Author Archives: Shirlee Abbott

What’s in It for Me?

Surely Mary had collected some sweet things in preparation—soft baby clothes, maybe even a cradle crafted by Joseph. Did she leave them behind in Nazareth? Psalm 34:10 (ERV) Those who go to the Lord for help will have every good … Continue reading

Share
Posted in Advent | Tagged , , | 2 Comments

What Will People Think?

Mary wasn’t expecting a royal welcome. Likely she’d already faced accusing looks and critical comments. That might be why she ran to Elizabeth, the one woman who would understand:   Luke 1:42 (ERV) She said to Mary, “God has blessed … Continue reading

Share
Posted in Advent | Tagged , , | Comments Off on What Will People Think?

It’s Simple – Don’t Quit

Don’t give up because it’s hard. James 1:4 (GWT) Endure until your testing is over. Then you will be mature and complete.

Share
Posted in other | Tagged , , | 2 Comments

The Road to Bethlehem: Mary

  Imagine you’re Mary, on the road to Bethlehem. What would you say to God?     What will people think? What’s in it for me? Your will be done. Nazareth to Bethlehem.  90 miles. Not a pleasant trip for … Continue reading

Share
Posted in Advent | Tagged , , | Comments Off on The Road to Bethlehem: Mary

Safe Shelter for Babies

It’s Christmas, and we focus on the much-loved baby in the feed box. Let’s take a moment to pray for unwanted babies who desperately need safe shelter. The Drop Box, a documentary produced in 2015, tells how a South Korean … Continue reading

Share
Posted in other | Tagged , , , , | Comments Off on Safe Shelter for Babies

Your Will Be Done

When Joseph stepped out on the road to Bethlehem, he had no idea it would take them to Egypt. Psalm 119:34 (ERV) Save me from those who want to hurt me, and I will obey your instructions.   Your road … Continue reading

Share
Posted in Advent | Tagged , , | Comments Off on Your Will Be Done

What’s In It for Me?

Did Joseph wonder why God used a hateful order from an hated ruler to fulfill prophecy that the Messiah be born in Bethlehem? I wonder if Joseph moaned, “All this, and taxes too!” Isaiah 55:9 (ERV) My ways are higher … Continue reading

Share
Posted in Advent | Tagged , , | 2 Comments

What Will People Think?

Maybe Joseph worried that other people would think he was a wimp, or crazy, or foolish for heading to Bethlehem with Mary. Scripture says otherwise: Matthew 1:19, 24  (ERV) Joseph, was a good man . . . he did what … Continue reading

Share
Posted in Advent | Tagged , , | Comments Off on What Will People Think?

Simply Step Out in Faith

  You don’t have to know where you’re going to step into God’s plan.  

Share
Posted in other | Tagged , , | 2 Comments

The Road to Bethlehem: Joseph

  Imagine that you’re Joseph, on the road to Bethlehem. What would you be saying to God?     What will people think? What’s in it for me? Your will be done There’s solid and steady Joseph, on the road … Continue reading

Share
Posted in Advent | Tagged , , | Comments Off on The Road to Bethlehem: Joseph