerusalem, lift up thy voice!
Daughter of Zion, now rejoice!
Thy King is come, whose mighty hand
Henceforth shall reign o’er every land.

He comes to every tribe and race,
A Messenger of truth and grace:
With peace He comes from Heaven above
On earth to found His realm of love.

In God’s eternal covenant,
He comes for our salvation sent.
The star of hope moves on before,
And hosts assemble to adore.

Let all the world with one accord
Now hail the coming of the Lord:
Praise to the Prince of heavenly birth
Who bringeth peace to all the earth.

Come, You People of the Promise, verse 3

"I will dwell among the sons of Israel, and will not forsake My people Israel.”I Kings 6:13

Oftentimes I meditate on God's plan of redemption for His people, and frankly, I am overwhelmed. Overwhelmed that His plan included sending His Son, fully God and fully man, to live on earth among His people.

And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14

God's incarnation, through Jesus, is a great encouragement to me. Jesus was born as a baby, grew up just like other humans, felt the emotions and faced the temptations that we face. Because of this, He can sympathize with us in our weakness. Our Lord knows what it's like to be "us"!

Isaiah prophesied this thousands of years ago.

For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; and the government will rest on His shoulders; and His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and righteousness from then on and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will accomplish this. Isaiah 9:6-8

The zeal of the Lord of hosts will accomplish this. Let's think about that phrase. Zeal is fervor or eager desire for a person, cause or object. I think the Lord of hosts' zeal was for His people, in addition to His Son. Through the birth, life, death and resurrection of His Son, God glorified Himself. He had fervor and eager desire for His people to be saved from their sins, and for His Son to accomplish the plan that He had arranged from the beginning of creation.

God sent His Son to give His people peace and to show Himself the God of justice and righteousness. As His people, we have peace knowing that we have been reconciled with God through His Son. We have peace knowing that our God is working all things for our good and His glory. We have peace knowing that our Savior knows us each by name and has a plan for our lives.

Certainly, our tears have been turned to gladness. Jesus Christ has taken our sin on His shoulders and saved us from the wrath of God. The baby born in a manger, born to die, died that we can live forevermore. We, the ransomed of the Lord, can return and come with joy!

And the ransomed of the LORD will return and come with joyful shouting to Zion, with everlasting joy upon their heads. They will find gladness and joy, and sorrow and sighing will flee away.
Isaiah 35:10

Dear Father,
Thank you for your plan that sent Your Son to earth to pay for the sins of the world. Thank you that Jesus Christ is our peace, and that because of our redemption, we are counted righteous before You. Help us to to be joyful in our appreciation for Emmanuel, God with us. Amen.

Come, You People of the Promise
Words by Joy Patterson

Come, you people of the promise,
Sing for joy! The time is near!
God, the covenant fulfilling,
Soon among us will appear!
As proclaimed in prophet’s story,
Christ will come in humble glory—
God with us, Emmanuel!

Long in darkness we have waited,
Through the shadows made our way,
Gloom and sorrow our companions
As we longed for signs of day—
Great our need for hope and healing,
Some great light our God revealing,
God with us, Emmanuel!

God’s own Son shall dwell among us;
Shadows vanish in that light.
Earth shall know his peace and justice:
Christ who comes shall rule in might.
Let our joy dispel all sadness:
He who comes turns tears to gladness—
God with us, Emmanuel!

Come, You People of the Promise, verse 2

The people who walk in darkness will see a great light; those who live in a dark land, the light will shine on them. Isaiah 9:2

The Israelites had been walking in darkness for many, many years. God had promised that He would send the Light of the World, which His people desperately needed. I think this hymn writer captures the feelings of the people quite eloquently - "gloom and sorrow our companions as we longed for signs of day."

God hadn't abandoned His people! He hadn't forgotten His promise. The people needed hope and healing. I am sure the people who trusted in God with their whole hearts encouraged each other with passages like this from the Psalmist and prophets:

O Israel, hope in the LORD; for with the LORD there is lovingkindness, and with Him is abundant redemption. Psalm 130:7

'For I know the plans that I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.' Jeremiah 29:11

This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope. The LORD’S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:21-23

“For behold, the day is coming, burning like a furnace; and all the arrogant and every evildoer will be chaff; and the day that is coming will set them ablaze,” says the LORD of hosts, “so that it will leave them neither root nor branch. But for you who fear My name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings; and you will go forth and skip about like calves from the stall. You will tread down the wicked, for they will be ashes under the soles of your feet on the day which I am preparing,” says the LORD of hosts.
Micah 4:1-3

Their deliverer was coming!

There was the true Light which, coming into the world, enlightens every man. John 1:9

The Light of the World would be sent to dwell among them, God in flesh, God with us, Emmanuel.

Then Jesus again spoke to them, saying, “I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.” John 8:12

Praise God for sending the Light into our world! And ponder, in this Advent season, how His light is shining through you.


Come, You People of the Promise
Words by Joy Patterson

Come, you people of the promise,
Sing for joy! The time is near!
God, the covenant fulfilling,
Soon among us will appear!
As proclaimed in prophet’s story,
Christ will come in humble glory—
God with us, Emmanuel!

Long in darkness we have waited,
Through the shadows made our way,
Gloom and sorrow our companions
As we longed for signs of day—
Great our need for hope and healing,
Some great light our God revealing,
God with us, Emmanuel!

God’s own Son shall dwell among us;
Shadows vanish in that light.
Earth shall know his peace and justice:
Christ who comes shall rule in might.
Let our joy dispel all sadness:
He who comes turns tears to gladness—
God with us, Emmanuel!

