After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”

After they 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. 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. And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.
Matthew 2:1-2, 9-12

A Star That Shines on All

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

Picture a dark night with a bright star shining in the sky, so big and clear that you can’t miss it. Now picture people traveling a long distance, following that light. They don’t know exactly where they’re going, but they trust that the star will lead them to someone incredibly important.

This is exactly what happened with the Magi in today’s reading. The Magi were wise men from a distant foreign land. They saw something special in the sky: a new star that announced the birth of a king. These men weren’t Jewish, and they hadn’t grown up with God’s promises about a Savior. But God still reached out to them, using a prophecy and a star to bring them to Jesus.

The Magi’s story reminds us that Jesus came to be the Savior not just for one nation, but for the whole world. His love is for all people, from every background and every place. God didn’t just shine his light on the people closest to him; He sent it far and wide, guiding people from distant lands to find the Savior. The Magi traveled a long way and faced obstacles, but they followed that light because they trusted it would lead them to something amazing.

When they finally reached Jesus, they were “overjoyed.” They bowed down, worshiped him, and gave him precious gifts. The Magi saw Jesus not as just another baby, but as the King worthy of their very best. Maybe we don’t follow a star so bright you can see it during the day, but the bright light of who Jesus is has dawned on you, too. He gave his best to you when you were baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. It comes to you whenever someone shares God’s Word with you (like right now!) and when you hear the best news of God’s love, you are “overjoyed!”

A wise child today is one who follows the light of God and shares the light of his love. God’s light isn’t for just one place or one people; it shines on all, inviting everyone to come and worship the newborn King!

Closing Prayer:

Father in heaven, you let the light of your Son, Jesus, shine on all people. That means us! Help us to reflect the light of Jesus in everything we think, do, and say so that more people everywhere might come and worship their King! 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

• Remember the last time you were in the dark and needed a light? How did it feel to have that light to guide you?
• How did the wise men feel when they saw the star and found Jesus?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why do you think God used a star to guide the Magi to Jesus? How does God guide us to Jesus today?
• The Magi gave their gifts to Him. Imagine you have $1-, 5-, and 10-dollar bills in your hand. You want to give Jesus one of them as a gift. Which one would you give? And why?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Light doesn’t just lead; it exposes things we’d rather keep hidden. Why would someone not want the light of Jesus to shine on them if that’s the case?
• The Magi saw Jesus as their King. What ways in your life display to others that Jesus is your King?

When the queen of Sheba heard about the fame of Solomon and his relationship to the LORD, she came to test Solomon with hard questions. . . . she came to Solomon and talked with him about all that she had on her mind. Solomon answered all her questions; nothing was too hard for the king to explain to her. When the queen of Sheba saw all the wisdom of Solomon and the palace he had built, the food on his table, the seating of his officials, the attending servants in their robes, his cupbearers, and the burnt offerings he made at the temple of the Lord, she was overwhelmed.
She said to the king, “The report I heard in my own country about your achievements and your wisdom is true. But I did not believe these things until I came and saw with my own eyes. Indeed, not even half was told me; in wisdom and wealth, you have far exceeded the report I heard. Praise be to the LORD your God, who has delighted in you and placed you on the throne of Israel. Because of the LORD’s eternal love for Israel, he has made you king to maintain justice and righteousness.”

1 Kings 10:1-7,9

Give Credit Where Credit Is Due

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

Can you think of something people will travel far and wide to visit or see? Disney World has more than 58 million people come through its gates every year. Do you think the world’s biggest ball of yarn in Kansas gets as many visitors? The Georgia Aquarium, the biggest aquarium in North America, welcomed 3 million guests in 2023. Do you think the World’s Biggest Peanut in Ashburn, Georgia can beat that?

The point is this: if someone travels a great distance to see something, it’d better be spectacular! That’s what makes today’s Bible reading so special. The queen of a distant land called Sheba heard about a great king. She comes with expensive gifts. She comes to see if what she heard was true about him. And that’s what she finds! King Solomon possessed incredible wisdom and, in his wisdom, he led Israel into greatness.

