Devotions

The Shepherd of Peace – December 29, 2023

2023/12/29/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.” . . . He will stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the LORD, in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God. And they will live securely, for then his greatness will reach to the ends of the earth. And he will be our peace.
Micah 5:2,4,5

The Shepherd of Peace

Daily Devotion – December 29, 2023

Devotion based on Micah 5:2,4,5

See series: Devotions

Jerusalem was in trouble. Many of its kings had led the people astray and away from worshiping the true God. Now, foreign armies were coming to carry out God’s justice on a people who preferred worshiping themselves. God assigned Micah, the prophet, to foretell the coming destruction.

But God also had Micah prophesy about a ruler who would rescue his people. About eight miles from the capital city of Jerusalem lay a small village, Bethlehem. Its population size was tiny compared to Jerusalem. Yet, this village would be the birthplace of that ruler, the greatest king ever born.

About 700 years after Micah finished his work as one of God’s prophets, Jesus was born in the tiny town of Bethlehem to a humble virgin. The only birth announcement was made to simple shepherds in the field. But the announcers were anything but simple. Angels, the messengers from God, told the shepherds, “Today in the town of David (Bethlehem) a Savior has been born to you.” (Luke 2:11). Those angels also announced something else Micah had foretold. This Savior would bring peace.

It is fitting that Jesus, the Good Shepherd, was visited first by shepherds. Jesus leads his people. He watches over them and protects them like a shepherd. But Jesus takes his shepherding to the extreme. He offers his life for his sheep so they can have peace with God. From the humblest of origins comes the greatest gift of all, peace with God, the forgiveness of sins. All who put their trust in Jesus will live securely.

Prayer:
Dear God, help me to follow Jesus, the Good Shepherd, who has brought me peace. Allow me to live in this peace all the days of my life and forever with you. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Abba, Father – December 28, 2023

2023/12/28/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Because you are his sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, “Abba, Father.” So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child; and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir.
Galatians 4:6,7

Abba, Father

Daily Devotion – December 28, 2023

Devotion based on Galatians 4:6,7

See series: Devotions

A couple of years ago, I was sitting in an airport waiting for a flight when I noticed a young child walking by herself. She had a stuffed animal in her arms, and she was looking frantically at the faces around her. After a quick scan, I didn’t see anyone who looked like they could be her parents. She was lost, and tears filled her eyes.

Thankfully, some airport workers noticed her and quickly came to help her. As they tried to calm her down and ask her questions, a concerned couple came down the concourse. They were calling a name, her name. When the little girl heard her daddy calling her name, her expression completely changed. Joy and relief filled her face. She ran into her father’s open arms crying, “Daddy!”

Like that little girl, you were once lost and separated from your loving heavenly Father. Left to your own devices, you would have remained that way–separated from your Father for all eternity.

But your loving Father did not leave you to your own devices. He sent Jesus to find you and rescue you from the sins that separated you from him. And because Jesus has found you, he changes your identity. You are no longer a slave but a child of God. And not just a child of God, an heir. And Jesus has an inheritance that is greater than you could ever imagine. Because Jesus has removed your sin, he promises you the riches of God’s Kingdom, an eternity spent in the never-ending love of the Father who invites you to call him “Abba, Father.”

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for finding me and changing my status. I am your child. Help me live as an heir of eternal life. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Christmas is the perfect time to be God’s child – December 27, 2023

2023/12/27/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Galatians 4:4-7

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

Christmas is the perfect time to be God’s child

LISTEN HERE

Family Devotion – December 27, 2023

Devotion based on Galatians 4:4,5

See series: Devotions

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Christmas can sometimes feel like it comes at the worst time. Students can be worn out from tests and all the activities. Depending on where you live, you might have to drive through bad weather to get to church or visit your family over the holidays. Parents can get really stressed out too. Sometimes getting together with other family members reminds us of hurts and problems that divide us. And we’re supposed to be filled with good news of great joy? It seems like the worst time for it.

It must have seemed that way to Jesus’ mother Mary, too. Put yourself in her shoes. God caused her to be pregnant with Jesus before she was married. Wow, talk about bad timing! And now, when it was almost time for her to give birth, the government said everyone had to travel to their hometown. That meant a ninety-mile trip for a very pregnant woman, walking or riding on a donkey. And when she went into labor, there wasn’t a hotel for her to stay in, just a barn. It seemed like the worst time!

It can seem that way to us, but God reminds us that his timing is perfect. God chose just the right time for his Son to be born. The nation of Israel was in rough shape, but that meant there were people who were looking to God for an answer. The Roman government controlling Israel was cruel, but God was planning on using them to put Jesus to death to win salvation. It all happened at a time when there were finally roads connecting the empire so the good news could be spread quickly. God’s timing was just right.

And it still is. Maybe it’s hard to focus on Jesus at Christmas. All the extra busyness can cause problems and fights. Or maybe it’s just something going on with you that makes you feel like not hearing God’s Word. Maybe you struggle with doubt; maybe you feel very angry or hurt by someone.

That makes it the perfect time to hear what God has done for you. Problems are real—Mary and Joseph faced them. But God promises you that he’s adopted you as his child. That means he loves you, he forgives you, and he wants you to pray to him about your problems. You’re not alone; God’s there to help.

In the times when it seems everything’s going wrong, it’s the perfect time to know that God has made you his child.

Closing Prayer:

Thank you, God, for picking just the right time to send Jesus to make us your children. Remind me that when other people are going through difficult things, it’s the perfect time for me to share your good news with them. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

Name two things you know your parents will do for you because you’re their child.
God says you’re his child now, too. What are two things God will do for you?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Why is it sometimes hard to focus on Jesus at Christmastime?
What are some things that you can do with your family to keep your focus on Jesus?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Share a time when you didn’t feel “ready” for someone to remind you about something the Bible says. Why might that have actually been the perfect time?
List a problem or challenge that you’d like your family to pray about for you. Your Father in heaven is listening!

Download and print devotion

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

God’s Perfect Timing – December 27, 2023

2023/12/27/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

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

God’s Perfect Timing

Daily Devotion – December 27, 2023

Devotion based on Galatians 4:4,5

See series: Devotions

The timing of Jesus’ arrival was not arbitrary. God purposefully planned for Jesus to come into the world at the fullness of time. From the beginning, God had planned for this. And at the appointed hour, God executed his rescue plan.

God chose the humble setting of Bethlehem to unfold the greatest story ever told. In the simplicity of a stable, under a starry night, God became flesh.

Jesus was born of a woman, just like every human before and after him, just like you. Jesus was born under the law, just like every human before and after him, just like you. Being born under the law means you are to love God above all else and to love your neighbor perfectly. It’s an impossible task. You cannot keep this law.

But Jesus can. And Jesus did. He was born just like you were so that he can fulfill your obligation to the law and pay the rightful penalty for your sin. With that sin removed and your guilt taken away, there is no more hostility between you and God.

By sending his Son, God demonstrates the lengths his love would go to rescue you from sin. God guided all of human history so that everything would be just right for Jesus to enter the world.

And God is still guiding history. He’s arranged things just right, in the fullness of time, for you to learn the real meaning of Christmas. That God loves you so much that he sent his Son, Jesus, into the world to take away your sins, and to purchase you from your slavery to sin. God wants you to know how much he loves you, so much that he has adopted you into his family.

Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for loving me and making me a part of your family because of what Jesus, my Savior, had done for me. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Unconquerable Light – December 26, 2023

2023/12/26/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
John 1:4,5

Unconquerable Light

Daily Devotion – December 26, 2023

Devotion based on John 1:4,5

See series: Devotions

Nyctophobia is the fear of the dark. Darkness hides things. Darkness means you can’t see what’s around you. That darkness creates anxiety and uncertainty. The fear of the unknown, along with the vividness of the human imagination, causes terror.

There is a different type of darkness that causes fear. It’s the darkness of death. Death casts a long shadow that endarks everyone. To many people, death is the ultimate unknown. They can’t see past death, and so the fear of death affects what they do in life.

The truth of Christmas is that Jesus came as light to shine in this darkness. Each twinkling Christmas light on the tree and houses is a reminder that Jesus came as the Light of the world. And Jesus came to defeat the darkness of death.

