iBelieve - Week 1

Weak Christmas Lists

​It’s the season for Christmas lists.  You've likely formed your own, whether it is spoken, unspoken, or written.  Because of Jesus, I believe that we are making “Weak Christmas Lists.”  You are probably wondering, “Jesus doesn't buy me gifts…”  Truth is, he gave us the greatest gift of all-time: the sacrifice on the cross for our sins.  

If we really believe in the power of Jesus, we have this promise: “I tell you the truth, you can say to this mountain, ‘May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea; and it will happen.  But you must really believe it will happen and have no doubt in your heart.  I tell you, you can pray for anything, and if you believe that you've received it, it will be yours’” (Mark 11:23-24).  Now, that doesn't mean that we always get whatever we want, but it does mean anything is possible when we believe in Jesus.

To help us understand our “Weak Christmas Lists,” let’s look at some more promises of God.  First, the promise that he gave his disciples in Mark 6:7.  “And he called his twelve disciples together and began sending them out two by two, giving them authority to cast out evil spirits.”  So, what did the disciples do with that promise?  On one occasion in Mark 9, they responded to it weakly.

Basically, Jesus approached some arguing teachers of religious law with a large crowd.  After he asked what all of the arguing was about, a man responded:  “Teacher, I brought my son so you could heal him.  He is possessed with an evil spirit that won’t let him talk…So I asked your disciples to cast out the evil spirit, but they couldn't do it” (Mark 9:17-18).

​Never Compromise a Promise!  This Christmas season, I encourage you to ask yourself, “What do I really want?”.  Maybe it is the salvation of a family member, the healing of a loved one, hope, life, grace, love, peace, or protection.  We know it is surely possible with Jesus.  Our Savior left us a promise like that of which he gave his disciples:  “These miraculous signs will accompany those who believe.  They will cast out demons in my name, and they will speak in new languages.  They will be able to handle snakes with safety, and if they drink anything poisonous, it won’t hurt them.  They will be able to place their hands on the sick, and they will be healed” (Mark 16:17-18).

How will you respond this Christmas season and always?