Monday
Reading | The Coming of Jesus
As we approach Christmas we want to take some time to look at the story of the birth of Jesus. Today's reading will be Luke 1:26-80 (Click here to read)
As you read about the coming of Jesus and John the Baptist, what stands out to you? Take some time to pray and share with the Lord your discoveries from the reading.
Tuesday
Music Reflection | Mary & Joseph
Today we invite you to listen to the song Mary and Joseph by Chris Renzema (click here to listen). As you listen to the song, allow it to challenge you on the way you have taken in the Christmas story in the past. Reflect on the love story of Mary and Joseph in addition to the story of Jesus. What thoughts or discoveries came up as you listened?
Wednesday
Reading | The Birth of Jesus
Today we invite you to read the story of the Birth of Jesus from the Gospel of Matthew 1:18 - 2:12 (click here to read).
As you read, what verses stick out to you in the story? Take some time to pray and talk with God about the miracle of Jesus.
Thursday
Reading | The Birth of Jesus
Today we want to invite you to read the story of the Birth of Jesus according to the Gospel of Luke. Please read Luke 2:1-21 (click here to read) and as you read reflect on all the imperfect yet perfect ways Jesus came to earth.
Friday
Journaling | The Overall Story
Today we invite you to take some time to journal about the Christmas story. What came up for you this week that you may never have considered before? How does the story of Mary and Joseph change your perspective of the Christmas story? In what ways are you thankful for Jesus and his coming to earth this Christmas season?
Ready for what's next?
No Body but Yours
About 500 years ago, there was a woman by the name of Teresa of Avila, who was a nun and a mystic who left behind several books, poems, prayers, practices that many to this day still find inspiring. One of her well-loved poems is called, “Christ Has No Body”.
Encore | Imaginative Prayer
Do you ever, like the writer of the book of Ecclesiastes, find life boring?
Three Lies of Identity
In his book entitled, “Who Are We?” late author and priest Henri Nouwen describes three key lies of identity that can mess with our heads and create barriers to us experiencing the love of both God and community. He names these lies as: • I am what I have • I am what I do • I am what other people say or think of me