Canyon View Vineyard Church | Grand Junction, CO

http://canyonviewchurch.com Fri, 01 Dec 2023 07:00:00 +0000 Fri, 01 Dec 2023 07:00:00 +0000 hourly 1 3600 SnapPages.com Advent Devotionals http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/25/advent-devotionals Mon, 25 Dec 2023 04:02:00 +0000 http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/25/advent-devotionals

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.“ (Isaiah 9:6)

Jesus is the reason for the season!

From all of us at Canyon View, Merry Christmas!

]]> http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/25/advent-devotionals#comments 0 Advent Devotionals http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/25/advent-devotionals Mon, 25 Dec 2023 03:58:36 +0000 http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/25/advent-devotionals

Our world is so full of ideas of what success and happiness look like. Being wealthy, popular, maybe successful at business. These things seem to consume us more than fulfill us.

I imagine that Zacchaeus had similar thoughts during his life too. One day he hears that Jesus is going to be coming through town and he goes to great lengths (and heights) to get a peek at the “new and living way.” Jesus is also drawn towards this empty, desperate man and risks being slandered to build a connection with Zacchaeus.

After this encounter, it appears that everything changed for “Zach.” Take a moment to encounter Jesus today. He’s ready to be WITH you.

]]> http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/25/advent-devotionals#comments 0 Advent Devotionals http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/22/advent-devotionals Fri, 22 Dec 2023 08:00:31 +0000 http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/22/advent-devotionals

Advent Devotionals Day 22: Jesus Resists Temptation

Have you ever found yourself unable to resist something? Imagine a holiday sale that you cannot pass up yet you know it is not in the budget. Maybe it is your favorite dessert but you’re on a diet. Perhaps there is an easy way out of a situation by telling a little white lie. Temptation comes in all sizes luring us in by our desires. Temptation has one goal, to throw us off course to provide temporary comfort or satisfaction outside of Jesus. In Luke Chapter 4 Jesus was tempted by Satan for forty days with everything that would trip up even the best of people. However, despite hunger, thirst, and discomfort, he did not give in to temptation. How did he do it? It says in verse 1 that He was full of the Spirit and led by the Spirit. With the power of the Holy Spirit, we can resist temptation and be successful. Every time Jesus was tempted he would repeat, “The scriptures say.” It is important to read our Bibles and resist the devil through using scripture. Read it and meditate on it and you will see the temptation's power diminish.

So when you feel like you are the only one tempted, remember that Jesus was tempted and he can empathize with your temptation. He knows what it is like to be in your shoes. He will offer you a way out and has given you the Holy Spirit and the scripture to overcome temptation

Prayer

Heavenly Father we thank you for your son Jesus and how he lived a perfect life for us to follow. We ask for the strength and courage to resist temptation and follow a life pleasing to you. May you draw us near as we turn to you rather than temporary pleasures. This Christmas Season may we resist temptation and stay focused on you and the miracle of your birth and share the Good news of Jesus Christ.

]]> http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/22/advent-devotionals#comments 0 Advent Devotionals http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/20/advent-devotionals Wed, 20 Dec 2023 08:04:08 +0000 http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/20/advent-devotionals

Matthew 6: 25-34 NRSV

Do Not Worry

25 ‘Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink,[b] or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? 27 And can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life?[c] 28 And why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin, 29 yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these. 30 But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? 31 Therefore do not worry, saying, “What will we eat?” or “What will we drink?” or “What will we wear?” 32 For it is the Gentiles who strive for all these things; and indeed your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 But strive first for the kingdom of God[d] and his[e] righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
34 ‘So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own. Today’s trouble is enough for today.

When I began studying this scripture I thought, “hmmm, I need a good example. What am I worrying about?” Well, that went south! I started thinking about all the things I have on my plate. Christmas decorating, gifts to buy, gifts to wrap, when will I have time to make cookies? Moving my mom into our house, selling her house, helping my son move to a new house. What am I going to make for dinner, why won’t my dog stop barking? Did I pay the electric bill? I need to cancel mom’s cable, I need to buy dog food, I need to…. and that’s all on top of my normal to do list. This scripture that was telling me not to worry or be anxious actually caused me to worry and be anxious to the point of breaking the dam of tears I had built up at our staff prayer and not being able to stop for 2 hours, just to have a sympathetic co-worker give me a loving look of concern and start crying again – ugh! It’s two days later and my face is still puffy.
It's taken me those two days to realize that I took my eyes off of Jesus and put them onto my circumstances, and all for the sake of an example! Good thing you all are worth it. So, I wrote myself a note, feel free to insert your name and take my name out.