For hours, the darkness tried to defeat Jesus as he hung on the cross. And for three days, the darkness thought it had defeated the Light of the world. But Jesus rose triumphantly from the dead on the third day. Jesus, the Light of the world, defeated death and its darkness. Death could not overcome Jesus.

That’s why Jesus is the life and light of all mankind. Jesus has illuminated what lies beyond the grave to all who follow him. Death is no longer the scary darkness of the unknown. Because Jesus came, because Jesus defeated death, it means death has no power over those who trust in Jesus as their Savior from sin.

As you gaze at the Christmas lights this year, remember they are not just a festive spectacle. But they remind us that Jesus is our light. Our lives are illuminated by the love of Christ, who brings warmth and joy to a world in darkness. Jesus lights up our lives because he has conquered the darkness of death.

Prayer:
I pray, O God, for those who are gripped by the fear of darkness and death. Surround them with the light of your love, illuminated by the gospel of the forgiveness of sins. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Christmas brings happy, noisy peace! – December 25, 2023

2023/12/25/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Micah 5:2-5a

“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel… He will stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the LORD, in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God… And he will be our peace.”
Micah 5:2,4,5

Christmas brings happy, noisy peace!

LISTEN HERE

Family Devotion – December 25, 2023

Devotion based on Micah 5:2,4,5

See series: Devotions

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

“Peace and quiet.” Ever hear an adult complain that’s what they want? Have you found peace and quiet as you celebrate Christmas? Maybe the most peaceful part of it in your mind is when all the worshipers at church are holding lit candles and listening to the account of Jesus’ birth, or that moment when the wrapping paper is all cleaned up and everyone falls asleep in their beds. Peace and quiet.

But peace isn’t always quiet. The word God uses for peace is “shalom.” It’s a Hebrew word that means that everything is in its right place—just the way it should be. That’s why Jesus came, stepping out of his world and entering our world. That’s why he was born as a small child in one of the smallest towns, so that he could live the life God demands from us, pay the price for our sins and bring us back to him. That’s peace—but it’s not always quiet.

It’s like a shepherd standing in front of his flock. They’re safe and happy and eager for his voice. Do you hear him calling them to cool waters? Do you hear the joyful bleating and baa-ing of the sheep?

It’s like a mighty King protecting his people. The air rings with his promises that everything will be okay. Your whole body shakes with their clapping and cheering as they rejoice in his care.

And it’s like you. Maybe you had a “noisy” Christmas, filled with relatives and friends and crowded parties. Maybe it was noisy with problems and fights. Or maybe it was a bit quieter, and you didn’t have many people to celebrate it with.

But Jesus was there. The God who gave his life for you is still living with you. He’ll be with you when your home is filled with celebrating (or squabbling) loved ones, and he’ll be with you on the days you’re all alone. Sometimes it’ll be peaceful and sometimes noisy, but when Jesus is there as your Savior, you’ll always have peace.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Lord, when you fill my life with people and busyness, help me proclaim your good news to them. When you fill my life with quiet times or loneliness, help me remember you’re there with me. But above all, fill me with your peace. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

Who is the loudest, noisiest person in your family? Is it a big person or a small person?
God promised Jesus would be born in a small town called Bethlehem. What is a “big thing” God can do through “little you”?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Jesus is described as a shepherd here. How is Jesus like a shepherd?
How did Jesus bring us peace?

Questions for Middle School and Above

What makes it more difficult for you to feel close to God—the loud, busy times or the quiet and lonely times?
What do you think it means that Jesus’ origins “were from of old”?

Download and print devotion

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Immanuel – Week of December 25, 2023

2023/12/25/in Devotions, ECME Devotions

Immanuel – Week of December 25, 2023

Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.
Isaiah 7:14

ECME Devotion December 25, 2023

See series: ECME Devotions

My relatives bought their tickets months in advance. A ride to the airport was arranged, and we all hoped the flight would not be delayed or cancelled. We would have Christmas together. Spending Christmas with family is truly special.

The first Christmas started with a family traveling. Joseph and Mary made the long trek to Bethlehem. They didn’t find family there to greet them; they couldn’t even find a place to stay. They made do with a stable where the Savior of the world was born. As Isaiah prophesied hundreds of years earlier, “The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.” (Isaiah 7:14).

Jesus has been called by many different names, and each tells us something about his nature. Immanuel means God with us. What a fitting name for the Son of God and son of man! Jesus came all the way from heaven to live as a human being with us. He came to do what we could never do. He used his life to serve, love and forgive perfectly. He knew his trail on earth led to the cross, yet he walked that path willingly and perfectly so that he might take away all our failures. As we celebrate the Savior’s birth on Christmas, we look also to his ultimate sacrifice and victory over sin, death, and the devil.

Knowing what this little baby was destined to do brought the angels with their Christmas song, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.” (Luke 2:14). On hearing about this wonderful peace, the shepherds hurried off, first to see the Christ child and then to tell others about him. We get to do the same. We hurry to the manger to wonder at the Christ child. We gaze in awe at the terrible cross which brought us such peace. We jump for joy at the news of Jesus’ glorious resurrection. This Christmastime and throughout the year, hurry to God’s Word and revel in his salvation. Spend time hearing and praying and praising our Savior with others. Then go and tell. We have the best news ever, the news that makes us all part of God’s family.

“Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:10-11) May God bring you peace and joy this Christmas, my family in Christ!

Prayer:
Dearest Immanuel, thank you for bringing peace and joy to us. Help us share your love with others so they may know that same peace and joy. Amen.

A Hymn to Consider:
Christian Worship 330: Peace Came to Earth

Early Childhood Ministry Educator’s (ECME) Devotions are brought to you by WELS Commission on Lutheran Schools.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Christ – December 25, 2023

2023/12/25/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. . . The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
John 1:1-5,14

Christ

Daily Devotion – December 25, 2023

Devotion based on John 1:1-5,14

See series: Devotions

Perhaps you have seen the symbol etched into a stained-glass window, embroidered on a banner, printed on the front cover of the hymnal, or embedded into the white candle of the Advent wreath. The symbol looks like the letter X with the letter P placed over it. But the letters are not English; they are Greek. The letter that looks like X is equivalent to ch, and the letter that looks like P is equivalent to r. These Greek letters chi and rho are an abbreviation for Christ. In Christian art, the letters are often adjusted so that the two are merged together, appearing to be a single letter. The logo on the cover of Christian Worship: Hymnal provides an example of such a stylized Chi-Rho.

On Christmas Eve and Day, the symbols of Christ surround us—manger scenes and Christmas trees, Chi-Rhos and candles. Perhaps you attend an evening candlelight service in which the light from the Christ candle, the center candle of the Advent wreath, is used to light other candles that in turn light all the candles held by worshipers. With building lights dimmed, the light from the candles fills the room with a heavenly glow.

But the glow produced from the Christ candle is a pale comparison to the brilliant glory of the angels who filled the night sky to announce Jesus’ birth! Any symbolism we employ at Christmas is only a dim reflection of the first Christmas and an imperfect representation of the miracle that the angel messenger announced: “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord” (Luke 2:11).

Christ is the Greek translation of the Hebrew word Messiah. Both words mean “Anointed One.” This special name for this special child tells us that there is more than what meets the eye in Bethlehem’s manger. This child is anointed and appointed to be the King of kings and Lord of lords. The innocent baby wrapped in strips of cloth is also the almighty God wrapped in human flesh. God has become one of us and one with us! The One who created heaven and earth is now cradled in a manger. What an amazing heaven-sent miracle from the heart of God the Father.

Even greater than this miracle is the heavenly rescue that the Christ Child will accomplish. Jesus Christ’s mission would take him from the wood of the manger to the wood of the cross as the perfect payment for our sins and the sins of the whole world. And after the darkness of his death, the bright light of Easter morning would announce to all that the mission that began in Bethlehem’s manger was fulfilled by Calvary’s cross. The miracle of Christmas was just the beginning of the miracle of our salvation!

Rejoice! Today your Savior has been born! He is the Messiah—Christ, the Lord!

Prayer:
Almighty God, you sent your Son, Christ, the Lord, as our Savior. Receive our thanks for this miracle of your grace and enlighten our hearts with the good news of his birth that we may proclaim his praises now on earth and forever in heaven. Amen.

