BLOGGING THROUGH THE ADVENT SEASON
12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
DAY 9 - The Hope of Solomon
Shana Dawes
Christmas is the time of the year that we all look forward to, whether it be for gifts or time spent with family and friends. For some, the Advent season also creates an atmosphere of hope. It is filled with a time to pause, reflect and remember God’s faithfulness to His promises. Over 2000 years ago, God seeing the brokenness of humanity and how much He loved His creation, sent His son to die so that we could live. This is the hope that Christmas gives. Embedded in this hope is God’s faithfulness, as shown in the early life of Solomon---David’s son by Bathsheba. Solomon took the throne after the death of his father.
Solomon’s early story gives us hope that God is with us and that whatever we ask in His [Jesus’] name, He will do (John 14 vs. 13-14). Have you ever wanted to accomplish something but felt that you didn’t have the knowledge or experience to do it? Solomon saw himself as a “little child” lacking experience on how to perform his kingly duties; but God appeared to him in a dream and told him to ask for whatever he wanted. Solomon asked for wisdom to govern God’s people. Solomon thought not of himself but for the betterment of God’s people. As a result, God granted him the desires of his heart- wisdom- along with wealth and honor which he did not ask for. God told Solomon that if he walked uprightly and was obedient to His statues and commands, he would be granted long life (1 Kings 3 vs. 5-14).
As a young man, Solomon walked uprightly and was obedient to God’s commandments. He made worshiping God a priority and built the temple of God. However, like the rest of humanity, Solomon also faltered. Though he was faithful and committed to God at the beginning of his reign, Solomon was blinded by the things of the world and moved away from God to idolatry and fleshly lusts. Jesus being a descendant from the line of David, came from a lineage that had great faith, but also great brokenness. There was David who committed adultery with Solomon’s mother; then Solomon as king loved foreign women, and married women that God commanded him not to. These women turned his heart away from God and influenced him to worship other gods. Solomon was not wholly devoted to the true and living God anymore; he did not follow God’s commands (1 Kings 11 vs. 1-8).
When some think of King Solomon, they allude to his great wealth and wisdom. Some will only think of the mistakes he made. But even though Solomon faltered, he was not counted out. God did not discard Solomon. Despite his mistakes, God still allowed him to be counted in the genealogy of Jesus. Like Solomon, there have been times when we have faltered and moved away from God. We have allowed the things of the world to entice us and draw us away from what God has called us to do. However, the Advent season reminds us of the hope that God has sent in His Son, so that we may have life (St. John 3 vs. 16). It doesn’t matter what we did, our circumstances, our ancestry, or our past mistakes; they don’t affect how God sees us. He loves us for who we are: His creation. He showed His love for us by sending His son, Jesus, to die for us. Through the birth of Jesus, God has given hope to unbelievers that they can come to Him; and hope to the believers who have stumbled, that there is redemption.
During this Advent season, know that God is with you. You can do all things through Christ; there is nothing impossible for you, as long you have hope in Him. Like Solomon, approach the Lord with humility and obedience to His Words and He will reward you with the desires of your heart. He will enable you to do what you have been called to do. As we take time to pause and reflect, let us hold on to God’s faithfulness. Like young Solomon, if we walk according to God’s ways and keep his commandments, we will prosper in whatever we do. However, if we stumble, let us remember that we have a hope in Jesus, and the knowledge that God has not counted us out, but is waiting for us to return to Him. Today, I encourage you to reflect on Solomon’s words of wisdom in Ecclesiastes 9 vs. 4 “Anyone who is among the living has hope—even a live dog is better off than a dead lion!”

