December 25, 2024

DAILY BREAD — Listening for the Promised Son

ADVICE:
“The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own people; you must listen to everything he tells you.”
— Acts 3:22

PROMISE:
But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship.
— Galatians 4:4–5

​PRAYER:
Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has come to his people and redeemed them.
— Luke 1:68

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Dear God,

On this Christmas Day, we pause to remember the true reason for this joyful season: the birth of Jesus. As we give and receive gifts to express our love for one another—just as the Magi once brought their offerings to the child in Bethlehem—turn our hearts away from what we might receive and toward what we can offer You. Prepare our hearts to celebrate Christ rightly, with gratitude, obedience, and joy. May we give You hearts that delight in loving You and loving others.

We remember that holy night long ago, when a brilliant star lit the sky and angels startled shepherds with news too good to imagine. That message is for us still: “Do not be afraid. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born—the Messiah, the Son of God.” As we sing carols and lift our voices in praise, may we join the angels and the faithful of every generation who rejoice in Your gift to the world.

Thank You for sending us Jesus—the greatest gift of all. Thank You for loving us as we are, for caring for us faithfully, and for never leaving us. Today, with grateful hearts, we praise You for Your redeeming love.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

​I wish you a blessed day, and a joyful Christmas celebration.
With Love,
Rev. Frank