From: "Phil Rembleski" <PHIl@rescuechurchofchrist.org>

To: "1111RESCUEMEMBERS"

Cc:

Sent: Thu, Dec 19, 2024 at 5:58 AM

Subject: 12-19-24 THOUGHTS

12-19-24   THOUGHTS

We see in our reading a contrast between the works of darkness and the FRUIT of LIGHT!  In this context, we are told to AWAKE!  Christ must shine on us!  We are cautioned to be careful how we walk.  We are to be wise and make the most of our time!   Eph 5:17 Message Bible   “Don’t live carelessly, unthinkingly. Make sure you understand what the Master wants.”  

Eph 5:8-17    for you were formerly darkness, but now you are Light in the Lord; walk as children of Light  9  (for the fruit of the Light consists in all goodness and righteousness and truth), 10  trying to learn what is pleasing to the Lord. 11  Do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but instead even expose them; 12  for it is disgraceful even to speak of the things which are done by them in secret. 13  But all things become visible when they are exposed by the light, for everything that becomes visible is light. 14  For this reason it says, "Awake, sleeper, And arise from the dead, And Christ will shine on you."  15  Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, 16  making the most of your time, because the days are evil. 17  So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.

My Prayer:
Father, teach us to walk as Your children, in the light, redeeming the time. Awaken us to living powerfully with Christ at the center of our lives.  We live in evil times, O God, give us Your wisdom, that we may walk in Your presence.  Help us to understand what You want in all things. May our bodies live what our minds and hearts believe.  Help us to arise from the dead.  It’s in the name of our Lord that we pray,   Amen.