Perry’s Scope: Christian sermons, lessons, and resources for teachers

A woman once posed the question, “What would have happened if there had been wise women instead of wise men who had set out for the birth of Jesus?” She then answered her question, “First, they would have immediately asked for directions so they would have arrived in time for the birth (not as long as two years later); second, they would have helped deliver the baby; third, they would have cleaned the stable; fourth, made a casserole; and last, they would have brought ‘cute little outfits’ for Jesus to wear home.”

While that is an amusing way to look at the events surrounding the birth of Jesus, the truth is men did come from afar for a very serious purpose in presenting their special gifts of worship to the Son of God. We do not know much about these men. We don’t know exactly who they were or where they came from. We don’t know how many came. We do know they brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to Jesus (Matthew 2:9-11).

The story of these three gifts reminds us of how we are to be devoted to Jesus. We need to make the effort to search for Jesus (Jeremiah 29:13). When we find him, we must present him with the best we have – our hearts, souls, and might (Deuteronomy 6:4-5; Matthew 22:37-38; Mark 12:29-30).

How’s your search going? How is your giving to Jesus?

Keep The Light Burning!

Dr. Perry Greene

Pulpit Minister

South Yukon Church of Christ

In 1857, four young Irishmen began a weekly prayer meeting. The next year, more prayer meetings started and “Revival” was the common theme of preachers. The next year, 100,000 people converted into the churches of Ireland. This was the beginning of the “Ulster Revival of 1859.”

As a result of the Revival, some significant things occurred. By 1860, crime was reduced and judges often had no cases to try. One county in Ireland reported no crime and the no prisoners were held in the jail. In addition, church services were packed with people, there was an abundance of prayer meetings, family prayers increased, Scripture reading was unmatched, Sunday Schools grew, people stood firm for God, giving increased, vice abated, and crime was reduced significantly.

It seems that there are periods of vibrancy in our churches and then periods of decline. This is an oft repeated cycle among God’s people. Where would you say we are today?

I want to challenge us to a more intentional walk with God. Let us bathe our lives in prayer, asking for God to breathe life into our land. Remember the famous passage:

“if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7.14)

Keep the Light Burning!

Perry Greene