BLOGGING THROUGH THE ADVENT SEASON
12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
DAY 12
Hope, Peace, Love and Joy Fulfilled in Jesus
Rev. Robert Rose
Today, we culminate our studies and blogging on the lives of key characters in the genealogy of Jesus Christ. But we would have reached an anticlimax if we did not speak about the man himself: Jesus. We have learnt through these studies that everything God does is purposeful and well-timed, so we only need to trust His divine plan which can never fail. We have also learned that Jesus was represented by many types and antitypes before He ever came in the flesh. God has certainly been in the story from before the beginning of time. God is in the story; God is in the details.
Hope was fulfilled in Jesus’s coming. The Bible tells us "In the beginning was the Word and the Word  was with God; and the Word was God. In order to give us Hope, the Word became flesh and dwelt among us" (John 1:14). Hope was fulfilled in Jesus through his birth, sacrificial death and glorious resurrection.  Jesus's birth signaled his glorious defeat of the enemy of our souls along with hell, death and the grave. This is why so many were angered and threatened by his arrival and ministry.  It was really the enemy who was threatened and worked through those who persecuted Him.
Peace was also fulfilled in Jesus’s coming.  Isaiah prophesied that Jesus’s name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”–Isaiah 9:6.  Also in Philippians 4:6-7, Paul reminds us "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."  There is no peace or true satisfaction outside of Jesus.
In Psalm 89:1-4, we also read of God's Covenant of Joy and Love. David declares:
"I will sing of the Lord’s great love forever; with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through all generations. I will declare that your love stands firm forever. You have established your faithfulness in heaven itself. You said, I have made a covenant with my chosen one, I have sworn to David my servant, I will establish your line forever and make your throne firm through all generations". By this we know that everlasting Joy and His covenant of Love were also fulfilled at His coming.
Hope, Joy, Peace and Love are our real legacy. So when we say "Merry Christmas!" We shouldn't mean beautiful decorations, nice presents, lots of food, fun, family time and  festivities--even though these are important...We should really mean: rejoice in the legacy, and the timeless, wonderful gift that you and l have been given in Christ our Savior. By saying "Merry Christmas!" We should really mean-- be joyful in the promise of eternal life, eternal Hope, Joy, Peace and Love that this knowledge brings.
My greatest takeaway from the Advent story is how God chooses humble people like me and you to give His Hope, Peace, Joy and Love, and the awesome responsibility to carry out His divine plan...Lowly people like a young shepherd, a promiscuous woman, a forgotten widow (pretending to be a harlot), a barren senior citizen, a virgin girl and the list goes on. In the Christmas story, we also see Jesus coming on the scene in the very humility in which God seals His divine plan. Today, He is still searching for humble hearts in which to dwell. My answer to God is: If you can use anything Lord, you can use me! So, here's my heart Lord, take and seal it, seal it for Thy courts above. 
What will your answer be?

BLOGGING THROUGH THE ADVENT SEASON
12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
DAY 11
Mary—Mother of our Lord and Savior
Minister Paulette Larmond
We were introduced to Mary in St. Matthew 1:18-23 and Luke 1:26-38 when the Angel Gabriel appeared to her with the pronouncement of the miraculous and imminent immaculate conception of Jesus the Messiah. In Luke 1:30-33, “The angel said to her, Mary, do not be afraid. You have found favor with God.  See! You are to become a mother and have a Son. You are to give Him the name Jesus. He will be great. He will be called the Son of the Highest. The Lord God will give Him the place where His early father David sat. He will be King over the family of Jacob forever and His nation will have no end.” Mary at that time was betrothed to Joseph, to be married. This was both unique and conflicting because Mary was a virgin and by the law of the land, this case was a serious breach of fidelity.
When Mary was told what was to come, she asked: “How can this be?” I believe Mary was saying, how will I explain this to Joseph or anyone else? How will I become pregnant without knowing a man…? Mary did not yet understand that what was happening to her was the fulfillment of the prophecy that was foretold in Isaiah 7:14 “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel.” Thankfully, Mary’s humility allowed her to accept the Word spoken over her. Her faith in God did not deter her from being obedient and to be that vessel that God needed to use to bring the Messiah into this world. She boldly declared: “I'm here! The Lord's servant! Let it happen for me just as you have said!" She also praised God for choosing her and allowing this phenomenon to occur (Luke 1:46-55). This was Mary’s Song:
“My soul glorifies the Lord!
 And my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
 For He has been mindful of the humble state of His servant (and)
From now on all generations will call me blessed…”

Like Mary, most of us, are living our best lives, unaware of what God has in store for us. As Mary’s interruption threw her into a life of prominence, forever changed by her destiny to bear the Son of God; let us realize that God also has plans for each of us. He needs us to be His vessels to get His work done. Are we humbling ourselves enough? Are we obedient enough? Do we trust God to manifest His plans in our lives enough? We may not understand what His plans are, but we will do well by trusting that His plans for us are perfect.I’m truly inspired by Mary. She trusted God to do what He needed --beyond human comprehension. She did not care how others would view her. How brave and courageous! Like Mary, we should strive to live our lives, so that we can be honored by God for Him to entrust us with earthly impossibilities. Earthly impossibilities are God’s actualities. In this Advent season, won’t you let the Christ of Christmas rule in your hearts and minds. Would you like Mary, trust Him as you look forward into the new year of limitless possibilities?  God bless!

