God is working in His world, in people, and He is inviting each of us to play our part. And as we see in Ezra 2:1-11, God keeps lists of people who respond to His invitation to join His work. How does that encourage you to be on that list?

Christmas is a time for celebration, but not just because of the seasonal festivities. It’s a time to pause, reflect on, and celebrate what matters the most — the birth of Jesus. We wish you a merry Christmas, and we hope that you have the peace and love in your heart that comes from the miraculous birth of Jesus.

Christmas Eve is a time a great anticipation, not just for the presents and festivites, but for what truly matters — the birth of Jesus. Because of the miracle birth of our Savior, we can have hope, love, and eternal life, which is not found in the world.

God moves in moments that are all too easy to miss, if we don’t pay attention. He came into the world in a moment of time, and He comes into our lives in a moment of time.

When you think about the return of Jesus, what comes to mind? When we look to Scripture, we see that Jesus declared that his mission was a Kingdom. And in his return, he will banish evil and restore his creation. This is exciting news when you consider that you’re a citizen of his Kingdom.   

When you think of who Jesus in on Christmas, what comes to mind? Do you see Him coming as the True King? King Jesus’ coming upsets the balance of power, and He interrupts the comfort of our routines and leads His faithful followers on a joyous adventure.

As we see in Ezekiel, heaven means we have an eternal home.  In light of this good news, how should your life change to prepare for eternity and how should you help as many other people as you can get there, too?    

In Ezekiel 37, the valley is described as being full of dry bones. Do you believe that God can resurrect and restore His people — you and me? He can and does. If you consider yourself a follower of Jesus, it’s important to remember what you’ve been saved from to experience the joy of your salvation.   

In Ezekiel, we see that God restores lives through a fourfold process: cleanse all our sins, change our hearts, confirm our commitment, and compel our witness to others. Which of these do you relate to the most? And which one challenges you the most?

Do you think you are a leader or a follower? Why does the Bible use the metaphor of sheep to describe people? If this is so, Jesus is our good shepherd worth following. How have you experienced this in your life?