Dear Julia,
You are more than enough. Give your anxieties to the Lord, and DON’T TAKE THEM BACK! Worrying isn’t going to make things happen or not happen, it’s just a waste of time and does absolutely no good.
Stop striving for things that the world says is important, instead strive for things of the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, He will provide all your needs.
Don’t be anxious or worry about tomorrow, God’s got it. Focus on what God has in front of you right now.
Love, Julia

So easy to write, but hard to do. But let’s start simply (I am saying this to myself as well). What does God have in front of you right now, at this very moment?
Deep breath in….deep breath out…eyes focused of God.

]]> http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/20/advent-devotionals#comments 0 Advent Devotionals http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/19/advent-devotionals Tue, 19 Dec 2023 08:13:39 +0000 http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/19/advent-devotionals

Advent Devotionals Day 19: The Beatitudes

Read Matthew: 5:1-12.

In Matthew 5:1-12, Jesus shares beautiful teachings known as the Beatitudes. As we journey through Advent, let's reflect on these words that remind us of the blessings in a humble and compassionate heart. Jesus tells us, "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." This Advent, let's embrace a spirit of humility, recognizing that in our simplicity and dependence on God, we discover the richness of His kingdom.

In these Beatitudes, Jesus shows us the beauty of a heart filled with mercy, peacemaking, and a hunger for righteousness. As we prepare for the joy of Christmas, let's ponder on being peacemakers in our families and communities, extending mercy to others, and hungering for the goodness of God. This Advent, may we walk in the ways of the Beatitudes, drawing closer to the heart of Christ.

]]> http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/19/advent-devotionals#comments 0 Advent Devotionals http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/18/advent-devotionals Mon, 18 Dec 2023 08:02:01 +0000 http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/18/advent-devotionals

Advent Devotional 18: Jesus begins His public Ministry

in your quiet time, read Matthew 4:12-17.

In Matthew 4:12-17, Jesus begins His public ministry. He moves to Galilee and begins spreading the message of God's love and the arrival of the kingdom of heaven. This Advent, we reflect on the meaning of Jesus starting His ministry – it signifies hope, and a light piercing through the darkness. Just as Jesus called the people to repent and turn towards God, this season reminds us to examine our hearts, seeking to be transformed by the love that Christ brings.

As we journey through Advent, let us embrace the essence of Jesus' ministry – a call to repentance, a turning away from the old and a stepping into the new life offered by God. In the midst of our preparations for Christmas, may we open our hearts to the transformative power of Christ's message. His ministry in Galilee marks the beginning of an amazing journey, a journey that leads us toward the kingdom of heaven.

]]> http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/18/advent-devotionals#comments 0 Advent Devotionals http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/17/advent-devotionals Sun, 17 Dec 2023 08:47:05 +0000 http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/17/advent-devotionals

John 1:1-14: The Word Becoming Flesh

In your quiet time, read John 1:1-14.

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. Reflect on the profound truth that Jesus, the Word, existed from the very start, intimately connected with God.

As we anticipate the celebration of Christ's birth during this Advent season, let us marvel at the Him. The Word, full of grace and truth, chose to dwell among us, bridging the gap between the eternal and the temporary.

During this time of waiting, let us prepare our hearts to receive the Light that shines in the darkness. Just as John the Baptist testified to the coming of Christ, may our lives bear witness to the transformative power of Jesus.

]]> http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/17/advent-devotionals#comments 0 Advent Devotionals http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/15/advent-devotionals Fri, 15 Dec 2023 08:05:25 +0000 http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/15/advent-devotionals

Baptism Of Jesus By John-Luke 3:21-22

In your quiet time, read Luke 3:21-22

Jesus never asks us to do something He didn’t do. As we set aside baptism as a crucial step toward publicly declaring your faith in Christ, Jesus also did this to show both the importance of baptism, as well as to show John and future generations of believers that He was the Messiah. With this confirmation in place, John’s mission to prepare the way for the Coming Lord was complete.