BLOGGING THROUGH THE ADVENT SEASON
12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
DAY 10- David and the Seasoned Praise
Carol Deane
Much can be said about the Bible character David; but the most repeated phrase is ‘He was a man after God’s heart’. Notwithstanding, David’s life was one of constant pitfalls, disobeying God in many ways, and yet worshipping through many Psalms. The quality that stood out the most about David for me- was his ability to genuinely repent for his disobedience and never repeating his mistakes. Although he was disobedient in his youth, he allowed the experiences to make him wise enough to acknowledge that he needed to establish a genuine relationship with God; and this he did.
According to Winzen (2012), there were some outstanding moments in David’s life that distinguished him as a prototype of Christ. One such notable moment was his fight with Goliath in 1 Samuel 17. At a time when faith and spirit had left the Israelites and their king- Saul, only David dared to answer the giant’s blasphemies. He jumped into the breach, without armor, as a true soldier of his God. He knew that “not with sword or spear does the Lord deliver, for the battle is the Lord’s” (1 Samuel 17:47). With a sling and five stones, David overcame Goliath (17:5). This is emblematic of Christ, the one who overcame Satan’s blasphemies by jumping into the breach to give His life for the whole world conquering the power of hell and the grave. That day, 1 Samuel 18:7 tells us that David’s victory illicit dances and songs of praise from the women.
Another notable moment we recall from the life of David was his dance before the Lord in 2 Samuel 6:14-18. His worship was not superficial but came from the depth of his very being. It came from the love which he shared with his Creator, and the knowledge of who God really was to him. His praise was his unashamed and unapologetic acknowledgment of God’s character and goodness. It was testament that when we experience God personally, we cannot help but embody the spirit of exultation. Like David, despite our critics and those who stand in the place of God to judge us (like his wife Michal judged him); we should praise God from the depths of our beings with seasoned praise. Seasoned praises have witnessed highs and lows, victories, and defeats, and is the kind of praise that has always been the object of God’s affection. It will also be the subject of God’s judgement, because we were created to praise Him. So, like David, let us always give Him preeminence in our life before it’s too late (Philippians 2:10-11).
But David did not always give God preeminence in his life, and he paid dearly for it. At the end of his years, he strongly stated that he would exalt God and set Him before everything else (Psalm 138:2). David personalized his praise, and like him, we too - each one of us - has a personal, unique praise. There is a song of praise that belongs to you and you alone - a song of victory and triumph; a song of perseverance and endurance; a song about God’s incredible love, grace, mercy, and provision that only you can sing. Like David, I can surely say that my praise belongs to me! If I do not sing it, then no one will. If I do not thank God for all he has done for me, no one will... Because no one can praise Him for me like I can.
David’s life proves that one does not have to be perfect to hold God’s attention and to fulfill destiny. He was not the strongest of his brothers, and he was not the most educated. Instead, he was the one who tended the sheep, a nobody in the sight of others. A man who made mistakes and committed one sin after the other, yet he found favor with God; because while men look at the outward appearance, God examines the heart. David understood the true meaning of relationships. It is a two-way experience; he knew that when he praised, God would draw near to Him. David therefore glorified God from the experience of a relationship with him, and God in turn blessed him. David’s life inspires hope for me because I have made several choices in my youth which would have caused God quite a lot of grief. I am positive that although man still looks at my outward appearance, God can see my heart and within the very depths of my soul. I will ensure that for the rest of my life He sees praise and gratitude for mercy and grace bestowed upon me.
Have a happy and worshipful Advent!