Come, You People of the Promise

In this season of Advent, we remember the people who waited and waited and waited for Jesus' incarnation and we turn our thoughts to His second coming. Sometimes, I feel like we're waiting and waiting and waiting, just like the Israelites before Jesus was born.

This hymn, written in 1994, calls us to think about the Israelites and their waiting, and the promise of Emmanuel, God with us. We'll look at each verse individually as we celebrate His coming and wait for Him to come again.

These people waiting for Jesus were the people of the promise. They were God's chosen people who He had promised to redeem from the time Adam and Eve sinned.

"And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her seed; He shall bruise you on the head, and you shall bruise him on the heel.” Genesis 3:15

He made a covenant with His people and they knew He was a God who would keep His word.

“O LORD, the God of Israel, there is no god like You in heaven or on earth, keeping covenant and showing lovingkindness to Your servants who walk before You with all their heart." II Chronicles 6:14

God would fulfill His covenant by sending a Savior to deliver His people from their sin, once and for all. They had waited for this Messiah from the time He had been promised just after the beginning of creation.

And His coming had been prophesied over and over again.

It will become a sign and a witness to the LORD of hosts in the land of Egypt; for they will cry to the LORD because of oppressors, and He will send them a Savior and a Champion, and He will deliver them. Isaiah 19:20

I think the people of the promise expected their King to come like a King, riding in a chariot, wearing beautiful robes and a jeweled crown. But He came in humble glory: born to a virgin, a helpless baby, both fully God and fully man.

Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the descendants of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. And coming in, he said to her, “Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.” But she was very perplexed at this statement, and kept pondering what kind of salutation this was. The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David; and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will have no end.” Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I am a virgin?” The angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; and for that reason the holy Child shall be called the Son of God. Luke 1:26-35

God kept His promise to His people. And He will keep His promise to you. Meditate today on God's promises.

For as many as are the promises of God, in Him they are yes; therefore also through Him is our Amen to the glory of God through us. II Cor. 1:20

Come, You People of the Promise
Words by Joy Patterson

Come, you people of the promise,
Sing for joy! The time is near!
God, the covenant fulfilling,
Soon among us will appear!
As proclaimed in prophet’s story,
Christ will come in humble glory—
God with us, Emmanuel!

Long in darkness we have waited,
Through the shadows made our way,
Gloom and sorrow our companions
As we longed for signs of day—
Great our need for hope and healing,
Some great light our God revealing,
God with us, Emmanuel!

God’s own Son shall dwell among us;
Shadows vanish in that light.
Earth shall know his peace and justice:
Christ who comes shall rule in might.
Let our joy dispel all sadness:
He who comes turns tears to gladness—
God with us, Emmanuel!

Did You Think to Pray? (from the archives)

Pray without ceasing. I Thess. 5:17

Did You Think to Pray?
Words by Mary A. Kidder

Ere you left your room this morning,
Did you think to pray?
In the name of Christ our Savior,
Did you sue for loving favor,
As a shield today?

Refrain
O how praying rests the weary!
Prayer will change the night to day;
So when life seems dark and dreary,
Don’t forget to pray.

When you met with great temptation,
Did you think to pray?
By His dying love and merit,
Did you claim the Holy Spirit
As your guide and stay?

When your heart was filled with anger,
Did you think to pray?
Did you plead for grace, my brother,
That you might forgive another
Who had crossed your way?

When sore trials came upon you,
Did you think to pray?
When your soul was bowed in sorrow,
Balm of Gilead did you borrow
At the gates of day?

As children of God, we have a wonderful privilege – we can go to God directly in prayer, with praise and petition. We also have the promise that Jesus lives to intercede for us (Romans 8, Hebrews 7:25) when we don’t have the words to pray.

Prayer should be a regular and natural part of our life. But as sinful humans, we don’t always commit ourselves to prayer as we should. This hymn reminds us to pray, because prayer makes a difference.

So many times I have caught myself in the midst of worry and have thought, “why am I spending time stewing over this? I should just be praying!” I love how the refrain states it: “O how praying rests the weary.” I know that I often find rest after releasing my burden and giving it to the Lord. That’s what He promises us:

Cast your burden upon the LORD and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken. Psalm 55:22

I have found this promise to be true in my life: God has sustained me in a miraculous way when I have cast my burdens on Him. He doesn’t want us to bear them alone. He wants to bear our burden, and encourages us to bring them to Him.

“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

In addition to finding relief from trials and burdens, this hymn covers many different reasons for praying: to find strength for the day ahead, to be able to resist the temptor’s power, to be guided by the Holy Spirit, to plead for grace and the ability to forgive another. God wants to hear from us in all our situations. And though we may not get the answer right away, we are to keep on praying.

I love this parable that Jesus shared with his followers about prayer:

Now He was telling them a parable to show that at all times they ought to pray and not to lose heart, saying, "In a certain city there was a judge who did not fear God and did not respect man. There was a widow in that city, and she kept coming to him, saying, 'Give me legal protection from my opponent.' For a while he was unwilling; but afterward he said to himself, 'Even though I do not fear God nor respect man, yet because this widow bothers me, I will give her legal protection, otherwise by continually coming she will wear me out.'" And the Lord said, "Hear what the unrighteous judge said; now, will not God bring about justice for His elect who cry to Him day and night, and will He delay long over them? I tell you that He will bring about justice for them quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?" Luke 18:1-8

Our earnest prayer is pleasing to God, and He will not delay long over us! Thanks be to God for the beautiful gift of prayer.

