2017 Worship Guide

2017 WORSHIP GUIDE Wednesday, December 6, 2017 LINCOLN DAILY NEWS PUBLICATION Page 21 them to have a very Merry Christmas because we treasure them with all that we are and we have plenty of room in our hearts for them. Yet before our boys ever were, my wife and I had room in our hearts for Jesus. In fact, Jesus is the One that expanded our hearts to the point that we could allow others in. That baby born of Mary is the “heart healer” and the “heart stretcher.” I don’t think I had room for much in my heart before Christ entered in, and what was in my heart at the time didn’t belong there… it wasn’t worthy to take up presence there. Inviting Jesus to come into my heart and dwell within makes a statement as to the value of who Jesus is. He is the Messiah. He is God in the Flesh. He is the Savior of the World. He is Lord. As mentioned earlier, I am also making a clear declaration of my need when I open the door of my heart to Jesus. I am spiritually and emotionally and completely bankrupt without Him. Only the Christ can bring me back from the brink of shame, guilt, and death. I remember when I first cried those words: “O come to my heart, Lord Jesus, there is room in my heart for Thee.” He was there for me and has been there for me since. I want your Christmas to be full of joy and fun and time with those you love, but I also want you to examine yourself and examine your need and examine your heart and make room for the One who belongs in the center of it all. Merry Christmas from The Christian Village Chaplain Ryan Edgecombe