Dr. Carl Poole

Dec 18

In the Gospel of Luke, we are provided with a deep sense of anticipation and hope as we reflect on the promise of Jesus' return. Watch the full video here: https://buff.ly/zKiLjjo This passage from Luke 1:39-55 captures a moment of profound joy and faith. It recounts Mary's visit to Elizabeth, where...Read more

In the Gospel of Luke, we are provided with a deep sense of anticipation and hope as we reflect on the promise of Jesus' return. Watch the full video here: https://buff.ly/zKiLjjo This passage from Luke 1:39-55 captures a moment of profound joy and faith. It recounts Mary's visit to Elizabeth, where the two women share in the miraculous news of their pregnancies. The passage, often referred to as the Visitation, is a powerful reminder of the fulfillment of God's promises and the joy that accompanies them. As Mary greets Elizabeth, we witness the Spirit's presence as John the Baptist leaps in Elizabeth's womb. Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, proclaims blessings over Mary, acknowledging her faith and the child she bears as the Lord. This moment is a testament to the power of faith and the readiness to embrace God's plans. Mary's response, known as the Magnificat, is a beautiful hymn of praise and prophecy. She magnifies the Lord for His mercy, strength, and faithfulness across generations. Her words resonate with a deep understanding of God's justice and the reversal of worldly values, where the humble are exalted, and the proud are scattered. In contemplating Jesus' return, we are called to prepare our hearts and lives with the same readiness and faithfulness demonstrated by Mary and Elizabeth. Their story is a call to faith, a reminder to live in anticipation, and to align our lives with the values of God's kingdom. As we await Jesus' coming, may we be inspired by their example to live with hope, joy, and a steadfast commitment to God's promises.

Dec 17

The narrative of Jesus giving Himself for eternal life is a profound testament to His love and sacrifice. Watch the full video here: https://buff.ly/zKiLjjo This passage from Luke 1:39-55, often referred to as the Magnificat, captures Mary's song of praise and highlights the joy and fulfillment of G...Read more

The narrative of Jesus giving Himself for eternal life is a profound testament to His love and sacrifice. Watch the full video here: https://buff.ly/zKiLjjo This passage from Luke 1:39-55, often referred to as the Magnificat, captures Mary's song of praise and highlights the joy and fulfillment of God's promises. In this text, Mary visits her relative Elizabeth, and upon her arrival, the child in Elizabeth's womb leaps with joy. Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, blesses Mary, acknowledging the special role she and her unborn child will play in God's divine plan. Mary's response is a heartfelt expression of gratitude and praise, acknowledging God's mighty deeds and His mercy that extends from generation to generation. The central theme of this passage is the fulfillment of God's promises through the birth of Jesus. It reflects on the humility and obedience of Mary, who accepts her role in God's plan with grace and faith. Her song, the Magnificat, is a declaration of God's righteousness, His power to uplift the humble, and His commitment to remembering His covenant with His people. This narrative invites reflection on the significance of Jesus' coming and His ultimate sacrifice for humanity's eternal life. It encourages believers to have faith in God's promises and to live in gratitude for the salvation offered through Jesus Christ.

Dec 15

Christmas Joy: Find It Within, Not Just In Celebration! Luke 1:39-55. Watch the full video here: https://buff.ly/zKiLjjo The magic of Christmas often draws us into the hustle and bustle of festivities, adorned with twinkling lights and joyful carols. However, the true essence of Christmas joy lies...Read more

Christmas Joy: Find It Within, Not Just In Celebration! Luke 1:39-55. Watch the full video here: https://buff.ly/zKiLjjo The magic of Christmas often draws us into the hustle and bustle of festivities, adorned with twinkling lights and joyful carols. However, the true essence of Christmas joy lies deeper, beyond the surface-level celebrations. In these verses, we see Mary visiting Elizabeth, both women filled with a profound joy that originates from their faith and the miraculous events unfolding in their lives. Their joy is not dependent on external celebrations or grand festivities but is rooted in the fulfillment of God's promises and the anticipation of the Messiah. This passage invites us to reflect on where our joy comes from during this season. Is it solely from parties, gifts, and decorations, or do we, like Mary and Elizabeth, find joy in the deeper, spiritual connections and the realization of love, grace, and peace we find in Christ? True Christmas joy is resilient and enduring, unaffected by the fleeting nature of material celebrations. As we prepare to celebrate Christmas, let us remember to look to Christ and cultivate joy that is not just tied to the holiday season but is a constant presence in our hearts. This enduring joy, grounded in faith and love, can illuminate our lives, bringing peace and happiness that lasts far beyond the holiday season.

Dec 12

In the passage from Luke 1:26-38, we encounter a profound moment where the angel Gabriel visits Mary to deliver the news that she will conceive and bear a son, Jesus. Watch the full video here: https://buff.ly/FzMACmY This announcement heralds the coming of the Messiah, a moment of immense importanc...Read more

In the passage from Luke 1:26-38, we encounter a profound moment where the angel Gabriel visits Mary to deliver the news that she will conceive and bear a son, Jesus. Watch the full video here: https://buff.ly/FzMACmY This announcement heralds the coming of the Messiah, a moment of immense importance and promise. Yet, it also presents Mary with an array of potential challenges and uncertainties. The narrative invites reflection on the theme of faith amidst lingering difficulties. Even with the assurance of Jesus' presence and the divine promise, Mary is not exempt from the societal and personal struggles that accompany her unique calling. Her journey is a testament to the reality that faith does not necessarily remove obstacles but provides the strength and perspective to navigate them. For believers today, this passage raises the question of sufficiency in Christ despite ongoing challenges. It encourages an examination of whether Jesus is enough when life's problems persist. The essence of faith lies in trusting the divine purpose and presence, much like Mary did, even when immediate solutions are not apparent. Mary's response to Gabriel, "I am the Lord’s servant," exemplifies a profound acceptance and trust in God's plan. It is a reminder that faith involves embracing uncertainty with the confidence that God's promises are unwavering. The passage reassures that while problems may remain, the presence of Jesus offers hope, guidance, and the ultimate assurance of God's love and purpose in our lives.

Dec 10

Life's challenges can be daunting, but remember that God's plans are always greater. Watch the full video here: https://buff.ly/i2VrO0W Just as in Luke 1:26-38, when Mary received the surprising news of Jesus's birth, Mary trusted in God's purpose despite her fears. When life gets scary, hold on to...Read more

Life's challenges can be daunting, but remember that God's plans are always greater. Watch the full video here: https://buff.ly/i2VrO0W Just as in Luke 1:26-38, when Mary received the surprising news of Jesus's birth, Mary trusted in God's purpose despite her fears. When life gets scary, hold on to faith in Christ and trust that God has a bigger plan at work for you too. Embrace the journey with courage and confidence, knowing you are never alone. #FaithOverFear