Wednesday, December 25, 2024
Merry Christmas! Today we celebrate the Creator of the universe coming down into his broken world as an insignificant babe.
Luke 2:10-11 NIV
10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.”
We celebrate the revealing of the mystery God had planned since the beginning—the mystery that restored all of his lost people to himself.
Colossians 1:26-27 NIV
… 26 the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the Lord’s people. 27 To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.
We look forward to the gift of eternal life with our Heavenly Father. We look forward to the day when all people will acknowledge Christ as King.
Philippians 2:9-11
9 Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Today, as you enjoy time with your families, celebrate the goodness God has given you on this earth. And remember that this is but a taste of the joy we are anticipating.
Reflect on the lyrics so beautifully penned by Charles Wesley in “Hark the Herald Angels Sing,” reminding us of the powerful meaning of Christ’s birth. Reflect on this first verse below and then use the link in the Next Steps to hear the other verses and ponder them as you go about your day.
“Hark the Herald Angels Sing” By Charles Wesley
Hark! The herald angels sing,
“Glory to the newborn King;
Peace on earth, and mercy mild,
God and sinners reconciled!”
Joyful all ye nations rise,
Join the triumph of the skies;
With th’angelic host proclaim,
“Christ is born in Bethlehem!”
Hark! The herald angels sing,
“Glory to the newborn King!”
Questions:
What are you doing with the gift God is offering you? What are some steps you can take to embrace the gift of Jesus in 2024?
Next Steps:
Listen to this recording of “Hark the Herald Angels Sing.” Reflect on the words and imagine the joy of unbroken fellowship with God for eternity.
If you have never read through the entire Bible, consider setting a goal to read through its entirety in 2024. I suggest finding a “Bible in a year” plan on the YouVersion app. I love this plan. Most versions have an audio version; use it to help you accomplish your goal.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for being the giver of life. Thank you for coming down among your people to offer yourself as our perfect gift. Forgive me for rejecting the eternal in favor of the temporary. Give me the wisdom to prioritize my relationship with you over the temptations of this world. Make me part of your holy and set apart people. Amen.
This post was written by Julie Mabus, a regular contributor to the LivingItOut.