Friday, February 21, 2020

Reflection - Once in Royal David's city

Source (book): "Songs of Christmas", The Stories and Significance of 20 Well-Loved Carols, Chapter 15, "Once in Royal David's city", Page 153.
By Robert M. Solomon, Bishop of the Methodist Church in Singapore from 2000 - 2012


Reflect on the humility of Christ and how He reached out to the last, the least, and the lost.
PHOTO: Reflect on the humility of Christ and how He reached out to the last, the least, and the lost.
The scene described in the first stanza is that of Mary and her new-born son Jesus. It is a humble scene (a lowly cattle shed and a manger as a cot for the baby), incredible and unfitting if we expect, as most of us would, that God's Son and the King of Israel would be born in a palace amid the splendour befitting his status. But that is the amazing thing about God. He identifies with the simplest people on earth by sending His Son to be born among the poor. There is no one so low in society that God cannot touch his life or identify with his poverty and marginalised position - such is the depth of God's love.

The second stanza reiterates this wonderful truth: although Jesus is "God and Lord of all", He did not hesitate to come down from His glorious heaven to be born in a stable and placed in a humble manger. His birth set the tone for how He would live on earth - He did not live in a princely palace (and even if He had, earthly palace would have been no match for the heavenly places He left behind in order to come to earth and save us). All His life, Jesus identified and felt at home with "the poor, and mean, and lowly" (Stanza 2). God has a heart for such people, and perhaps they have more space in their hearts for God, for Jesus did remark that, "It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God" (Matthew 19:24). Jesus, who during His public ministry had "nowhere to lay his head" (Luke 9:58), came to seek the lost, the last, and the least. It is not that He was only interested in the poor, for He also loved and sought to save the rich (Mark 10:21), but He showed that God notices all, especially those who go about life unnoticed and uncared for.


What lessons can be drawn from His life for people of different age groups?
The third stanza is addressed to children; they are encouraged to observe Christ as a child, growing up in His simple home in Nazareth. It was a "wondrous childhood" (Stanza 3) because He honoured and obeyed His parents, following the fifth commandment: "Honour your father and your mother" (Exodus 20:12). He did not think that being the Son of God exempted Him from obeying His earthly parents. They knew less than He did, even when He was 12 years old. The family were visiting Jerusalem, and the parents left for home without realising that Jesus was not with them. When they found out, they searched for Him desperately, finally finding Him in the temple having a deep discussion with the teachers of the law.

When Mary gently chided Him for causing such anxiety to her and Joseph, Jesus calmly replied that they should not have been surprised that He would be in His heavenly Father's house. "But they did not understand what he was saying to them" (Luke 2:50). Nevertheless He "went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them" (Luke 2:51, emphasis added). "Christian children all must be" (Stanza 3) like Him, who is an example to them - in being "mild, obedient, good as He" (Stanza 3), even though His mother was a "lowly maiden" (Stanza 3), and His father a humble craftsman.

Jesus understands all that we experience. He knows what it means to grow as a child and a youth. The fourth stanza tells us that He is "our childhood's pattern". Like us, He grew day by day, attending to daily chores and learning new things. He "grew in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man" (Luke 2:52). He knows what it means to be little, with adults towering above us. He knows what it means to be "weak and helpless", while our strength is still developing and we are unable to do the hard work of adults. He knows the aspiration of every child to grow up quickly and become capable of doing what adults can. He also understands and has experienced the tears of a child (when he or she is hurt), or the smiles that break out on their face when they noticed or appreciated. "He feeleth for our sadness" and "shareth in our gladness" (Stanza 4). What is true of children (because Jesus was once a child like us), is also true for us as adults (for He also lived as a man in a harsh and difficult society).


The humble Christ is also the glorious Christ - what implications does this truth have for your life?
The fifth stanza takes us from Bethlehem to heaven - to the heavenly Jerusalem (Revelation 21). With eyes of faith and reverent hearts, we must recognise that the Christmas baby in Bethlehem is also our Lord in heaven above. We shall one day see Him as He is - in all His glory - because of "His own redeeming love" (Stanza 5), a phrase that has just as much to say about how He came to earth to die as "the atoning sacrifice for our sins" (1 John 2:2). By believing in Him, we receive eternal life and will one day join Him in His eternal Kingdom in heaven above. After dying and rising from the dead for us, He has gone to prepare a place for us in our Father's house (John 14:2). That is His true home and our permanent address - if we believed in Jesus (who He is, what He has done for us, and what He has promised).

The final stanza ends with a glorious view of heaven and Christ. We are no longer in that Bethlehem scene - for it truly bring us to a splendid scene in the future, where we shall see Jesus sitting at the right hand of the Father. All of God's children who have been saved by Him will gather around, shining like stars (Philippians 2:15), crowned with righteousness (or holiness; 2 Timothy 4:8). The reference to being dressed in white and waiting around the throne comes from scenes in the book of Revelation (Revelation 7:9). White clothes speak of holiness (as we reflect Christlikeness, when sin within and among us will finally be eliminated). What a glorious hope!


How can you live in a way that reflects the humility of Jesus? [2]
1. Humbly acknowledge God in everything
For the sake of our own souls, we need to regularly bow our hearts to our magnificent, awe-inspiring and humble God. There are no human words that can describe who He is and how He has blessed us.

