SL FaithFull ROOTED IN FAITH
S T R E N G T H F O R D A I LY L I F E
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given.” — Isaiah 9:6
A Biblical Reflection
THE TRUE GIFT OF CHRISTMAS Twinkling lights, festive music and the joy of giving — Christmas is a season many of us cherish. Yet behind every ornament and every gift lies a story far greater than the celebration itself —the story of Jesus Christ, God’s gift to the world. The Bible reminds us that Christmas is not just a holiday — it is a divine invitation to hope, peace and love. FAITH IN THE UNEXPECTED The Christmas story begins with Mary, a young woman chosen by God to bear His Son. In Luke 1:31, the angel Gabriel tells her, “You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus.” Mary’s initial surprise and awe quickly give way to faith: “I am the Lord’s servant… May your word to me be fulfilled” (Luke 1:38). Her humble surrender reminds us that Christmas calls us to trust God’s plans, even when life surprises us. A PROMISE FULFILLED Long before Jesus’ birth, prophets spoke of the Messiah’s arrival. Isaiah 9:6 declares, “And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Every Christmas, we celebrate not only a baby in a manger but also God’s faithfulness. His promises, centuries old, are still alive today. The lights and carols point us back to this eternal truth that God keeps His word. GOD’S LOVE IN HUMBLE PLACES Jesus’ birth in a stable, wrapped in simple cloths,
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tells us something profound. Luke 2:7 notes, “She placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available.” God chose humility to show that His love reaches everyone, everywhere—rich or poor, strong or weak. Christmas reminds us that God comes near in the ordinary, messy moments of life. JOY FOR EVERYONE Shepherds were the first to hear the angelic announcement: “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy… a Savior has been born” (Luke 2:10–11). God’s message of hope is for all people. Their eager journey to see the newborn King challenges us to respond with excitement and share Christ’s love with those around us. THE ULTIMATE GIFT Beyond the manger lies the mission of Christ’s life—salvation. John 3:16 reminds us, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Every gift we wrap or receive can reflect the ultimate gift—Jesus
Himself. Christmas invites us to pause, reflect and rejoice in His presence. LIVING THE MESSAGE Romans 12:13 urges, “Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” Christmas is a season not only of receiving but of giving— extending love and kindness to others. In doing so, we mirror the generosity of God, who gave His Son so that we might experience His peace and joy. CELEBRATING THIS SEASON Let us look beyond the sparkle and the present this Christmas. Let us celebrate Mary’s faith, the shepherds’ joy and the fulfillment of God’s promises. Most importantly, let us embrace the gift of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, whose light continues to shine in a dark world. In the midst of holiday busyness, may your heart pause to remember the true miracle of Christmas—God with us, offering hope, love and everlasting life. That is the gift worth celebrating this season—and every season. “Emmanuel—God with us.”