But let’s focus on something very important at the end of what the queen of Sheba said. She praises all awesome things in Israel. And Solomon’s wisdom lived up to the stories she heard. But her real focus is on the Lord! “Praise be to the LORD your God, who has delighted in you and placed you on the throne of Israel!” She recognizes that the only reason Solomon is such a great leader and Israel is so blessed is because of the Lord and his eternal love! She gives credit where credit is due.

You probably don’t have people from far away coming to visit you. But people are looking at you. Will they see you giving credit where credit is due? During these weeks after Christmas, don’t forget the greatest blessing God has given you in his eternal love: Jesus! We have the incredible love of Jesus born as a baby for you and me.

The Bible says, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom.” Let the wisdom of your faith in Jesus and his awesome love be the thing that pulls people in from far and wide to learn more about the gifts God has already given you (and wants to give to them, too) in Jesus!

Closing Prayer:

Lord God, let the wisdom of our faith and trust in you show itself in our lives each day. Let it be the thing that draws people to us so that when they ask us why we are the way we are, we can point them to the overwhelming love you showed us in Jesus. 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

• The queen traveled far to see the great things God had done for Israel. What great things do you see that God has done for you?
• How can we help people know about Jesus’ love, no matter how far away they are?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• The queen praised God for His love for Israel. Why is that important for us to do when enjoying good things in our lives?
• God’s wisdom made Solomon’s kingdom special. Recall the last time you could have relied on God’s wisdom when you have a choice to make or need help.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• The queen saw God’s blessings in Solomon’s life and praised God because of it. How might God be using you to reflect His love and wisdom to those around you?
• The queen of Sheba went out of her way to seek wisdom from Solomon and to understand God’s blessings on Israel. In what ways can you seek out and share God’s wisdom in your own life?

Read: Hebrews 2:10-18

In bringing many sons and daughters to glory, it was fitting that God, for whom and through whom everything exists, should make the pioneer of their salvation perfect through what he suffered. Both the one who makes people holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters. He says, “I will declare your name to my brothers and sisters; in the assembly I will sing your praises.” And again, “I will put my trust in him.” And again he says, “Here am I, and the children God has given me.” Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might break the power of him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil—and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death.
Hebrews 2:10-15

A Perfect Brother

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

The holiday season is a time when family becomes a big focus. Did you get together with your family to celebrate Christmas or the New Year? If you can’t get together, you might make a phone call, send a text, or FaceTime with family. Siblings (a brother or sister), especially, have a special bond. They share family ties, they come from the same blood, and they support and encourage one another. But they also know how to “push buttons,” don’t they?! They may fight one minute yet show incredible love for one another the next.

Christmas morning was when the world got to see one of God’s great miracles: he took on human flesh. God shared our human flesh, becoming like us, living as one of us, so that he could call us his brothers and sisters. And Jesus did not shrink away from calling us that. He said, “I will declare your name to my brothers and sisters.” The baby lying in the manger is your brother. But why is that important? Why do I need Jesus to be my brother?

A couple of years ago, a ten-year-old, Jacob O’Connor, saw his little brother’s shoe floating in the pool. Then he saw his brother, Dylan’s body. Jacob quickly jumped into the pool, pulled him out onto the deck, and gave him CPR which he had just seen done in a movie the week before. Jacob’s quick actions rescued his brother and saved Dylan’s life.

Listen: God sent Jesus to be your brother because he saw you drowning in sin. And Jesus jumped into the pool, into this world to rescue you. But Jesus was willing to do more than just pull you out from drowning. He was willing to make it so that you would never drown again and not fear drowning in death. With the sacrifice of his perfect life, he broke the power of the devil over you. Jesus conquered death with his resurrection. He gives you forgiveness and life. Your perfect brother gives you life.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for being our perfect brother to jump into this sinful world and rescue us from drowning in our sins. You are not ashamed to be called our family. May we never be ashamed to call you our brother now and forever! 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

• If you include Jesus, how many brothers and sisters do you have?
• Fill in the blank: Jesus saved us because he _______ (loves) us.

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why was it important for Jesus to be like a brother to us and share our human life?
• Just like Jacob rescued his little brother, Jesus rescued us from drowning in sin. Knowing he saved your life, consider a way that might impact how you live today.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Jesus chose to be our brother to rescue us from sin. How does this help you feel closer to him?
• Jesus didn’t just pull us out of sin; He broke the power of sin and death over us. How does this change the way you look at your relationship with sin? And your relationship with Jesus?

