Love Comes Near:  An Advent Bible Study, Dec. 18th

Read Luke 2:19-21
Write Luke 2:19

Luke 2:19 - "But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart."

"How would you describe the reactions of both Mary and the shepherds?"

Awe, wonder, maybe some fright in the shepherds.

"Circumcision on the eighth day after birth was commanded under Mosaic Law
(Genesis 17:12-14)."

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Love Comes Near

"Our lives move at a fast pace. I don't know who made those rules, but, somehow
we follow them. We pack our schedules to the max, leaving little room for
extras.

"The Christmas season is no exception. And may, in fact, be the rule.

"This Advent, let's take a cue from Mary and take time to ponder God."

Read Psalm 4:4, 77:12 and 143:5

"Take five minutes today and ponder God. Meditate on Him. Close your Bible
and put down your pen. Ponder scripture and search your heart. Celebrate that
because Jesus came, we have direct access to the Father. You can pour out your
heart to him without hesitation.

"If this is a new practice for you, consider trying the palms down, palms up
exercise. I first learned about it while reading 'Celebration of Discipline'
by Richard Foster. You begin by placing your palms down. This symbolizes your
desire to turn over your concerns to God. Tell God what's on your heart and
release it to him. After you've expressed all your anxious places and cares,
turn your palms up. This represents your desire to receive from the Lord. Ask
God for the help you need regarding these concerns. Then, spend a few minutes
in silence, simply enjoying His presence.

"God-honoring meditation is a valuable spiritual discipline. One that can be
hard to prioritize. When our culture wants us to rush through this season,
determine that this Advent, you will take time to slow down. Anticipate his
coming and offer him the praise and adoration he deserves."