This also marked the beginning of Jesus’ earthly ministry. You see, you can pray quietly, serve humbly, and walk daily with the Lord, but one day You may need to profess in front of loved ones, enemies, colleagues, etc. that Your life belongs to God. Jesus shows us the crucial step baptism is, not as a means of salvation, but a celebration and proclamation of unity with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Maybe you’ve never been baptized, and if so, we strongly encourage you to take that bold step from quietly living faith, to living your faith out loud.

Prayer: God, help me to see the beauty of publicly living my faith out to you. May you take away any fear or concern of what others will think of me, knowing that what you think of me and how you love me are more important than anything else in this life. Amen

]]> http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/15/advent-devotionals#comments 0 Advent Devotionals http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/14/advent-devotionals Thu, 14 Dec 2023 08:23:11 +0000 http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/14/advent-devotionals

Matthew 3:1-12 - “Prepare the way!

For the Yamo family, Thanksgiving is the time that we step over the threshold into the wonder of our Christmas season. Out comes the Christmas decorations that have been stored away for the past 11 months. We have to clear the way for all the Christmas decor. There’s our Christmas tree and the ornaments. the Christmas music on the radio, the Manger scene, the Advent log, the egg nog, the 13 Christmas stockings for our whole family and even a Christmas sweater for our new Mini-goldendoodle puppy. It’s my favorite time of the year. Hands down!! I love it when every year we prepare our home for Christmas.

But I also love the season of Advent. Advent is the time that we’re given the invitation to prepare our hearts to celebrate Jesus’ birth in the stable in Bethlehem. It’s the time that we can clear out all the distractions that keep us from opening our hearts to Jesus’ miraculous birth through the virgin Mary. In Matthew 3:3 the Bible says…”He is the voice shouting in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord’s coming! Clear the road for him!’”

Just like how we had to clear out all the clutter to make room for the Christmas decor in our house, John the Baptist was saying…”Clear out all the clutter in your life. Get rid of all the obstacles that get in the way of your heart being able to receive the wonderful gift of Jesus.” Is your heart cluttered with anxiety and worry…Focus on Jesus and his faithfulness. Is your mind filled with deadlines, expectations and unending goals to be achieved…Give the weight of life's demands to Jesus and let him help you carry the load. Ask the Lord to show you the clutter in your own heart and clear the road for Jesus this Advent season!! God bless you and your family during this Advent season.

]]> http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/14/advent-devotionals#comments 0 Advent Devotionals http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/13/advent-devotionals Wed, 13 Dec 2023 07:30:00 +0000 http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/13/advent-devotionals

Simeon and Anna's Testimonies in the Temple

In your quiet time, read Luke 2:25-38.

Imagine this: You and your spouse (or future one) walk into the place of worship with your newborn child. A person grabs your child and swings them around. They start praising God, saying that their eyes are seeing God’s salvation. What would your reaction be? In awe or scared?

There was something very special about the baby that Mary and Joseph had. They had been visited by an angel before his birth. Wise men and shepherds visited your baby at his birth, and they gave him gifts. Now, at the place of worship, an older gentleman is praising God for your child being God’s salvation. This must have been startling. But verse 33 says: “The child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him”. Very soon after this moment, a prophet came to Mary and Joseph and gave thanks to God for the child. Aloud at the place of worship, she spoke to everyone possible about this child being the one who would redeem Jerusalem.
By this point, Marty and Joseph must have known that the child Mary conceived by the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:35) was very special. There was something very special about this child. Everything that Simeon and Anna spoke of Jesus was to come true. When they saw this child, they knew that Jesus was the salvation of all peoples (Luke 2:32). We, too, can look at Jesus and know he is our salvation. We can look at Jesus and know he is very special. He is Immanuel, or ‘God with us’.

]]> http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/13/advent-devotionals#comments 0 Advent Devotionals http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/12/advent-devotionals Tue, 12 Dec 2023 08:53:23 +0000 http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/12/advent-devotionals

Return From Egypt And Settling In Nazareth

In your quiet time, read Matthew 2:19-23.

I love the bridge of Way Maker:
“Even when I don’t see it You’re working, even when I don’t feel it You’re working”

Every time I sing this song I’m reminded that God is not only more that I can imagine or conceive, but He sees, hears, moves, and does things I can’t believe! As we read in Matthew 2 19:23, we see that even though Mary and Joseph are in hiding and worried for their safety, the Lord is with them, guiding their path, and leading them to Nazareth, that in turn fulfilled yet another prophecy from the Old Testament about the coming Messiah.

