December 26

Today's Reading
Clearly, God showed Zechariah that Messiah was coming with peace rather than a battle cry. He would ride into Jerusalem on a colt rather than a war horse.  The ancient Philistines -- modern Palestinians -- will finally be at peace with Israel.  It's the untiring goal of every American President, but it will happen when Christ reigns.
Revelation. Who is this mysterious "prostitute," who sits on the city with seven hills? Originally, it was thought to be the old Roman Empire. I have read at least one meticulous study which claimed that this was the Catholic church. Some have said that it is ancient Babylon rising back to power. Most recently, there has been speculation that it is a new Roman Empire which is taking shape now as the European Union. I am beginning to believe that this is a spirit which manifests in slightly different ways over the ages. I spent 2009 reading "The One Year Christian History" and am appalled how the church has prostituted herself with the state over all the years since Christ. And it's not just Catholicism. In some ages and places it has been protestantism. Now, in many parts of the world, it is Islam. In the Biblical era it was Judaism. Over the centuries, virtually every nation on earth has drunk the wine of the evil spirit's immoralities!
That said, what should you and I do? Love Jesus! Know the Word and grow in our walk. Find a local church where Christ is supreme and the Word is not used as a tool to support support someone's political views. When politics is considered, learn to be loving to all on different sides of an argument. Finally, we must always -- ALWAYS -- speak and live the truth, allowing the chips to fall where they may.
Psalms. Having preached my end of year sermon (above), this verse says it well: "13 For your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom. You rule throughout all generations."


Proverbs. I read this verse and was found guilty. Of doing both! Praise God for His grace!
We have but five days left. How are you doing?