This Advent devotion is brought to you by Forward in Christ magazine. For an enhanced version of this devotion including a flipbook and video or to read other devotions in this series, visit forwardinchrist.net/advent-2023.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Advent Devotion – Christmas Reflections – Day 24

2023/12/24/in Womens Advent Devotions, Womens Devotions

Christmas Reflections: Timeless Truths for Today

You Must Make Time to Ponder

But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.
Luke 2:19

Mary must have had a lot of time on her hands. No doubt she sat near the manger, in an idyllic pose, pondering, right?

My guess is no. Joseph had to find a place to live and work to make money to keep a roof over their heads and food in their cupboard. Mary needed a means to clean up her baby boy, not just after birth, but every time he needed to be cleaned. Those swaddling clothes wouldn’t stay clean for long. Water must be fetched, food must be made, and how does one keep a manger clean?

Mary pondered because she took the time to ponder.

To ponder means to think carefully about something. Its Latin root is “to weigh” or “to reflect on.” The old French means “to consider.” Mary considered, weighed, reflected on all God was doing around her.

Sometimes we ruminate on all the wrong things. We notice the ways the people around us aren’t carrying their weight. We consider the sin in this world and the apathy of people who could do something about it. Circumstances, the never-ending laundry or dishes, the illness, the shrinking paycheck, weigh us down.

The apostle Paul suggests we avoid that. “Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things” (Philippians 4:8).

In his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus spoke about worry, something that consumes a lot of us a lot of the time. After commanding us not to worry and giving us good reason not to worry, he concluded by saying, “Seek first the kingdom of God” (Matthew 6:33).

First seek God.

How different would our days be if we were to seek God first?

I have an hour-long commute to work. During the last ten minutes of the commute I put a Christian worship song on, because I’ve noticed that if I do, that song goes through my head all day long.

Reading the Bible right away in the morning sets the tone for the day. Today my reading from 1 Timothy was about avoiding distractions and godless chatter (social media!) and instead focusing on and teaching what is true. Hours later, it is still shaping the direction of my day.

We fall into bad habits, but seeking requires action. You can seek wealth or power or fame or entertainment, but they often leave us as empty as we started.

God says, “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13).

When you seek God, you will find him. The effort is rewarded every time.

And what do we get out of it? God’s love is everlasting. It doesn’t wax and wane depending on our attitude or energy. And we’re told God “…will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast” (Isaiah 26:3). Perfect (absolute, complete) peace is ours even in the midst of chaos. And if any of us lacks wisdom (insight as to what to do), James tells us God will freely give it (James 1:5). He does that as we open his Word.

When we don’t make time for God, we are giving ourselves over to the craziness and delusions of the world, the frantic pace, the never-ending striving, the “never enough” mentality.

When we step back and look at it objectively, on the scales of life, it’s so clear to see God lifts us up, encourages us, and gives us strength to endure. The devil, the world, and our sinful flesh drag us down, leave us spinning in negative thoughts and habits, and leave us empty.

Pray. Open the Bible. Worship. They’re the most important things you do each day.

Prayer:

Gracious Father God, too often we think we can do it on our own. We march out ahead of you, insistent on our own strength. Help us develop the daily habit of meeting you so you can fill us up, motivate us, and strengthen us to do the work you have for us to do. We come in the name of Jesus, our Savior King. Amen.

Written by Amber Albee Swenson
Provided by WELS Women’s Ministry

Transformed – teen devotion – December 24, 2023

2023/12/24/in Teen Devotions

One truth shared: The message of the angels is what brings us such great joy at Christmas!

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
Luke 2:10-12

A Savior Has Been Born

It was an interesting message the angels brought. To some it might be so familiar that they really don’t stop to think much about it. For example, “the angel said, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.’” The angels talked about great joy that first Christmas night. There are many things that might bring people joy at Christmas: getting presents, decorating the tree or cookies, putting up the lights, gathering with family and the like. But the great joy the angel was talking about was different. No, the “good news” from the angels that would bring “great joy” would come from the message they had to bring: “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you.”

To find that kind of great joy means you need to first acknowledge your need for a Savior. Note how personal God wants this to be: a Savior has been born… to you! God sent his son… for you! There isn’t one of us to whom this doesn’t apply because:

We know the jagged edges which come from knowing you are the one who hurt others with your selfishness.
We are so familiar with the broken feeling of standing before almighty God knowing that no matter how good you have tried to be and how hard you have worked that you couldn’t possibly meet the standard of perfection which he demands from you.

Our jagged edges and inner brokenness are symptoms of what’s wrong with us—we are sinners. We can try to earn worth through performance. But all it gives is an unstable sense of worth that constantly fluctuates with each performance you give. It’s a roller coaster that isn’t worth riding. It’ll steal your joy.

“Do not be afraid,” the angel said. Here’s Christmas joy: Jesus comes to bring peace to broken people like you and me. This is the peace of knowing that all is right between you and God—not because you did what needed to be done, but because Jesus did fully and perfectly everything that needed to be done for your salvation and gives that perfection to you as a free gift of his grace through faith.

God made us emotional beings, and he gave us a broad range of emotions to feel. You can’t have all “good” ones unless you are willing to also have the “bad” ones. They all come in the same package. But it’s Christmas! God desires for you only peace and joy! “Today, a Savior has been born to you!”

Prayer: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace! Take away all anger, sadness, or anxiety and fill me with the great joy that comes from knowing a Savior is born for me. Keep me in your peace. Amen.

Teen Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Peace – December 24, 2023

2023/12/24/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this.
Isaiah 9:6,7

Peace

Daily Devotion – December 24, 2023

Devotion based on Isaiah 9:6,7

See series: Devotions

What is the worst part of a vacation? Preparing for it! Taking care of all the tasks that need to be done before a family getaway is downright chaotic and stressful! Are the suitcases properly packed? Do the kids have everything they need? Did you line up someone to take care of the pets and check on the house? Is there anything you have forgotten? The stress of vacation preparation sometimes makes you wonder if the trip is worth the hassle!

But then you finally leave. At some point, peace and calm begin to settle in your mind and slow down your once-racing pulse. Maybe that moment comes when you pull out of the driveway. Maybe it’s when everyone takes a seat on the plane. The preparation is done. Now you can breathe deeply, relax, and feel at peace during the vacation days before you.

On the Fourth Sunday in Advent, Christians are on the verge of celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. Our busy Advent preparations will soon give way to the peace that the Christ Child came to bring his people.

The peace that flows from Jesus’ birth is so much greater than any earthly comparison we could make. That’s because this peace is not simply a relaxed feeling. This peace is the cessation of war! Your sins and my sins and the sins of the whole human race led to a holy war between God and humankind. And God’s justice demands that those who rebel against him be eternally sentenced for their war crimes. But God’s love fulfilled those demands in his perfect Son, the one whom Isaiah calls the “Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). The perfect Son of God endured the perfect justice of his Father for our sin, taking our punishment on himself and restoring us to a peaceful relationship with his Father.

For earthly families broken by sin and hurt by tension, the Prince of Peace comes as a child who was born to be our brother. Through our faith in that child, his heavenly Father has become our Father who welcomes us into his family of peace and forgiveness.

All four candles surrounding the Advent wreath are now lit. Turn off the lights in your home, sit in the soft glow of the candlelight, and enjoy a moment of peaceful ambiance. But remember that the peace Jesus came to bring is so much more than ambiance. His peace comes from blood-bought forgiveness. His peace is eternal, and we will bask in its glow forever.

Prayer:
O Jesus our Savior, you came to bring peace to a world broken by sin. Heal our hearts with the good news of your grace so that we may find true peace in your forgiveness and the promise of everlasting life. Amen.

This Advent devotion is brought to you by Forward in Christ magazine. For an enhanced version of this devotion including a flipbook and video or to read other devotions in this series, visit forwardinchrist.net/advent-2023.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Advent Devotion – Christmas Reflections – Day 23

2023/12/23/in Womens Advent Devotions, Womens Devotions

Christmas Reflections: Timeless Truths for Today

God With Us

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
John 1:14

Immanuel, which means “God with us,” might be my favorite word. The saying, “You don’t know what you don’t know” holds true. If you haven’t grown up in a ghetto looking for scraps of food to get by, you don’t know. If you haven’t been married, you don’t quite comprehend the complexity of bringing two lives together. If you haven’t been single for an extended season, you likely don’t remember the tinge of loneliness that sometimes creeps in, and for some, the longing for a relationship to take that loneliness away.