Job 26:11,14 ESV  "The pillars of heaven tremble and are astounded at his rebuke. Behold, these are but the outskirts of his ways, and how small a whisper do we hear of him! But the thunder of his power who can understand?”

Psalm 8:3-4 ESV  When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him?

Let’s make it a point to always humbly ask God for His will for all our plans and decisions. When we presume we know what’s right, we fall into idolatry because it sets us above God’s will.

1 Samuel 15:23 ESV  … and presumption is as iniquity and idolatry…

Proverbs 3:7 ESV  Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the LORD and turn away from evil.

2. Confess and repent of pride
Pride won’t allow God to sit on the throne in our hearts to rule over and redeem our past, present and future. This will eventually destroy us. Let us humbly repent for our pride and all the times we have tried to control our own lives in the false belief that we have the power to.

Romans 12:3 NLT   … Don’t think you are better than you really are. Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves, measuring yourselves by the faith God has given us.

Proverbs 11:2 ESV  When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom.

3. Thank God every day
It is God’s will that we thank Him in any circumstance, because He knows this helps us keep our hearts in check. As we humble ourselves, we will be surprised by how long our lists can be if we truly are thankful.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 ESV  give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Let us not hesitate to deflect any praise we receive and make it a point to thank our Father in heaven instead. He is the true Source of all our talents and gifts.

4. Stop grumbling
Any form of grumbling, whining or protesting stems from a spirit of self-entitlement and self-righteousness. When we humble our hearts and submit to God instead, we will be positive shining lights in our world.

Philippians 2:14-15 ESV  Do all things without grumbling or questioning, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world.

5. Stop passing judgment
We all have the tendency to conclude certain things about other people, not realising that we are in reality, passing judgement on them. It is even worse if we conclude that “they will never change” or “they are beyond hope”. Not only do we judge them, we also curse them. Such judgemental pride assumes we are all-knowing and entitled to condemn others. It also implies that God cannot work a miracle in their lives. This slanders and offends our all-powerful and merciful Father in heaven. This is something we need to actively avoid.

Matthew 7:1 ESV  Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you.

6. Stop boasting
Pride tells us we deserve recognition for our achievements, sacrifices and giving. In some sense, we wish to be worshipped; neglecting that God alone deserves all worship. God promises to reward those who humbly wait on His personal praises, and not crave the recognition and praises of other people. Let us serve, love and sacrifice joyfully, without seeking the approval of people.

2 Corinthians 10:17-18 ESV  "Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.” For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.

7. Stop seeking attention
Some people enjoy drawing attention to themselves by being pushy, boastful, crude or antagonistic. All this behaviour is driven by the innate belief that other people should listen to or follow them. Humility, on the other hand, will gently consider others first.

Philippians 2:4 ESV  Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.

Ephesians 4:2 ESV  with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love,

8. Admit mistakes and weaknesses readily
The fear of admitting our faults and vulnerabilities is driven by a desire to protect our personal image. We idolise our reputations at the expense of God’s. Like the apostle Paul, we should not be afraid of exposing our personal weaknesses, so that people will see Jesus’ Holy Spirit working in us. This takes true strength as well as true humility.

2 Corinthians 12:9 ESV  But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

9. Consider others as more important
The thought of considering others first is most unnatural to human beings. Even as children, we loathe to share our candy and toys. True humility is demonstrated when we do just the opposite. It shows our hearts to be free of fears and selfish intentions. We are able to love those whom God loves, regardless of how they behave towards us. Jesus set the perfect example by humbly dying on the cross for all of us.

Philippians 2:3 ESV  Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.

10. Forgive and bless others
The choice to forgive and bless those who offend us is a true test of our humility and submission to God. The Bible tells us to pray for and bless others, especially those whom we see as our enemies. It doesn’t tell us to try to bless our abusers, it simply tells us to just do it.

Ephesians 4:32 ESV  Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

Luke 6:27-28 ESV  But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you.

Unforgiveness is a form of pride that implies we are better than other people and deserve only worship and adoration. This pride keeps us from being good representatives of a humble God who sent His Son to die for us. In contrast, we are to actively bless those we are inclined to hate, resent or find intolerable, so that they get to experience the wonderful grace of the humble perfect God we serve.
Picture posted by The Calvin Synod – United Church of Christ
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once_in_royal_david_s_city_large_1.png
http://calvinsynod.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/1.-January-February-2019.pdf


Once in royal David's city
Stood a lowly cattle shed,
Where a mother laid her Baby
In a manger for His bed:
Mary was that mother mild,
Jesus Christ her little Child.

He came down to earth from heaven,
Who is God and Lord of all,
And His shelter was a stable,
And His cradle was a stall;
With the poor, and mean, and lowly,
Lived on earth our Savior holy.

And through all His wondrous childhood
He would honor and obey,
Love and watch the lowly maiden,
In whose gentle arms He lay:
Christian children all must be
Mild, obedient, good as He.

For He is our childhood's pattern;
Day by day, like us He grew;
He was little, weak and helpless,
Tears and smiles like us He knew;
And He feeleth for our sadness,
And He shareth in our gladness.

And our eyes at last shall see Him,
Through His own redeeming love;
For that Child so dear and gentle
Is our Lord in heaven above,
And He leads His children on
To the place where He is gone.