We Have An Anchor (from the archives)

This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil… Hebrews 6:20

This wonderful gospel song really gives a clear picture of what it means to have hope as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast. The writer uses this metaphor in every verse to describe our firm foundation and security in Jesus Christ.

If you’ve ever been in a boat that has an anchor, or you’ve seen one work even in a movie or on TV, you can relate to the word pictures here. An anchor is attached to the boat with very strong ropes or chains, and then let over the side to hold the boat in a particular place. So even a strong wind won’t carry the boat off because it is anchored – in the refrain the writer says we are fastened to the Rock which cannot move! Isn’t that good news??

Webster’s dictionary gives a second definition besides the obvious use for a boat: a reliable or principal support. That is also a great picture of the hope we have in Christ –it’s our principal support!

In verse two we see how we are attached to our anchor – the cables are passed from His heart to mine, and the anchor is well secured by the Savior’s hand, for He upholds all things by the word of His power. (Heb. 1:3)

I love how the author uses this sailing analogy for all it’s worth! Has your anchor been tested when you are in the Straits of Fear? Has God been faithful to you? He has to me. He has shown Himself and His promises to be true. Specifically that

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, nor will the flame burn you. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel; your Savior. Isaiah 43:2-3

Finally we see that there will come a time when all the storms will be in our past – when we are anchored securely in heaven and in God’s presence, having been protected and brought safely through the storms of our lives into our eternal home, the city of gold, the harbor bright.

For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ; who will transform the body of our humble state into conformity with the body of His glory, by the exertion of the power that He has even to subject all things to Himself. Phil. 3:20-21

We Have an Anchor
Words by Priscilla J. Owens

Will your anchor hold in the storms of life,
When the clouds unfold their wings of strife?
When the strong tides lift and the cables strain,
Will your anchor drift, or firm remain?

Refrain
We have an anchor that keeps the soul
Steadfast and sure while the billows roll,
Fastened to the Rock which cannot move,
Grounded firm and deep in the Savior’s love.

It is safely moored, ’twill the storm withstand,
For ’tis well secured by the Savior’s hand;
And the cables, passed from His heart to mine,
Can defy that blast, thro’ strength divine.

It will firmly hold in the Straits of Fear—
When the breakers have told that the reef is near;
Though the tempest rave and the wild winds blow,
Not an angry wave shall our bark o’erflow.

When our eyes behold through the gath’ring night
The city of gold, our harbor bright,
We shall anchor fast by the heav’nly shore,
With the storms all past forevermore.

The Power of God, verse 10

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. Romans 1:16

In our final verse of this great hymn, we find the early church growing and the news of the gospel spreading throughout the Gentile people. Paul has been on several missionary journeys and he and his helpers are preaching the good news and seeing people's lives changed because of their faith in Jesus Christ.

In Acts 16, just prior to the story that's highlighted in this hymn, we find Lydia, a seller of purple fabrics, become the first person in Europe to respond to the Holy Spirit's urging. She and her husband are baptized and invite Paul to come and stay with them.

But as they were walking, they are met by a slave girl who is bringing her masters much money by fortune telling. She harasses Paul, and continues to for several days, until finally Paul commands the evil spirit to leave her. And it does at that very moment.

Well, you can imagine how her masters feel about this - they now have lost all hope of profit because their fortune teller has lost her spirit of divination!

So, they seize Paul and his companions and bring them before the authorities.

But when her masters saw that their hope of profit was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the market place before the authorities, and when they had brought them to the chief magistrates, they said, “These men are throwing our city into confusion, being Jews, and are proclaiming customs which it is not lawful for us to accept or to observe, being Romans.” Acts 16:19-21

Wow. These guys had a way to distract from the real issue didn't they? Well, their approach worked.

The crowd rose up together against them, and the chief magistrates tore their robes off them and proceeded to order them to be beaten with rods. When they had struck them with many blows, they threw them into prison, commanding the jailer to guard them securely; and he, having received such a command, threw them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks. Acts 16:22-24

Not only are they thrown in prison, but first they are stripped and beaten with rods! And they weren't thrown in just the regular prison, but the inner prison where their feet are put in the stocks!

If you've read Paul's epistles a few times, you won't be surprised at his reaction. This is the man who exhorts us to "in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus" (I Thessalonians 5:18). And that's just what he does.

But about midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns of praise to God and the prisoners were listening to them. Acts 16:25

As our hymnwriter says, Paul and Silas knew the way to pray. God heard, and His power was mightily on display.

And suddenly there came a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison house were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone’s chains were unfastened. Acts 6:26

Can you imagine? What if you had been a fellow prisoner there that night? All the doors open and your chains fall off! What would you do? What if you were in charge of all those prisoners and you found the prison doors open and you saw prisoners free from their chains?

When the jailer awoke and saw the prison doors opened, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself, supposing that the prisoners had escaped. Acts 16:27

This jailer knew he was in trouble. He was ready to kill himself, since he thought all the prisoners had escaped on his watch. (Well, technically, he wasn't watching very well since he had been asleep! But he knew he was responsible for these prisoners and he thought he had lost them all once the doors opened.) But Paul saves him from committing suicide.

But Paul cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Do not harm yourself, for we are all here!” Acts 16:28

Now remember, it's just after midnight, so it's dark out. The jailer couldn't see that all the prisoners were STILL IN THE JAIL!!!

