Advent is almost over and Christmas is almost here! Over the last few weeks we’ve zoomed in on many different aspects of Advent and Christmas. Today we’re going to step back and look at the big picture by reading the entire account of Jesus’ birth as recorded by the Gospel writers Matthew and Luke. They each write from a slightly different perspective, and reading one or both narratives is a great way to get the whole story in our minds as we’re about to celebrate Jesus’ birth.
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A Creative Savior
Christmas is a time when people display their creativity. Drive through almost any neighborhood at night and you’ll see a number of houses decorated with lights, with no two displays alike. Every year musicians compose new songs or rearrange old ones to celebrate Jesus’ birth. Some people love to exercise their talents in the kitchen. Others relish the opportunity to find or make that perfect gift to give to each of their loved ones. Our God is a creative God, and He has made us to be like Himself.
[Read more…] about A Creative SaviorResponding to the King
Throughout this Advent season followers of Jesus all over the world have been preparing themselves for the celebration of His arrival that we know as Christmas. We’re excited because we know that God has blessed us through the coming of His Son.
[Read more…] about Responding to the KingA Restored Relationship
Earlier this Advent season we observed that we live in a broken world populated by broken people whose relationships with God and other people are damaged. We saw, too, that God has promised to repair and restore what we have broken.
[Read more…] about A Restored RelationshipAdvent Reflections
I know it’s a bit early to be writing about Christmas. But, since so many people use these Advent Reflections each year, including many pastors who are already working on their holiday messages, I decided to post this year’s reflections now. If you find them to be helpful, please feel free to send me some feedback!
How are you preparing your heart for Christmas? Celebrating Advent helps us focus on the spiritual aspects of Christmas in the midst of all the busyness of the holiday season. In 2024 Advent begins on December 1, and it continues through Christmas Eve. The Advent readings below are designed to help you prepare your heart for Christmas. Use them for personal reflection or make them part of a family tradition!
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