In the light from Calvary it will be seen that the law of self-renouncing love is the law of life for earth and heaven; that the love which “does not seek its own” has its source in the heart of God; and that in the meek and lowly One is manifested the character of Him who dwells in the light which no man can approach unto. (DA 19.2)
Reading Plan, Week 22
The Desire of Ages
Chapters: 1–9
Monday: 19.1–30.2
Tuesday: 31.1–49.2
Wednesday: 50.1–64.3
Thursday: 65.1–78.6
Friday: 80.1–92.2
All page/paragraph numbers are the original page numbers and can be used with any edition of Conflict of the Ages (shown in gray on the inside margin within The Conflict Beautiful).
The following is an overview of this week’s reading. Each chapter is introduced with a short paragraph, followed by a couple of thoughts/questions for you to consider.
Chapter 1: “God with us”
God’s plan since the beginning of time is to be in the presence of His beloved children. Sin and Satan conspire endlessly against the love of Heaven, but God’s plan will not be thwarted as Christ chooses to take on human form, and through this Jesus will reveal the true character of God.
As you read, watch for ways the Kingdom and character of God are contrasted with that of Satan.
Chapter 2: The Chosen People
Entrusted with the promise and lineage of Earth’s Savior, the Jewish people struggle to live according to their calling as they return from captivity. Oppressed by foreign powers, bitter nationalism corrupts their understanding of God’s promises, and Israel seeks salvation through the rituals of worship and strict obedience rather than the Promised One the law points to.
How do we guard against the trap of seeking salvation through the law?
What dangers do you see in national pride today? How can we as Christians resist those dangers?
Chapter 3: “The Fullness of the Time”
The deep shadow of sin threatens to extinguish the last flickering light of God’s love. The types and symbols set in place to remind God’s people of His enduring love have been turned against their Creator. Earth seems to finally be within the rebel’s grasp. Heaven’s ultimate gambit must at last be played before all hope for twisted humanity is extinguished.
In what ways have you tried to monopolize God? How do/did you break free and repent of this?
As you read this chapter, remember that this is a prelude to the next one!
Chapter 4: Unto You a Savior
Heaven draws close to Earth as the all-powerful Son of God is wrapped in humanity with all its inherent frailty. The citizens of Earth are unaware that their Creator has set foot on fallen soil and the entrance of the Hope of Humanity must be announced by an exultant choir of angels. An infant will turn the tide of darkness.
When have you exulted in the presence of God?
As you read, think about ways you can practice “God with us” this week.
Chapter 5: The Dedication
A priest performs the ancient rite of dedication before the Temple altar. But the child he raises in his hands is no ordinary child, and though this priest doesn’t recognize the Savior, other watchers do. Through Simeon and Anna, God hints at the true purpose of the Messiah–the restoration of God’s relationship with all who call this fallen planet home.
How are you experiencing God’s love today?
How are you surrendering self today?
Chapter 6: “We Have Seen His Star”
Captivated by a new star in the heavens and ancient prophecies of the Chosen One, a gathering of magicians from the East set out to find this promised King. Despite the opposition of priests, prejudice and kings, they at last find the child Jesus. Seeing through the class and poverty to the Divinity beneath, they pledge their hearts to Him.
When have you seen God’s Good News given through “heathen” messengers?
What prejudices do you need to set aside in order to best participate in spreading news of our Heavenly King?
Chapter 7: As a Child
In merciless and desperate Nazareth, Jesus grows up poor. As if the adversity of cruel Galilee isn’t enough, the prince of darkness himself seeks to extinguish this new Light. Yet Jesus is not broken or twisted by the evil around Him. Instead, through diligence, honesty, kindness, and grace, He proves to be a comfort and encouragement to all those around Him.
What songs are on your lips today?
How can you encourage and uplift those around you in their work and struggles?
Chapter 8: The Passover Visit
In Jerusalem for Passover, Jesus absorbs the meaning of the ancient rituals and symbols. For the first time, His mission begins to grow clear and the Youth turns to the teachers for more clarity. Meanwhile, His parents slowly realize that they have lost sight of Him and begin a frantic, three day hunt for the Child who must be about His Father’s business.
How can you bring Christ into your conversations today?
What steps can we take to not lose sight of God in the business of our day-to-day lives?
Chapter 9: Days of Conflict
After His experience at Passover in Jerusalem, Jesus is different. His unabashed kindness and unwavering adherence to the work of His Heavenly Father begin to alienate Him from family as well as faith leaders, but the Son of God is not dissuaded from spreading grace and truth and healing wherever He goes.
What is the difference between speaking the truth and speaking what is “needed and could be understood”?
How can we be both gentle and steadfast in our Christian walk?