SUPPORTING SCRIPTURE


ย โ€œIs the Bible relevant today?โ€ Stories from hundreds of years ago, weird names, suuuuper long chapters. It doesnโ€™t always feel relevant. But to read Scripture is another way for God to provide comfort, clarity, and wisdom. Scripture meditations like this one can help you figure out how to get started reading the Bible.

 

Whatโ€™s Christmas Really About?

Looking at the life of Jesus through the eyes of the world, a lot doesnโ€™t make sense.

When we think about power, we donโ€™t usually think about a baby.

When we think about kings, we donโ€™t usually think about sacrifice.

When we think about greatness, we donโ€™t usually think about humility.

And yet, the birth of Jesus, God coming to earth to become one of us, to walk alongside us… changes things. It challenges the way we look at the world and the way we look at ourselves. God chose us, humans, to bear his image. God chose us to share in his laughter and his suffering. God is near to the ordinary. The beautiful. The lostโ€ฆ all of us.

Luke 2:10-12

10 But the angel said to them, โ€œDo not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.โ€

Observations from the Text

  • Christโ€™s birth is GOOD NEWS (v. 10)
  • Jesus is Savior and Messiah (v. 11)
  • God isnโ€™t ashamed of us, he wants to be with us (v. 10-12)

Prayers of Response

God in the Manger, thank you for challenging what the world views as strength and weakness.

Light of the World, when I am struggling to acceptย  _________ about myself, help me remember that you came to be with me.

Prayer Requests

Humble Savior, this Christmas Iโ€™m feeling really ________. Give me your peace.

Lord, ______ is in so much pain this holiday season. Help them tangibly feel you alongside them during this time.

Prayers of Readiness

Cosmic Christ, just as they waited for your birth, help me patiently wait for your return.

Jesus, help me see opportunities to reflect your love in the world as I _________ this Christmas season.ย 

 

Connecting with God in the ordinary, everyday moments of life can be challenging if you arenโ€™t sure how to start reading the Bible. But Scripture meditations are a great way to get started reading the Bibleโ€”click here to see more!

Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Versionยฎ, NIVยฎ. Copyright ยฉ 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.โ„ข Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com The โ€œNIVโ€ and โ€œNew International Versionโ€ are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.โ„ข