The fact that they were all there made an incredible impression on this man, and he immediately sought out Paul and Silas and inquired on how to be saved.

And he called for lights and rushed in, and trembling with fear he fell down before Paul and Silas, and after he brought them out, he said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” Acts 16:29-30

Paul shared the gospel with the jailer, and his whole household, who were immediately baptized!

They said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” And they spoke the word of the Lord to him together with all who were in his house. And he took them that very hour of the night and washed their wounds, and immediately he was baptized, he and all his household. And he brought them into his house and set food before them, and rejoiced greatly, having believed in God with his whole household. Acts 16:31-34

Wow, the power of God is just all over this story! First, His power commands the evil spirit out of the fortune teller. Then he protects Paul and Silas in jail, even giving them hope, as they sing praises to Him in the midst of their situation. He causes an earthquake to open the door of the jail and to unleash the chains. And I would venture to say that it is His power that keeps all the prisoners in the jail; not one of them escaped! (I can understand that Paul and Silas would not escape, but the others - not so much!) The power of His gospel is shared with the jailer and he and his entire family become believers and are baptized.

That power is at work in our world today, friends! Call on the name of Jesus and see how He works through your life and your situations. If you are bound by chains in a prison - whether it's a situation you find hopeless, a sin you can't get free from - pray and sing praises, just like Paul did. Ask for His power to open the doors and unlock the chains. Keep your eyes on Jesus and the power of His gospel. And see how many people will be changed because of your faithfulness. Just like Paul and the jailer, your faith may influence others who will want to be saved by seeing the powerful work of your God.

The Power of God
Words by Frederick A. Graves

When Abraham and Sarah had been promised a son,
They were surprised and knew not what to say;
But they knew what God had promised He was able to perform:
And the power of God is just the same today.

Refrain
The pow’r of God is just the same today,
It doesn’t matter what the people say;
Whatever God has promised
He’s able to perform:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When Moses wanted water to quench the people’s thirst,
He knew that God would then provide a way;
Although his rod was useful he had the power first:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When Moses made a serpent and placed it on a pole,
The bitten ones were told to look that way,
And then while they were looking Jehovah-rophi made them whole:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When Joshua was commander, he spoke—the sun stood still,
The moon its onward course was made to stay;
Thus he won a mighty battle, for he did his Father’s will:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When Naaman, the leper, before Elisha stood,
He thought he knew just what the seer would say,
But he had to wash in Jordan, though he thought it wasn’t good:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When David met Goliath he meant to have a fight,
The leaders put the battle in array;
Of course he killed the giant, for he was in the right:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When Jonah went to Tarshish to flee away from God,
A mighty fish was waiting for its prey;
It quickly swallowed Jonah, then threw him on the sod:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When Malachi, the prophet, was preaching all abroad,
And cutting like sickle and the scythe;
The people were accursed, for they were robbing God,
They failed to bring the offering and the tithe.

Then came the blessed Savior, with power to cleanse and heal,
To bear my sin and sickness all away;
My burdens, too, He carries, and doth my sorrows feel:
And the power of God is just the same today.

Through Paul and Silas singing and praying in the jail,
For Paul and Silas knew the way to pray;
The prison doors were opened, for locks could not avail,
And the power of God is just the same today.

The Power of God, verse 9

But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by His grace we would be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. Titus 3:4-7

I've been reading through the gospels in the last few days and have been reminded of the power of God that was on display when Jesus walked this earth. So far, we've seen God's power all throughout the Old Testament stories, and now, He sends His Son to live among His people and save them from their sin, once and for all.

God sent His son to be born just like all other humans; except that He was conceived by the Holy Spirit! Now that's power.

Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the descendants of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. And coming in, he said to her, “Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.” But she was very perplexed at this statement, and kept pondering what kind of salutation this was. The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David; and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will have no end.” Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I am a virgin?” The angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; and for that reason the holy Child shall be called the Son of God. And behold, even your relative Elizabeth has also conceived a son in her old age; and she who was called barren is now in her sixth month. For nothing will be impossible with God.” And Mary said, “Behold, the bondslave of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her. Luke 1:26-38

Jesus was born, and was raised as a child by his parents, just like most children. But it was clear that He was different.

Now His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He became twelve, they went up there according to the custom of the Feast; and as they were returning, after spending the full number of days, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. But His parents were unaware of it, but supposed Him to be in the caravan, and went a day’s journey; and they began looking for Him among their relatives and acquaintances. When they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem looking for Him. Then, after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were amazed at His understanding and His answers. When they saw Him, they were astonished; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You treated us this way? Behold, Your father and I have been anxiously looking for You.” And He said to them, “Why is it that you were looking for Me? Did you not know that I had to be in My Father’s house?” But they did not understand the statement which He had made to them. And He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and He continued in subjection to them; and His mother treasured all these things in her heart. And Jesus kept increasing in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men. Luke 2:41-52

Even though He was God, He continued to live in subjection to His earthly parents, and as He grew, He increased in wisdom and stature. When He began His ministry, at about 30 years old, He immediately became known for His power to cleanse and heal.

Jesus was going throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every kind of disease and every kind of sickness among the people. The news about Him spread throughout all Syria; and they brought to Him all who were ill, those suffering with various diseases and pains, demoniacs, epileptics, paralytics; and He healed them.
Matthew 4:23-24

The ultimate healing came when Jesus paid the price for sin by dying on the cross. He did what God had sent Him to do - to save people, healing them from their sin-sick condition. This is what the angel told Joseph, when He explained to him why and how his fiance would now be pregnant!