Read: John 1:1-18

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 1:4-5,14

Stare at the Light

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

Science says that if you look at the sun for 100 seconds, your eyesight will be damaged permanently. It’s not a good idea to look at the sun directly. That’s why there are special glasses you can wear to look at a solar eclipse. It’s dangerous to stare at a bright light like the sun. But as bright as it is, it can only shine on the outside of your body. It can’t shine into your heart and soul.

Christmas is about the brightest light to ever shine on the world. In John chapter 1, Jesus is called a light. He is a light so bright it can shine into our hearts and souls. In a way, it can be dangerous to stare at this light.

John says, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John says the light of Jesus is dangerous to the “darkness” inside of us. The darkness is sin. It’s the bad things we do and the bad thoughts we think. That darkness tries to fight against Jesus because his light shows us when we are wrong and that we need a Savior.

But even though this light is “dangerous” to the darkness inside of us, we can stare at it. Unlike staring at the sun, it is a good thing to stare at the light of Jesus. This light isn’t meant to hurt us; it’s meant to save us. The Bible says, “In him was life, and that life was the light of mankind.” Jesus doesn’t just show us our sin but also shows us that he is our Savior from every sin. Which means it’s a good thing to look at him. He wants us to stare at him by listening to his words and going to church because when we look at him, we see God’s love for us, his grace.

So, stare at the light of Jesus—no special glasses necessary!

Closing Prayer:

Almighty God, you have filled us with the new light of the Word who became flesh and lived among us. Let the light of our faith shine in all we do; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. (Prayer of the Day for Christmas 2)

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 is Jesus called in John chapter 1?
• How is Jesus like a light?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• How does the light of the sun give life to the world?
• How does the light of Jesus give life to our hearts?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• What does it mean that the light of Jesus is dangerous to the darkness inside of us?
• What are some ways we can “look” at Jesus besides going to church?

Read: Luke 1:39-55

At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!
Luke 1:39-42

Hurry to Be With Other Believers!

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

Mary hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea. Why was she in such a hurry? The angel Gabriel had just told her that she would give birth to the Savior, Jesus, but he wouldn’t be born right away. He still had to grow for many more months until he was ready to be born. So why was Mary in such a hurry to get to this town in Judea?

The answer comes in her relative Elizabeth’s greeting. When Mary gets to Elizabeth’s house and says hello, something happens. “The baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice, she starts praising God and telling Mary how blessed she is. “Wow,” she says, “You are blessed, and your child is blessed—he will be the Savior! And I am blessed because you’re visiting me! And the baby growing in my womb is blessed–he’s jumping for joy because Jesus is near!”

Mary hurried to Elizabeth because she needed to hear words just like that.

Think of the other words Mary had been hearing back in her hometown. Words from people around her, from family, from the devil, and from her own doubting mind. “Virgins can’t become pregnant. Mary is lying. Mary did something wrong.” She hurried away from that to be with a fellow believer. Someone who wouldn’t think she was crazy and shared the same faith as her in God’s promises.

God gives us other believers, too. All around the world, there are people who think we are crazy for believing in a virgin birth. The devil always tries to get us to doubt that Jesus is our Savior. Our sinful hearts can doubt God’s promises. What should we do?

Hurry! Run to be with other believers. Get together with people who will praise God and tell you how blessed you are to believe what so many people don’t. Say to them as they say to you, “Wow! You are blessed! The child born to Mary is your Savior, too! Blessed are those who believe that!”

Closing Prayer:

Fill me, Holy Spirit, with joy knowing Jesus is near! Bless me and my family as we gather with people to sing praise this Christmas. 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 were Mary and Elizabeth?
• Elizabeth’s baby leaped in her belly when Jesus was close. Who would that baby grow up to be? (John the Baptist)

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why did Mary hurry to visit Elizabeth?
• Why do we hurry to be with other believers at church?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• What do you think it means to be “blessed” by God? Do you consider yourself “blessed”?
• Consider a way you can encourage a fellow believer like Elizabeth encouraged Mary.

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:4-7

Rejoice, of Course!

