Author Archives: lrbartel

Can you say it this Christmas… “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances…I can do all things through Christ who enables me.”

Philippians 4[11-13 Christmas
A pic to enrich your Christmas season… taken by a former student several years ago to illustrate the truth of Philippians 4:11-13 for a Bible study assignment. “I have learned how to get along happily whether I have much or little. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me the strength I need.” Philippians 4:11-13 (Photo by Chelsea Woodstock Dunn – a former student of mine)
 
Read the verses, look under the tree in the pic, and then think about the cultural challenge this time of year in contrast to the real significance of Christmas!

What Christmas ought to generate in the heart of God’s people… “Mary’s song”

Mary's SongAnother pic highlighting what Christmas ought to generate in the heart of God’s people – heartfelt worship!!!… Mary’s Song – the “Magnificat”…
 
“And Mary said, ‘My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant! For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for He who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name! His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation! (From Luke 1:46–55 ESV)

A pic to enrich your Christ-centered Christmas…

Mary's submissionReflect on the significance and the challenge Mary faced as she submitted to the Lord’s will for her life