BLOGGING THROUGH THE ADVENT SEASON
12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
DAY 8 -
Abraham- The Perpetual Mirror of Christ
Abraham’s life was prototypical of Jesus. It is a perpetual mirror when compared. As the federal head of the covenant of God, Abraham is known as the Father of many nations, whilst Jesus is the Savior of all nations. Both exhibited undying faith in God, and both were called to leave their homes and experience total change i.e. new surroundings, new family, friends, and culture. Yet they both persevered and overcame extreme circumstances that would have defeated others.
Abraham like the Redeemer, functionally “had nowhere to lay his head.” This prototypical stranger and foreigner left his family and friends and ventured to a land not knowing “whither he went”; whilst Jesus left Heaven for Earth giving up his Godhood to be born in a stable and grow up as a carpenter’s son. Both showed unfaltering obedience which resulted in countless blessings for us today. Abraham’s covenant with God saw him using circumcision to further strengthen his trust in God, not man; but it was only an outward sign. Today, we are blest because of Jesus’s covenant with God the Father. Because of Jesus’s covenant, we are able to have our hearts circumcised thus ensuring eternal life.
Both God and Abraham were willing to sacrifice their only begotten sons. In Abraham’s situation his obedience to God’s command to sacrifice his Son Isaac, saw Isaac trusting him completely just like Jesus trusted God on the cross. When it seemed like all hope was lost, God provided Abraham a lamb to be sacrificed in Isaac’s stead. Likewise, when it seemed like all hope for mankind was lost, God provided a sacrificial lamb in the form of His Only Son Jesus to die for our sins.
Abraham watched his son Isaac climbing the hillside with the wood on his back. God also saw Jesus carrying the cross to Mount Calvary to give eternal life to all families of Earth. Finally, I want us to recognize that Abraham’s obedience to God came with the knowledge that by willingly sacrificing his son Isaac---his only heir, he would be surrendering his future and lineage. God the father’s willingness to sacrifice His only son Jesus, also showed His willingness to risk the future of the entire universe, because of love. As sons, both Isaac and Jesus demonstrated what huge rewards--love, trust, obedience, and faith in carrying out instructions can reap.
In summary, Abraham was a type of Christ, his sacrificial dedication to God’s purposes reflected the very character of a God who was willing to give His utmost to save the world. Let us look forward with grateful hearts to commemorating Jesus’s birth this Advent season. Let us demonstrate a renewed understanding of what His birth and ultimate sacrifice granted us. Let us rejoice in the freedom to experience eternal life with Him by believing and accepting this truth. May God continue to bless us through the coming season, and grant us renewed peace, love, and continued health in 2024 and beyond.

BLOGGING THROUGH THE ADVENT SEASON
12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
DAY 7 - The Lady, the Fool and The King

Peace be unto you, and peace be to your house, and peace be to all that you have 
~ 1 Samuel 25:6
 
          1 Samuel 25 tells a beautiful story of a wise, humble, respectful lady named Abigail. Abigail was married to a wealthy fool named Nabal, who is described in 1Samuel 23:3, as “harsh and badly behaved.” Nabal’s callous disregard for his wife and household, left Abigail to face the wrath of an angry king and 400 warriors.
          Nabal disrespected David by refusing to honor David’s request for provision, even after David had previously protected his shepherds in the desert. Abigail, hearing of the communication that occurred between Nabal and David’s men from a servant, immediately went into protective/damage control mode. Knowing that her husband’s disrespect would incite and angry response from David, Abigail intervened. She gathered the provisions that David requested and went out to meet him, hoping to avoid a war between David and Nabal. (1 Samuel 25:14-17). Meeting David, Abigail fell prostrate before him and, utilizing her great communication skills, humility and respect, she was able to persuade David to leave vengeance to God. Thus saving herself, her husband and her household. David’s anger was changed to worship, and he blessed her. (1 Samuel 25:32-33).
          The story of Abigail, the humble mediator, symbolizes the love Christ has for His children. He came to us as the Prince of Peace: “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” ( Isaiah 9:6). Abigail risked her life to save a foolish husband, facing David’s wrath. Christ came to give His life for a sinful generation to escape the wrath of God. (Romans 5:9).
Abigail’s prowess as a true lady and honorable woman, teaches children of God that in the midst of bad situations, there is always something/someone worth saving. She teaches us to be humble, allow God to lead, be approachable, use discretion and show respect at all times. When we are faced with struggles and battles, we need to know that we are never alone. God is always with us. (Deut. 31:6, Matt 28:20) He offers us His strength and grace to go on. (2Cor 12:9) Do not stay stuck in fear or defeat. Nothing is too hard for God. He is always working on our behalf.