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

Paul was in prison. Important people in the city got upset with him, so they beat him and threw him in jail. What do you think he did there?

He could have cried. It wasn’t a nice place to be. He could have complained. He was trying to tell people about Jesus, and they beat him up because of it. What did he do?

He sang! Because Paul wasn’t alone there in prison. As he sat in prison, locked up with chains, he sang hymns to God. In other words, while he was in prison, he rejoiced!

When Paul wrote his letter to the Philippians, he was in jail again. He didn’t know if he was going to die there or not. The people to whom he was writing didn’t have it great either; their church was having some problems with grumbling and arguments.

So, what did Paul tell them to do? He told them to rejoice, of course! “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.”

You probably aren’t in prison today, but that doesn’t mean everything is going perfectly for you. Life is difficult! You may be having problems with arguing and grumbling with friends or family members. You might be worried about big projects coming up or about all your Christmas plans. So, what does Paul tell you to do?

Rejoice! He says it twice. “I will say it again: Rejoice!” Not because life is perfect or easy. He says rejoice for the same reason he could sing while in prison—because “The Lord is near.”

As you get closer to Christmas, sometimes you get closer to a fun visit. Either you’re going to visit someone, or they’re coming to you. Despite all the stress, you’re excited because “Grandma and Grandpa will be here tomorrow!”

That’s what life is like with Jesus. He’s the best visitor, who brings “peace on earth, good will toward men.” He’s near! Not only is he coming soon to bring you to heaven, but he is as near to you as the words of the Bible you’re reading today or the truths about Jesus that you sing.

So, what should you do today, no matter what’s going on in your life? Rejoice, of course! Because no matter what’s going on, the Lord is near.

Closing Prayer:

“Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to you, O Israel!” 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 did Paul do while he was in prison?
• What did Paul remind the people of Philippi to do despite their problems?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why can we rejoice even when life isn’t perfect?
• What are some Christmas hymns that help you rejoice?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Explain what it means when Paul says, “the Lord is near”?
• Pick a favorite, joyful Christmas hymn. Sing or hum it as you go through your day.

Read: Malachi 3:1-7

“I will send my messenger, who will prepare the way before me. Then suddenly the Lord you are seeking will come to his temple; the messenger of the covenant, whom you desire, will come,” says the LORD Almighty.
Malachi 3:1

Getting the Word Out

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

Imagine that a popular band is taking a world tour. They’re playing in all the biggest cities in the world, preparing to perform in the largest stadiums in London, Berlin, New York, Los Angeles, Sydney, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Cairo, and Buenos Aires. But as they plan this worldwide tour, they don’t let anyone know. They don’t promote it. They show up in each city unannounced, don’t give any advance notice to the stadiums they want to play in. They just hope their fans will be there when they arrive. How is that tour going to go? Not very well!

There is a reason that touring bands will spend money to promote, advertise, and get the word out. They want to prepare the places they’re playing in to be ready for them. They need a good schedule and good promoters to make their tour a success. They’ve got to get the word out!

John the Baptist was basically the promoter of Jesus’ ministry on this earth. He was getting people ready to receive the promised Savior. John was part of God’s plan to prepare people for the day they’d been anticipating for centuries: the Son of Man was coming into the world to destroy the devil’s work. John wanted to make sure the people didn’t miss it!

Did you know we have something in common with John? We are the promoters of Jesus in our day and age. We don’t know exactly when Jesus is returning. But our job is t to get things ready. We prepare our hearts to receive Jesus in his Word, day after day. We help the people we know and love to receive Jesus when he does return. We get the word out, near and far, to make sure people know who’s coming and why. Jesus is coming, and he is coming to save. Prepare the way for him!

Closing Prayer:

Jesus, our Savior, prepare our hearts every day for your coming. Then make us good promoters of your world tour—help us get the word out so that more and more people look forward to your arrival! 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

• When is Jesus coming back?
• When should we be ready for his return?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Bands rely on their fans to spread the word about their tour dates. As a fan of Jesus, who can you tell about his upcoming tour?
• How can you get ready for it yourself?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• How is our job of preparing the way for Jesus similar to John the Baptist’s, and how is it different?
• We know that Jesus is coming whether people are ready or not. So, if we can’t change the outcome, what’s the point of promoting his world tour?