Now in that poor lowly stable,
With the oxen standing by,
We shall see Him; but in heaven,
Set at God's right hand on high;
Where like stars His children crowned
All in white shall wait around.

(Source: Service Book and Hymnal [Minneapolis: Angsburg Publishing House, 1958], #41)


 The author of this hymn was Cecil Frances Humphreys Alexander (1818-1895)
PHOTO: The author of this hymn was Cecil Frances Humphreys Alexander (1818-1895), an Iris poet and hymn writer, and wife of William Alexander, an Anglican bishop and later archbishop in Ireland.
Picture posted by Amazon.com, Inc
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History of the Carol [1]
The author of this hymn was Cecil Frances Humphreys Alexander (1818-1895), an Iris poet and hymn writer, and wife of William Alexander, an Anglican bishop and later archbishop in Ireland. She started writing poetry in her childhood, and her growing-up years were influenced by the Oxford Movement (part of the high church movement that accepted many of the older ceremonies from before the Reformation and contributed to the rise of Anglo-Catholicism). The leaders of the Oxford Movement were called Tractarians, and were located in Oxford University. Alexander was especially influenced by John Keble, one of the Tractarians and a poet himself.

She took her ministry as a bishop's wife seriously and "accompanied her husband throughout his Ireland travels, scolding the wicked and praising the good, and most of all working with the youngsters, for whom she wrote a number of little poems and hymns". [5]

She wrote more than 400 hymns.

Alexander began to be recognised as one of Ireland's best hymn writers and poets, and her hymns were included in the official hymnal of the Church of Ireland. She wrote hymns to help explain the gospel to the common people. Before she was married, as Ms C. F. Humphreys, she heard the complaints of her godsons that the catechism they were trying to memorise for their confirmation was boring and difficult. In response, she wrote several songs to help them understand the catechism. She wrote one of her most popular hymns, "All Things Bright and Beautiful", as a way of explaining how God is the Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth.

She also wrote her Christmas carol "Once in Royal David's City" to explain the birth of Jesus. Other hymns were also written to explain the Christian creed to her godsons. She published Hymns for Little Children in 1848, in which "Once in Royal David's City" and several of her other hymns first appeared. Henry John Gauntlett (1805-1876), an English organist and composer, discovered the hymn in 1849 and helped to set it to music. A prolific composer, Gauntlett wrote the music for more than 1,000 hymns.


 Cecil Frances Alexander
PHOTO: Cecil Frances Alexander (née Humphreys) wrote the words for “Once In Royal David’s City” in 1848; the organist, composer and musicologist Henry Gauntlett put the poem by the future bishop’s wife to music.
Picture posted by Gunther Simmermacher on 24 December 2019
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https://www.scross.co.za/2019/12/the-history-of-a-famous-christmas-carol/


Biblical Insights from the Carol [1]
The focus of the hymn is Jesus Christ, and His birth, childhood, life, and identity are told in the song.

The first stanza brings us to Bethlehem, which was the city of King David (the "town of David" as recorded in Luke 2:4). Because the Roman emperor had ordered a census to be taken for tax purposed, all people had to return to the towns of their forefathers so that they could be counted in an orderly manner. Joseph, being a descendant of David, went to Bethlehem to be counted. We do not know if he understood the significance of this trip to Bethlehem with Mary, who was expecting to give birth very soon, but Scripture had prophesied that the King of Israel, the Messiah, would be born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2).


 Because the Roman emperor had ordered a census to be taken for tax purposed, all people had to return to the towns of their forefathers so that they could be counted in an orderly manner.
PHOTO: Because the Roman emperor had ordered a census to be taken for tax purposed, all people had to return to the towns of their forefathers so that they could be counted in an orderly manner. Joseph, being a descendant of David, went to Bethlehem to be counted. We do not know if he understood the significance of this trip to Bethlehem with Mary, who was expecting to give birth very soon, but Scripture had prophesied that the King of Israel, the Messiah, would be born in Bethlehem.
Picture posted by Hdad. Rosario de los Humeros@HdadHumeros on 15 December 2018 at 6:38 PM - Joseph and Mary travel to Bethlehem
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https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Duc5QOSX4AAl_DY.jpg:large
https://twitter.com/hdadhumeros/status/1073889995549749253


Reflect on the humility of Christ and how He reached out to the last, the least, and the lost. What lessons can be drawn from His life for people of different age groups? How can you live in a way that reflects the humility of Jesus? The humble Christ is also the glorious Christ - what implications does this truth have for your life?

Reflect on the humility of Christ and how He reached out to the last, the least, and the lost.
The scene described in the first stanza is that of Mary and her new-born son Jesus. It is a humble scene (a lowly cattle shed and a manger as a cot for the baby), incredible and unfitting if we expect, as most of us would, that God's Son and the King of Israel would be born in a palace amid the splendour befitting his status. But that is the amazing thing about God. He identifies with the simplest people on earth by sending His Son to be born among the poor. There is no one so low in society that God cannot touch his life or identify with his poverty and marginalised position - such is the depth of God's love.