Believers go from the comparative poverty of earth to the glory of heaven. We look ahead knowing the pains and frustrations of this life are momentary. We are on a pilgrimage, journeying to a better, never-ending life in glory.

Jesus left glory—the perfect splendor of heaven, where angels adored him and the Father and Spirit consulted and communed with him—for life on earth. To descend would be daunting. Mary and Joseph had never raised a child. Jesus entrusted his life to amateurs.

In heaven, the devil knew Jesus’ majesty and power, and he knew he was no match. But as a human, Jesus submitted to a weakened state. He became hungry. He experienced fear. And in his weakness, the devil tried again and again to plant seeds of doubt, to twist the truth and seduce Jesus from righteousness.

As a human, Jesus felt emotions. He knew Lazarus had entered his eternal rest, and knew he was better off, and even so, standing outside the grave, with Mary and Martha and those closest to Lazarus, he felt the pain of separation.

Despite being sinless, Jesus went to the cross where he felt the divide that existed between sinful humans and a holy God. God the Father allowed Jesus to feel the weight of sin—the full weight of the punishment of sin that we will never have to feel.

Because Jesus set aside his power and walked in our shoes, he knows loneliness and frustration. He understands rejection and what it is to be cold or misunderstood.

The author of the letter to the Hebrews reminds us of this significance. “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need” (Hebrews 4:15,16).

Jesus knows what we are going through. We go to him in prayer knowing he understands. And because he understands, we go to him confidently. He knows what we need and is able to supply it in abundance from the storehouses of heaven.

Prayer:

Thank you, Jesus, for giving up so much for me. Thank you for being willing to experience the pain and sadness that often accompanies life on earth. Thank you for dying and allowing us to see your struggle, so that we know you understand. In your precious name we pray. Amen.

Written by Amber Albee Swenson
Provided by WELS Women’s Ministry

Encouragement Before Christmas – December 23, 2023

2023/12/23/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not treat prophecies with contempt but test them all; hold on to what is good, reject every kind of evil. May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-24

Encouragement Before Christmas

Daily Devotion – December 23, 2023

Devotion based on 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24

See series: Devotions

For many, the Christmas blues are a real issue: winter weather, hectic schedules, social pressures, missing loved ones who are gone or live far away, and other family issues that seem to get magnified this time of year.

But this time of year is one of the most joyful when we cherish the message that comes from God’s Word. Wrapped in that message are the most beautiful Christmas presents, bought by Christ and carried to us by the Holy Spirit. This message prepares us for the real Christmas and the joy God wants us to have in Christmas.

It is the joy of peace with God even when conscience accuses. It is the joy of knowing that God is faithful and will not leave or forsake us no matter what happens to us in this life. It is the joy of knowing that through faith in our Savior, Jesus, we are prepared and can look forward to an eternal future in heaven. No wonder Christmas is so wonderful!

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, keep me focused on the true joy of Christmas—your Son, my Savior, Jesus. Help me to celebrate this gift at this time of year and always. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Advent Devotion – Christmas Reflections – Day 22

2023/12/22/in Womens Advent Devotions, Womens Devotions

Christmas Reflections: Timeless Truths for Today

Holding on to God to Deliver in His Time and Way

When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. “Get up,” he said, “take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.”
Matthew 2:13

Rarely are we in this kind of life-threatening danger. But if we’re honest, a lot of us find ourselves in seemingly impossible situations all the time.

This child just doesn’t understand potty-training.

That child just doesn’t “get” how to drive.

This marriage seems impossible.

The bills, the job, the health crisis, taking care of mom or dad…

God glories in impossible situations, because our impossibles are completely possible to him. He urges us to “Call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me” (Psalm 50:15).

Moses knew he wouldn’t be able to lead the children of Israel. But God could lead the children of Israel through Moses (the book of Exodus). Gideon couldn’t defeat the vast Midianite and Amalekite armies. But God could and did defeat the armies while Gideon and his 300 soldiers watched (Judges 6-7). Joshua didn’t chisel the walls of Jericho until they fell. He led the people around the walls, and God toppled the walls, and they became piles of rubble (Joshua 5-6).

We don’t have to lose sleep or wonder how things will fall into place. We can place our heartaches and struggles in God’s capable arms and step out in faith while he brings everything together.

Sometimes that takes a long time. The path of the Christian is one of faithful obedience in the waiting seasons, even when those seasons tarry.

Abraham continued to worship and obey while waiting 25 years for a son (Genesis 12-21). Daniel faithfully carried out his duties with impeccable morality while serving heathen rulers his entire adult life (the book of Daniel). Hannah knew her only hope was God. And she went to him again, even after suffering for years with infertility and the taunting of her husband’s other wife (1 Samuel 1).

The Canaanite woman didn’t cry out just once for Jesus to heal her daughter. She kept crying out, until the disciples wanted to send her away. Only then did Jesus tell her he was sent to the people of Israel. Still, she knelt before Jesus and begged for help. And when Jesus said it wasn’t right to take the children’s bread and give it to the dogs, she asked for just a crumb—and her daughter was healed (Matthew 15:21-28).

Do not give up on your impossible situations, and do not give up on your prayers. Many great men and women in the Bible found themselves stuck, and for many, deliverance didn’t come at once.

Paul Kretzmann, in his Popular Commentary of the Bible, said, “Even if all experience of man is against a Christian in his prayer, he trusts in the merciful Father for help and, in child-like faith, brings his petition before the throne of God again and again.”¹

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we know you are good and eager to act on behalf of your people. When my patience wanes, remind me of your goodness and increase my trust. You promise to work for my good, so I know your timing is perfect and your decisions are good. Deliver me as you see fit. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

¹ Kretzmann, Paul E; Popular Commentary of the Bible The New Testament, Volume 1 (Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis, MO, 1921) p. 262.

Written by Amber Albee Swenson
Provided by WELS Women’s Ministry

Hark! Am I a Herald? – December 22, 2023

2023/12/22/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: John 1:6-8,19-28

There was a man sent from God whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe. He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light.
John 1:6-8

Hark! Am I a Herald?

LISTEN HERE

Family Devotion – December 22, 2023

Devotion based on John 1:6-8

See series: Devotions

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Have you heard the word “herald” before? Do you know what a “herald” is? (Maybe think of the Christmas song, “Hark the Herald Angels Sing.”)

A herald is someone who carries or proclaims important news, a messenger. The person we heard in our Bible reading was a “herald.” John was a herald. His nickname was John the Baptist, and he had some important news to tell people. He was excited to tell people that the Savior that God had promised to send was coming! Finally, it was time! John made sure people didn’t think he was the Savior—he was just the herald. He was the messenger telling people that the Savior was on his way!

People had been waiting for a long time for the Savior to come. For thousands of years, God told and promised his people that he was going to send someone who was going to fix all the wrong things people do (even the wrong things you and I do and say and think). God was going to send someone who was going to fight against the devil and win. God was going to send someone who was going to undo all the pain and sadness that death brings to us.

John announced, “The Savior is coming! So come out of sin, out of the world, and out from darkness! Come into the light of your salvation! If you are weary or carrying something heavy in your heart, come to him and he will give you rest!”

Do you think you can be a herald? Do you think you can share that amazing news? Then you can be a herald too! You can tell people about Jesus and everything he has done for them because you know and believe he has done it for you.

Closing Prayer:

God, you have called me in my young age to be a herald. You have given me this important news about Jesus to share with others. Be with me and help me to be a faithful herald and proclaimer of this great news! Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

In today’s devotion, what was the name of someone who announced important news?
How can you be a herald this Christmas?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Think of the song “Hark the Herald Angels Sing.” (Look up the words if you need to.) What good news were they a herald or messenger of?
Why might it had been difficult for people to believe John when he announced the good news of a coming?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Since God has called you to be a herald or a messenger of this good news of Jesus, can you think of some promises God gives you that will help you carry out this job?
John’s job as a herald was hard work. People regularly opposed him. How will the promises you just thought of help you when your job as a herald is hard?

