2 years ago

MEDITATIONS ON THE MAGNIFICAT (Luke 1:46-55)
Lessons for Life with James Long, Jr.
https://jameslongjr.org/

Message Introduction
For so many people, Christmas is a time of great despair and depression.
• Many are suffering from
o Loneliness
o Loss
o Hurts
o Broken dreams
• Many people make Christmas about
o People
o Presents
o Profits
o Parties
What causes holiday sadness?
Context
• The Visitation
• Mary had to suffer
o Cruel judgments
o Scandalized character
o Judgment of others
o Great dishonor
o Suspicions of Joseph
o Throughout her life
How would we respond?
How did Mary respond?
• She sang
• She trusted
• She praised
Key Points from the Passage
• Christmas is about PRAISE (Luke 1)
– PRAISE must be Personal
– PRAISE must be Passionate
– PRAISE must be in the Proper Perspective
– PRAISE must be Practiced, and Perceptive
 She knew the Word; she loved the Word; she lived the Word
 When she was pressed from the outside, what came out of her was the word and the gospel
 It poured out of her life
• Christmas is about a PERSON: God
– He Sees
– He is Sovereign
– His Might
– His Holiness
• Christmas is about a PROCLAMATION
– The Bad News
 His Judgment
 Adam’s sin
 Our Sin
– The Good News
 He Saves - grace, kindness, mercy
 True Worship must be Gospel-Centered (“rejoices in God my Savior”)
 He Satisfies
• He fills the hungry…He provides for the poor
 He Secures (Luke 1:54-55)
 His Faithfulness
• God keeps His promises to His people.
IN CHRIST, YOU HAVE BEEN RANSOMED, RECONCILED, RIGHT STANDING WITH GOD
When Christmas is held in proper focus, it will result in Gratitude, Love, and Service.
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ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE

Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 25 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show!

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