December 23, 2016: SOAP #2577:  John 15-18

Scripture:  John (NIV) 17:24 “Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world.

Observation:   As Christmas is only days away, many times I have heard the question, “What do you want for Christmas?” –especially asked of children.  But as Christmas is the celebration of Jesus birth, and on birthdays we often give presents to the one whose birthday we are celebrating, maybe we should be asking, “Jesus, what do YOU want for Christmas?  What do you want for Your birthday?”     In the verse above, Jesus tells the Father what He wants.  He wants His followers to be with Him and to see His glory as the Son of God.   They had seen Him as the Son of Man; He wants them to see Him as the Son of God.  He wants them to see the glory He has in heaven.

Application:   Jesus is so much more than the Baby in the manger.  I am thankful my mom did not break out my baby pictures at every birthday as I was growing up.  Without making less of His miraculous birth 2000 years ago, I sometimes wonder if we should not be making more of His present glorified reign as the King of kings and Lord of lords, the present Victor over death, hell, and the grave—our soon to return Lord!

Prayer:   Jesus, everything about You should be celebrated!  Your every action is worthy of notice and appreciation.  Holy Spirit, guide me in giving Jesus the honor He is due.   Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!