‘The days are coming,’ declares the LORD, ‘when I will fulfill the good promise I made to the people of Israel and Judah. “‘In those days and at that time I will make a righteous Branch sprout from David’s line; he will do what is just and right in the land. In those days Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will live in safety. This is the name by which it will be called: The LORD Our Righteous Savior.’
Jeremiah 33:14-16

The Righteous Branch is Righteous for Us

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

When Jesus was born, Israel hadn’t had a king for a long time. There used to be kings in Israel and Judah, but that had been hundreds of years before. Now, the Romans were in control of the territory, and even though a guy named Herod had the title of “king,” he wasn’t a real king. He didn’t have any real power. The “glory” days of Israel and Judah’s kingdoms were long gone. David’s royal line was cut off. At one point in history, you could have described David’s kingdom as a beautiful, thriving tree, but eventually, it was nothing but a dead, rotting stump. Hoping that stump would somehow once again spring to life and become a great tree again would be a waste of time and energy.

But God made a promise that David’s kingdom would last forever. He promised that a king would come and rule over God’s people for eternity. He promised that his kingdom would be an eternal kingdom, and his people would be saved. For a while, this promise looked like nothing but a dead, lifeless stump, just like David’s royal family line. But all of a sudden, a branch shot up from that stump—a green, living branch that would grow and thrive and become more and more glorious until it was a tree that was even bigger and grander than anything David’s kingdom had looked like. God turned that dead, lifeless stump into a kingdom that will last forever with a king that will reign forever. You know his name. His name is Jesus!

In this prophecy, Jeremiah doesn’t call him Jesus, but he calls him “The LORD Our Righteous Savior.” You could even say his name is “The LORD Our Righteousness.” He is perfect, he is holy, and most of all, he has come to save us. His kingdom extends way past Israel and Judah; his branches reach all across the world, covering and protecting everyone who believes in him. His branches now reach us! He is our Lord. He is our righteousness. He is our king. He is our Savior. Thank God for keeping his promise!

Closing Prayer:

God our Father, we thank and praise you for sending the righteous Branch, Jesus, to be our Lord and Savior. We pray that your kingdom extends further and further as more and more people believe in your glorious name. 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 makes a good king?
• What makes Jesus such a good king?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why would it be such a surprise to see a green branch growing out of a tree stump?
• Why is this green, living branch growing from a dead stump such a good picture of Jesus our righteous savior?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Imagine you’re living in Bethlehem in the year 1 BC. Your royal family has been powerless and glory-less for almost 600 years. How does that make you feel?
• Now imagine that you hear about the new King born in Bethlehem. What impact does that have on your life?

Read: Luke 21:25-36

[Jesus said] “There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea. People will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world, for the heavenly bodies will be shaken. At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”
Luke 21:25-28

Christmas Isn’t the Only Thing on the Way

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

December is here! Stores have been selling Christmas gifts and decorations for months. Parents are figuring out the schedule around holiday parties, winter break, family get-togethers, and additional worship services throughout the month. Radio stations have changed their programming to cycle through carol after carol. Look around; it’s undeniable that Christmas is coming!

But in our Bible reading for today, Jesus tells us to look for other signs. Not signs that show the coming of Christmas, which is the first time Jesus came to this world; Jesus also tells us to look for signs that show his coming again. In the Christian Church, we call this season “advent,” an old Latin word that means coming. December is a month of anticipation, and we have the privilege of anticipating two things: the celebration of Christ’s first coming and the arrival of his second coming as well.

Just like our joyful anticipation of the Christmas holiday, our waiting for Christ’s second coming is full of joy, too. The signs of his coming might not sound super joyful because up until that day, sin will continue to affect us and the world. But yes, when we see these signs, we Christians have the joy of standing up and lifting our heads to look for Jesus. We know that he is coming, and that when he finally arrives, he will completely destroy the effects of sin that we’ve lived with all our lives. He is coming to undo everything the devil ever did. He is coming to take you to be with him in heaven forever!

Keep on watching and waiting—not just to celebrate Christ’s first coming, but to joyfully anticipate the second time he comes. That will be a worldwide celebration, unlike any holiday we’ve ever celebrated!

