Advent Devotion - Our Hope: The Birth of Jesus

Scripture: Luke 2 : 10-12 (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. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

Reflection

Years ago, our Savior was born, and the story of Jesus' birth—a moment of profound significance—was marked not by grandeur or opulence, but by simplicity and humility. He arrived with a purpose—to love, to save, to serve rather than to be served. The angels reassured, "Do not be afraid." As the year draws to a close, the anticipation of the upcoming year, with its pressures, uncertainties, and resolutions, often brings anxiety.

Yet, on this Christmas, let's redirect our gaze to the unassuming manger with renewed hope. In its humble confines rests the greatest gift the world has ever known—a Father who desires not much but a heart completely surrendered to Him. As the familiar song reminds us:

Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace.

All the things in this world pale in comparison to the privilege of knowing Him and being called His children. Let this season transcend mere festivities; let it become a time to immerse ourselves in the sweetest presence of the Lord.

As we sit still in His embrace, let's recognize that all He ever desired was our hearts to turn to Him, to be in tune with His leading, to seek after His heart, and the work He has in store for us. Stepping into 2024, may we journey each day with our eyes fixed upon Him, understanding that in His light, we discover clarity, purpose, and everlasting peace. May our love deepen, echoing Matthew 22:37 :

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind."

Prayer

Dear Lord,

We pray for a heart of surrender. May, in our youth, our hearts are not distracted by what is of this world but focused only on You. Lead us in our steps, Lord, as we surrender all our dreams and hopes into Your hands. May it not be our will but Yours alone be done.

We love You, Father. In Jesus' name, we pray.

Amen.

Challenge

Set aside dedicated quiet time before the start or end of each day to connect with God. Prepare a journal to take note of what He places in your heart, the Scripture of that day, prayers, and gratitude.