But when he had considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife; for the Child who has been conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. She will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.” Matthew 1:20-21

Not only is Jesus our Savior, but He is our friend. Because He experienced life on earth as a human, the Bible tells us that there's nothing we experience that He didn't already feel for us. So He can identify with our burdens and our suffering, and sympathize with us in our weakness. Our God knows us, and knows what we feel! That's power!

Therefore, He had to be made like His brethren in all things, so that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. For since He Himself was tempted in that which He has suffered, He is able to come to the aid of those who are tempted. Hebrews 2:17-18

Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin. Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:14-16

Jesus not only sympathizes with us and feels our sorrow, but He invites us to share our burden with Him. He promises rest when we come to Him. Since His yoke is easy, He will bear our burden for us.

Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

God's power was manifest through Jesus here on earth, and it is the same power at work in our lives today. We only have to recognize it, call on it, and rely on it to see the evidence of God and His healing, saving, sympathizing power!


The Power of God
Words by Frederick A. Graves

When Abraham and Sarah had been promised a son,
They were surprised and knew not what to say;
But they knew what God had promised He was able to perform:
And the power of God is just the same today.

Refrain
The pow’r of God is just the same today,
It doesn’t matter what the people say;
Whatever God has promised
He’s able to perform:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When Moses wanted water to quench the people’s thirst,
He knew that God would then provide a way;
Although his rod was useful he had the power first:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When Moses made a serpent and placed it on a pole,
The bitten ones were told to look that way,
And then while they were looking Jehovah-rophi made them whole:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When Joshua was commander, he spoke—the sun stood still,
The moon its onward course was made to stay;
Thus he won a mighty battle, for he did his Father’s will:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When Naaman, the leper, before Elisha stood,
He thought he knew just what the seer would say,
But he had to wash in Jordan, though he thought it wasn’t good:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When David met Goliath he meant to have a fight,
The leaders put the battle in array;
Of course he killed the giant, for he was in the right:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When Jonah went to Tarshish to flee away from God,
A mighty fish was waiting for its prey;
It quickly swallowed Jonah, then threw him on the sod:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When Malachi, the prophet, was preaching all abroad,
And cutting like sickle and the scythe;
The people were accursed, for they were robbing God,
They failed to bring the offering and the tithe.

Then came the blessed Savior, with power to cleanse and heal,
To bear my sin and sickness all away;
My burdens, too, He carries, and doth my sorrows feel:
And the power of God is just the same today.

Through Paul and Silas singing and praying in the jail,
For Paul and Silas knew the way to pray;
The prison doors were opened, for locks could not avail,
And the power of God is just the same today.

The Power of God, verse 8

Teach me Your way, O LORD; I will walk in Your truth; Unite my heart to fear Your name. Psalm 86:11

Our hymn takes an interesting turn in this verse. So far, we've basically seen God's power at work in miracles - Abraham gets a son in his old age, water comes from a rock, a young boy beats a giant, a whale swallows a disobedient prophet then coughs him back up. We don't see a miracle in our story today - if you think about it in those terms. But we're getting ready to see God's power at work as we have never seen it before. As the story continues to unfold, it points increasingly to a Redeemer who will deliver God's people once and for all.

God sent Malachi to the Israelites to call them to repentance. The people and the priests had forgotten the reason God had given them rules for the temple and for their behavior.

"Speak to all the congregation of the sons of Israel and say to them, 'You shall be holy, for I the LORD your God am holy.'" Leviticus 19:2

They had become mechanical in their observances (not unlike a lot of people today!).

So God calls Malachi to reach the people and shake them from their complacency. Malachi uses questions to make the people think about their behavior and why God was unhappy with them. (If you've never read Malachi, please stop here and go read it! It's only 4 chapters, so it won't take long!)

Malachi first reminds the people that God loves them, and questions why they don't respect Him. Of course, they respond "how have we not respected you?" Malachi reminds them that their sacrifices have been defiled. They have been instructed to offer clean, spotless animals without defect but instead they are bringing animals that are blind, crippled and diseased. The Lord points out that even the governor wouldn't be happy with that kind of sacrifice, if it was offered to him. They want God's favor, but they are not treating Him with respect and honor.

“Oh that there were one among you who would shut the gates, that you might not uselessly kindle fire on My altar! I am not pleased with you,” says the LORD of hosts, “nor will I accept an offering from you. For from the rising of the sun even to its setting, My name will be great among the nations, and in every place incense is going to be offered to My name, and a grain offering that is pure; for My name will be great among the nations,” says the LORD of hosts. “But you are profaning it, in that you say, ‘The table of the Lord is defiled, and as for its fruit, its food is to be despised.’ You also say, ‘My, how tiresome it is!’ And you disdainfully sniff at it,” says the LORD of hosts, “and you bring what was taken by robbery and what is lame or sick; so you bring the offering! Should I receive that from your hand?” says the LORD. “But cursed be the swindler who has a male in his flock and vows it, but sacrifices a blemished animal to the Lord, for I am a great King,” says the LORD of hosts, “and My name is feared among the nations.” Malachi 1:10-14

The Lord is worthy of honor and the people and priests, by their actions, are saying "It's too hard to serve the Lord."

Malachi gives a warning to the priests (the ones who make the sacrifices for the people). The Lord will curse the Levites (the priests) and curse their blessing and punish their descendants if they continue in their wicked ways. He reminds them that God made a covenant with the Levites to bring life and peace, and that they are to pass on to the people God's instructions and truth. They once did revere Him, and lived lives of righteousness, even turning others from their sin. But not anymore.

