A Thrill of Hope

A THRILL OF HOPE AN ADVENT DEVOTIONAL

A THRILL OF HOPE AN ADVENT DEVOTIONAL

A Thrill Of Hope : An Advent Devotional

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Words and design by Andrew Dickson, Community Partnerships Manager at The Bible Society in Northern Ireland.

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Contents _____________________________________

About Bible Society NI What is Advent?

Prophecies of Jesus' birth The journey of Mary, Joseph, and Jesus O Holy Night Preface 1st - 7th December - A Thrill of Hope Devotionals Pause and Reflect Christmas Candy Cane Roulade Recipe 8th - 14th December - A Thrill of Hope Devotionals Pause and Reflect 15th - 21st December - A Thrill of Hope Devotionals Pause and Reflect Christmas Candle Craft

22nd - 25th December - A Thrill of Hope Devotionals Pause and Reflect O Holy Night What next?

About Bible Society NI At Bible Society NI we really care about the Bible.

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part of the United Bible Societies Global Fellowship.

As a local Society within this international community we raise

Reaching Everyone with God's Word

What is Advent?

From ancient times, Christians have anticipated the celebration of Christmas with Advent, a season of hope and expectation. The word Advent comes from the Latin word Adventus meaning 'Coming' or 'Arrival'.

As followers of Christ, we are a people who anticipate this Advent "Coming of Jesus" from three different perspectives: his birth as a baby in Bethlehem, the acceptation of Christ as our personal Saviour, and his triumphant return as the

King of kings at the close of history.

Across the globe from the fourth Sunday before Christmas until Christmas Eve, believers will spend time this Advent remembering and anticipating our King, through giving gifts, decorating trees and opening advent calendars; as we look forward, once again, to celebrating on 25th December the arrival of our eternal God in our own humanity.

LET EARTH RECEIVE HER KING!

Prophecies of Jesus' birth The Old Testament is filled with prophecies about the coming of the Messiah. Many of the prophecies spoken centred specifically on his birth. Open up your Bible to explore some of those prophecies which point to Jesus as the promised Saviour and Lord.

The Messiah will be

Old Testament Prophecy

New Testament Fulfillment

The Son of Man

Genesis 3:15

Galatians 4:4

The Son of God

Psalm 2:7

Luke 3:22

Born of a virgin

Isaiah 7:14

Luke 1:26-27

Born in Bethlehem

Micah 5:2

Matthew 2:4-5

Called Immanuel

Isaiah 7:14

Matthew 1:22-23

Daniel 7:13-14

Luke 1:31-33

Ruler for eternity

North

The journey of Mary, Joseph, and Jesus _____________________ 1

Joseph and Mary leave their home in Nazareth to register for Caesar's census in Bethlehem.

Luke 2:1-5

2

Mary gives birth to Jesus in Bethlehem.

Luke 2:6-7

3

After the 40 days of purification prescribed in the Law of Moses (Leviticus 12), Mary and Joseph take Jesus to Jerusalem to present him in the temple.

Luke 2:21-35

4

Joseph, Mary, and baby Jesus return to Bethlehem. During this period Magi from the east come in search of the King who has been born.

Matthew 2:1-12

5

Joseph, Mary, and Jesus flee to Egypt after an angel of the Lord warns them of Herod's plan to kill Jesus.

Matthew 2:13-15

6

After Herod's death, Joseph, Mary, and Jesus return to Israel, settling to live in Nazareth.

Matthew 2:19-23

Sea of Galilee

1&6 Nazareth

Israel

3 Jerusalem

2&4 Bethlehem

Dead Sea 5 Egypt Red Sea

O holy night, the stars are brightly shining It is the night of our dear Saviour's birth Long lay the world, in sin and error pining 'Til he appeared and the soul felt its worth A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn

O Holy Night

Preface In 1963 Andy Williams sang "It's the

Choosing to no longer stand far away

most wonderful time of the year."

Many of us love Christmas and all the joy it brings; for the memories it inspires and not to mention the chocolate and holidays.

from the pain and suffering of the world, Jesus enters into the very story he had been authoring since the beginning of time.

But for others, Christmas is anything but the most wonderful time of the year.

The long, dark nights can seem overwhelming. Instead of love there is loneliness. Instead of laughter there is pain of days and memories gone by; and with it the longing that it will pass quicker than ever before.

For many, Christmas can be hard.

Over 2,000 years ago, the experience of Mary and Joseph was also exceptionally difficult.

Pregnant and weary from a long journey, they arrive in Bethlehem, only to find that the only place available to them is a smelly, dark, dank cave barely fit for animals let alone humans.

Yet, it is here, in the back streets of Bethlehem, amidst grim surroundings, that JESUS HAS COME!

Jesus has come, to destroy him who holds the power of death once and for all, and set us free.

Jesus has come, to fully end our suffering, help us in our temptations, bring comfort when we feel lost, draw near to us in our despair, and gift peace to our troubled hearts.

Jesus has come, our merciful and faithful High Priest who for the joy set before him endured the cross and rose victorious from the grave!

This Christmas, come with us as we look to the Thrill of Hope of that babe once more in the manger.

Come and see our all-sufficient Saviour. The One who is God with us.

Immanuel. The Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. The Lamb of God who takes away the sins and pains of this world. The One who is Jesus - he never disappoints.

1st December

Read John 1:1-5 - The Word

_____________________________________ It is a curtain raiser like no other; an eyewitness statement for the ages.

Forget all the stories, the miracles and the encounters; they will come

He is the eternal, pre-existent Son of God who was with God, in interpersonal relationship with him, and, at the same time, is God (v.1-2).

later.

Instead John, Jesus' dear friend,

He is the Creator; the One with a hand on everything ever made -

under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit begins his narrative telling the

including you (v.3).

story of the life of Jesus Christ

He is life and light who brings to this

echoing Genesis 1 as he announces to the waiting world:

dark world true knowledge, moral purity and the light that shows us the very presence of God (v.4-5).

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." (John 1:1).

In a sentence the story and drama of Jesus is unfurled - he is the "Word".

Jesus has come, not to merely deliver a message from God, but to show all the world that he himself is the message - a tangible love letter from God to humanity.

These words of John 1:1-5 are more than just a mere introduction at the beginning of another book or chapter in the Bible. They are our starting point as we seek to begin to understand exactly who Jesus is.

He is the Word who has become flesh and lived among us as our promised Saviour (John 1:14).

