READ

Matthew 3:1-4:11

Psalm 130

Weekend Reflection

We have reached the New Testament! This means you have read the entire Old Testament if you've been following the reading plan from the beginning. Well done!

This week, we read about the birth of Jesus. In Matthew chapter 1, two names are given to the coming Christ: Jesus (1:21) and Immanuel (1:23). He was named 'Jesus' because he would save his people from their sins. The name Jesus comes from the Hebrew name Joshua, and it means "The Lord saves."

Immanuel also originates from the Old Testament, specifically Isaiah 8:8-10, and this name means 'God with us', as you can see in verse 24.

So, let's do some 'exegetical math': Jesus + Immanuel = God is with us to save us. When Jesus was born, God came to be with us to save us from our sins. Rejoice in the grace of God, which is evident even in the names of Christ.

PRAY

Romans 12:2

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”

Pray that God would keep you from sin and guard you from the temptations of the world. Ask God to help you be a witness for Christ in the midst of an evil and sinful world and that he would use you to tell others who are lost about Christ. Ask him to renew your mind daily that you would be captivated by the beauty of Christ above all earthly things.

You can also take some time bring these things before the Lord.

• Confess your sins.
• The Lost
• The Church
• Your Needs

SING

Running Back To You - Steph Schlueter