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?
Loving Kindness Prayer
I want you to simply picture yourself, either as you are now, or maybe a younger version of yourself. See yourself in your mind, and just try to hold yourself with a soft, open, and loving heart. And now imagine yourself literally being held, cupped by God’s great big hands.
Practicing Love | Christmas Cards
I wonder how many of us are looking at the weeks ahead, and feeling like love is going to be pretty hard, in some situations. That maybe we’ll be in encounters – whether at family dinners, work parties, even extra time at home – with people we actually find it hard to love...
Imaginative Prayer | Wounded Healer
I want to invite you to close your eyes and picture your hurt – the ways you’ve experienced pain and hurt in the church, maybe generally or maybe very specifically or even recently – picture it as an actual wound on your body.