This is Jesus. O come, let us adore him this Advent season and always.

PRAY

Father, I thank you for these words and what they teach me about Jesus.

Teach me more of who you are and your ways this Advent that I might see your glory on the earth. Amen.

LIVE

Spend some time out in creation and reflect on these truths of Jesus today.

2nd December

Read Genesis 3:12-15 - The Promise

_____________________________________ How often do you read Genesis 1-2

Every moment of every day our

and wish that they concluded with "The End"? I know I do.

struggle against sin and shame is all too real.

Every time I read these early

Yet, even in the chaos of this garden

chapters at the beginning of the Bible; where God has flung the stars

scene and our desire like Eve's to hide away from God, there is good

into space, separated the waters, created things more beautiful than I could ever imagine, placing them

news for us this Advent and beyond.

In the echo of that apple crunch, there is a promise of One who will

together in perfect harmony before proclaiming it "very good indeed" (Genesis 1:31), a large part of me wants to imagine the story ends

crush the head of the enemy for us, for good, for ever (Gen. 3:15).

here.

weight of all the world's sin and shame on the cross, taking it to the grave and there defeating it, so we can be presented unashamed and blameless before the Father.

We all want to live in the perfect Genesis 1-2 world, in harmony with those around us. We all want our lives to be full of joy and wonder and absolutely no shame (Genesis 2:25).

But the reality is, this is just not possible - not yet anyway.

For in the lie of an enemy and the crunch of an apple, the perfect story was thrown away, replaced with brokenness and shame as Adam and Eve sinned the first sin.

We are not immune to their fateful actions or the consequences as we continue to live with the guilt of Adam's sin.

Jesus has come and borne the full

What good news!

PRAY

Father, I thank you for the good news of this promise in Genesis 3:15.

I praise you for Jesus who has come, defeated sin and made a path for me back to you. Amen.

LIVE

Read Revelation 21-22 and praise God for how he will one day restore Eden.

3rd December

Read Jeremiah 31:31-34 - The Covenant

_____________________________________ "There is not a square inch in the

own strength; God does it by the

whole domain of our human existence over which Christ, who is Sovereign over all, does not cry, mine!" (Abraham Kuyper)

power of his grace. There are no religious rituals we can perform; only faith in a once-for-all sacrifice already accomplished.

For generations the children of God had lived out their relationship with their Creator surrounded by laws chiseled into stone and a priestly

This is the new covenant the people of Israel were promised in Jeremiah 31:31-34, that they would one day be a community of people transformed

class in charge of all religious activity.

through the forgiveness of sin and call to follow Jesus.

It was all they knew, until an announcement so great and full of hope that it couldn't do anything but change their whole outlook forever:

A community who will journey together with his teaching written on their hearts. A people who will know God personally and experience him powerfully. Today, we call this community of transformed and redeemed, gathered and scattered people, " The Church".

"'This is the covenant that I will make with the people of Israel after that time,' declares the LORD. 'I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God and they will be my people.'" (Jeremiah 31:33) It is an incredibly bold declaration God makes to his people - and to us today - in this moment. In effect, God is looking at his people, at us, and saying, "You are Mine!"

You are his! God the Father lays claim to you today and makes you his own dearly beloved son or daughter.

This is not anything we can do in our

May these Advent realities of God's promises take hold in your heart today and shape your future now and forever.

PRAY

Father, thank you for the grace you have shown to make me yours. Help me follow you always. Amen.

LIVE

Take time today to whisper "I am his" over yourself throughout the day.

4th December

Read Micah 5:2-5 - The Town

_____________________________________ Have you heard of a place called

Bethlehem would no longer be seen

Barvas? It's a tiny, unlit village located in one of the wildest and remotest places in all of the British Isles - the Outer Hebrides. Ten miles

as too little or irrelevant; all too easy to overlook just like Barvas.

north-west of Stornaway on the Isle of Lewis, it's the kind of place you

at Christmas, would be the town that would spring forth the One from

could overlook.

ancient days (v.2).

Yet just over 70 years ago something

The One destined to come as a

amazing happened in Barvas that still cannot be fully explained to this day.

shepherd for God's people; who through his life, death and resurrection makes us dwell securely, without fear, in the majesty

Revival came.

On the back of the prayers of two elderly sisters - Peggy and Christine Smith - between 1949-1953, revivial came as the majority of the population surrendered their lives to

Instead, this little town often sung of

and might of the all powerful God (v.4).

What hope and peace that came to all from that little town of Bethlehem!

Christ. Empty churches were repopulated, miraculous signs and wonders took place as the whole fabric of Hebridean society was

O holy Child of Bethlehem, Descend to us, we pray.

transformed by the gospel. It was truly remarkable and unexpected that this should come from a place

PRAY

like Barvas.

About 750 years before Jesus was born, the prophet Micah wrote to the people of Israel telling them of a new hope who would come from an unexpected place to do an extraordinary thing: a Messiah to be born in Bethlehem.

Father, I thank you for Jesus, my Good Shepherd. I cry out, Lord send revival in these days again. Flood every heart with mercy. Amen.

LIVE

Use our Word @ Work mag and pray for God to move across the nations.

5th December

Read Isaiah 11:1-5 - The Shoot

_____________________________________ It was 4th July 2008; American

Yet, out of this picture of God's

Independence Day. The heat and humidity was suffocating as we walked our way around Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. I

judgment, Isaiah gives us a stunning promise: "A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit." (Isaiah 11:1).

could barely take 10 steps without needing air conditioning. It was

Out of these levelled stumps God will give us a shoot who will be the

fierce!

Messiah!

As people celebrated their "freedom"

This Messiah will be unlike any other

and looked forward to the evening's firework displays, my family and I escaped the crowds to watch some Independence Day games near our accommodation.

king that has ever been and will ever be. The Spirit of the LORD will be upon him as he leads with wisdom and understanding; carries out God's plans with counsel and might; and shows the world what holiness looks like with a life led in knowledge and fear of the LORD.

Whilst the image of someone stuffing 40+ hot dogs into their mouth in 5 minutes will make me feel nauseous forever, it was the lumberjacks who impressed me most. Working in tandem to fell trees and chop logs, I'll never understand how they could do so many, so quickly in those 44 degrees celsius temperatures. It was impressive stuff!

As Isaiah 11 begins it does so in the light of a vast forest which has been destroyed not by lumberjacks, but by God (Isaiah 10:33-34). This once powerful and lush forest has gone and suddenly the land looks desolate and hopeless.