God identifies with the simplest people on earth by sending His Son to be born among the poor.
PHOTO: God identifies with the simplest people on earth by sending His Son to be born among the poor. There is no one so low in society that God cannot touch his life or identify with his poverty and marginalised position - such is the depth of God's love.
Picture aved from Elizabeth McElmurray
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzOF8DZh9x_hiwUfqY2i8uKLq6T4popg29-2UIi93A2IZgv1dDm95Jo0QXUPqAGp0A4Mi27o_5F92t885CGI8Maq4rEU_nfr4iiHg3UDWdgngbOuGrg_G9Rw1-V6uexceTm_E757jJNVo/s1600/48fb8376a828f2d94ebb3e2956e796da_1.png
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The second stanza reiterates this wonderful truth: although Jesus is "God and Lord of all", He did not hesitate to come down from His glorious heaven to be born in a stable and placed in a humble manger. His birth set the tone for how He would live on earth - He did not live in a princely palace (and even if He had, earthly palace would have been no match for the heavenly places He left behind in order to come to earth and save us). All His life, Jesus identified and felt at home with "the poor, and mean, and lowly" (Stanza 2). God has a heart for such people, and perhaps they have more space in their hearts for God, for Jesus did remark that, "It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God" (Matthew 19:24). Jesus, who during His public ministry had "nowhere to lay his head" (Luke 9:58), came to seek the lost, the last, and the least. It is not that He was only interested in the poor, for He also loved and sought to save the rich (Mark 10:21), but He showed that God notices all, especially those who go about life unnoticed and uncared for.


Although Jesus is 'God and Lord of all', He did not hesitate to come down from His glorious heaven to be born in a stable and placed in a humble manger.
PHOTO: Although Jesus is "God and Lord of all", He did not hesitate to come down from His glorious heaven to be born in a stable and placed in a humble manger. Jesus, who during His public ministry had "nowhere to lay his head", came to seek the lost, the last, and the least. He showed that God notices all, especially those who go about life unnoticed and uncared for.
Picture posted by Karen Garst, The Faithless Feminist on 30 August 2018
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https://faithlessfeminist.com/blog-posts/was-jesus-a-real-person/
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/12/reflection-joy-to-world.html


What lessons can be drawn from His life for people of different age groups?
The third stanza is addressed to children; they are encouraged to observe Christ as a child, growing up in His simple home in Nazareth. It was a "wondrous childhood" (Stanza 3) because He honoured and obeyed His parents, following the fifth commandment: "Honour your father and your mother" (Exodus 20:12). He did not think that being the Son of God exempted Him from obeying His earthly parents. They knew less than He did, even when He was 12 years old. The family were visiting Jerusalem, and the parents left for home without realising that Jesus was not with them. When they found out, they searched for Him desperately, finally finding Him in the temple having a deep discussion with the teachers of the law.


 We are encouraged to observe Christ as a child, growing up in His simple home in Nazareth.
PHOTO: We are encouraged to observe Christ as a child, growing up in His simple home in Nazareth. It was a "wondrous childhood" because He honoured and obeyed His parents, following the fifth commandment: "Honour your father and your mother".
Picture posted by FineArtAmerica.com - Jesus As A Boy In Nazareth is a drawing by Mary Evans Picture Library which was uploaded on January 22nd, 2018.
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When Mary gently chided Him for causing such anxiety to her and Joseph, Jesus calmly replied that they should not have been surprised that He would be in His heavenly Father's house. "But they did not understand what he was saying to them" (Luke 2:50). Nevertheless He "went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them" (Luke 2:51, emphasis added). "Christian children all must be" (Stanza 3) like Him, who is an example to them - in being "mild, obedient, good as He" (Stanza 3), even though His mother was a "lowly maiden" (Stanza 3), and His father a humble craftsman.


 Mary gently chided boy Jesus for causing such anxiety to her and Joseph, Jesus calmly replied that they should not have been surprised that He would be in His heavenly Father's house.
PHOTO: Mary gently chided boy Jesus for causing such anxiety to her and Joseph, Jesus calmly replied that they should not have been surprised that He would be in His heavenly Father's house. Nevertheless He "went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them". "Christian children all must be" like Him, who is an example to them - in being "mild, obedient, good as He".
Picture posted by fotospas.ru
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Jesus understands all that we experience. He knows what it means to grow as a child and a youth. The fourth stanza tells us that He is "our childhood's pattern". Like us, He grew day by day, attending to daily chores and learning new things. He "grew in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man" (Luke 2:52). He knows what it means to be little, with adults towering above us. He knows what it means to be "weak and helpless", while our strength is still developing and we are unable to do the hard work of adults. He knows the aspiration of every child to grow up quickly and become capable of doing what adults can. He also understands and has experienced the tears of a child (when he or she is hurt), or the smiles that break out on their face when they noticed or appreciated. "He feeleth for our sadness" and "shareth in our gladness" (Stanza 4). What is true of children (because Jesus was once a child like us), is also true for us as adults (for He also lived as a man in a harsh and difficult society).


