Daily devotion – making ready for Christmas
Isaiah 9:6
“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” — Isaiah 9:6 (KJV)
Christmas is just 76 days away, and it’s personally one of my favorite times of the year. As the holiday season approaches, we’re already seeing the signs of Christmas in stores and shopping centers. But beyond the decorations and gift ideas, I love taking a long run-up to Christmas, using this season as an opportunity to bring glory to God in everything I do.
One of the most meaningful ways we can glorify God during Christmas is by honoring the miracle of Christ’s virgin birth in Bethlehem. This beautiful event is the heart of why we celebrate—because Jesus came into this world as a humble baby to save us from our sins. It’s crucial that we remind people of this truth as the foundation of Christmas.
Another way to glorify God is by planning and praying for opportunities to invite non-Christian friends and family to church. Christmas is a season where many are more open to hearing the gospel. It’s a wonderful time to share with others why the birth of Jesus is so important to us as believers.
As we prepare for Christmas, let’s also take time to worship God with thanksgiving:
For the way His Son’s birth was ordained—it was God’s perfect plan.
For the way God foretold His coming through prophecies like Isaiah 9:6.
For the incredible fulfillment of those prophecies—Jesus was born, just as God promised.
Christmas is not just about remembering Christ’s birth; it’s a time to reflect on why He came—to be our Savior. As Matthew 1:21 tells us, “You are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” Jesus’ very name speaks of His mission to redeem us, and Christmas always draws me back to the Cross of Calvary, where that mission was completed. We remember that Jesus was born to die for our sins.
Lastly, Christmas is a beautiful time to reach out to those who are lonely or away from family. It’s a season where we can invite people into our homes, extending the love of Christ to those who may feel isolated.
Christmas truly is a time to be thankful—for family, for friends, and most of all, for the gift of our Savior. As we prepare for Christmas 2024, may we do so with hearts full of gratitude, love, and a desire to glorify God in all that we do.
How can you start planning now to bring glory to God this Christmas?
May we approach this Christmas season with intentionality, remembering why Christ came and how we can honor His birth by sharing His love with others. I pray you are already making plans for a meaningful and Christ-centered Christmas 2024!