This is the Messiah born to us in Bethlehem: the ideal in faithfulness and justice, our example in the deep joy of living before God.

PRAY

Father, I thank you that you are the great giver of hope. May my life be a reflection of your grace and Jesus' example. Amen.

LIVE

Plant a seed and tend to it to remind you of God sending us his Messiah.

6th December

Read Isaiah 7:14 - The Sign

_____________________________________ How early does Christmas begin to

give you a sign: the virgin will

appear in your house?

conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel." (v.14).

Whether it's singing songs from October, or watching trees and

Immanuel: the Almighty Creator who

decorations go up earlier; admiring town lights twinkle for longer, and

appeared as a helpless baby, both fully divine and fully human.

scoffing at stores that stock turkeys that have sell by dates long before 25th December, it seems that

God with us: the God of all the universe walking the broken streets

Christmas comes earlier each year.

of earth to let us know he has seen and lived everything we too endure.

There are all sorts of signs that Christmas is on the way.

Therefore, this Christmas and

In Isaiah 7 we read the story of a king called Ahaz and his chance to receive a sign from the Lord; a sign that ultimately has become one of our most loved and favoured promises at

always. we can trust and rely on him because he knows and has the power to comfort, strengthen and bring us through. For the true beauty of Immanuel is not that we would just know he exists, but that we can

Christmas.

know him and be his.

Though Ahaz is the heir of David's throne he is not like his ancestor of

PRAY

old. His hope for salvation is in human power rather than the Lord's might.

When he refuses to ask God for a sign that will be an assurance of God's divine protection over him and his people (v.11-12), God gave him one anyway: "Therefore the Lord himself will

Father, I thank you that Jesus knows and understands what it is to be human. Deepen my faith and strengthen my trust in you. Amen.

LIVE

Get in touch and encourage someone today that God is with them.

7th December

Read Isaiah 9:2, 6-7 - The Light

_____________________________________ What's your favourite thing about Christmas? Is it the music? The turkey dinner? How about the presents? Or the markets? What

ourselves. We need help. We need a Light that comes from beyond our shores.

about time off with loved ones? Or eating mountains of chocolate?

Maybe you love the movies, nativity

Isaiah promises us such a light proclaiming to us there is hope today!

plays or church celebrations?

"The people walking in darkness have For me, I've always loved the lights.

Nothing says Christmas is here to me quite like lights. Whether they are lights on trees, in windows, covering houses or hanging off lampposts I love the lights at Christmas!

As followers of Jesus, these lights we hang are not just decorative. They are also symbolic.

We live in a dark world full of pain, evil and suffering. The same was also true of the people Isaiah was writing to. About 700 years before Jesus came the children of Israel were trying to deal with the darkness the same way we often try to today: by getting rid of it ourselves.

The problem is, this has never worked. For all humanity's intellect and advancements through the ages, we have never been able to save

seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness A LIGHT HAS DAWNED." (Isaiah 9:2) A light has dawned.

Jesus has come from the outside into the world as our Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace to save us from the present darkness; give us a new life and walk with us all our days. Truly, he is a Light for us when all other lights go out.

PRAY

Father, I thank you for Jesus, who became one of us, enduring the cross to save me. Let his light shine.

Amen.

LIVE

Check out the Christmas lights around where you live, thanking God for Jesus, who is the Light of the world.

Pause & Reflect

A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit.

The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of might, the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the LORD and he will delight in the fear of the LORD.

Isaiah 11:1-3

Advent is a season of anticipation and celebration. The weary world rejoices at the Messiah's first advent, whilst we long for his return.

At the end of this first week of readings, use this space to read, reflect, and pray on all you have read in the last 7 days, remembering the hope you have because Christ left the glories of heaven to be born in Bethlehem.

Candy Cane Roulade Recipe Ingredients Oil, for greasing

Directions 1

Heat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) mark 4. Lightly grease and line a Swiss roll tin with baking parchment. Sprinkle the extra caster sugar on a large piece of baking parchment, twice the size of the Swiss roll tin. Set aside.

2

In a large mixing bowl, set over a pan of steaming water, beat the caster sugar and eggs for 5min with an electric hand whisk until light and pale – a ribbon trail should remain on the surface when the beaters are lifted from the mixture. Whisk off the heat for another 5min until cool.

3

Sift half the flour over the egg and sugar mixture, and stir in. Sift over the remaining flour and gently fold in with a metal spoon, making sure you keep as much air and volume in the mixture as possible.

4

Mix 1tsp hot water with the red food colouring and add to the mixture with the vanilla extract.

Carefully pour the mixture into the prepared cake tin and bake in the middle of the oven for about 15min until springy to the touch.

5

While still warm, tip the baked Swiss roll out on to the dusted baking parchment. Peel off the parchment used to line the tin and discard.

Continuing while still warm, gently roll the Swiss roll up loosely from one short side to the other, using the parchment underneath to help. Set aside so it can cool completely on a baking rack.

6

Whisk the double cream, icing sugar and peppermint essence to soft peaks. Unroll the sponge and discard the baking parchment. Spread sponge with the peppermint cream and roll up again. Transfer to a serving plate, seam side down.

7

To decorate, lightly crush one candy cane in a pestle and mortar. Sprinkle over and around the roulade with the other whole candy canes.

125g (4oz) caster sugar, plus an extra 3tbsp 3 medium eggs 125g (4oz) plain flour 1/2tsp of bright red food colouring 1tsp vanilla extract 300ml (1/2 pint) double cream 125g (4oz) icing sugar, plus extra to dust 1/2 tsp peppermint essence 4 candy canes, to decorate

T h e p e rf e c t, g o s p e lin s p ir e d s h o w s to p p in g d e s s e rt fo r e v e ry o n e th is C h ri s tm as!

Serves : 10

Prep time : 40 minutes

Total time : 1 hour

8th December

Read Ezekiel 34:11-16 - The Shepherd

_____________________________________ Over 300 years before Jesus was born the famed Greek Philosopher, Aristotle, claimed that of all living

good shepherd, Jesus. The One whose coming we celebrate this season. The One who:

people, the laziest are shepherds!