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus, you have prepared us to watch and wait for your second coming. In this holiday season, direct our eyes not only to the cradle of your birth but also to the skies of your return. In your name, we pray. 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

• When Jesus comes again, where is he taking us?
• What’s the coolest thing about heaven?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What is the real reason that Christmas is so joyful?
• Why is Christ’s second coming going to be even more joyful?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Jesus’ warnings don’t sound all that joyful today. Where is the joy as we wait for his second coming?
• Not everyone knows or believes that Jesus is coming again…but he is, whether they think so or not. What does that motivate us to do?

Read: Jude 1:20-25

But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.
Jude 1:20,21

From Dangerous Thinking to Faithful Living

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

Did you know that Jude is the author of one of the shortest books of the Bible?! Jude wrote a letter to believers to keep their focus on the good news about grace and forgiveness in Jesus. Jude also wanted to warn his dear friends about the false teachers and godless people among them. Some of them were misusing the gospel as permission to sin. They claimed that they could do that because God would forgive them anyway.

By faith, we can see how wrong that teaching is! It’s dangerous to our faith to purposefully go on sinning. Sin separates people from God. No wonder Jude felt the need to point out the error and steer the Christians away from this wrong way of living.

Even today, there are people who claim they don’t need a Savior because they are good people. Others claim to be Christians while continuing to live openly sinful lifestyles. Are they confused in their thinking? Maybe. Maybe not. Either way, this kind of thinking separates people from God.

When we look at our own hearts, we can see how confused they can be. Our pride can cause us to fall. We may lie because it’s just a “little” lie. We may disobey parents and others in authority because our sinful nature says, “It feels good” or “It’s what I want.” Plus, we know God will forgive us, so why not? This way of thinking is dangerous for our faith.

We need Jude’s encouragement: “Keep yourselves in God’s love.” To do that, we need to keep reading, hearing, and learning his Word. In this way, the Holy Spirit will grow our faith, and the fruits of faith will follow. With hearts full of God’s love, we will also keep praying that God guides us in holy living. Will we keep on sinning? Unfortunately, yes, but it doesn’t mean you have to like it! May God’s Word grow our faith and make us want to do God’s will. Remember, God’s grace covers us!

As we live in that grace, what a comfort to know that God keeps us in his love and care until he calls us to our eternal home in heaven!

Closing Prayer:

Dear heavenly Father, forgive us for the times we have wandered from your Word. Create in us the desire for your Word and to walk in your commands. Send your Holy Spirit to guide and strengthen our faith that we may live for you. In Jesus’ name. 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

• How can we show our love for God?
• What does God promise to do for us while we wait for him to take us to heaven?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What can you do the next time you are tempted to sin?
• In what ways does God show he really loves and cares for us?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Read again the two verses from Jude. What was separating people from the true God?
• How do we see “false teachers” in our world today? Discuss how we can be equipped to detect their false teachings and turn from them.

Read: John 5:25-29

[Jesus said] “Do not be amazed at this, for a time is coming when all who are in their graves will hear his voice and come out—those who have done what is good will rise to live, and those who have done what is evil will rise to be condemned.
John 5:28,29

You Done Good!

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

“You done good!” The grammar is not good, but when someone says, “You done good,” doesn’t that make you feel good? Your music or math teacher, your football coach, or your mom or dad. When they say, “You done good,” that makes life good, doesn’t it—at least for a little while?

Imagine if God said that to you. I think it would far surpass anyone else, wouldn’t it? Could you ever hope for him to say words like Jesus said in our Bible reading today, “Do not be amazed at this, for a time is coming when all who are in their graves will hear his voice and come out—those who have ‘done good’ will rise to live.” When Jesus calls you out of the grave, will you hear his voice tell you that you have “done good?” God says you will!

He says you will hear those words, not because of anything special you’ve done, but “because you listen to his Son.” If you and I want to hear Jesus say that we have “done good” at that time, we need to listen to the good things that Jesus has to say now. So, listen again, “I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life.”

This week, we especially think of the day when we finally will be away from all our sins and failures that follow us now, all the things we haven’t “done good.” What God wants us to remember is that by listening to the voice of his Son, Jesus, we also are saints. We have crossed over from death to life and have eternal life.