BLOGGING THROUGH THE ADVENT SEASON
12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS

DAY 6 – JESSE AND THE CHRISTMAS LEGACY
One day Jesse’s life and the life of his family was changed by the visitation of Samuel the Prophet. Samuel asked for all his sons to anoint one for a special service. Jesse presented his sons, but Samuel did not choose any of them (1 Samuel 16:10).  He asked Jesse a pointed question. Are all your sons here? At that point, Jesse had to present David, his youngest. I believe Jesse did not voluntarily put David in the lineup because he was with the sheep. Not that Jesse was ashamed of him, but it could be that David seemed to be contented with the menial task of shepherding as he was ever attending to his father’s sheep. Maybe he would have no interest in the special service.  However, that was the son that Samuel chose to anoint as the next king of Israel. David. The last fruit of Jesse’s loins (1 Samuel 16 :11-13). The son who later wrote Psalms 23 “The Lord is my shepherd.”  
Undoubtedly, Jesse did not know what an impact his son David would have had on history. He did not know about the prediction in Isaiah 11 verse one about Jesus being the shoot coming up from his lineage through David his son. Just as Samuel went to Jesse and revealed to him that he had another worthy son for the line-up to be King, so it is that God has a way of coming into our lives and confronting us with even the hidden things so that we can surrender all to him. Many people live to see and enjoy their input in their children and even their great, great grandchildren’s life. Some die in their pursuit to make a better life for their future generation. Fortunately for Jesse, he lived to see his youngest son anointed to be King of Israel and live up to the responsibilities that came with “anointing”. Generations later, Simeon and Anna were in the temple at Jerusalem that David built. They lived to see and hold Jesse’s legacy, Jesus Christ, who came through the lineage of David (Luke 2 vs 25 to 38). We may not live to see what pursuits our family lineage undertake but let us pray that our Godly lifestyle and influence will be passed on through each generation and that they too will make a Godly impact on the world to the glory of God.
Joy to the world, the Lord is come! This pronouncement brought Jesse’ generational tree to fulfilment of the messianic promise in Isaiah 11:1-10 (NKJV)There shall come forth a Rod from the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots. The Spirit of the LORD shall rest upon Him, The Spirit of wisdom and understanding, The Spirit of counsel and might, The Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD.  This is the reason we celebrate Christmas. Some do not want to celebrate because of some traumatic event in their lives during this season: loss of a loved one, financial loss, a divorce and the list goes on… My friend died by suicide one Wednesday before Christmas. We sat together in church the Sunday before it happened. This was a very traumatic for me. The Comforter surely does make a difference in our times of grief and loss. Jesus, the Son of David, and the Holy Spirit, The Comforter have come to make our Christmas the best. The legacy, the fruit of Jesse’s loin; Jesus the Son of David has come. Won’t you make Him your choice today?

BLOGGING THROUGH THE ADVENT SEASON
12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS

