SUMMARY
Pastor Ron, preaching in sunny Vanderhoof, British Columbia, explores the concept of living in the "shadows of Christmas" through a rich tapestry of stories, metaphors, and biblical references. He begins with a personal anecdote about his daughter equating a shadow with Jesus, highlighting the theme of divine presence. Pastor Ron delves into the "shadow of a new day," the "shadow of the present day," and the "shadow of promise," emphasizing the fulfillment of prophecies about the Messiah. Using vivid imagery, such as the sunrise symbolizing the dawn of Christ's kingdom and the noon day as God's present presence with us, he references biblical figures like Simeon and prophecies from Isaiah and Micah to show Jesus as the awaited Messiah. Pastor Ron also discusses the cosmic battle between light and darkness, promising further exploration. He concludes with the "shadow of the cross," urging listeners to live in the hope and promise of Christ's sacrifice and resurrection.
QUOTES
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"I'm kissing Jesus." She equated the shadow with Jesus.
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"We are living that promise. We are in the shadow of a new day."
✝️
"When Christ came, the hourglass was turned over. We live in the shadow of promise."
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"Jesus went from a manger to a tomb. Very powerful."
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"We're living in the shadow of the last days."
REFERENCES
2 Samuel 7:12
Jeremiah 23:5
Luke 2:10
Isaiah 7:14; 9:6; 9:2
Micah 5:2
John 1
Psalms 91; 23
Hebrews 10:1; 12:1-2
Jonah's story
Hebrews 11
ONE-SENTENCE TAKEAWAY
Pastor Ron encourages us to embrace the shadows of promise, prophecy, and the cross, living in the hope of Christ's fulfilled kingdom.
RECOMMENDATIONS
- ✨ Embrace the presence of God in everyday life, recognizing His shadows as symbols of divine presence and promise.
- 📖 Reflect on Christ’s fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, deepening your understanding of God's faithfulness.
- ✝️ Live in the light of Christ’s resurrection, drawing strength and courage from His victory over sin and death.
- 🤝 Acknowledge your unique race set before you, inspired by the heroes of faith who have gone before.
- ✨ Seek comfort and refuge under the shadow of the Almighty, trusting in His protection and peace.
- 📖 Contemplate the journey from manger to cross, seeing it as a powerful symbol of Christ’s sacrificial love.
- ✝️ Engage with Scripture regularly to understand the promises and prophecies that shape our faith.
- 🤝 Share the light of Christ with others, recognizing the urgency of the times in which we live.
BIBLE STUDY NOTES
- ✨ Theological Discussion: Explore the nature of prophecy and its fulfillment in Christ, emphasizing God’s sovereignty and faithfulness.
- 📖 Questions: How do the shadows in our lives reveal God's presence? What prophecies most impact your faith?
- ✝️ Cross-References: Genesis 3:15, Isaiah 53, Matthew 1:23.
- 🤝 Strong’s Concordance: Examine "shadow" (H6738 - tsel), "promise" (G1860 - epangelia).
- ✨ Historical Background: Understand the cultural significance of Bethlehem and the role of shepherds in first-century Judea.
- 📖 Imaginative Lens: Shadows as metaphors for God's presence and promise; the manger as a symbol of humility and sacrifice.
FURTHER STUDY NOTES
- ✨ Theology: Read C.S. Lewis's "Mere Christianity" for insights on the incarnation and the nature of Christ.
- 📖 Literature: Explore Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" for themes of light and shadow.
- ✝️ Philosophy: Consider G.K. Chesterton's "Orthodoxy" for reflections on paradox and divine mystery.
- 🤝 Cultural Issues: Reflect on the tension between light and darkness in contemporary society.
- ✨ Prayerful Reflection: Meditate on the promises of God, seeking to live in the light of His fulfilled word.