So, out of love for Jesus, let’s do as much good as we can until it’s time to go to those graves that we will someday hear his voice call us out of. That day, for Jesus’ sake, we will hear these words spoken with perfect grammar, “Well done, good and faithful servant!”

Closing Prayer:

Dear God, thank you for sending Jesus to die and rise so that I can have certainty that when I die, I will be in heaven. Please give me the simple words of truth and comfort to speak to others when they lose someone they love. 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 happens when we die?
• What is heaven going to be like?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why do plants, animals, and people die?
• Why don’t we need to be afraid of death?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• What are some things that make death scary to think about? How does Jesus overcome those fears?
• Our life on this earth is short (70–90 years, maybe). Heaven goes on for eternity. Why is that important to remember as we go about our days here on this earth?

Read: Daniel 12:1-3

“There will be a time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then. But at that time your people—everyone whose name is found written in the book—will be delivered. Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt.”
Daniel 12:1,2

We Know the End of the Story

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

Daniel is an amazing book of the Bible. Can you think of some of its amazing stories? Maybe you think of the three men in the fiery furnace or Daniel in the Lion’s Den. Those two accounts are amazing and a bit scary. Just imagine, because you were a believer in the true God, the government could burn you to a crisp or feed you to lions in Daniel’s day.

As if that weren’t enough, during Daniel’s lifetime, King Nebuchadnezzar sent out a decree to kill all the “wise men” in Babylon because they couldn’t tell Nebuchadnezzar what his dreams meant. Soldiers came to Daniel’s door to execute him. Thankfully, God told Daniel what the dream was and what it meant, so Daniel’s life was spared.

As if all that wasn’t enough, while Daniel was serving in the government, he saw the mighty king—Nebuchadnezzar—go nuts! Nebuchadnezzar was so full of himself that God caused him to lose himself and his sanity. There was a time when Nebuchadnezzar even lived like an animal, grazing on grass. How worried would you be for your country if your president started munching on grass?!

As if all that wasn’t enough, late in his life, Daniel lived through the invasion of the city of Babylon by the Medes and Persians. In one night, the Persian soldiers poured into the city, killing and capturing the Babylonians. Do you think living through that would have been scary? How does a person like Daniel keep going?

But at the end of the book of Daniel, God gives Daniel several visions. Our Bible reading takes place towards the end of his last vision, and it tells the end of the story. The story of the resurrection!

God stepped into our world to battle with our enemy the only way he could, by taking it head-on. Jesus went to the cross to die. But death couldn’t hold him. He rose! And because of that, death cannot hold you either! You will rise from the dead! You will be one of those who “sleep,” but God will “wake you up!” You will be in perfect joy and happiness forever!

Knowing the end of the story helped Daniel. It helps us, too! Yes, life can be difficult, frustrating, scary, and sad. But it’s not the end of the story. The end is living with God, forever and ever, with no more pain or tears, only joy and happiness. That’s the end of your story!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Lord, let my eyes join the eyes of Daniel and see God in control at all times and in every way. Let the scary parts of this life fade away when I see your hand ruling for my good. 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 are some things you’re afraid of?
• Who is bigger than all the scary things in our life?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What is one thing you’re worried about this week?
• Why is it comforting to know that Jesus has all power and authority?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Why is it comforting to know that Jesus is standing before the throne of the almighty God for us?
• God is ruling over all things for your good. Name three areas of your life where that truth is especially comforting.

Read: 2 Corinthians 8:1-9

But since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you—see that you also excel in this grace of giving.
2 Corinthians 8:7

Excel at Giving

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

What does it mean to excel? It means to have success, to be good at something. For example, what helps someone excel at being a piano player? A good teacher, practice, goals, a love for music, devotion to the task, and talent all help. What does someone need to be a good soccer player? Practice, ball skills, speed, dedication, and love for the sport are all important.

In our Bible reading today, the apostle Paul urges us to excel in giving to others. Why would we want to be good at giving to others? Isn’t the best part of birthdays and Christmas that we receive gifts? Actually, there’s something better. Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).

That is what Paul means by the “grace of giving.” God has given us the grace and gift of giving back to others. And to excel at something means you have a good reason to do it. Paul gave the Corinthians that reason: Jesus.