DAY 5 – JOSEPH: A TYPOLOGY OF JESUS CHRIST
Salome Lewis
Joseph was a type of Christ. From the pit to the palace, his life was symbolic of the betrayal, death, resurrection, and redemption of Jesus. First, His brothers envied him for his vision and the anointing that he was carrying.  This caused them to give way to the enemy who used them to plot to kill him (Genesis 37:18-30).  It was Joseph’s brothers Ruben and Judah who begged for him. Judah wanted to be accountable to his father.  Similarly, Jesus from the time His birth was announced, the oil He was carrying was so great, that King Herod envying Him, killed every boy baby that could be his age or under. This he did in an attempt to wipe out the promised seed. But the Baby Jesus had a “Ruben” and a “Judah” to be His destiny helper in the Three Wise Men who felt accountable to God and not to man.
Jesus is the name given Him before birth and means Savior. However, He did not become the people’s savior until after His death. Similarly, it was after Joseph’s death that Israel received its redemption from Egypt. Joseph was 30 years old when he began his ministry (Gen 41:46). Luke 3:23 tells us that Jesus was also 30 years when He began His public ministry. Joseph was loved by his father, Jacob. Jesus was also loved by His father, who declared in Matthew 3:17 “This is MY BELOVED SON, in whom I am well-pleased.”  The plot to kill Joseph turned out for the good of a nation and the then-world. Likewise, after Jesus’s death, redemption was paid for the whole world. It was after His death we were set free.  In Genesis 41:45, Pharoah gave Joseph a new name. God has also given Jesus a new name that is above every other name (Philippians 2:9).
Joseph was a symbol of what was to come in Jesus. His pit experience was dreadful, but the palace was worth it. If we could keep before us the ever-present promise that ALL THINGS work together for the good of them that love the Lord and to those who are called according to his purpose, then we will see that even when we meet trials of various kinds.... That the testing of our faith is producing steadfastness. So let steadfastness have its full effect, that we may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. If any of us lack wisdom, let us ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given us (James 1:3-5).
Whatever our circumstances this Advent season, this Word is pointing us to keep up in the struggle. If we suffer with Christ, we will also reign with Him. No matter what we are going through, let us hold on and keep fighting until we see our Beulah land someday. Many of us have been betrayed and delayed in our calling like Joseph, but delayed is not denied. Like Joseph, God has been preparing us. During our season of preparation, God has been developing our character, teaching us patience, and refining us with the Refiner's fire until we become proper stewards of the little oil we presently have. In this Advent season and beyond, let us remember that like Joseph and Jesus, what we are carrying is not normal and will reap the palace in due season if we do not faint.

BLOGGING THROUGH THE ADVENT SEASON
12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
DAY 4 –Embracing Judah's Journey: A Lesson in Resilience and Redemption
Aletha Beckford
In the tapestry of biblical narratives, the story of Judah stands out as a testament to the transformative power of resilience and redemption. As a Black Woman and a Minister in Counseling, I find profound inspiration in the journey of Judah—a journey that resonates with the struggles and triumphs of many individuals, particularly those within the African American community.
Judah, the fourth son of Jacob and Leah, faced numerous challenges and setbacks throughout his life. From the depths of jealousy and betrayal to the consequences of his own actions, Judah's path was marred by pain and hardship. As a black woman, I understand the weight of generational struggles and societal challenges that many in our community grapple with today. Judah's story, however, imparts invaluable lessons on navigating adversity with faith and resilience. These are my take aways from Judah's story:
Lesson 1: Confronting Shame and Embracing Redemption
Judah's life took a transformative turn when he confronted his own shame and guilt. In the story of Tamar (Genesis 38), Judah faces the consequences of his past mistakes, yet he doesn't shy away from them. Instead, he acknowledges his wrongdoing and takes responsibility for his actions. As a counselor, I often witness the transformative power of acknowledging and confronting one's own shame. Judah's journey teaches us that true redemption begins with an honest assessment of ourselves and a willingness to change.
Lesson 2: The Power of Second Chances
Judah's story is marked by second chances—opportunities for growth and redemption that he seizes with humility. Tamar, a key figure in Judah's narrative, represents the possibility of redemption and a new beginning. In my counseling, I often emphasize the importance of second chances, both in our relationships with others and in our relationship with ourselves. Judah teaches us that no one is beyond the reach of grace and transformation.
Lesson 3: Embracing Diversity in God's Plan
As a black woman, I find a powerful message of diversity in Judah's lineage. Despite his flaws, Judah became a significant part of the lineage leading to Jesus Christ. This reminds us that God's plan embraces diversity and works through imperfect individuals to fulfill His purpose. In counseling, I encourage persons to appreciate their unique strengths and backgrounds, recognizing that God can use even the most challenging aspects of their stories for a greater purpose.
In the story of Judah, we find a rich tapestry of resilience, redemption, and the transformative power of God's grace. As a black woman and a minister in counseling, I draw strength from Judah's journey, applying its lessons to the challenges faced by individuals within the Jamaican American community. Through acknowledging shame, embracing second chances, and recognizing the beauty of diversity, we can find inspiration and hope in the unfolding narrative of our own lives. Judah's story teaches us that, no matter the past, there is always a path to redemption, and our stories, like his, can contribute to a greater, divinely orchestrated purpose.