"For the lips of a priest should preserve knowledge, and men should seek instruction from his mouth; for he is the messenger of the LORD of hosts. But as for you, you have turned aside from the way; you have caused many to stumble by the instruction; you have corrupted the covenant of Levi,” says the LORD of hosts. So I also have made you despised and abased before all the people, just as you are not keeping My ways but are showing partiality in the instruction." Malachi 2:7-9

Next Malachi calls the people to faithfulness. He reminds them that they are all children of one Father, and because of that, they should not be betraying the covenant made with their ancestors. The people weep because God does not accept their offerings, but they are living contrary to His commands. They think that those who are doing evil should be blessed by the Lord, and then wonder "where is the God of justice?" (I don't know about you, but this is looking more and more like the time we live in!)

And then God tells them of His plan to send a Deliverer.

“Behold, I am going to send My messenger, and he will clear the way before Me. And the Lord, whom you seek, will suddenly come to His temple; and the messenger of the covenant, in whom you delight, behold, He is coming,” says the LORD of hosts. Malachi 3:1

Oh, this must have given the Israelites such hope! He is coming! But look what happens when He comes...

“But who can endure the day of His coming? And who can stand when He appears? For He is like a refiner’s fire and like fullers’ soap. He will sit as a smelter and purifier of silver, and He will purify the sons of Levi and refine them like gold and silver, so that they may present to the LORD offerings in righteousness. Then the offering of Judah and Jerusalem will be pleasing to the LORD as in the days of old and as in former years. Then I will draw near to you for judgment; and I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers and against the adulterers and against those who swear falsely, and against those who oppress the wage earner in his wages, the widow and the orphan, and those who turn aside the alien and do not fear Me,” says the LORD of hosts. Malachi 3:2-5

And then God offers a reminder of His covenant to the people and why He hasn't already destroyed them, and what they can do to be restored.

“For I, the LORD, do not change; therefore you, O sons of Jacob, are not consumed. From the days of your fathers you have turned aside from My statutes and have not kept them. Return to Me, and I will return to you,” says the LORD of hosts. Malachi 3:6-7

Return to Me! Of course, the people ask how do they return. And Malachi tells them to stop cheating God - to bring all the tithes and offerings in to the storehouse as they were commanded. He tells them to stop talking arrogantly against God, thinking they know better than Him how they should behave.

Well, the people listened. And those that repented wrote their names in a book of remembrance.

Then those who feared the LORD spoke to one another, and the LORD gave attention and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before Him for those who fear the LORD and who esteem His name. “They will be Mine,” says the LORD of hosts, “on the day that I prepare My own possession, and I will spare them as a man spares his own son who serves him.” So you will again distinguish between the righteous and the wicked, between one who serves God and one who does not serve Him. Malachi 3:16-18

The Lord reminds the people that the judgment day is coming, but that there is hope for those who fear His name.

"But for you who fear My name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings; and you will go forth and skip about like calves from the stall." Malachi 4:2

God has called us to live lives of holiness, because He is holy. And we can only do it through Jesus Christ, our righteousness. Through Malachi, God has prepared the people for their Deliverer who will reconcile people to God through His death on a cross.

We're living under a New Covenant now, but that doesn't change the fact that God has still called us to obedience and reverence of His Holy Name. The story of Malachi and the Israelites and their cheating of God and neglecting true worship calls me to a closer obedience and to pray that God would send a revival among His followers today; that we might be called to holier living in our sinful generation so that others would see His power and fear His name.

The Power of God
Words by Frederick A. Graves

When Abraham and Sarah had been promised a son,
They were surprised and knew not what to say;
But they knew what God had promised He was able to perform:
And the power of God is just the same today.

Refrain
The pow’r of God is just the same today,
It doesn’t matter what the people say;
Whatever God has promised
He’s able to perform:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When Moses wanted water to quench the people’s thirst,
He knew that God would then provide a way;
Although his rod was useful he had the power first:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When Moses made a serpent and placed it on a pole,
The bitten ones were told to look that way,
And then while they were looking Jehovah-rophi made them whole:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When Joshua was commander, he spoke—the sun stood still,
The moon its onward course was made to stay;
Thus he won a mighty battle, for he did his Father’s will:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When Naaman, the leper, before Elisha stood,
He thought he knew just what the seer would say,
But he had to wash in Jordan, though he thought it wasn’t good:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When David met Goliath he meant to have a fight,
The leaders put the battle in array;
Of course he killed the giant, for he was in the right:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When Jonah went to Tarshish to flee away from God,
A mighty fish was waiting for its prey;
It quickly swallowed Jonah, then threw him on the sod:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When Malachi, the prophet, was preaching all abroad,
And cutting like sickle and the scythe;
The people were accursed, for they were robbing God,
They failed to bring the offering and the tithe.

Then came the blessed Savior, with power to cleanse and heal,
To bear my sin and sickness all away;
My burdens, too, He carries, and doth my sorrows feel:
And the power of God is just the same today.

Through Paul and Silas singing and praying in the jail,
For Paul and Silas knew the way to pray;
The prison doors were opened, for locks could not avail,
And the power of God is just the same today.

