December 24

READ

Luke 2:1-7

DEVOTION

We have spent 24 days waiting for this moment! Jesus is born. Love has put on flesh and has been born into the world. What a beautiful way for God to show His unconditional love for the world.

So many people think that Christmas is about family. Family is supposed to be filled with love. Unfortunately, too often, people feel most unloved by family members. This makes Christmas feel uncomfortable and challenging. When you are hanging your hopes on fallen people who often are self-seeking, Christmas will never live up to all of your expectations.

But those of us in Christ know that Christmas is about “Emmanuel,” God with us! Sometimes I think about Jesus’ decision to leave heaven and come to earth. Not just come to earth, but come as a defenseless baby. The Creator of the Universe, a tiny baby. If that does not make you feel loved and seen, I do not know what will!

As you celebrate, remember to put your hope in Jesus! Your Christmas celebration may not live up to your perfect expectations this year. But no matter how many times your kids argue, you have to talk to a family member who makes you want to scream, the recipe gets messed up or the cat breaks an ornament while climbing the tree, nothing can change the love that God has for you! His perfect love! Share that love with someone today, maybe that is just the gift they need!

REFLECT

How does God’s love make me feel?

How should I respond to that love?

PRAY

Dear Jesus,

Thank You for coming to this world! Thank You for being born into a fallen world to save us. Help me to share your love with that world.