BLOGGING THROUGH THE ADVENT SEASON
12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS

DAY 3 - Jacob and the Christmas Get-together Amoy Bailey
For many of us, Christmas symbolizes a time of celebration, togetherness, reflection, and transformation. Both the stories of Jacob and Jesus’s birth are similar in the ways of transformation, as each narration shows that people have difficult life moments that they go through; however, their starting point did not determine their destinations.
Christmas is full of symbolism such as light, redemption, and new beginnings. The brilliant star, for example, with its radiant glow, which led the wise men to Baby Jesus, was the beginning of the fulfillment of an age-old prophecy: “There shall come a star out of Jacob, and a scepter shall rise out of Israel, and shall smite the corners of Moab, and destroy all the children of Sheth. (Numbers 24:17). Likewise, Jacob’s journey is punctuated by signposts that signify hope and positive transformation (Shilling, 2023). Such common themes touch on the meaning or spirit of Christmas. Both stories highlight that, amidst the most challenging times, there is hope that tomorrow will be a better day and a fresh start. Christmas shows that we have another opportunity to do well through the coming of Christ. The concept of hope and redemption implies forgiveness, freedom from previous mistakes, and an opportunity for transformation.

In Jacob's story from the Bible, a standout example of transformation is when he wrestled with God (Genesis 32: 22-32). This strong experience was crucial for Jacob’s change. It depicted him undergoing an interior transformation in the shared covenant of destiny between him and the Angel of the Lord. Additionally, it reveals that, just like Christmas, everyone can transform from a bad life to a better one, even when one has erred. Second chances and moving away from one’s past are strongly represented in both narratives.
The story of Christmas also sends a message of love and forgiveness. Christmas is more than offering gifts; it also involves embracing and forgiving oneself and others. In Jacob's family, he had some ups and downs. For example, when he had a conflict with his brother Esau, they were separated for a while, but later in the story (Genesis 33), they made peace and became close again. This shows that even in tough family situations, there is a chance for things to get better. Just like in the story of Christmas and Jacob, our family bonds should get stronger as we spend quality time with our loved ones. It is a special time when people sit together with their families, have lunch or even dinner, and shower each other with presents. This brings out a unique aspect of Christmas, which is the "get-together," making the emphasis on spending quality time in the company of those we hold dear.
Finally, as we celebrate this holiday, let’s look beyond the narrow reasons for celebrating in our world today. Let us instead seek to go back to the basics of Christmas: mending broken relationships. Like Jacob, who returned to his homeland after a period of separation from his family, especially his brother Esau (Genesis 32:22-32 & Genesis 33:1-17). This return was a crucial moment of reconciliation and starting anew. The anticipation and anxiety surrounding this homecoming reflect a sense of hope for a renewed relationship with Jacob's family. In a way, it's a symbol of leaving behind past conflicts and moving towards a new chapter in his life. Togetherness is crucial. More importantly, let us not forget the “Christ” in Christmas, for He is the reason we celebrate, and it should be reflected in every aspect of our daily lives.

BLOGGING THROUGH THE ADVENT SEASON
12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS