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Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Rejoice, O Favored Ones! – December 22, 2023

2023/12/22/in Devotions, Military Devotions

Rejoice, O Favored Ones! – December 22, 2023

Based on Luke 1:26-38

There are conversations you remember, conversations that changed your life.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

Complete Joy Can’t Keep Quiet – December 22, 2023

2023/12/22/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

I delight greatly in the LORD; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of his righteousness, as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.
Isaiah 61:10

Complete Joy Can’t Keep Quiet

Daily Devotion – December 22, 2023

Devotion based on Isaiah 61:10

See series: Devotions

When a small child receives a gift she cherishes, she can’t keep quiet. On Christmas morning, she unwraps it. It’s the little princess tiara and dress fit for royalty. The expression of joy turns into a shout. She can’t keep quiet. She puts them on, wears them with pride, and announces to every person she sees that day, “Look what I got!”

Our Bible passage for today describes this kind of joy, except the person rejoicing isn’t excited about a toy tiara and pretend princess dress. This is the joy of a person who has been spiritually clothed like royalty.

Jesus has removed our sins, the filthy rags that never adequately covered us. He doesn’t give us a flimsy facade to hide behind. He fully clothes us in his complete salvation, and he wraps us tightly in the robe of his righteousness so that we are completely covered by his perfection. He crowns us with his royal status and eternal victory.

Those who know about these gifts can’t keep quiet! They shout, “Look what I got! Look what my God has given me.”

Prayer:
Come, King Jesus, and fill my heart with the joy of my salvation and my lips with praise. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Advent Devotion – Christmas Reflections – Day 21

2023/12/21/in Womens Advent Devotions, Womens Devotions

Christmas Reflections: Timeless Truths for Today

When the Government Isn’t on Your Side

When King Herod heard this, he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. When he had called together all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born.
Matthew 2:3,4

By all historical accounts, Herod was a vicious man. He killed anyone he perceived to be a threat to his reign. And Jesus, whom the wise men referred to as the “king of the Jews,” was a threat.

Herod was just the first of Satan’s pawns. Jesus would face a lifetime of social and political enemies.

Today Christian values are seen as a threat too. Birth gender is no longer accepted as fact. Sex is not seen as a gift reserved for a married husband and wife, but rather as a pastime, casual entertainment, and acceptable experimentation for any age. The name of Jesus has little to do with prayer, praise, and thanks. Instead, it’s a favored and acceptable curse word on prime-time TV and in many workplaces.

Lest we think we are living in an unusually anti-Christian society, the apostle Paul’s words remind us it has and will always be this way: “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” (Ephesians 6:12).

The Bible serves as a witness: it was just as evil in the days of Noah and Abraham and Joseph. Spend time in the books of Judges or 2 Kings, Esther or Daniel if you think maybe things were better then. Nebuchadnezzar and Xerxes were unusually cruel, and yet God caused these ruthless men to act favorably toward Daniel, Esther, Mordecai, and the remnant they represented.

Some rulers are more favorably disposed to Christianity than others. “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice” (Proverbs 29:2, EHV).

And when the Herods and the Hitlers and even the slightly cunning and somewhat malicious rise to positions of authority, then we do what Christians have always done. We worship, we pray, and we remember our home is in heaven.

Noah preached while he built the ark. Joseph worked hard in a heathen land for heathen rulers. Paul and Silas praised in chains. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego walked with the angel in the fire. Daniel prayed in the lion’s den. Stephen died at the hands of men of power and watched heaven open to welcome him in.

It is no surprise when we feel alienated from the world. This is not our home.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, help us to remember the gospel light shines brightest in darkness. Let our lives serve as a witness, always pointing to you. When evil reigns, help us to look to you for strength and to remember brighter days are ahead. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Written by Amber Albee Swenson
Provided by WELS Women’s Ministry

Complete Transformation – December 21, 2023

2023/12/21/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

He has sent me to . . . provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor.
Isaiah 61:1,3

Complete Transformation

Daily Devotion – December 21, 2023

Devotion based on Isaiah 61:1,3

See series: Devotions

Everyone loves a before and after picture. To appreciate the restoration, you need to see the pictures of the old, dilapidated structure now turned into a stunning new home. To marvel at a life-changing transformation in someone’s life, you need to see where they’ve been. Imagine someone in dire straits enslaved in addiction and homeless, but now free from that slavery, off the streets, and living in luxury. A complete turnaround gives complete joy.

Look at the incredible transformation Jesus brings about in the lives he touches. In the prophet Isaiah’s time, ashes were used to outwardly display inward sorrow over one’s sin. Jesus wipes the ashes away because he has removed every sin. In place of the ashes, he gives a crown of victory, a mark of royalty. He puts an end to mourning and instead pours out the oil of joy. In ancient times, oil was used as an ointment to heal and soothe. Jesus brings healing to wounded hearts, he even transforms from death to life. He bestows a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. The transformation isn’t just on the surface. He transforms the heart. He takes a soul in despair and gives it every reason to rejoice.

It is a complete transformation. No wonder we have such complete joy!

Prayer:
Come, King Jesus, and bestow gifts that only you can give! Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Advent Devotion – Christmas Reflections – Day 20

2023/12/20/in Womens Advent Devotions, Womens Devotions

Christmas Reflections: Timeless Truths for Today

Receiving Far More Than We Give

On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.
Matthew 2:11

Our modern eyes can see rich symbolism in the gifts presented by the Magi. Gold: a royal gift, fit for a king. Frankincense (incense): a religious gift, fit for a god. Myrrh: a loving gift used in embalming, fit for one who would suffer and die. Each of these gifts highlights a particular aspect of Jesus’ character; each conveys a piece of the story about this newborn Messiah.

The Magi, however, almost certainly didn’t intend any of this symbolism. They didn’t know that the one they were seeking, the one who had been born king of the Jews, embodied the union of divinity and humanity. They didn’t fully understand the heavenly (rather than earthly) nature of this King’s rule. They didn’t have any concept of the fate that awaited Jesus approximately 30 years later at the cross. They simply wanted to present Jesus with precious gifts from their homeland, items that meant a great deal to them, treasures to be shared.

I don’t know about you, but it’s not always easy for me to offer my time, talents, and treasures to Jesus. I’m busy—who isn’t?—and relaxing at the end of a long day sounds much more appealing than opening my Bible or devotion book. Yes, I use my musical gifts in service to my church, but sometimes it feels like no one really appreciates all the work I’m putting in. And sure, I support the church financially—except when I look at my stack of offering envelopes and am surprised by how many weeks have passed since I put one in the basket.

It would be easy to turn this devotion into law, to remind you that God has given you the greatest gift possible and that, in return, you have an obligation to give everything back to him. Law isn’t always a bad thing, and sometimes that’s the message that we need to hear. But our gifts are much more joyful, much more treasures to be shared than obligations to be fulfilled, when our giving has a gospel-centered focus. God has indeed given us the greatest gift possible. Therefore, how can we do anything other than present him with our greatest treasures?

And sometimes, we find unexpected blessings that come from presenting God with our greatest treasures. We have the privilege of intentionally considering what those greatest treasures actually are. What do you value the most, and how can you use that which you value in service to God? Presenting our treasures also often takes the form of serving others with love and good works. When we turn outward, when we see how our greatest treasures can be used to benefit our neighbor, we often can’t help but rejoice in the midst of this service.

The Magi took much more with them than they left behind. Yes, they left behind treasures—but they took with them the news and knowledge of God’s greatest treasure, of the One who would give himself for the salvation of the world. When we use our gifts in service to God and to our neighbor, may we also receive far more than we give!

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank you for all the gifts you have so richly showered on me. Provide me with the motivation to use these gifts in service to you and to those around me, and let all that I give be a blessing to your Church. Amen.

Written by Kristi Meyer
Provided by WELS Women’s Ministry

Always Joyful – December 20, 2023

2023/12/20/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18,23-24

Always Joyful

LISTEN HERE

Family Devotion – December 20, 2023

Devotion based on 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18,23-24

See series: Devotions

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Savaya was thinking about what she had just heard her pastor say: “Rejoice always.”

That word “always” bothered her. Always? All the time? She was supposed to always be joyful?