Wether you are going through a rough season, or you feel like everything is going your way, the Lord is moving in the background of your situations and circumstances. This Christmas, trust that the same God that delivered Jesus, Mary, and Joseph home safe, is the same God that holds you, your family, and your future. He is always with you and He loves you more than you could ever know.

Prayer: God, help me see how You are moving in my current season of life. Help me see that I can trust you even when it’s hard, and that You are making all things happen for my good and for Your glory, amen.

]]> http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/12/advent-devotionals#comments 0 Advent Devotionals http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/11/advent-devotionals Mon, 11 Dec 2023 08:32:22 +0000 http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/11/advent-devotionals

Advent Devotional Day 11: Matthew 2:16-18- Herod's Massacre of the Innocents

In your quiet time, read Matthew 2:16-18.

Joseph and Mary left for Egypt with Jesus to leave Herod’s command to kill innocent baby boys under the age of 2 (Matthew 2:14, 16). This story is like another in the Bible. Moses, too, was born in a time of a great massacre of newborns and infants (Exodus 1:22). When Moses was much older, God called him as the person to help deliver the Hebrews from the oppression of the Egyptians (Exodus 3:10). In an Old Testament and Jewish perspective, Moses was the greatest deliverer of all time. With Jesus’ birth, something (or someone) much greater had now come on to the scene (Hebrews 3:3).
Jesus was hunted as an infant, much like Moses. Jesus was called as well to deliver all peoples from spiritual oppression, not just Egyptian oppression. In a time that looked so gloomy for the Hebrews, God preserved Moses and kept him safe from Pharaoh. God purposed Moses to be the deliverer of the Hebrews from the Egyptians. In a time that looked so gloomy for all people, including the Jewish people, God preserved Jesus and kept him safe from Herod. God purposed Jesus to be the deliverer of all peoples from spiritual oppression. Is there any area of your life where it looks gloomy and you need deliverance from oppression? Be still and know that the God who preserves will keep you safe and well cared for. The God who delivers can free you from any oppression that you may face.

]]> http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/11/advent-devotionals#comments 0 Advent Devotionals http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/10/advent-devotionals Sun, 10 Dec 2023 08:11:45 +0000 http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/10/advent-devotionals

Advent Devotional Day 10: Escape to Egypt to Avoid Harod

In your quiet time, read Matthew 2:13-15

In Matthew 2:13-15, Joseph is responding to guidance after Jesus' birth. After the wise men's visit, an angel directs Joseph to take Mary and the baby to Egypt to escape King Herod. Joseph, straightforward and obedient doesn't hesitate but takes immediate action to protect his family.

As we reflect on this part of scripture during Advent, let's focus on Joseph's straightforward obedience. In our lives, we may encounter situations that require clear responses. Joseph's example encourages us to trust God's guidance and act with a simple, unwavering obedience.

This Christmas season, may we, like Joseph, walk through challenges with a straightforward faith, trusting that God's guidance leads us to places of safety and fulfillment of His purpose in our lives. Amen.

]]> http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/10/advent-devotionals#comments 0 Advent Devotionals http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/09/advent-devotionals Sat, 09 Dec 2023 08:32:45 +0000 http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/09/advent-devotionals

Advent Devotionals Day 9: The Visit of the Magi and the Star

Read Matthew 2:1-2

In Matthew 2:1-12, we meet wise men who saw a special star and followed it, searching for the newborn King. These wise men traveled a long way to find Jesus, carrying gifts fit for a king when they arrived.

This Advent, let's think about the wise men. They teach us that seeking Jesus is a journey worth taking. Just like them, we can look for signs of God's presence in our lives—a kind word, a moment of peace, or the joy of helping others. As we prepare for Christmas, let's be wise seekers, following the light that leads us closer to Jesus. And when we find Him, may our hearts, like those of the wise men, be filled with joy and gratitude, ready to offer our own gifts of love and worship.

Prayer: Jesus thank you that following you is a journey worth taking. Help me to seek you with awe and wonder. Amen.