DAY 2 -Rahab and The Scarlet Thread
Veronica Garcia
Rahab is one of four women from the Old Testament that is mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus that others would have said had no right to be there. She, like Tamar, Ruth, and Uriah's wife, would have been considered outsiders among the people of Israel or women of questionable character, but God did not see them that way. Rahab was a harlot, but through her ancestry, the Son of God was sent to save us. God made her worthy, and can do the same for us.
When the two men of Israel, who were sent to spy out the land of Jericho, asked for help, Rahab did not hesitate at the chance to save them in exchange for her own salvation. Joshua 2 vs. 12 (KJV) reads, “Now therefore, I pray you, swear unto me by the LORD, since I have shewed your kindness, that ye will also shew kindness unto my father's house." She operated on blind faith, and because of that faith, she and her family were saved. Not only that, she received the greatest honor to be among the ancestors of the greatest man to have walked on Earth.  James 2 vs. 25 recognizes and commends her for her faith. "Likewise, also was not Rahab the harlot justified by her works when she had received the messengers and sent them out another way?" She not only took the risk to save the men but also lied to the king of Jericho, saying that the men had already left. This was a crime that I'm sure was punishable by death, but she took the risk. Even with the reputation that she had garnered, she still believed that a Holy God could take an imperfect person and make them perfect. Isn't this the same reason that Jesus came as a baby on that night many years ago? He came to make us perfect, and the beautiful thing is that even when we make mistakes, He is still perfecting that which is within us. Rahab didn't become perfect overnight, but through God's redeeming power, she became perfect.
When we think about it, it's not coincidental that the thread she used to save the men and her family was the same color as the blood of Jesus. This had to have been symbolic of the promise that would come hundreds of years later. For me, even in the midst of chaos, Rahab's story reminds me that I'm not irredeemable.  Even when Christians have condemned me, I can still look for the "Scarlet Thread" hung at Rahab's window for salvation. My sins and your sins can be forgiven.
Rahab's scarlet thread represented, for her, the blood of Jesus. She believed in Jehovah's power even in a time when she had no physical evidence to believe. She had only heard about the people of Israel traveling through the desert and fighting and winning battles.  But she had not seen any of it with her own eyes.  What if what she had heard wasn't true? It could have easily been mere gossip. What if the men forgot the promise that they would save her and her household? What if they were only using her for a way to escape? I'm even sure some of her family members who were in that apartment questioned the validity of her trust. I'm almost certain that there were some that were with her, that ridiculed her. But in spite of that, she kept that scarlet thread at her window believing in a God that was new to her. She exercised her faith and because of that she was saved.
During this Christmas season, hold on to the reassurance that comes from Rahab's story. Nobody is unsavable. Rahab was a harlot and a stranger among the Israelites. But she saved God's people and is counted among Jesus's genealogy. Jesus is no longer the baby in the manger. He shed His blood for us, so that when “the walls of Jericho” are torn down we too might be saved. He has replaced the scarlet thread at the window. If you learn nothing else from Rahab's story, learn that you are loved by God and He can and will take you from condemnation to perfection. Exercise some faith in God even though the world seems hopeless.

BLOGGING THROUGH THE ADVENT SEASON -DAY 1
12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS

DAY 1 BOAZ

A Key Figure in the Genealogy of Jesus – A Christmas Reflection

As we approach the festive season of Christmas, a time of joy, reflection, and celebration, it's meaningful to delve into the rich tapestry of the genealogy of Jesus Christ. Among the many names that contribute to this lineage, Boaz stands out as a significant figure. His story, though set in a time far removed from our modern Christmas traditions, offers profound insights into the themes of redemption, love, and divine providence.

Boaz appears in the Old Testament, particularly in the Book of Ruth. He is portrayed as a man of great wealth, integrity, and kindness. The narrative of Ruth and Boaz is a beautiful story of love and redemption, set during a time of social and moral upheaval – the time of the Judges. Boaz, as a 'kinsman-redeemer,' plays a crucial role in preserving the lineage that would eventually lead to the birth of Jesus Christ.

In the Gospel of Matthew, the genealogy of Jesus traces his lineage through a succession of names, starting from Abraham. Boaz is mentioned as the son of Salmon and Rahab, and the father of Obed by Ruth. This lineage is not just a list of names; it represents the unfolding of God's plan for humanity, culminating in the birth of Jesus, the Savior.

The story of Boaz and Ruth is a powerful symbol of redemption and grace. Just as Boaz redeemed Ruth and her mother-in-law Naomi from their destitution, Christmas celebrates the ultimate redemption of mankind through Jesus Christ.

Boaz’s marriage to Ruth, a Moabite, highlights the inclusivity of God’s plan. This aspect is particularly resonant during Christmas, a time that embraces all people regardless of their background.
The story of Boaz reminds us that even in uncertain times, hope and providence are always present. It’s a fitting message for the Christmas season, a period often associated with hope and new beginnings.

As we celebrate Christmas, reflecting on the figure of Boaz allows us to appreciate the deeper layers of this holiday. His story is a testament to the themes of love, redemption, and divine orchestration, which resonate profoundly during this season. Let us remember that the story of Jesus' birth is deeply rooted in history and rich with meaning, and figures like Boaz help us to see this in a more vivid light.