Celebrate

December 23rd – Galatians 4:4-5

Galatians 4:4-5

The apostle Paul tells us that at just the right time, God sent His only Son into the world so we could become beloved members of His family. That means Christmas is more than a celebration of Jesus’ birth. It’s also the celebration of a family being born. A beautiful, grace filled family that welcomes all who receive Christ as Lord and Savior. Once we were enemies of God. But because of Jesus, we are no longer left on the outside looking in. Now through His shed blood, we are adopted sons and daughters of the most high God. This makes Christmas so much more meaningful. Causing us to rejoice not only for the gift of our Messiah, but for the gift of belonging. For being chosen, deeply loved, and called God’s very own. Through God’s kept promise, what once felt distant was brought near. A perfect love poured out freely, not because we earned it, but simply because He alone is good. And when I think about that, my heart bursts with gratitude. Gratitude because grace has made us family. And above all, gratitude to God for His precious Son Jesus. Our Savior, our friend, and our brother.

Reflection Question: How does knowing you are fully adopted into God’s family change the way you see yourself this Christmas?

Prayer Prompt: Father, thank You for sending Your Son at just the right time. Thank You for adopting me into Your family and loving me so freely. Help me live with gratitude and praise, honoring Jesus. My Savior, friend, and brother. Amen.

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December 21st – 2 Corinthians 9:15

2 Corinthians 9:15

In these last few days before Christmas, life gets busy. And part of the anxiety is rushing around to find those last-minute gifts, trying to make sure no one is forgotten. We run from store to store, check our lists twice, and carry the quiet pressure of getting it all done. But the Apostle Paul reminds us to stop and give thanks to God for a gift beyond words. His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus is the greatest gift we could ever receive. One perfect, complete, and exactly what every heart needs. This gift fits everyone, never wears out, and never needs to be returned. There’s no price tag on it, because it was paid for fully by grace. So in the middle of the noise and hurry, may we slow down and remember the true reason we celebrate. May our hearts be filled with gratitude as we give God praise and glory for His unmerited and indescribable gift. And not just with our words, but with our lives. Most of all, may this Christmas find us resting more in His presence than striving in our plans.

Reflection Question: What distractions might you need to set aside so you can fully receive and give thanks for God’s greatest gift this Christmas?

Prayer Prompt: Lord, help me slow down in this busy season and open my heart to Jesus anew. Thank You for Your unmerited and indescribable gift. May my life reflect gratitude and praise for all You have given. Amen.

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May 12th – Proverbs 31:28-29

Proverbs 31:28-29

Writer and poet, Rudyard Kipling once said, “God could not be everywhere, and therefore He made mothers.” Proverbs 31:28-29 celebrates the incredible value and significance of mothers of all kinds. They are the unsung heroes whose love knows no bounds and whose sacrifices often go unnoticed. Their nurturing spirit and unwavering support shape the foundation of families and communities alike. Indeed, motherhood is the most important job in the world. Because it involves not only the care and upbringing of children but also the shaping of hearts and minds. On Mother’s Day, we take a moment to honor and express our gratitude to these remarkable women. The ones who pour out their love and devotion day in and day out. Whether biological, adoptive, or maternal figures in our lives, they deserve to be celebrated for their boundless love, selflessness, and strength. Let us cherish and appreciate them not just today but every day, recognizing the invaluable role they play in shaping our lives and our world.

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October 11th – Psalm 100

Psalm 100

In Psalm 100, we find an exuberant call to give thanks, make a joyful noise, and enter God’s courts with praise. For we are His people. And the gates of His presence are open, welcoming us into the abundance of His grace and blessings. So how can our hearts not overflow with gratitude for His unwavering love and faithfulness? And how can we not accept His invitation and approach Him with thanksgiving and praise? For it is only because of His never ending grace, that we feel God’s abundance in every aspect of our lives. And by acknowledging His sovereign rule and enduring love, we not only connect with the abundance of God’s blessings but also cultivate an attitude of gratitude and contentment in our lives. This attitude of praise can inspire us to share God’s abundance with others, to serve and love them unconditionally, and to be instruments of His goodness in the world. And celebrate Him as our Creator and Shepherd.

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