]]> http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/09/advent-devotionals#comments 0 Advent Devotionals http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/08/advent-devotionals Fri, 08 Dec 2023 07:53:20 +0000 http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/08/advent-devotionals

Advent Devotional Day 8: Jesus' Dedication and Presentation in the Temple

In Luke 2:21-24, we find Mary and Joseph bringing baby Jesus to the temple for a special dedication ceremony. It was a time to follow God's law and present their firstborn to the Lord. Even though Mary and Joseph knew Jesus was extraordinary, they humbly followed the traditions of their faith.

This Advent, let's think about the simple act of dedication. Mary and Joseph showed us that even in the extraordinary moments, like having the Son of God, they stayed obedient to God's ways. As we prepare for Christmas, let's dedicate our moments to God, remembering that in the simple and everyday things, we can honor Him. Like Mary and Joseph, may we find joy in following God's path and dedicating our lives to His love and guidance.

Prayer: God, help me to love and honor you in all that I do. Help me to walk in obedience and follow your precepts. Amen.

]]> http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/08/advent-devotionals#comments 0 Advent Devotionals http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/07/advent-devotionals Thu, 07 Dec 2023 07:56:08 +0000 http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/07/advent-devotionals

Advent Devotional Day 7: The Shepherd's Encounter with the Angel

In Luke 2:8-20, we see a group of shepherds keeping watch over their flock at night. Suddenly, an angel appears, announcing the birth of the Savior in Bethlehem. The shepherds were so excited and decided to go and see baby Jesus, finding everything just as the angel had told them.

This Advent, let's reflect on the shepherds' response. In their obedience, they set aside their duties to watch the fulfillment of God's promise. As we journey toward Christmas, may we be inspired by the shepherds to prioritize moments of quiet reflection and intentional seeking of Jesus. In the midst of the busyness, let's take time to listen to God's voice and respond with a willing heart, just as the shepherds did on that holy night.

Prayer: Jesus, help me to fix my eyes on you in the middle of the busyness. Help me to pause, to reflect and to embrace every moment that you have blessed me with. Amen.

]]> http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/07/advent-devotionals#comments 0 Advent Devotionals http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/06/advent-devotionals Wed, 06 Dec 2023 07:15:00 +0000 http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/06/advent-devotionals

Advent Day Six: The Journey to Bethlehem and Jesus' Birth

Read Luke 2:1-7.

In Luke 2: 1-7 we step into the very heart of Christmas—the moment when baby Jesus was born! Imagine the excitement in Bethlehem as Mary and Joseph arrived, ready to welcome baby Jesus. But, surprise! The town was full, and they ended up in a stable.

Yet, in that simple place, something incredible happened...Jesus, the Savior, was born! This Advent, let's feel the joy of that day. In our own journeys, we may face unexpected twists, But just like that starry night in Bethlehem, there's pure joy in knowing that Jesus, the greatest gift, came into our world. As we prepare for Christmas, let's embrace the excitement of Jesus' birth, a tiny baby with a immense impact that all the world would see.

Prayer: Jesus, as I reflect on your birth, I'm filled with joy, awe and gratitude. Thank you Jesus for the joy that can only be found in you! Like the shepherds who marveled at the sight of our newborn Savior, help me to be filled with that same wonder and adoration.

]]> http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/06/advent-devotionals#comments 0 Advent Devotionals http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/05/advent-devotionals Tue, 05 Dec 2023 07:55:45 +0000 http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/05/advent-devotionals

Advent Day 5: Joseph's Dream and Acceptance of Jesus

Read Matthew 1:18-25

In Matthew 1:18-25, we meet Joseph, a kind carpenter who is engaged to Mary. Joseph soon found out Mary was going to have a baby, but not his baby. When he found out, Joseph thought about ending the engagement quietly. But then, an angel showed up in a dream, saying, "Don't be afraid to take Mary as your wife. This baby is special—sent by God." Joseph listened and did what the angel said.

This Advent, let's think about Joseph. When things got confusing and different from what he had in his plan, he put his trust in God. Sometimes life doesn't go how we expect and things happen differently then we plan. But like Joseph, we can trust that God has a special plan for us. As we get ready for Christmas, let's be open to God's surprises and remember that, just like Joseph, we can find peace and joy in trusting God's way, even when it seems a unexpected.

Prayer: God, your plans are higher than my plans. Your thoughts are higher than my thoughts. Help me to listen and to obey you even when things don't go my way. Thank you that your plan is perfect. Amen.