Whilst we might laugh today at Aristotle's belief that the life of a shepherd was easy money for being

will search for his sheep and look after them (v.11), will rescue his scattered flock (v.12),

bone idle, his assertions couldn't be further from how a good shepherd is

will tend us himself, making us lie down in rich pasture (v.13-15),

portrayed within the Bible.

will bring back the strays, bind

Yet, Ezekiel 34:1-10 paints a pretty bleak picture as to how much of a failure the human shepherds caring for the people of Israel were:

up the injured, strengthen the weak and shepherd with justice (v.16), and, out of his love for us, would lay down his life for his sheep (John 10:7-18).

they only took care of themselves, not their flock (v.23), they didn't strengthen the weak, heal the sick or bind up the injured (v.4) they didn't bring back the strays or search for the lost, but instead ruled harshly, allowing them to be scattered over the whole earth (v.4-6).

God does not stand idly by nor tolerate such poor leadership. He will act, and hold these rulers accountable (v.10). And, what's more, their failure will only serve to give way to Israel's true shepherd - our

As we reflect upon Ezekiel's shepherds today, may we each know this Christmas, the "life in all its fullness" promise of John 10:10, that our good shepherd came to give us.

PRAY

Father, I thank you for Jesus, our good shepherd. Help me today to hear and know his voice, and to follow him. Amen.

LIVE

Take some time to pray for our leaders, that they might know and reflect the ways of Jesus.

9th December

Read Isaiah 61:1-3 - The Anointed

_____________________________________ How would you describe yourself?

What adjectives would you use?

Which of your characteristics and

Comforter. Provider. Life-changer.

It's quite a list isn't it?

aspects of your life would you identify?

Would you be like a contestant on TV's The Apprentice and tell the

Generations later these climactic words would come to life on the Sabbath in a synagogue in Nazareth as Jesus stood, read from the scroll and proclaimed them fulfilled to all

world, "I'm not a show pony, or a one trick pony. I'm not a stubborn mule,

in his sight that day (Luke 4:16-21).

You can't help but feel the

and I'm definitely not a wild stallion

amazement of the congregation

that needs to be tamed. I am the champion thoroughbred that this process requires." Or perhaps you might be slightly more understated.

gathered that day as you read and hear Jesus speak these words!

However you describe yourself, what you say and what you reveal is important in letting the world know all about who you are.

The Bible itself is a book filled with deep descriptions of lots of different people, places, events and things.

Nowhere is this perhaps more evident than in Isaiah 61:1-3 where Isaiah gives his audience a glimpse as to who the Messiah will be, what he will do, and all he will be known for.

Take some time to read the words again, pausing at the end of each statement Isaiah makes.

Anointed. Proclaimer. Releaser.

How wonderful for us to know this Advent season that Jesus' claims still ring true today. From those earliest days in the manger, to final breath on the cross, Jesus was and remains God's anointed One; the only one able to give us salvation from sin, and life in all its fullness.

PRAY

Lord Jesus I pray, continue to bind me up, free me from sin's captivity, bestow on me the riches of your grace and plant me for your splendour now and always. Amen.

LIVE

Read Luke 4:16-21. Imagine you are there; take a note of your reaction.

10th December

Read Isaiah 52:13-15 - The Expectation

_____________________________________ It was an annual Christmas tradition in our house and most houses across the land: the Argos catalogue Christmas wishlist!

powerful king, a priest and prophet for the people. However, Isaiah 52:13-53:12 tells us they got someone unexpectedly different, because

Each year my eyes would dance across all the pages; but as a 10 year

Jesus knew they - and we - more than anything else needed redemption.

old boy, there was one present I longed for more than anything else:

And so "The Son of God became a

roller blades!

man to enable men to become the sons of God." (C.S. Lewis).

I knew these blades with blue and purple flames would change my life.

No more walking. No more being slow. Not to mention I'd look so cool.

The list was endless.

But the reality of them as I opened these blades and began to use them that Christmas was so different from my expectations as I admired them on the catalogue paper.

I did have to walk places after they were banned in shops. I couldn't get to places faster when I fell so much. I didn't look all that cool wearing the helmet and elbow/knee pads that went with them. My expectations were shattered.

In a similar way the children of Israel had their own expectations of what the Messiah would be like.

They imagined a mighty warrior, a

"But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed." (Isaiah 53:5).

How we need these words to remind us that not even the best roller blades in the world can compare with this great gift given to us by Jesus.

PRAY

Father, I thank you for the One today who left everything so that I could become one with you. Help me to remember this and live for you.

Amen.

LIVE

Read Isaiah 53 today, and take time to reflect and thank God for Jesus.

11th December

Read Romans 5:12-17 - The Gift

_____________________________________ In 1988 London's old Wembley

desired, Jesus triumphed.

Stadium played host to a spectacular concert in honour of Nelson Mandela's 70th birthday, and to raise awareness of his imprisonment. For

Where Adam brought sin, Jesus, through his coming, sinless life and perfect obedience, even to death on

12 hours straight, artists such as Dire Straits, Sting, and George Michael,

a cross, brings righteousness (v.12).

played to 70,000 screaming fans.

Where Adam brought condemnation on all, leading to eternal separation from God, Christ died for all to bring

However, the last act was completely unexpected. With no band or backup singers, Opera singer Jessye Norman took to the stage and began to sing Amazing Grace. As she sang the whole arena fell silent. By the second verse, 70,000 people were standing and singing with her. Philip Yancey, commenting on this event, said, "The world thirsts for grace. When grace descends, the world falls silent before it."

In Romans 5:12-17 there may not be any concerts or large crowds; but there is no less a powerful reminder and experience of grace.

As Paul contrasts Adam with Jesus the Romans learn that for all the sin and death Adam brought into the world, Christ entered the story and overcame.

Where Adam fell short of what God

justification to all who believe (v.16).

Where Adam brought a reign of death that has affected humanity ever since, Jesus brings eternal life to all who believe by and through his grace (v.15, 17).

Jesus is the True and Greater Adam!

Truly our death-defeating, eternal reigning King, whose coming we celebrate is the greatest gift not just at Christmas, but every day, always!

PRAY

Father, I simply thank and praise you for Jesus today. For all that he is and for all he has done for me. Amen.

LIVE

Listen to 'Amazing Grace'. Spend time in worship, giving thanks to God.

