“At nearly six feet six, weighing three hundred pounds, Phillips Brooks cast a long shadow. He was a native Bostonian, the ninth generation of distinguished Puritan stock,, who entered the Episcopalian ministry and pastored with great Power in Philadelphia and in Boston. His sermons were topical rather than expositional, and he’s been criticized for thinness of doctrine. Nonetheless, he’s considered one of America’s greatest preachers. His delivery came in lightening bursts; he felt he had more to say than time in which to say it.
“While at Philadelphia’s Holy Trinity Church, Phillips,
thirty, visited the Holy Land. On December 24, 1865, traveling by horseback
from Jerusalem, he attended a five-hour Christmas Eve service at the Church of
the Nativity in Bethlehem. He was deeply moved.
“'I remembered standing in the old church in Bethlehem,’ he
later said, ‘close to the spot where Jesus was born, when the whole church was
ringing hour after hour with splendid hymns of praise to God, how again and
again it seemed as if I could hear voices I knew well, telling each other of
the Wonderful Night of the Savior’s birth.’
“Three years later, as he prepared for the Christmas season
of 1867, he wanted to compose an original Christmas hymn for the children to
sing during their annual program. Recalling his magical night in Bethlehem, he
wrote a little hymn of five stanzas and handed the words to his organist, Lewis
Redner, saying, ‘Lewis, why not write a new tune for my poem. If it is a good
tune, I will name it ‘St. Lewis’ after you.’
“Brooks was so pleased with the tune that he did indeed name
it for his organist, changing the spelling to St. Louis, so as not to embarrass him.”
Godsbless.ing: This verse is a comforting reminder of the eternal presence of God’s light in our lives. It conveys the idea that no matter how dark our paths may seem, God’s light will always shine upon us, guiding and illuminating our way. The image of God as an everlasting light signifies His eternal presence, love, and protection, providing us with hope and reassurance in times of darkness and despair . . . “But the Lord will be your everlasting light” highlights the eternal and unchanging nature of God’s presence and guidance. Unlike the sun and moon, which have their cycles, God’s light is constant and enduring. “And your God will be your glory” indicates that God’s presence not only illuminates but also brings honor and splendor to His people.
Enduringword.com: This tells us that angelic beings (here called morning stars and sons of God) did in fact witness the creation of the earth; and they rejoiced at the glory, power, and wisdom of God in the creation.
Godsbless.ing: The mention of angels rejoicing at creation serves as a beautiful image of the wonder and joy that permeate the universe when God brings something new into existence. It paints a picture of celestial beings celebrating the work of God, showcasing a harmonious relationship between the divine and the heavenly hosts. This verse invites us to consider the wonder and beauty of the world around us, prompting us to join in the chorus of praise and gratitude for the marvelous works of God. Let us reflect on this verse to remind us of the majesty of our Creator and the awe-inspiring nature of His creations.
Godsbless.ing: This verse speaks to the concept of meekness. Being meek in biblical terms does not mean being weak or passive, but rather, having strength under control. It involves humility, gentleness, and a willingness to submit to God’s will. The promise of inheriting the earth reflects the idea that those who are humble and obedient will ultimately receive God’s blessings and rewards. This teaching emphasizes the importance of recognizing our dependence on God and trusting in His plan for our lives.
Enduringword.com: John spoke both of Jesus (who had the Holy Spirit without measure) and prophetically of the New Covenant (which featured a true outpouring of the Holy Spirit). For those joined to the Messiah through the New Covenant, there is as much of the Spirit as needed, given without measure.
Studylight.org, Contending for the Faith: This phrase is from one Greek word, anagennao, meaning "to produce again, so that he lives a new life and one conformed to the will of God" (Thayer 36-1-313)
Biblerepository.com: This verse indicates the transformation that can occur within us through God’s Word. When we think about being “born again,” we must understand that this transformation is not merely a physical change; it’s a spiritual revival that opens the door to eternal life through our faith. It signifies a cleansing from past sins and a turning toward a life filled with purpose and divine connection.
By His Grace . . .