Savaya could think of times when she had not been all that happy—like when her friends had been mean to her and had talked about her behind her back. It really hurt her. She felt mad and sad all at the same time. On top of it, she didn’t feel happy about her grades at school. She didn’t want to go home and be told what to do.

Rejoice always? Sometimes, maybe. Always? What reason did she have to rejoice always?

Then Savaya heard her pastor give a sermon she would never forget. He explained how there is a difference between joy and being happy, between joyfulness and happiness. Happiness is a word used to describe an emotion, like how we would use anger or sadness to talk about how we feel. Feeling happy is affected by what is going on in your life. When good things happen, it is easy to be happy. When difficult or hard things happen, there is no happiness. Instead, there may be a different emotion, like anger or sadness.

Savaya’s pastor then said this, “It’s impossible to always feel the emotion of happiness. But God always makes it possible for you to have joy.” Joyfulness might be described as a condition of our heart. The joy and joyfulness that Paul talked about today comes from knowing all that God has done for us. It is the result of Jesus coming and assuring you, “I will always love you. I will always want to forgive you. I will always have a home ready for you with me in heaven.” Those things are true no matter what happens in life. Those promises are there to comfort and encourage you when times are good or when times are bad.

Savaya began to understand what her pastor was saying. We may not always be happy. The feeling of happiness can quickly come and go. But we can always be joyful because our joy is based on all the things God has done for us and promised us. Savaya found her joy—in Jesus! So, with Savaya, rejoice always!

Closing Prayer:

Lord, thank you for assuring me of your love, your forgiveness, and my home with you in heaven. This good news makes my heart joyful. Along with Savaya, help me to remember all that you have done for me when things in life make me unhappy and try to take my joy away. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

What happened that made Savaya so unhappy?
Where did Savaya find her joy?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Explain the difference between joy and happiness.
Name three things that make you happy. Name three things that make you joyful.

Questions for Middle School and Above

What circumstances of your life is the devil trying to use to rob you of joy?
Why is it important to keep in mind the difference between joy and happiness?

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Complete Joy Through Comfort – December 20, 2023

2023/12/20/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

He has sent me . . . to proclaim the year of the LORD’S favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn.
Isaiah 61:1,2

Complete Joy Through Comfort

Daily Devotion – December 20, 2023

Devotion based on Isaiah 61:1,2

See series: Devotions

“I need to tell you something.” When someone starts a conversation with these words, you brace yourself for what they are about to say. What’s the nature of the news? Is there a problem? Is everything okay? Whether good or bad, you want to hear the news. You don’t want to be left hanging.

Jesus needs to tell you something important. Don’t be alarmed because what he says is for your ultimate comfort; it will give you reason to rejoice. He announces the Lord’s favor. It is not a favor earned by us. It is a favor that was earned for us by Jesus.

This is why our Servant-King can comfort those who mourn. When we sorrow over our sin and recognize the punishment our sin deserves, our King comes to comfort us by announcing the gift of God’s love. He is not the God who comforts only from afar. The comfort he sends is up close and personal. He sent his Son, Jesus Christ, to draw near to a broken world and share good news face-to-face. Jesus came to face the wrath of God and spare us from it completely. He declared his undeserved love and full and free forgiveness to us. He comes to bring up-close and personal comfort through his Word and promises that he is right there with us. He comes in the waters of baptism to personally comfort and cleanse. He comes in bread and wine with his body and blood to comfort mourning hearts and fill us with his joy.

Prayer:
Come, King Jesus, with words of comfort for my mourning heart, and fill me with the joy of your salvation. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Advent Devotion – Christmas Reflections – Day 19

2023/12/19/in Womens Advent Devotions, Womens Devotions

Christmas Reflections: Timeless Truths for Today

Seeing the Good in Our Journeys

After [the Magi] had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.
Matthew 2:9,10

We don’t know much about the Magi. Matthew only tells us that they were “wise men” from “the east.” Although they tend to show up as a group of three in Nativity scenes, we don’t know exactly how many of them there were. We can make a guess as to their place of origin—perhaps Babylon—but we don’t know exactly how long their journey was either. Estimates range from 400 to over 1000 miles and from a month to several years. But we do know how they were guided on their journey: by a divinely provided star.

There are times I wish God would provide me a star for guidance. Life contains so many choices to make, so many paths to take, and often I’m not quite sure if I’m on the right path or not. We all have those low times in our lives when we wonder whether God really still loves us, whether we are still worthy to be called his child, whether any good can come out of the trials and tribulations we’re experiencing. Where’s our star in those moments? Where’s our assurance that God is indeed with us every step of the way?

Thankfully, God does provide assurance that he is with us on our journey through this life, even if we can’t always see his presence. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28). This verse doesn’t mean that we’ll always make the right choice or that we’ll always act in accordance with God’s will. We are sinful human beings, and that sinfulness shows itself daily in our words and actions. But in Romans 8:28, God does promise that he will take all our choices—good and bad, influenced by our old Adam or our new self—and use them for good, for his purposes.

The Magi were blessed to see the good at the end of their journey. They saw Jesus with their own eyes and bowed down and worshiped him. They had the certainty that their journey was not in vain, that they accomplished the task set before them, that they reached their goal. And then they returned to their own country, presumably to tell everyone what they had seen and heard.

It would be lovely if we could always see the good in our journey, too. Unfortunately, that isn’t always the case. Sometimes we can see how God is working for our good in the moment. Sometimes, that seeing takes longer—months or even years. And sometimes, we aren’t able to see that good on this side of heaven. But we can be comforted in knowing that God is always working for the good of those who love him, whether that’s directly for our good or for the good of another fellow believer. Even in the midst of this uncertainty, may we share the joy of the Magi at God’s guidance and protection throughout our journey—from this life to the next!

Prayer:

Lord Jesus Christ, give us hearts like the Magi as we seek to find joy in our journey here on this earth. Comfort us with the knowledge that you are working all things for our good, and remind us of the perfection that awaits at the end of our earthly road. Amen.

Written by Kristi Meyer
Provided by WELS Women’s Ministry

Complete Joy – December 19, 2023

2023/12/19/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me . . . He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.
Isaiah 61:1

Complete Joy

Daily Devotion – December 19, 2023

Devotion based on Isaiah 61:1

See series: Devotions

There is great joy when what is broken can be mended and made new. The glass Christmas ornament, which was handed down over generations, falls from the tree and shatters. But it’s not just swept up and thrown in the trash. Someone takes the time to piece it back together, something that seemed impossible, and now it’s better.

Jesus, your Savior-King, is also the miraculous mender. His expertise is mending broken hearts and souls shattered by sin and its devastating impact on our lives. Even when no one else knows your brokenness and pain, your Savior knows. Even when it seems impossible to pick up the pieces, Jesus doesn’t consider you too broken to fix. He binds up your broken heart with his love. His forgiveness mends the once-shattered relationship with God. That is why he came.

The Lord sent, literally deployed, his Son on an intense, feet-on-the-ground mission. The Savior-King comes, not riding high up in a chariot. His feet are on the ground, and he’s getting right down to where the brokenhearted are stooped over. He goes all the way to where people are cowering in dark dungeons. He comes and opens the prison doors and sets them free. Jesus met people in the streets, under the darkness of night, in their homes, wherever they were. He spoke words that powerfully healed broken hearts. He proclaimed forgiveness and set free consciences that were held captive by guilt. He declared peace and pardon to those still trapped in the darkness of their past.

Jesus meets you in a real and powerful way through his Word. His words recorded in the Bible have as much power as when they were spoken face-to-face. His words of healing, forgiveness, and assuring love still hold the power to bind your broken heart. His proclamation of forgiveness still sets your conscience free from guilt. His declaration of peace and pardon scatter the darkness of the past. He still comes through his Word to mend, to set free, and to bring complete joy!

Prayer:
Come, King Jesus, to bind my broken heart and fill it with joy. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Advent Devotion – Christmas Reflections – Day 18

2023/12/18/in Womens Advent Devotions, Womens Devotions

Christmas Reflections: Timeless Truths for Today

Set Free to Live

“Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.”
Luke 2:29-32

What kind of mental picture do you have of Simeon? Perhaps one of an old, wizened man, with a life extended beyond what could naturally be expected, close to death but still hanging on because of the promise that he would not die before seeing the Messiah? Maybe… but maybe not.