12th December

Read Mark 1:1-4 - The Messenger

_____________________________________ The opening scene to any great movie throws us into the setting, introduces us to its main characters, and establishes its tone and pace.

ministry, John preaches a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. His call is a beautiful image of all Jesus will come to do, as well as

Movies hinge on the success of its opening sequence. They must hook and pull in the viewer, whilst also

the development of a new outward sign of heartfelt repentance. John's iconic wilderness discourse,

making a promise that the rest of the movie will hope to maintain.

reinforces the messages of the prophets of old, like Isaiah and

Some of these opening scenes,

Malachi, who had consistently called

whether from The Lion King, The Dark Knight, or Jaws have become and remain iconic still decades after their initial release.

Israel to repentance in order that they might know God's forgiving grace, and be reconciled to him.

The beginning of Mark's gospel is itself iconic. He might not retell the story of Jesus' birth like Matthew and Luke, but we know immediately of whom Mark is speaking as he begins. Jesus is good news. Jesus is the Messiah. He is the Son of God, the One who the prophets, like Isaiah quoted in v.2-3 foretold would come.

Just as Mark serves to introduce his audience to Jesus Christ, we also meet his forerunner and messenger, John the Baptist. John is Malachi's prophesied Elijah (Malachi 3:1) who, through his preaching and baptism, intended to prepare Israel for the Lord's coming.

Setting the stage for Jesus' coming

John the Baptist leads us to the One whose birth we await, whose grace is extended and whose reign will never end.

This is "the beginning of the good news about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God" (Mark 1:1).

This is the gospel.

PRAY

Father, as I thank you for Jesus, so too I repent of my sin. Purify my heart and fix my eyes on you. Amen.

LIVE

1.5 billion people today have never heard the Good News. Could you pray and give to help us change that?

13th December

Read Luke 1:26-28 - The Angel

_____________________________________ The history of the world is full of

Jacob, God had been preparing for

stunning moments! Whether the end of world wars, space travel, developments in medicine, sporting comebacks, or great political

this coming moment. Promise after promise pointed to the day when a son of David would come (Isaiah 11:1).

And at the end of the Bible, in the

speeches which inspire change, we all perhaps have a moment or

book of Revelation, Jesus waves his banner over all of history powerfully

incident we think of.

declaring,

Yet there is one moment that is

"I, Jesus, I am the Root and the

more stunning than anything that has ever taken place; the incarnation - the coming of Jesus Christ into the world. There has never been another moment like this in all history. It might seem almost impossible, beyond belief; but God breaking into the very world he created truly is a remarkable, once-in-a-lifetime event!

Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star." (Revelation 22:16).

Luke 1:26-28 begins to set the scene for the arrival of Jesus as we are taken to Nazareth and introduced to Mary and her betrothed, Joseph, a descendant of King David.

As Luke begins to foretell the story of the coming Messiah, we marvel at the news of Mary's elder cousin, Elizabeth (v.26), and realise that soon everything which will come to pass can only be by the hand of Almighty God. Since the days of Abraham, Isaac and

God broke into the universe not as a generic human being, but as a Jewish baby boy, born of a virgin, in fulfilment of 2,000 years of covenant promises.

What incredible lengths he has gone to, to show us that his promises are true, his mercy is great, and that he is with us, as he was with Mary!

PRAY

Father, I thank you that you are the Lord who is with me. May I be aware of your presence with me this season and all the days of my life. Amen.

LIVE

In everything you do today whisper to yourself, "The Lord is with me".

14th December

Read Luke 1:29-33 - The Son

_____________________________________ In 2008 Jenna Myers Karvunidis was

which means Saviour (Matthew 1:21),

pregnant and itching to throw a party! Shortly after her baby's 20 week ultrasound scan, Jenna and her husband threw a celebration. What happened next, as Jenna cut a cake

revealing the rescue mission he is embarking on!

to reveal pink icing and the news she was expecting a baby girl, led not just to a celebration, but to the birth of the 'gender reveal' party!

and exalted One called the Son of the Most High (v.32); fully divine and human.

Since the dawn of this first event, gender reveal parties have become even more elaborate and emotive, as people spend massive amounts of money to be unique! Yet, for all the money and planning poured into such events, surely none tops the events and revelation of Luke 1:2933.

Amidst the strangeness of all that is happening - after all, it's not every day an angel shows up and begins to converse with you - Mary is given a piece of incredible news. This news will not just change her life, but alter the course of all history as God's redemptive plan edges ever closer.

"You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus."

As if the news of v.31 isn't staggering enough, God gives Jesus his name,

But the revelation does not end here.

Jesus will also be great, the unique

And, what's more, his heavenly Father will give him an eternal throne and Kingdom (v.33). He will never be replaced as King. There will never be another successor upon his throne.

This Christmas, this spoken of babe who came to save, still rules and reigns over the earth. Other things might fall, but he remains steadfast, gifting grace to all who would ask.

PRAY

Father, I praise you for King Jesus, and for his eternal reign. Encourage me today to live confidently knowing your kingdom is forever. Amen.

LIVE

Look up online how to make an angel decoration for your Christmas tree.

Pause & Reflect

He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob's descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.

Luke 1:32-33

Advent is a season of anticipation and celebration. The weary world rejoices at the Messiah's first advent, whilst we long for his return.

At the end of this second week of readings, use this space to read, reflect, and pray on all you have read in the last 7 days, remembering the hope you have because Christ left the glories of heaven to be born in Bethlehem.

15th December

Read Luke 1:34-38 - The Miraculous

_____________________________________ It was 23rd December 2010. The

As she hears that the Holy Spirit will

temperatures were below zero as roads glistened with ice and snow rendered fields and hedgerows invisible.

come upon her and the power of the Most High overshadow (v.35) perhaps Mary becomes acutely aware of the reality of Exodus 40:3438.

Setting off to collect the turkey with my dad in my trusty little red car, we were 15 minutes into our journey when time seemed to stand still.

Spinning towards us - the result of black ice - was a massive 4x4. There was nowhere we could go and nothing we could do. I'll never forget how it all seemed to happen in slow motion as this behemoth car smashed into us, the noise of metal on metal and explosion of air bags reverberating through me. It was a bad encounter!

Standing face-to-face with the angel Gabriel, Mary seems to be in a timestands-still moment. She's still processing the life changing news that she will give birth to God's Son. You can sense the clock stop as she sincerely asks the question on everyone's mind - "How will this be, since I am a virgin?" (v.34).

None of it seems to make sense logically or scientifically! But this doesn't stop Mary from giving one of the greatest responses in all of Scripture.