Jesus understands all that we experience.
PHOTO: Jesus understands all that we experience. He knows what it means to grow as a child and a youth. "He feeleth for our sadness" and "shareth in our gladness". What is true of children (because Jesus was once a child like us), is also true for us as adults (for He also lived as a man in a harsh and difficult society).
Picture posted by FineArtAmerica.com - Jesus Heals A Leper In Samaria is a drawing by Mary Evans Picture Library which was uploaded on January 30th, 2018
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtp3Y3VVVzxvLm7IL35TAW-PZJQ_sKdnBvCQbZm-hOex_3F6enJPpZYZyPq8dig6UwRW6deBsGDBboVtCSra6r7ysPfAGNHTYT8LiFee7vOxbKJHwoGP0KMojYVTDHfRHuQw7HC-1NdEw/s1600/jesus-heals-a-leper-in-samaria-mary-evans-picture-library_1.jpg
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https://fineartamerica.com/featured/jesus-heals-a-leper-in-samaria-mary-evans-picture-library.html


The humble Christ is also the glorious Christ - what implications does this truth have for your life?
The fifth stanza takes us from Bethlehem to heaven - to the heavenly Jerusalem (Revelation 21). With eyes of faith and reverent hearts, we must recognise that the Christmas baby in Bethlehem is also our Lord in heaven above. We shall one day see Him as He is - in all His glory - because of "His own redeeming love" (Stanza 5), a phrase that has just as much to say about how He came to earth to die as "the atoning sacrifice for our sins" (1 John 2:2). By believing in Him, we receive eternal life and will one day join Him in His eternal Kingdom in heaven above. After dying and rising from the dead for us, He has gone to prepare a place for us in our Father's house (John 14:2). That is His true home and our permanent address - if we believed in Jesus (who He is, what He has done for us, and what He has promised).


 The humble Christ is also the glorious Christ.
PHOTO: The humble Christ is also the glorious Christ. He came to earth to die as "the atoning sacrifice for our sins" (1 John 2:2). By believing in Him, we receive eternal life and will one day join Him in His eternal Kingdom in heaven above. He has gone to prepare a place for us in our Father's house (John 14:2). That is His true home and our permanent address.
Picture posted by Charles Holmes on Friday, 25 October 2013 at 11:41 AM
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSJLoKoRF_gAfG6IOeDhs3nY-DUgr2ua-IxadOORPp3K8CIOeqEbfECKbq1fRl6VK7H7Ad92JUqMCzZzRMdlUNShxx3_1Nhqh3HetP9Qe2EyCJc7rA6KT4xnSVJhqvhsSYAp9CrQ0GjJ0/s1600/sFN4K2IvmQGi6T0hL_NMPgk792YuzDBE7Pdn-RXuLUhJXOL4dBFR9g%253D%253D.gif
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyi-pj1XagSN7SFqOqDHGkgo4-tHfyqHTOMrpGwn-rhhH_L5Zz5fdo5IQg6aY7gqK7e8QLwlTmMrwZBOUVlmed9CzmQpUkYi-mEHHH08SnLXggyu5tBu71AGKI7v0lQUFy24-jeqhwn8w/s1600/sFN4K2IvmQGi6T0hL_NMPgk792YuzDBE7Pdn-RXuLUhJXOL4dBFR9g==.gif
http://godversesman.blogspot.com/2013/10/the-shepherd.html


The final stanza ends with a glorious view of heaven and Christ. We are no longer in that Bethlehem scene - for it truly bring us to a splendid scene in the future, where we shall see Jesus sitting at the right hand of the Father. All of God's children who have been saved by Him will gather around, shining like stars (Philippians 2:15), crowned with righteousness (or holiness; 2 Timothy 4:8). The reference to being dressed in white and waiting around the throne comes from scenes in the book of Revelation (Revelation 7:9). White clothes speak of holiness (as we reflect Christlikeness, when sin within and among us will finally be eliminated). What a glorious hope!


 A splendid scene in the future, where we shall see Jesus at the right hand of the Father.
PHOTO: A splendid scene in the future, where we shall see Jesus at the right hand of the Father. All of God's children who have been saved by Him will gather around, shining like stars, crowned with righteousness. Dressed in white and waiting around the throne when sin within and among us will finally be eliminated.
Picture posted by Pst.Zino on 27 July 2014 
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJU_c8q2VJvz8rqnsQOWD2JGAZ1eGMmQNq1hPj2ogbCvu99teD-jMmnuk_jBsdSRHARoypOu-DG4KByRGaUMMmUTf7n44UkABtIQvGGy7b3AjYFq7vLg11AcaXXZXwhXTfXn5csCECD-I/s1600/20140723-163856-59936410.jpg
https://pstzinogenesis.files.wordpress.com/2014/07/20140723-163856-59936410.jpg
https://pstzinogenesis.com/2014/07/27/jesus-the-mediator-of-the-new-covenant-hebrews-1224/


How can you live in a way that reflects the humility of Jesus? [2]
1. Humbly acknowledge God in everything
For the sake of our own souls, we need to regularly bow our hearts to our magnificent, awe-inspiring and humble God. There are no human words that can describe who He is and how He has blessed us.

Job 26:11,14 ESV  "The pillars of heaven tremble and are astounded at his rebuke. Behold, these are but the outskirts of his ways, and how small a whisper do we hear of him! But the thunder of his power who can understand?”

Psalm 8:3-4 ESV  When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him?

Let’s make it a point to always humbly ask God for His will for all our plans and decisions. When we presume we know what’s right, we fall into idolatry because it sets us above God’s will.

