Lord of all creation, we celebrate the birth of your Son Jesus. Although King of kings and Lord of lords, Jesus came to earth without human pageantry or celebrity recognition. From heaven’s throne to a stinky barn, He arrived seemingly unnoticed by anyone but His parents and farm animals. Yet an angel of the Lord shone with God’s glory and gave a prophetic birth announcement. The angels knew exactly who Jesus was and they broadcast it. No satellite signals to the entire planet. Instead, a multitude of the heavenly host lit up the sky, proclaiming God’s glory to rural shepherds.
Jesus, you broke every barrier, defied human conventions, and demonstrated your identity in unique ways from day one. The excitement of your birth, that we celebrate every Christmas, is commemorated in God’s miracles. So many glorious signs and wonders accompanied your birth: angel choirs, excited shepherds, a huge star, traveling academics, and royal baby gifts.
In contrast, Mary and Joseph might have focused on personal miracles, like their individual prophetic visits from angels. Other miracles included last-minute birth accommodations, visitors worshiping their newborn, and travel provisions given by wealthy strangers.
My Christmas Prayer
Lord God, teach me hospitality in your name. Guide me to recognize your work in other peoples’ lives. Let me speak your words of truth and hope to others. (Like Elizabeth welcomed and encouraged Mary in Luke 1:39-45.)
Please God, help me trust you when the night is dark, there is no place to rest, and pain comes upon me. (Like Mary and Joseph trusted you in Luke 2:6-7.)
Heavenly Father, make me faithful in worshiping and honoring you, especially in unexpected situations. (Like Mary glorified you in Luke 1:46-56 and the shepherds told others about you in Luke 2:9,15-20.)
Jesus, teach me to obey you and keep going. Show me how to follow your guidance, even when it involves sacrifice, danger, and detours. (Like the wise men obeyed you in Matthew 2:1-12).
Lord Jesus, just as you did for those who welcomed you as a baby, please teach me to trust and obey you. Help me to keep learning and applying those Christmas insights to my life, not just at Christmas but all through the new year. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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