As she hears the stunning news of Elizabeth's pregnancy, Mary could be forgiven for doubting, like Zechariah (Luke 1:18-20), or laughing, like Abraham (Genesis 17:17) but she doesn't.

Instead she responds with great humility and deep reverence: "I am the Lord's servant." (v.38) This Advent we carry not just the infant Jesus within us, but the resurrected and reigning Jesus. May we give him our "Yes" and share him with the world as Mary did all those years ago.

PRAY

Father, help me to live my life as your servant. Fill me up and send me out to live for you and your glory.

Amen.

LIVE

How could you say "yes" to serving Jesus today?

16th December

Read Luke 2:1-5 - The Journey

_____________________________________ History is full of incredible journeys.

But this is not just any other book

Whether it is Scott's quest for the South Pole, Lewis and Clark heading west across North America or Napoleon traversing the Alps, there are no shortage of awe inspiring

and story. There is more at play within these verses than we dared ever realise; and it is not because of Augustus.

journeys for us to read about and, perhaps, dream of one day doing ourselves.

Throughout Scripture God weaves his grand story together; guiding the different forces - political, economical, industrial - at work in

Yet, for all these journeys undertook, for all they cost, for all they saw and delivered, none hold a candle to that described in Luke 2:1-5.

the world, for the sake of his kingdom and his servants. God is able to write the story to bring Mary and Joseph from Nazareth to Bethlehem in time to see the Micah prophecy fulfilled.

Some months have passed since Mary received the news she would give birth to a son called Jesus.

Everything is beginning to come together in preparation for this history altering moment.

At this point in the Christmas story have you ever paused to think how amazing it is that God ordained long beforehand that Jesus would be born in Bethlehem, as Micah 5:2-5 shows?

Even more amazing is the fact that God would put it into the heart of Caesar Augustus to call for a census, leading Mary and Joseph naturally to Joseph's ancestral in Bethlehem (v.4).

For any other characters, book, or story we might cry, "Coincidence".

He truly is the Sovereign One; a great big God, involved then and also now in the lives of his children.

Truly he is the light and hope of all the world; our eternally reigning Saviour.

PRAY

Father, thank you for how you have woven your grand story into my life's journey by your grace. Continue to guide me, I pray. Amen.

LIVE

Take some time today to reflect on where and how God has shaped your journey.

17th December

Read Luke 2:6-7 - The Arrival

_____________________________________ Have you ever heard of Tony

There may be no better way, then,

Appleton? He's the British town crier, famed for his unofficial, loud, over-enthusiastic, announcements of royal births. Greeted with

than this, to describe Jesus' arrival into history.

enthusiasm by adoring crowds, Tony's colourful uniform and

wait felt from the moments of Genesis 3 was over. Jesus, the maker

booming voice have endeared him to millions as he exclaimed some heart warming news. He is an artist!

of the heavens and the earth has arrived; royalty robed in the very flesh he created.

For many, it might seem fitting that Jesus Christ would have a 'Tony' standing on the hospital steps announcing his arrival. Perhaps we even expect it from Luke, who is himself a beautifully artistic writer and storyteller. Yet, that's not what happens.

He comes, not only like all of us, but in particularly, the most vulnerable of us. God comes to redeem all, and he begins by starting with those most in need. And so Jesus is found not in the capital city but in a backwater town, not in the inn but in makeshift accommodation, not sleeping on fine linens but laid in a manger.

Upon reading Luke 2:6-7 for the first time we notice there is no fanfare, no vivid detail or long descriptions of the birth or baby that we might expect for the arrival of a king.

But perhaps this is Luke's point. As Christians we believe that in Jesus, God gave up all glory and honour in order to step into our lives fully. He does this so that he might identify with us in order to redeem and restore us. It is equal parts magnificent and simple!

The time had come, the pregnant

May we never forget who he became for us.

PRAY

Father, I thank you for your arrival into history, time and tense, in order to redeem me and this world. Come again, I pray. Amen.

LIVE

Listen to the Christmas anthem, Arrival, by Hillsong Worship.

18th December

Read Luke 2:8-12 - The Appearance

_____________________________________ Nighttime has fallen across Bethlehem. Though Caesar Augustus' census has rendered the

they weigh up whether to run, hide or sacrifice the sheep in favour of themselves, the angel speaks the

town a little busier than normal, everything else about its existence appears as ordinary as ever.

same message given to Zechariah and Mary: "Do not be afraid" (v.10).

In Bethlehem's surrounding hills, the

There is nothing to be fearful of. In fact, there is only hope, awe and

shepherds are working the dreaded night shift. However many they have

wonder as they become the first to hear the good news of the most

completed throughout their careers,

glorious revelation ever proclaimed

their task is simply always the same: keep awake, keep alert, and, above all, keep the sheep safe. After all, the sheep were needed for use in the temple sacrifices, 6 miles to the north in Jerusalem.

to humanity:

It's easy to picture them gathered on that hillside; huddled, perhaps, around a burning fire, telling stories and sharing the frustrations of their work. Occasionally one looks up, glancing toward the sheep to ensure everything is intact.

On and on this situation repeats itself; until a moment so unexpected and stunning, sets the whole hillside ablaze in glorious bright light! An angel of the Lord appears, and God's glory shines around these shepherds.

Naturally, they are terrified. Yet, as

"Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord." (v.10-11).

Jesus has come! The Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace has made his home. And he invites us, like those first shepherds, to seek and find him that he might save and transform us.

PRAY

Father, I thank you for your good news of great joy. Help me to grasp more fully, the wonder of your coming and what that means. Amen.

LIVE

Use a map and pray for God's good news to be known among all nations.

19th December

Read Luke 2:14 - The Glory

_____________________________________ The sky is filled with glorious light.

The echo of the angel's announcement resounds throughout the air. Shepherds look at one

These are the two great purposes for the coming of Jesus: that Glory would be ever-ascending from humanity to God, and Peace ever-

another, trying to process the stupendous thing they have just witnessed and the good news they

descending from God to humanity.

have just heard. What does it mean?

up God's whole redemption plan in Jesus Christ than this - his glory, our

No sooner have they silently asked

peace. He gives us himself, bringing

their question when the sky is filled with a great company of the heavenly host. One angel is enough to bring the good news but it is nowhere near sufficient enough for responding to its ultimate outcome as they ascribe praise to God, declaring:

to us freedom, joy, hope, life, purpose and the peace that surpasses all understanding.

"Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favour rests." (v.14).