1 Samuel 15:23 ESV  … and presumption is as iniquity and idolatry…

Proverbs 3:7 ESV  Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the LORD and turn away from evil.


Humbly acknowledge God in everything
PHOTO: Humbly acknowledge God in everything
Let’s make it a point to always humbly ask God for His will for all our plans and decisions. When we presume we know what’s right, we fall into idolatry because it sets us above God’s will.
Picture posted bywallpaperflare.com
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https://c0.wallpaperflare.com/preview/27/637/103/sky-clouds-light-jesus.jpg
https://www.wallpaperflare.com/search?wallpaper=jesus+child
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/09/reflection-come-thou-long-expected-jesus.html
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/12/reflection-joy-to-world.html


2. Confess and repent of pride
Pride won’t allow God to sit on the throne in our hearts to rule over and redeem our past, present and future. This will eventually destroy us. Let us humbly repent for our pride and all the times we have tried to control our own lives in the false belief that we have the power to.

Romans 12:3 NLT   … Don’t think you are better than you really are. Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves, measuring yourselves by the faith God has given us.

Proverbs 11:2 ESV  When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom.


 Confess and repent of pride
PHOTO: Confess and repent of pride
 Let us humbly repent for our pride and all the times we have tried to control our own lives in the false belief that we have the power to. This will eventually destroy us.
Picture posted by Вера Косова on 15 October 2015 at 13:37
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http://i.imgur.com/c25FhTR.gif
https://www.dietamalyshevoy.ru/blogi/4295248950/700079717167?page=1


3. Thank God every day
It is God’s will that we thank Him in any circumstance, because He knows this helps us keep our hearts in check. As we humble ourselves, we will be surprised by how long our lists can be if we truly are thankful.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 ESV  give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Let us not hesitate to deflect any praise we receive and make it a point to thank our Father in heaven instead. He is the true Source of all our talents and gifts.


 Thank God every day
PHOTO: Thank God every day
Let us not hesitate to deflect any praise we receive and make it a point to thank our Father in heaven instead. He is the true Source of all our talents and gifts.
Picture posted by evgstereo
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https://blog.stanis.ru/img/123565.jpg
https://yandex.ru/collections/card/5cdb1753568eb00c767d5f8f/


4. Stop grumbling
Any form of grumbling, whining or protesting stems from a spirit of self-entitlement and self-righteousness. When we humble our hearts and submit to God instead, we will be positive shining lights in our world.

Philippians 2:14-15 ESV  Do all things without grumbling or questioning, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world.


 Stop grumbling
PHOTO: Stop grumbling
Any form of grumbling, whining or protesting stems from a spirit of self-entitlement and self-righteousness. When we humble our hearts and submit to God instead, we will be positive shining lights in our world.
Picture posted by Angel-In-Imagination on 27 April 2018 - Stop Grumbling
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH7apr8CySsIan-SxVA185brEoq7h2mV71o2lSCE2OP2-wDxfBSmkaXvzrTaGjeqJFvbEtCl4Uqw1iSQOMoRRTL7L7QJ1x79nKExNpEyqmL6wvgI_7olfGLdeITVxMmJXP7zZs33JlzLM/s1600/stop_grumbling_by_angel_in_imagination_dc9yzb8-fullview.jpg
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https://www.deviantart.com/angel-in-imagination/art/Stop-Grumbling-742342724


5. Stop passing judgment
We all have the tendency to conclude certain things about other people, not realising that we are in reality, passing judgement on them. It is even worse if we conclude that “they will never change” or “they are beyond hope”. Not only do we judge them, we also curse them. Such judgemental pride assumes we are all-knowing and entitled to condemn others. It also implies that God cannot work a miracle in their lives. This slanders and offends our all-powerful and merciful Father in heaven. This is something we need to actively avoid.

Matthew 7:1 ESV  Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you.


 Stop passing judgment
PHOTO: Stop passing judgment
We all have the tendency to conclude certain things about other people, not realising that we are in reality, passing judgement on them. It is even worse if we conclude that “they will never change” or “they are beyond hope”. Not only do we judge them, we also curse them. Such judgemental pride assumes we are all-knowing and entitled to condemn others. It also implies that God cannot work a miracle in their lives. This slanders and offends our all-powerful and merciful Father in heaven. This is something we need to actively avoid.
Picture posted by Amy Morin, Contributor @AmyMorinLCSW on Monday, 11 February 2019 at 10:48 AM EST
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https://www.cnbc.com/2019/02/11/7-powerful-ways-mentally-strong-people-handle-toxic-co-workers.html


6. Stop boasting
Pride tells us we deserve recognition for our achievements, sacrifices and giving. In some sense, we wish to be worshipped; neglecting that God alone deserves all worship. God promises to reward those who humbly wait on His personal praises, and not crave the recognition and praises of other people. Let us serve, love and sacrifice joyfully, without seeking the approval of people.

2 Corinthians 10:17-18 ESV  "Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.” For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.


