Date: 12-23-2020

Title: From the Manger to the Cross

(S) cripture:
    John 19:16 (NASB) So he then handed Him over to them to be crucified.

(O) bservation:
    Jesus is brought before Pilate for trial and execution. Despite Pilate’s efforts to release Jesus he gives in to the Jews and gives Jesus to them to be crucified.

(A) pplication:
    It is so fitting that this is the reading for at this time of the year. We read about Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection on the eve of that first Christmas Eve. There is a chorus that says, “From the Manger to the Cross” that reminds us of why Jesus came. The words to the chorus are: From the manger to the cross, From the manger to the cross, Jesus made the road to save the lost, From the manger to the cross. Today I will remember the real meaning of Christmas that is found in the shadow of the cross that is behind the serenity of that first silent night

(P) rayer:
    Father, I thank you for sending Jesus to die for my sins and to provide a way for me to be in a right relationship with you. Help me to remember that today. Amen