]]> http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/05/advent-devotionals#comments 1 Advent Devotionals http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/04/advent-devotionals Mon, 04 Dec 2023 08:14:47 +0000 http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/04/advent-devotionals

Advent Day four: Mary's visit to Elizabeth and the Magnificat

Read Luke 1:39-56.

In this story we see the beautiful encounter between Mary and Elizabeth. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Elizabeth sees the significance of Mary's pregnancy, and Mary responds with a hymn of praise called the "Magnificat."

This story invites us to embrace the joy and gratitude that comes when we witness God's work in our lives. Like Mary, let's take a moment to reflect on the blessings we've received, acknowledging the goodness of the Lord and His mercy. As we walk through Advent, may our hearts resonate with Mary's song, magnifying the goodness of God and rejoicing in the hope that comes with the fulfillment of His promises.

Prayer: Lord, help me to celebrate the joy of your presence in my life. Help me to be grateful for all that you have blessed me with, and most importantly grateful for your precious Holy Spirit. Amen.

]]> http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/04/advent-devotionals#comments 0 Advent Devotionals http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/03/advent-devotionals Sun, 03 Dec 2023 07:46:13 +0000 http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/03/advent-devotionals

Advent Devotional Day 3: The Angel Gabriel Visits Mary

Read Luke 1:26-38.

In Luke 1:26-38, we see the moment when the angel Gabriel visits Mary with a message. Mary, who is a humble woman, is chosen to be the mother of Jesus, the Savior. Her response to the angel is an answer of faith and surrender when she says, "I am the servant of the Lord, let it be to me according to your word."

This story invites us to reflect on Mary's willingness to embrace God's unexpected plan with trust and humility. As we continue through Advent, let's learn from Mary's simple yet amazing example...being open to God's surprises and saying "yes" to His plans for our lives, even when they go beyond our understanding. Mary's response reminds us that God's plans are always greater than our own.

Prayer: Jesus let you will be done in my life, and let me receive all that you may have in store for me. Amen.

]]> http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/03/advent-devotionals#comments 0 Advent Devotionals http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/02/advent-devotionals Sat, 02 Dec 2023 08:13:39 +0000 http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/02/advent-devotionals

Advent Day Two: The Announcement of John the Baptist's Birth

Read Luke 1:5-25

In the heart of the Christmas story, we are reminded of Zechariah and Elizabeth, a couple longing for a child. In Luke 1:5-25, an angel tells them that they will have a son named John in their old age and John would prepare the way for the Messiah. This story reminds us that even in the ordinary waiting rooms of our lives, God's surprises and promises can bring unexpected joy.

As we walk through Advent, open your hearts to the unexpected ways God might be at work. Just as God brought forth new life in the waiting room of Zechariah and Elizabeth, we trust that His promises will unfold in our lives, bringing hope and joy even in the season of waiting.

Prayer: Thank you Jesus for the hope and joy that you bring. Help me to be content in waiting seasons. Help me to lean on you in all things. And thank you that I can have hope for a winning season full of joy. Amen.

]]> http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/02/advent-devotionals#comments 0 Advent Devotionals http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/01/advent-devotionals Fri, 01 Dec 2023 07:00:00 +0000 http://canyonviewchurch.com/blog/2023/12/01/advent-devotionals

Advent Day One: The Prophecy of the Coming Messiah

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end." - Isaiah 9:6

These are the words that prophesied the coming of Jesus! The words paint a picture of His divine nature and the impact that He would have on the world. As we reflect on Isaiah 9:6, it’s an invitation for us to embrace the multifaceted roles Jesus fulfills – His wisdom, embodying the might of God, and giving us peace that surpasses all understanding.

The prophecy from Isaiah gives us hope! It reminds us that God’s redemptive plan is unfolding. In the midst of uncertainties, these verses remind us that the birth of Jesus was not just a historical event but a divine intervention—a promise fulfilled that brings light into our darkness. As we await the celebration of Christ's birth, let's find rest in the certainty of God's promises and embrace the transformative power of our King.

Prayer: God, I thank you for the promise of a child, the gift of your only son, whose name is above every other name. Thank you for your wisdom, for your strength that sustains me in every season, for your love that has no measure and for the peace that you’ve promise to me. Amen.

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