The Power of God, verse 7

Praise the LORD! How blessed is the man who fears the LORD, Who greatly delights in His commandments. Psalm 112:1

In our story today, the power of God is on display in a way probably none of us could ever imagine if it weren't written down for us in the Bible. Most of us have heard this story time and time again as we grew up in Sunday School, and I think it has a special appeal to children because of the drama of it all - a big fish swallows a man! But even for adults, there's a lot to learn from this story of a man who didn't obey God and instead did what he wanted to do. Let's take a closer look at Jonah.

Jonah was a prophet from a land near Nazareth. As our story opens, God tells Jonah to go to Ninevah. He wants Jonah to tell the Ninevites about His coming judgment because the people are evil and engaged in wicked practices.

But Jonah had another idea. Instead of obeying God, he did what he wanted to do.

But Jonah got up and went in the opposite direction to get away from the Lord. He went down to the port of Joppa, where he found a ship leaving for Tarshish. He bought a ticket and went on board, hoping to escape from the Lord by sailing to Tarshish. Jonah 1:3

When I read this now, it's almost comical! Jonah was hoping to escape from the Lord by sailing to the southern part of Spain, near Gibraltar. Escape from the Lord? We know what the Bible tells us about that...

Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? If I ascend to heaven, You are there; if I make my bed in Sheol, behold, You are there. If I take the wings of the dawn, if I dwell in the remotest part of the sea, even there Your hand will lead me, and Your right hand will lay hold of me. If I say, “Surely the darkness will overwhelm me, and the light around me will be night,” even the darkness is not dark to You, and the night is as bright as the day. Darkness and light are alike to You. Psalm 139:7-12

Well, the Lord knew exactly where Jonah was, and He reminded Jonah who was in charge. He sent a big storm, and violent winds, so that the ship that Jonah got on, headed to Tarshish, was in danger of breaking apart. The men who were on the ship were frantic; they were crying out, each to his own god, and they were even throwing the cargo over the side to lighten the load. And where was Jonah in all of this? He was down in the ship's hold, taking a nap.

The captain thought Jonah should be awakened so he could call on his god. (Obviously the other tactics have not worked!)

So the captain approached him and said, “How is it that you are sleeping? Get up, call on your god. Perhaps your god will be concerned about us so that we will not perish.” Jonah 1:6

The sailors had an idea of how to assign blame - they would cast lots to find out whose fault this was. Well they did, and Jonah lost.

Then they said to him, “Tell us, now! On whose account has this calamity struck us? What is your occupation? And where do you come from? What is your country? From what people are you?” He said to them, “I am a Hebrew, and I fear the LORD God of heaven who made the sea and the dry land.” Jonah 1:8-9

I don't know about you, but I'm sort of surprised at Jonah's honesty to the sailors. He says he fears the Lord God of heaven but yet he didn't obey Him and go to Ninevah. The sailors now know exactly why their ship is in peril and they are furious!

Then the men became extremely frightened and they said to him, “How could you do this?” For the men knew that he was fleeing from the presence of the LORD, because he had told them. Jonah 1:10

Even though these men weren't followers of the Lord, they had a healthy appreciation for Him - they knew His power because they had experienced it out there on the sea! Now they needed to know how to please God so that the storm would stop and they would be safe.

So they said to him, “What should we do to you that the sea may become calm for us?”—for the sea was becoming increasingly stormy. He said to them, “Pick me up and throw me into the sea. Then the sea will become calm for you, for I know that on account of me this great storm has come upon you.” Jonah 1:11-12

Well, the sailors didn't like that idea so they tried to fix it themselves by rowing back to land. But the sea became even stormier. So they cried out to God, and then threw Jonah overboard.

Then they called on the LORD and said, “We earnestly pray, O LORD, do not let us perish on account of this man’s life and do not put innocent blood on us; for You, O LORD, have done as You have pleased.” So they picked up Jonah, threw him into the sea, and the sea stopped its raging. Jonah 1:14-15

The sea stopped raging. Raging one minute, quiet the next. That is the power of God. The sailors knew that it was nothing but the power of God, and they were awestruck by it. They offered the Lord a sacrifice and vowed to serve Him only.

And what happened to Jonah, who they threw overboard?

And the LORD appointed a great fish to swallow Jonah, and Jonah was in the stomach of the fish three days and three nights.
Jonah 1:17

The Lord appointed a great fish to swallow Jonah! His power continues to be on display. God kept Jonah inside that fish for three days and three nights. For me, it's extremely hard to imagine what that would be like - besides the tossing around in the sea as the animal moves, there's the disgust of being inside a fish's stomach! Eww! But God used this experience to move Jonah and to teach him. And it worked. Jonah cried out to God from the belly of the fish, and prayed:

“I called out of my distress to the LORD, and He answered me. I cried for help from the depth of Sheol; You heard my voice. For You had cast me into the deep, into the heart of the seas, and the current engulfed me. All Your breakers and billows passed over me. So I said, ‘I have been expelled from Your sight. Nevertheless I will look again toward Your holy temple.’ Water encompassed me to the point of death. The great deep engulfed me, weeds were wrapped around my head. I descended to the roots of the mountains. The earth with its bars was around me forever, but You have brought up my life from the pit, O LORD my God. While I was fainting away, I remembered the LORD, and my prayer came to You, into Your holy temple. Those who regard vain idols forsake their faithfulness, but I will sacrifice to You with the voice of thanksgiving. That which I have vowed I will pay. Salvation is from the LORD.” Jonah 2:2-9

We see that Jonah is truly repentant, and God heard him. God's power is on display again: He commands the fish, and it vomits Jonah up onto the dry land. (Don't even get me started about what that would be like...)