Luke doesn’t tell us anything about how old Simeon was or how long he had been waiting. We know from Luke’s choice of words that Simeon had been waiting expectantly, with eager anticipation, but not necessarily for a long time. And we also don’t know that Simeon’s words in today’s reading indicate that he was ready to die. In fact, they might mean exactly the opposite.

The specific words Simeon used carry the picture of a sentry being relieved from his post, or a slave being dismissed from his duty, or a servant being assigned to a different task now that his current task has been completed. In other words, Simeon may not have been saying, “Lord, I’m ready to die.” He may have been saying, “Lord, I’m ready to live.”

Like Simeon, we too have seen God’s salvation. We see it in the manger on that first Christmas night. We see it in Jesus’ teaching and preaching and miracles throughout his three years of earthly ministry. We see it in the Palm Sunday procession and the Good Friday crucifixion and the Easter Sunday resurrection. We see it in Jesus’ ascension into heaven on the Mount of Olives, and we’ll see it again one day when he comes again in glory.

And here’s the best part: we’ve been given a calling to carry out during our time on this earth, a command to make disciples of all nations, a purpose as we too say, “Lord, I’m ready to live.” We have the best news of all to share with a broken and dying world, and we have the privilege of living out this good news through our words and actions every single day. We have the sure and certain hope of heaven, and we have the joy of strengthening our sisters and brothers in the faith with this hope. We have good works that were prepared in advance for us to do, and we have the spiritual gifts to complete those good works in service to God and to our neighbor. We have so much living to do!

At my church, we use the Compline liturgy during midweek Lent services. I love closing the worship service by singing these words of Simeon in the Nunc Dimittis and then leaving the light and warmth of the church building for the dark and chill of the world. Yes, Simeon may have been an old man close to death. But he may also have had quite a bit of life left, a life that he lived for God. Eventually, we’ll all be called home by God. In the meantime, though, we’re called to live for him now—a calling that we’re privileged to carry out every day.

Prayer:

Lord God, thank you for showing us your salvation in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Lead us to reflect this salvation in our lives as we live for you. Bless this living, and let us be a light to those around us still living in darkness. Amen.

Written by Kristi Meyer
Provided by WELS Women’s Ministry

Joyful Always – Week of December 18, 2023

2023/12/18/in Devotions, ECME Devotions

Joyful Always – Week of December 18, 2023

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-17, 23-24

ECME Devotion December 18, 2023

See series: ECME Devotions

Always, continually, in all circumstances. When working with children, we quickly learn to avoid such strong words. No child is always on task or continually disobedient. We learn to celebrate the little victories as the students grow in their abilities.

Yet Paul used these strong words as he finished his letter to the Thessalonians. The expectations he sets forth are unrealistic, aren’t they? I might try, but I just am not always happy. As for continually praying, well, I know some of my thoughts and words are definitely not prayer-like. And when I’ve spent a long day trouble shooting problems at school and home, it’s pretty difficult to give thanks. Yet this is what God expects; it is his will for us.

The first instruction given is to be joyful always. God created us with a large range of emotions. We cry tears at a loved one’s death. We feel righteous anger at the injustices of this sinful world. We experience fear and concern. And yes, so many times we feel happiness. We revel in God’s wonderful creation, we laugh at the antics of our students, we are excited to see those little victories as our students learn and grow. But happiness is not the same as joy. Joy is present in each emotion because true joy only comes from our Savior, Jesus. Even in our sorrow, we are not despondent, because we know that God is still with us, guiding us through the most difficult of times. When we are afraid, we lean on God’s promise to always do what is best for us. Our happiness is colored by the joy of experiencing God’s blessings. Through all these emotions, God draws us even closer to him.

Paul also tells us to pray continually and give thanks in all circumstances. Praying continually doesn’t mean walking around with our hands folded and heads bowed, reciting prayers. We pray continually when the faith that God puts in our hearts shines through in our words and actions. We pray continually when we look to our heavenly Father for help in difficult situations. We pray continually when we share God’s Word with those around us and give thanks and praise to our Savior. Even when circumstances are difficult, we thank God, knowing that “in all things God works for the good of those who love him.” (Romans 8:28).

Sounds impossible, doesn’t it? As much as I want to, I am not always joyful, my life is not one of continuous prayer, and many thankless words have come from my mouth. Paul doesn’t leave us hopeless. He tells us that God keeps us blameless. Jesus lived a joyful, prayer-filled, thankful life for us. He got rid of our imperfections and now God sees us clothed in Jesus’ holiness. So be joyful, my friends! Our Savior has come!

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, through your death and resurrection you put true joy into my heart. Help me each day to show joy and thankfulness in my thoughts, words, and actions. I love you, dear Savior. Amen.

A Hymn to Consider:
Christian Worship 319: Jesus Came, the Heavens Adoring

Early Childhood Ministry Educator’s (ECME) Devotions are brought to you by WELS Commission on Lutheran Schools.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Good News to Share! – December 18, 2023

2023/12/18/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Isaiah 61:1-3,10,11

The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me,
because the LORD has anointed me
to preach good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness for the prisoners,
to proclaim the year of the LORD’s favor
and the day of vengeance of our God,
to comfort all who mourn,
and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness
instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair.
I delight greatly in the LORD;
my soul rejoices in my God.
For he has clothed me with garments of salvation
and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness.
Isaiah 61:1-3,10

Good News to Share!

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Family Devotion – December 18, 2023

Devotion based on Isaiah 61:1-3,10

See series: Devotions

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

What are you really excited about? Perhaps you are excited that Christmas is only a few days away. Do you get excited when your birthday starts to get close? Or maybe your mom is going to have a baby and you are going to be an older brother or sister?

There are things that we get really excited about, and when they are about to happen, our excitement overflows and makes us want to tell others. We want them to be excited about it too!

God was excited. The time for him to send the person who was going to save people from sin and death was getting closer. He wanted to tell his people, so that they too would be excited for this Savior to arrive. God used a man named Isaiah to tell his people this exciting news—a Savior was coming, and he was going to do some great things! He was going to free people who were stuck in sin. He was going to comfort people who were sad about the bad things they had done. He was going to tell them good news—he was going to take away all their sins! How exciting!

Who is this Savior? It’s Jesus, the Son of God! He came to earth at Christmas in order to free us from the sin we are stuck in, to comfort us about the bad we have done, and to tell us the good news that all our sin is forgiven!

Christmas is such an exciting time! And the same thing that God and Isaiah were excited to tell people about is the same thing you and I can tell people about this week. Christmas is coming! It means God has sent you a Savior with some really good news! Share that good news! Invite people you know to hear that exciting message at your church on Christmas!

Closing Prayer:

Dear God, fill my heart with excitement about the birth of Jesus at Christmas so that I can be excited to tell others about who Jesus is and what he came to do. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

Name one thing that is coming up that you are excited about. Why are you excited about it?
What do you think is the best thing Jesus has done for you?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Why should we be excited at Christmas? (And it isn’t about the gifts we might get!)
Today’s devotion describes God’s Christmas gifts to you as clothing (“garments of salvation” and “in a robe of righteousness”). At what moment of your life did God personally give you those gifts?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Think of someone who is feeling pretty hopeless in your life. It could even be you. Take a moment and reread the verses of today’s devotion from Isaiah. Which ones make you feel hopeful? These words from Isaiah describe the things Jesus would do here on earth. Can you think of an example of Jesus’ ministry when he preached good news, comforted someone who was mourning, helped someone who was hurting, and proclaimed freedom for those caught in sin?
Finish this sentence: Christmas is a great time to be a Christian because _____________________.

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Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Good News Brings Complete Joy – December 18, 2023

2023/12/18/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor.
Isaiah 61:1

Good News Brings Complete Joy

Daily Devotion – December 18, 2023

Devotion based on Isaiah 61:1

See series: Devotions

News often comes in impersonal ways. You turn on the TV, and the reporter shares the story with anyone listening. You receive a letter addressed to “To whom it may concern.” A company sends a mass email to millions of customers sharing news about a long-awaited product. The less personal the news, the less personal the joy.

Picture ancient times as in the days of the Prophet Isaiah. Kings often sent out heralds to bring news to subjects of the kingdom. You see a messenger riding in from the distance. You squint, and it’s not just any messenger. It’s the king himself, and he has good news for you!