The joyful news of the arrival of Jesus into the world he created has two great purposes: God's glory and our peace.

The arrival of Jesus brings about the greatest revelation of the glory of God, even amongst all other aspects of the universe. God is glorified because Jesus Christ is born! And secondly, peace is spread to everywhere this child is received.

There is hardly a better way to sum

This Advent we can know this peace with him through the forgiveness of our sins (Romans 5:1); and within ourselves as we realise who God is and all he is capable of (Philippians 4:6-7, 1 Peter 5:7).

May our knowing this great peace lead to God getting the glory.

PRAY

Father, I ascribe all glory, honour and power to you today. There is none like you. Amen.

LIVE

Read Philippians 4:6-7. Lay your anxieties before God today. Be still and let him administer his peace.

20th December

Read Luke 2:15-18 - The Story

_____________________________________ The sky is empty; the chorus cry of the heavenly host has ceased. It has been the most bizarrely incredible few moments that any of these

they find him in the manger; becoming the first people, other than Mary and Joseph, to fix their eyes upon the One who is both

shepherds have ever experienced.

Surely, for as long as they live and work, they will never have a shift

divine and human. What an awesome moment and incredible privilege for these shepherds; so often

that tops this one!

overlooked, but now the first to hear and encounter the glory of this good

The weight of this moment and the

news.

glory of God still lingers upon that hillside as the shepherds turn to one another readying themselves to do the only thing they possibly could go to Bethlehem and see it for themselves.

There is no discussion, only the affirmation that nothing else matters but seeing this newborn baby. As the heavenly host responded in multitude so these shepherds will also respond together.

They hurry. Do they know where exactly they are going? The angelic hint of a manger gives them a clue as to what type of building but beyond this they and we don't know the exact location. It is impossible not to imagine them banging every door and waking the entire population in their frantic search for Jesus.

Such good news is too impossible to contain. It must be shared! What honour is bestowed on these shepherds that sees them become God's messengers to the wider world, as they proclaim to Bethlehem's population the wonder of God's redemption birthed.

What an example these shepherds are. And what reminders they give us this Advent, that this is a message for all.

PRAY

Father, thank you for letting me hear this story again. Help me to treasure these words like Mary, and share them like the shepherds. Amen.

LIVE

Re-read Luke 2:1-18 today.

However, just as they have been told,

21st December

Read Matthew 2:1-2 - The Magi

_____________________________________ A mysterious star burns bright in the sky. Magi, studying the sky in the east notice it, for nothing escapes their gaze. They are compelled by it.

The Magi have lit the touch-paper with their question and explanation of their desire to worship this "other" king.

This is not just any other star. There is something more to it. It is calling them to something, someone.

Their desire is beautiful and a challenge to us all as to how far we

As quickly as they have discovered

are willing to go and what we are willing to do in order to worship

this star they are leaving their homes

Jesus Christ. Yet, it also showcases

behind; embracing the adventure and danger of the journey to Jerusalem. Crossing lands watched eagerly by robbers they make their way to the territory led by the powerful and violent King Herod the Great.

the wonder of Christmas and God's redemption plan that we are invited into. We see, again, how God has wielded the universe, through the display of a new star, to make the arrival of his Son known in order that he might be worshipped. But not just by Jews, but by people from all nations, including us; for he is, as the Magi demonstrate, a universal Messiah.

Jerusalem hadn't seen many visitors like this before as their caravan weaves its way through the city streets in an effort to find an answer to their question: "Where is the one who has been born the king of the Jews?" (v.2).

The question stuns not only Herod, but all of Jerusalem with him (v.3).

He knows nothing of the miraculous event which has recently taken place just a few miles away. Had the news been kept quiet or simply confined to remain within Bethlehem?

This Advent, may we see and know he truly is the Saviour of the world.

PRAY

Father, I thank you that your salvation plan includes me. Grant that I might love all like you do.

Amen.

LIVE

Listen to some worship music today and magnify the King of kings.

Pause & Reflect

On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshipped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.

Matthew 2:11

Advent is a season of anticipation and celebration. The weary world rejoices at the Messiah's first advent, whilst we long for his return.

At the end of this third week of readings, use this space to read, reflect, and pray on all you have read in the last 7 days, remembering the hope you have because Christ left the glories of heaven to be born in Bethlehem.

Christmas Candle Jar Family Craft What you will Need Clean glass jars (pasta or sauce jars work best)

Directions 1

Take your Christmas napkin and peel

2

Cut the napkin into strips and

3

Take your glass jar and coat it with a layer of PVA glue.

4

Gently apply your napkin strips and shapes to the jar. Cover the whole, or make a festive scene.

5

Leave the jar to dry and set.

6

When the jar is dry, paint on an

7

To finish off your tea light holder, tie an end of twine or jute around the neck of your jar and brush on some PVA glue to help it set.

8

Lastly, add your tea light or fairy lights to your jar, switch them on

PVA Glue Paper Christmas napkins with a fun festive print Paint brush Glitter Twine, jute or Christmas ribbon Battery operated tea light or fairy lights

the layers apart (the thinner the paper, the more translucent your finished product will be).

shapes, ready to stick to your jar.

additional layer of PVA glue for further strength and shine.

and enjoy!

Prep time : 5 minutes

Make time : 15 minutes

22nd December

Read Matthew 2:11 - The Treasures

_____________________________________ Though it had been spoken of and promised for generations, it somehow always seemed a distant

Christ. There can only be one response:

reality; the sort of thing that never happens in your own lifetime.

"They bowed down and worshipped him. And presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh." (v.11).

As Herod hears the news of the birth of the true King straight from the

What humility and generosity these

mouths of the chief priests and teachers of the law (v.3-6), he comes

powerful men show as they bow before the infant Messiah. Giving

to understand that the Magi are

gifts fit for a King, they ascribe

telling the truth.

authority and dignity to Jesus; and in a sense anoint him for his future roles as God's sacrificial prophet, priest and king.

Like every Christmas Panto villain in existence, we know Herod is merely acting when he tells them that he too would like to visit and worship Jesus (v.8). His act is a cover for his plan to dispose of the Christ-child, and thus consolidate his kingship.

As the Magi exit Herod's grand palace for the final time, proceeding in search of the Messiah, they are overjoyed to see the star before them again (v.10). It is leading them and calling them to the One they seek. Fully surrendered, these Gentiles press on in reverence until they reach the place beneath the star.