Jonah's back on dry land, and the Lord tells him again to go to Ninevah. This time Jonah listens, and starts walking. He gets to Ninevah and starts preaching in the streets that God will destroy them in 40 days if they don't repent.

The people believed Jonah, and responded.

Then the people of Nineveh believed in God; and they called a fast and put on sackcloth from the greatest to the least of them.
Jonah 3:5

Even the king repented, and called his people to repentance.

When the word reached the king of Nineveh, he arose from his throne, laid aside his robe from him, covered himself with sackcloth and sat on the ashes. He issued a proclamation and it said, “In Nineveh by the decree of the king and his nobles: Do not let man, beast, herd, or flock taste a thing. Do not let them eat or drink water. But both man and beast must be covered with sackcloth; and let men call on God earnestly that each may turn from his wicked way and from the violence which is in his hands. Who knows, God may turn and relent and withdraw His burning anger so that we will not perish.” Jonah 3:6-9

God's power is on display again; He turned he heart of the king and brought Him to repentance.

The king’s heart is like channels of water in the hand of the LORD; He turns it wherever He wishes. Proverbs 21:1

God was pleased with the people of Ninevah for their repentance. So He did not destroy them as He said He would.

When God saw their deeds, that they turned from their wicked way, then God relented concerning the calamity which He had declared He would bring upon them. And He did not do it. Jonah 3:10

God saved the people, because they listened to Jonah and turned away from their wickedness. But He wasn't done with Jonah. Jonah still had some learning to do about God and His power.

The Ninevites were Israel's enemy, and Jonah was not pleased that God spared their lives. These were wicked people, and Jonah was angry - he even told God, "I knew this would happen!"

He prayed to the LORD and said, “Please LORD, was not this what I said while I was still in my own country? Therefore in order to forestall this I fled to Tarshish, for I knew that You are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abundant in lovingkindness, and one who relents concerning calamity. Therefore now, O LORD, please take my life from me, for death is better to me than life.” Jonah 4:2-3

Jonah was angry because as a prophet, he had predicted Ninevah's destruction, and told them so. God called the people to Himself, and spared them, so Jonah has a pity party. God still has something to teach Jonah.

Jonah went to the outskirts of the city to watch what would happen. He built a little shelter but it was still very hot. So God made a plant to instantly grow up out of the ground and provide shade and comfort for Jonah. (Power!) The Bible tells us that Jonah was happy about the plant. And here comes God's power to teach Jonah about God's lovingkindness...

But God appointed a worm when dawn came the next day and it attacked the plant and it withered. When the sun came up God appointed a scorching east wind, and the sun beat down on Jonah’s head so that he became faint and begged with all his soul to die, saying, “Death is better to me than life.” Jonah 4:7-8

God uses this opportunity to show Jonah what he's missing.

Then God said to Jonah, “Do you have good reason to be angry about the plant?” And he said, “I have good reason to be angry, even to death.” Then the LORD said, “You had compassion on the plant for which you did not work and which you did not cause to grow, which came up overnight and perished overnight. Should I not have compassion on Nineveh, the great city in which there are more than 120,000 persons who do not know the difference between their right and left hand, as well as many animals?” Jonah 4:9-11

God used this plant as an object lesson for Jonah. Jonah didn't put the plant there, yet he feels sorry for it and has compassion for it. God, the creator of heaven and earth, and the creator of the people of Ninevah, sees a great city living in spiritual darkness. He has compassion on them and sends them a prophet to call them to repentance.

The story ends right there, so we don't know Jonah's response! What we do know is that God's power was manifest in Jonah and in the people of Ninevah. We learn that there are consequences for our disobedience. You and I probably won't be swallowed by a fish when we disobey, but God uses other things in our life to show us our error, so that we will call out with Jonah, "Salvation is from the Lord!"

The Power of God
Words by Frederick A. Graves

When Abraham and Sarah had been promised a son,
They were surprised and knew not what to say;
But they knew what God had promised He was able to perform:
And the power of God is just the same today.

Refrain
The pow’r of God is just the same today,
It doesn’t matter what the people say;
Whatever God has promised
He’s able to perform:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When Moses wanted water to quench the people’s thirst,
He knew that God would then provide a way;
Although his rod was useful he had the power first:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When Moses made a serpent and placed it on a pole,
The bitten ones were told to look that way,
And then while they were looking Jehovah-rophi made them whole:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When Joshua was commander, he spoke—the sun stood still,
The moon its onward course was made to stay;
Thus he won a mighty battle, for he did his Father’s will:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When Naaman, the leper, before Elisha stood,
He thought he knew just what the seer would say,
But he had to wash in Jordan, though he thought it wasn’t good:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When David met Goliath he meant to have a fight,
The leaders put the battle in array;
Of course he killed the giant, for he was in the right:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When Jonah went to Tarshish to flee away from God,
A mighty fish was waiting for its prey;
It quickly swallowed Jonah, then threw him on the sod:
And the power of God is just the same today.

When Malachi, the prophet, was preaching all abroad,
And cutting like sickle and the scythe;
The people were accursed, for they were robbing God,
They filled to bring the offering and the tithe.

Then came the blessed Savior, with power to cleanse and heal,
To bear my sin and sickness all away;
My burdens, too, He carries, and doth my sorrows feel:
And the power of God is just the same today.

Through Paul and Silas singing and praying in the jail,
For Paul and Silas knew the way to pray;
The prison doors were opened, for locks could not avail,
And the power of God is just the same today.