For centuries before Jesus was born, God sent his messengers, prophets like Isaiah and others. They came to share important messages—warnings against sin and promises of God’s salvation. In our bible passage today, Isaiah pictures the King coming to bring good news. The King is not ashamed to come personally to the poor with good news just for them.

Jesus is the one pictured here. He is the King of heaven and earth. God anointed him, set him apart, and sent him on a special mission. He came in humility to bring good news, good news for you! He’s not just an earthly king concerned with physical matters. The good news for the poor is good news for the spiritually poor. We were poor because of our debt of sin. We came empty-handed before that Lord like beggars with nothing to offer except a load of sin. But Jesus, the Savior-King, has good news for you. The debt is paid in full; your sins are forgiven; you are not banished from his eternal kingdom; it belongs to you!

This good news brings great joy! And it’s not just generic or impersonal. Jesus isn’t like the news anchor who blasts off news without knowing who will receive it. He is the King who knows you personally and came to bring joy to your life.

Prayer:
Come, King Jesus, and fill my poor heart with the riches of your love! Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Advent Devotion – Christmas Reflections – Day 17

2023/12/17/in Womens Advent Devotions, Womens Devotions

Christmas Reflections: Timeless Truths for Today

Waiting Made More Bearable

Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him.
Luke 2:25

I’m not a very patient person. I get crabby when waiting for a friend to arrive at dinner or a co-worker to show up for a meeting. And if I have to wait longer, such as for a response to an e-mail—a day, a couple of days, a week? I find myself checking my inbox incessantly, constantly thinking about when I’m going to get a response, and even wondering if I somehow offended the person I’m waiting for and now they’re not replying because they’re mad at me. Patience is absolutely not my strong suit.

I wonder how patient Simeon was. Luke tells us that Simeon was righteous and devout, but he doesn’t share Simeon’s thoughts or mindset as he waited for the consolation of Israel, for the comfort and peace that the Messiah would bring. Luke also doesn’t tell us how long Simeon had been waiting (more on that in tomorrow’s devotion). But Luke does share one very important detail in today’s short verse: that the Holy Spirit was on Simeon.

Could the same be said of us? Is the Holy Spirit on us as we wait? There are times when I would say absolutely yes, especially those times when I’m waiting for something spiritual. We’re all waiting for Jesus to take us home to heaven, and it’s relatively easy to ask for the Holy Spirit’s guidance as we strive to live sanctified lives on our path that ultimately leads heavenward.

But what about the more mundane waiting? What about waiting for fulfillment and purpose in your job, for peace and harmony in your family life, for health and healing in the midst of a medical diagnosis? Do your thoughts turn heavenward in these moments of waiting? Or do you find yourself trying to handle them on your own and only seeking out God after all your other options have been exhausted? If I’m honest with myself, I have to admit that God is too often my last thought rather than my first when I’m waiting—even though I know the waiting will be much more bearable with him by my side.

There’s one more thing we can learn from Simeon in our moments of waiting. Later in this chapter, Luke records that Simeon was moved by the Holy Spirit to go into the temple courts, into the house of God. Simeon finished up his waiting by being in the presence of God and of those who were also waiting for the Messiah. He was strengthened by hearing God’s Word proclaimed and fellowshipping with other believers. When we faithfully attend worship and Bible study, when we cultivate Christian friendships, when we make it a priority to be in the house of our God, we too are blessed by the presence of the Holy Spirit in our days, weeks, months, and even years of waiting. Our waiting might not be shorter or easier, but it will be more bearable with our God by our side!

Prayer:

Holy Spirit, be upon us in our waiting, both in large and small matters. Give us patience and perseverance in this life as we eagerly anticipate the hope of heaven and the glory that awaits us. And when our waiting seems to last forever, comfort us with the promise that you will never leave us nor forsake us. Amen.

Written by Kristi Meyer
Provided by WELS Women’s Ministry

Transformed – teen devotion – December 17, 2023

2023/12/17/in Teen Devotions

One truth shared: Especially when we’re struggling, God desires to bring us perfect joy through the gift of Jesus!

The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.

I delight greatly in the Lord; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of his righteousness, as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. For as the soil makes the sprout come up and a garden causes seeds to grow, so the Sovereign Lord will make righteousness and praise spring up before all nations.
Isaiah 61:1-3, 10-11

He is Bringing Perfect Joy

A talk radio host made an astounding comment, “There’s a lot of pain and fear in the people of our country…. So many people are not happy right now.”

Is that you?

Young people all over our country are experiencing a great deal of anxiety along with a variety of other mental health issues. This is supposed to be a festive time of the year with Christmas parties and gatherings all around us. When you are hurting and in pain or full of anxiety, it isn’t easy to watch people around you celebrate. How can you find joy and celebrate this time of year when you constantly live under such a heavy burden?

Here’s an idea: Let’s announce next year to be a “Year of Jubilee.” That’s what Isaiah talks when he announces the “year of the LORD’s favor.” This is a reference to an actual Jewish historical event called the Year of Jubilee. Every 50 years when the jubilee year came, all debts were forgiven, all slaves were freed, and all inheritance land was returned to its original owner. The past was forgiven and forgotten, the slate was wiped clean, and everyone was given a new beginning!

At Christmas, we celebrate God sending Jesus into this world to give unhappy people a new beginning and bring relief to the beggars, the brokenhearted, the enslaved, the prisoners, the people who lost their inheritance—to those crushed with sin and helpless to do anything about their desperate situation. Christmas celebrates God taking action and doing what we could never do. He ushered in our Year of Jubilee. Our debt of sin has been canceled, the prison door of death has been opened, our inheritance in heaven has been restored, and we have a new beginning!

What a difference having a Messiah makes in our lives, especially when we approach our God. When we came to God before, we were completely out of place. We were people who had only the torn and stained rags of their sinful lies covering them. Dressed like that, we had no right to stand in God’s holy presence. But now we stand before our God looking like a bride dressed beautifully on her wedding day—pure and white in the garments of holiness God’s own Son has selected for us.

“So many people are not happy right now.” But it doesn’t have to be you! With the perfection of Christ covering us through faith, we have favor with God. The trumpet of joy is sounding in our hearts as we reflect on the change Jesus has made in our lives. So rejoice, my friends! God gives you perfect joy!

Prayer: Almighty and eternal God, fill my heart with thoughts of jubilee! Though I might be weighed down with problems, troubles, worries, and anxieties, in Jesus I have reason to celebrate! This festive season, focus my attention on the good news of freedom and the holy clothing I wear because of my Savior. In his name I ask this. Amen.

Teen Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

WELS CENTER FOR MISSION AND MINISTRY

The Shepherd of Peace

Abba, Father

Read: Galatians 4:4-7

Christmas is the perfect time to be God’s child

Closing Prayer:

God’s Perfect Timing

Unconquerable Light

Read: Micah 5:2-5a

Christmas brings happy, noisy peace!

Closing Prayer:

Immanuel – Week of December 25, 2023

ECME Devotion December 25, 2023

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Christ

Christmas Reflections: Timeless Truths for Today

You Must Make Time to Ponder

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Peace

Christmas Reflections: Timeless Truths for Today

God With Us

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Encouragement Before Christmas

Christmas Reflections: Timeless Truths for Today

Holding on to God to Deliver in His Time and Way

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Read: John 1:6-8,19-28

Hark! Am I a Herald?

Closing Prayer:

Rejoice, O Favored Ones! – December 22, 2023

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Complete Joy Can’t Keep Quiet

Christmas Reflections: Timeless Truths for Today

When the Government Isn’t on Your Side

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Complete Transformation

Christmas Reflections: Timeless Truths for Today

Receiving Far More Than We Give

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Read: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24

Always Joyful

Closing Prayer:

Complete Joy Through Comfort

Christmas Reflections: Timeless Truths for Today

Seeing the Good in Our Journeys

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Complete Joy

Christmas Reflections: Timeless Truths for Today

Set Free to Live

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Joyful Always – Week of December 18, 2023

ECME Devotion December 18, 2023

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Read: Isaiah 61:1-3,10,11

Good News to Share!

Closing Prayer:

Good News Brings Complete Joy

Christmas Reflections: Timeless Truths for Today

Waiting Made More Bearable

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