 Stop boasting
PHOTO: Stop boasting
Pride tells us we deserve recognition for our achievements, sacrifices and giving. In some sense, we wish to be worshipped; neglecting that God alone deserves all worship. God promises to reward those who humbly wait on His personal praises, and not crave the recognition and praises of other people. Let us serve, love and sacrifice joyfully, without seeking the approval of people.
Picture posted by TWC Daily Devotional on Thursday, 15 October 2015
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRgmWyd52U2TI_pfw7W33aGgudul2TxTFycSjj3FOmu3XIEqCdryFQbWZ96DBc48lylsvKPJAiJbCIAc_JHPEeBtoSd_qU3jh9Wv9zNaW3CmK4wwkguWaFkXXDVM9qS3Vs4BIR4yn9xrs/s1600/proud_1.png
https://twcdaily.files.wordpress.com/2015/11/proud.jpg
https://twcdaily.wordpress.com/2015/11/04/do-not-think-of-yourself-more-highly-than-you-ought-to-think-twc-daily-devotional-thursday-15-october-2015/


7. Stop seeking attention
Some people enjoy drawing attention to themselves by being pushy, boastful, crude or antagonistic. All this behaviour is driven by the innate belief that other people should listen to or follow them. Humility, on the other hand, will gently consider others first.

Philippians 2:4 ESV  Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.

Ephesians 4:2 ESV  with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love,


 Stop seeking attention
PHOTO: Stop seeking attention
Some people enjoy drawing attention to themselves by being pushy, boastful, crude or antagonistic. All this behaviour is driven by the innate belief that other people should listen to or follow them. Humility, on the other hand, will gently consider others first.
Picture posted by masonmiler
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https://steemit.com/sevensins/@masonmiler/the-seven-deadly-sins


8. Admit mistakes and weaknesses readily
The fear of admitting our faults and vulnerabilities is driven by a desire to protect our personal image. We idolise our reputations at the expense of God’s. Like the apostle Paul, we should not be afraid of exposing our personal weaknesses, so that people will see Jesus’ Holy Spirit working in us. This takes true strength as well as true humility.

2 Corinthians 12:9 ESV  But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.


 Admit mistakes and weaknesses readily
PHOTO: Admit mistakes and weaknesses readily
The fear of admitting our faults and vulnerabilities is driven by a desire to protect our personal image. We idolise our reputations at the expense of God’s. Like the apostle Paul, we should not be afraid of exposing our personal weaknesses, so that people will see Jesus’ Holy Spirit working in us. This takes true strength as well as true humility.
Picture posted by Isriana on 29 August 2010 - The Druidess
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB-hDaBFyxLXL8_hMtsemxPHcQnujsqq1umM4HYQ_yhuWsPMOFXdd7tqwIhBgCBx-QDkio4gEnHXx2NuD1W5ewa0QgpdEauM6QcHnz9cI1-qKDNbHU9cVamGYRaiuv8XGHa5iH7nh94eI/s1600/d2xj91t-119c2851-b827-4995-800b-b6ed5ae502a8.jpg
https://images-wixmp-ed30a86b8c4ca887773594c2.wixmp.com/f/f5aeff2f-5c4a-4624-a1cf-1eeb113a90b6/d2xj91t-119c2851-b827-4995-800b-b6ed5ae502a8.jpg?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOiJ1cm46YXBwOjdlMGQxODg5ODIyNjQzNzNhNWYwZDQxNWVhMGQyNmUwIiwiaXNzIjoidXJuOmFwcDo3ZTBkMTg4OTgyMjY0MzczYTVmMGQ0MTVlYTBkMjZlMCIsIm9iaiI6W1t7InBhdGgiOiJcL2ZcL2Y1YWVmZjJmLTVjNGEtNDYyNC1hMWNmLTFlZWIxMTNhOTBiNlwvZDJ4ajkxdC0xMTljMjg1MS1iODI3LTQ5OTUtODAwYi1iNmVkNWFlNTAyYTguanBnIn1dXSwiYXVkIjpbInVybjpzZXJ2aWNlOmZpbGUuZG93bmxvYWQiXX0.uHm75EpdkAs7Rz4awN0GP1M95oyk7NW5zigDDdBhT38
https://www.deviantart.com/isriana/art/The-Druidess-177257873


9. Consider others as more important
The thought of considering others first is most unnatural to human beings. Even as children, we loathe to share our candy and toys. True humility is demonstrated when we do just the opposite. It shows our hearts to be free of fears and selfish intentions. We are able to love those whom God loves, regardless of how they behave towards us. Jesus set the perfect example by humbly dying on the cross for all of us.

Philippians 2:3 ESV  Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.


 Consider others as more important
PHOTO: Consider others as more important
The thought of considering others first is most unnatural to human beings. Even as children, we loathe to share our candy and toys. True humility is demonstrated when we do just the opposite. It shows our hearts to be free of fears and selfish intentions. We are able to love those whom God loves, regardless of how they behave towards us. Jesus set the perfect example by humbly dying on the cross for all of us.
Picture posted by piqsels.com
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https://p1.piqsels.com/preview/298/243/606/christian-cross-crucifixion-resurrection-body-of-water-religion.jpg
https://www.piqsels.com/en/search?q=crucifixion


10. Forgive and bless others
The choice to forgive and bless those who offend us is a true test of our humility and submission to God. The Bible tells us to pray for and bless others, especially those whom we see as our enemies. It doesn’t tell us to try to bless our abusers, it simply tells us to just do it.