It is no longer the manger in a back alley street, but a house. We sense the anticipation building as they enter the house and fix their eyes on

This Advent, may we never cease to worship Christ with the humility and joy like those Magi of old.

O come all ye faithful, Joyful and triumphant, O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem Come and behold him, Born the King of Angels O come let us adore him, Christ the Lord!

PRAY

Father, help me with my lips and life, to honour you in all things today.

Amen.

LIVE

Check out Greatest Gift on our website and help us give the gift of a Bible today!

23rd December

Read Psalm 95:6-7 - The Song

_____________________________________ Sunday 16th July, 2017. I find myself

In Psalm 95:6-7, the author calls us

sitting, cross-legged, in a church in southern India. The temperature outside is rising; it's already a cool 35 degrees at 9am. My linen trousers

to come, bow down, and kneel before the Lord our maker. Just as the shepherds, Magi and Indian pastors before us, we too are invited

are stuck to me as the multitude of mosquitoes continue their daily

to approach Christ in humble reverence to worship him and admit

assault on me and the team I lead.

"How long, O Lord, until I can return to the air conditioning and a pair of

our dependence. This is our song.

shorts?", my mind asks on repeat.

I feel guilty for even thinking it when the Pastor introduces the special

problem. He knows how desperately we need him. And to answer that deep longing he has given us himself, in Jesus. It is the greatest gift.

guests (besides my team) for the service that day. Twenty five pastors have come from Odisha (formerly Orissa), a state famed for its vicious persecution of the Church to share their stories, testimonies and lead

This Advent, may our lives be marked by the "adoration that comes from seeing a God of glory; and dependence by virtue of seeing the God of grace, who has redeemed us

the gathered congregation in worship.

and brought us as sheep into his fold."

(Tim Keller).

What happens over the next 25-30

PRAY

minutes is the most moving, aweinspiring, heaven-meets-earth worship I have ever witnessed and been part of. They sing at the top of their lungs; and dance, move, shout, raise their hands and lie prostrate. I am equally awestruck by their passion and humbled by the dependence upon God with which they live their lives and speak.

God knows humanity's great sin

Father, I thank you that in Christ your grace abounds to me. May your grace shape my worship and lead me to depend upon you. Amen.

LIVE

Memorise and pray the Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13) regularly to deepen your adoration and dependence on God.

24th December

Read Philippians 2:6-11 - The Model

_____________________________________ Growing up, no day seemed as magical, or as long, as Christmas Eve! The whole day was a melting pot of movies, visitors, and smells

the cross, as he humbles himself by becoming obedient to death on a cross (v.8). Doing this was the only way he could save humanity from

emanating their way from the kitchen; pierced every so often by my mum's shrieked, "DON'T COME

the mess of its sin. This is how far God is willing to go to be with us entering the earth to take our sin

IN HERE"!

upon his shoulders. It is a stunning picture.

I love Christmas Eve. It is a day pregnant with anticipation as we await the One who came to be "God with us". One of the most beautiful passages in all of Scripture to speak of this is Philippians 2:6-11.

Yet, finally, he does not die to remain in the grave. No, God raises him from the dead, and exalts him, restoring him to the position he left for our sake.

Firstly, Paul's words show us that Christmas is not just something momentary; it is eternal. Jesus was, and is, in very nature God (v.6).

Before his birth in Bethlehem, Jesus existed in relationship; the Trinity of Father, Son and Holy Spirit. There has never been a time when he has not been!

There is none higher than Jesus. And one day, as Paul reminds us, every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord!

That's what it means for Jesus to be God with us this Advent. The baby born to die, and rise to gift us life.

What Christmas Eve truths!

Secondly, we see that Christmas was when God became one of us. This is the great, non-accidental mystery of the incarnation as Jesus takes the very nature of a man, whilst still retaining his full divinity (v.7). Why would he do this?

Because, thirdly, Christmas is ultimately not about the manger, but

PRAY

Father, I thank you for Jesus, the Lamb of God who takes away my sins. As you have done, so I exalt and worship him today. Amen.

LIVE

Throughout today, in all you do, whisper "God is with me".

25th December

Read 2 Corinth. 9:15 - The Thanksgiving

_____________________________________ It was one of those moments where stunned silence filled the air. Back and forth we looked at one another, mouths open, faces aghast. I'll never forget Christmas Day 2004, when my Grandfather gifted my Nanny a hammer for Christmas!

Have you ever received a gift for Christmas that has left you speechless? Maybe it was something you really wanted; or something thoughtfully unexpected. It's nice to receive such a gift.

Truthfully, for all the presents hung in stockings and nestled under trees today, there is a gift that none other comes close to. It is the gift Paul describes in 2 Corinthians 9:15 as indescribable; the gift of Jesus Christ.

He is the reason we celebrate today.

We remember his coming into the world in humble circumstances. We rejoice and marvel at how God revealed this good news leaving shepherds speechless.

The little doxology of 2 Corinthians 9:15 calls us to give thanks to God; for he is the great gift giver, the Father who knows what we need. He is the One who knows how to give the best gifts (Matthew 7:11).

Why is the indescribable gift of Jesus so worthy of our celebration and thanksgiving today? Because: 1. God's gift comes from the indescribable love that he has for each one of us (John 3:16).

2. His gift will involve an indescribable, atoning sacrifice; costing Jesus his very life (Romans 5:6-8).

3. To receive Jesus' grace by faith brings with it other indescribable gifts (Ephesians 1:3-14).

This Christmas Day may our worship and thanksgiving for God's indescribable gift reflect the beauty and wonder of the worship given in the heavenly places, as we cry out: "To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb, be blessing and honour and glory and might forever and ever!"

(Revelation 5:13).

PRAY

Father, I thank you for this day and your indescribable gift to me. May I receive and honour you today. Amen.

LIVE

For each gift you open today, stop and thank God for his indescribable gift to you!

Pause & Reflect

Rather, he made himself nothing, by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death - even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name.

Philippians 2:7-9

Advent is a season of anticipation and celebration. The weary world rejoices at the Messiah's first advent, whilst we long for his return.

At the end of this final week of readings, use this space to read, reflect, and pray on all you have read in the last 25 days, remembering the hope you have because Christ left the glories of heaven to be born in Bethlehem.

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Truly He taught us to love one another His law is love and His gospel is peace Chains He shall break for the slave is our brother And in His Name all oppression shall cease Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we Let all within us praise His holy Name

O Holy Night