The Law of Moses had been completed. Luke 2:22

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION
Joseph and Mary followed the Law in consecrating Jesus. In every way, Jesus fulfilled the Law on our behalf. “For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ” (John 1:17).

THE JOURNEY—DAY 33
Bill arranged a meeting with Pastor Greer and Chuck on New Year’s Day. The pastor showed Chuck the prophecies Jesus had fulfilled, beginning with His birth in Bethlehem. He gave him an overview of the many miracles Jesus performed and reviewed the Bible accounts of the witnesses who saw Jesus alive after His resurrection. He shared passages from Scripture that spoke of the human condition and need for a Savior:

“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus . . . if you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved . . . Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” (Romans 3:23-24, 10:9,13).

Chuck understood more about Jesus and faith, but still questioned, “How can I believe this?”

Pastor Greer stated, “Jesus completed everything necessary for your salvation. Believing in Him is a matter of faith that the Holy Spirit works in you.” He asked if he could pray with Chuck, who agreed. He prayed, “Lord, please grant Chuck new life in Christ this New Year.”

REALITY JOURNEY
The Holy Spirit works through the Word to create faith in the hearts of people. Jesus is “the Word made flesh.” Share the Word in your witness. Other Christians can help in this process.

PRAYER FOCUS
Pray for God to give a friend who doesn’t know Jesus new life in Christ this New Year.

Today's Bible Readings: Genesis 1-3    Matthew 1

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