Ephesians 4:32 ESV  Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

Luke 6:27-28 ESV  But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you.


 Forgive and bless others
PHOTO: Forgive and bless others
The choice to forgive and bless those who offend us is a true test of our humility and submission to God. The Bible tells us to pray for and bless others, especially those whom we see as our enemies. It doesn’t tell us to try to bless our abusers, it simply tells us to just do it.
Picture posted by PHONEKY Tüm Hakları Saklıdır
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https://phoneky.co.uk/thumbs/screensavers/down/places/inthefores_4ca74jwc.gif
https://tr.phoneky.com/gif-animations/?id=s2s150099


Unforgiveness is a form of pride that implies we are better than other people and deserve only worship and adoration. This pride keeps us from being good representatives of a humble God who sent His Son to die for us. In contrast, we are to actively bless those we are inclined to hate, resent or find intolerable, so that they get to experience the wonderful grace of the humble perfect God we serve.
Dear Lord
Dear Lord
PHOTO: “Dear Lord, We learn this wonderful truth: although Jesus is ‘God and Lord of all’, He did not hesitate to come down from His glorious heaven to be born in a stable and placed in a humble manger. All His life, Jesus identified and felt at home with ‘the poor, and mean, and lowly’. Jesus, who during His public ministry had ‘nowhere to lay his head’, came to seek the lost, the last, and the least. He showed that God notices all, especially those who go about life unnoticed and uncared for.

Thank You for identifying with the simplest people on earth by sending Your Son to be born among the poor. There is no one so low in society that You cannot touch his life or identify with his poverty and marginalised position - such is the depth of Your love.

Children are encouraged to observe Christ as a child, growing up in His simple home in Nazareth. He honoured and obeyed His parents, following the fifth commandment: ‘Honour your father and your mother’. ‘Christian children all must be’ like Him, who is an example to them - in being ‘mild, obedient, good as He’. Jesus understands and has experienced childhood, and the development to became an adult. ‘He feeleth for our sadness’ and ‘shareth in our gladness’. What is true of children because Jesus was once a child like us, is also true for us as adults for He also lived as a man in a harsh and difficult society.

The humble Christ is also the glorious Christ. By believing in Him, we receive eternal life and will one day join Him in His eternal Kingdom in heaven above. After dying and rising from the dead for us, He has gone to prepare a place for us in our Father's house. That is His true home and our permanent address - if we believed in Jesus (who He is, what He has done for us, and what He has promised).

In the future, we shall see Jesus sitting at the right hand of the Father. All of God's children who have been saved by Him will gather around, shining like, crowned with righteousness. We reflect Christlikeness, when sin within and among us will finally be eliminated. Thank You for such a glorious hope!

We pray for Your help to live in a way that reflects the humility of Jesus successfully:
Humbly acknowledge God in everything
Confess and repent of pride
Thank God every day
Stop grumbling
Stop passing judgment
Stop boasting
Stop seeking attention
Admit mistakes and weaknesses readily
Consider others as more important
Forgive and bless others

We pray that we get to experience the wonderful grace of the humble perfect God we serve, and not to let our pride get the better of us. Thank You for sending Jesus Christ to die for all of us, so that we can be saved and our sins can be forgiven through His blood shed on the cross.

Through Lord Jesus Christ we pray. Amen!”
Picture posted by Saphica8 on 24 September 2013 - Teach Me To Fly
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Reflection - Once in Royal David's city
Question from source (book): "Songs of Christmas", The Stories and Significance of 20 Well-Loved Carols, Chapter 15, "Once in Royal David's city", Page 145-153.
By Robert M. Solomon, Bishop of the Methodist Church in Singapore from 2000 - 2012






Also from the same author, Robert M. Solomon

"Faithful to the end", A Preacher's Exposition of 2 Timothy, @ 2014 by Robert M. Solomon

'Faithful to the end', A Preacher's Exposition of 2 Timothy, @ 2014 by Robert M. Solomon<br>
Reflection - Faithful to the end (Links)
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2017/06/reflection-faithful-to-end-links.html


"Finding rest for the soul" Responding to Jesus' Invitation in Matthew 11:28-29, © 2016 by Robert M. Solomon

Reflection - Finding rest for the soul (Links)
Reflection - Finding rest for the soul (Links)
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2018/10/reflection-finding-rest-for-soul-links.html


"God in Pursuit" Lessons from the Book of Jonah, © 2016 by Robert M. Solomon

'Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART I-III, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART I-III, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/08/reflection-god-in-pursuit-links-part-i.html


"God in Pursuit" Lessons from the Book of Jonah, © 2016 by Robert M. Solomon

'Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART IV, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART IV, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/08/reflection-god-in-pursuit-links-part-iv.html


Reference
[1] From "Songs of Christmas", The Stories and Significance of 20 Well-Loved Carols, Copyright © 2017 by Robert M. Solomon, ISBN 978-981-11-6752-2, Chapter 15, "Once in Royal David's city", Page 145-153.

[2] Jennifer Sum, 10 ways to reflect God’s humility, posted on 29 December 2017, https://teachinghumblehearts.com/en/10-ways-to-reflect-gods-humility/

[5] William L. Simon, The Reader's Digest Merry Christmas Songbook (New York: Reader's Digest Association, 2003).


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