Pastor Leon’s SOAP: Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer

December 24: John 19-21

Scripture: Matthew (NIV) 2:1 After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem 2 and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”
John (NIV) 19:19 Pilate had a notice prepared and fastened to the cross. It read: JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS.

Observation: Today is Christmas Eve, but my assigned Bible reading is about the death and resurrection of Jesus. I remembered that the magi did not come to Jerusalem looking to see IF a king had been born, but wanting to see the king who had been born. Thirty-three years later Pilate refused the request of the Jewish leaders to change his note to read, “this man claimed to be king of the Jews.” The King of the Jews was born in a manger and buried in a borrowed tomb, but He rose from the dead, ascended to heaven and will return not to a manger, nor a tomb, but to the throne—to rule as King of kings and Lord of lords!

Application: At Christmas it is customary to celebrate Jesus as a baby, but it is important for me to remember more than His birth. His amazing birth was the beginning of a sinless life of loving people. His death on the cross provided me the greatest gift I have ever been given—true forgiveness and eternal life! His resurrection is the proof that His death was sufficient. His soon return as the King of kings and Lord of lords gives me hope.

Prayer: Happy Birthday, Jesus. May the gift of my life bring you joy. Amen

Pastor Leon

Making friends for time and eternity!