BOUGHS OF HEMLOCK

Boughs of hemlock, full, adorning,
blessed to greet the chilly morning;
as when Magi came afar,
from the east, beneath the Star,
and gave their gifts to the King of Kings,
Creator of created things,
who became a man—a babe to carry—
and trusted the goodness of Joseph and Mary.

Boughs of hemlock, rich and stately,
by the roadside waving greatly;
likened to the branches’ way
to Jerusalem that day,
when our Savior Jesus wept,
and on the road to the cross, kept,
to atone for us eternal peace,
from sin’s death hold, a sure release.

Boughs of hemlock, sprinkled snow,
delicate grace on branches show;
like the change from winter to spring.
A new life planted, faith does bring
Fruit and life from a spirit clean,
and a harvest of an evergreen.
Truth and honor in God’s Word well
will be honored, as time will tell.


God is the LORD, which hath shewed us light: bind the sacrifice with cords, even unto the horns of the altar.
Psalm 118:27

BOUGHS OF HEMLOCK

The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined. 
Isaiah 9:2

When light shines in, it alleviates trouble, changes the scene, soothes an ache and lifts turmoil.

For thou hast broken the yoke of his burden, and the staff of his shoulder, and the rod of his oppressor, as in the day of Midian. 
Isaiah 9:4

It was deliberate that the odds looked ridiculous as Gideon led a few men blowing trumpets and breaking jars against their enemy, an amazement similar to Sarah giving birth at the age of 90 and King Hezekiah seeing an angel standing in the battlefield after it killed 185,000 men of the king’s enemy because Hezekiah prayed for help. God is not timid in making a point. 

And God’s first words in Genesis, “Let there be light”, I think are deliberate, too. Jesus is the great light seen by the people walking in darkness. Only Jesus Christ can break the yoke of sin and swipe the staff of the task-master, the rod of Satan, the prince of darkness.  

For every battle of the warrior is with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood; but this shall be with burning and fuel of fire. 
Isaiah 9:5

It was said that gunfire in Gettysburg, PA could be heard in Washington D.C. during the civil war. Surviving soldiers often had hearing damage. Confused noise and garments rolled in blood describe the terrible scene of war. The results of Hell, of losing the battle of salvation, will be with fire. Keep praying for loved ones. Prayer can avail much.

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6

Unto Us, Salvation is given.

Jesus Christ governs the hearts of those who trust Him. After all the failing governments of the world, we’ll enjoy a government that rests on the shoulders of Jesus. Consider the meanings of the names that soar above all other names.

Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.
Isaiah 9:7

There is ongoing just government and perpetual peace in the kingdom of the King of kings. How? Because of zeal. It’s God’s enthusiasm that will bring about His Word. If we’re having a down day or even holiday, remember how powerful God is and that He is able to accomplish great things! Ask God for the help needed to endure a difficulty. He is patiently waiting to hear from us in prayer. He is not that far to hear.

For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.
I Corinthians 14:33

The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
2 Peter 3:9

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU!

With green boughs in hand, welcome into your heart God’s Precious Light, peace and patience.