Jesus is incredibly rich. All the heavenly glories are his. Yet, he became poor for us. He was born in a barn, didn’t have much for an earthly home, and gave up everything, even his life on the cross, to give us forgiveness and heaven. What a gift! When you receive a great gift from someone, what’s the first thing you want to do? Thank them, possibly by giving back a gift of your own!

A group in Mizoram, India, started doing that very thing. Back in 1910, the women of Mizoram would save a handful of rice from every meal and give it to the church, which helped the church grow. Today, this tradition continues. The generosity extends beyond the rice. They give fruits, vegetables, and other items that further the mission. Today, in Mizoram, over 95% of the people are Christians, and the churches are growing and self-supporting. Their generosity leads others to Jesus!

Jesus’ act of love on the cross is why Christians excel in generosity. In Jesus, we are so blessed that giving back to others becomes second nature. It’s what we naturally want to do to thank God for his great gift of grace.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for giving your life for me. Help me to live for you each and every day. 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 is one way that Jesus has shown love to you?
• We show love for Jesus by loving others. What is something that you can do for someone else today?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Name three spiritual gifts that God has given you. Give one way you might use each.
• How does knowing God’s grace motivate us to be generous?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• In your own words, explain what Paul meant when he says that God has given you the “grace of giving?”
• What are some things that make it difficult to follow Paul’s instructions in today’s devotion

Read: John 11:32-44

When Mary reached the place where Jesus was and saw him, she fell at his feet and said, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.”
John 11:32

Jesus, Where Were You?

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

Jeff was going through going through a really difficult time in life. His grandmother was so sick. He could see how worried his parents were. They said things like, “Grandma may be with us only a little bit longer.” Jeff felt a knot in his stomach. It hurt. He began to think, “Jesus, where are you? Why don’t you make my grandma feel better?”

In today’s devotion, some very good friends of Jesus were asking the same question. Lazarus was sick. His sisters, Mary and Martha, sent for Jesus. But Jesus didn’t come right away. Lazarus died. Four days later, Jesus showed up. But it was too late. “Jesus, where were you? If you had been here, our brother would not have died.” Like Jeff, they were hurting.

But Jesus has something amazing to show us to help us when we are hurting. “Lazarus, come out!” And with those words, Jesus brought life to Lazarus, who came right out of his tomb. Had Jesus abandoned them in their time of need? No. He had not ignored their cries for help. He had given that appearance, but only so he could bring a greater blessing. He showed them that he is the Lord of life and death. He showed his power over death.

Just a short while later, he’d do it in a final and triumphant way. After laying down his own life to pay for the world’s sin, he took it back up again three days later to declare that sin and death no longer have the final say. He did it so that you and Jeff can repeat his beautiful, powerful, and comforting words any time we face death. He said, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me will live, even though he dies, and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.”

Jesus, where were you? Jesus answers, “I am with you always.”

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus, help us to always trust in you, even when it seems you aren’t around. Remind us that you have given us eternal life and will bless us in your own way and time. 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 made Jeff, Mary, and Martha sad in today’s devotion?
• What words does Jesus say that made them happy?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why didn’t Jesus come right away and heal Lazarus of his sickness?
• TRUE or FALSE. Lazarus eventually died again. But why could he face his death with joy and confidence?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Agree/Disagree. Jesus’ followers will never die.
• Agree/Disagree. Jesus will always hear and answer our prayers.

On this mountain the LORD Almighty will prepare a feast of rich food for all peoples, a banquet of aged wine—the best of meats and the finest of wines. On this mountain he will destroy the shroud that enfolds all peoples, the sheet that covers all nations; he will swallow up death forever. The Sovereign LORD will wipe away the tears from all faces; he will remove his people’s disgrace from all the earth. The LORD has spoken. In that day they will say, “Surely this is our God; we trusted in him, and he saved us. This is the LORD, we trusted in him; let us rejoice and be glad in his salvation.”
Isaiah 25:6-9

Eat An Amazing Meal on a Mountaintop

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

Mountains are amazing to look at. Especially if you live in a place that doesn’t have mountains and visit Colorado or Glacier National Park—just their size can be breathtaking. People love climbing mountains. They do it for the thrill, exercise, or accomplishment of it. But what do they find when they get to the top? It has an amazing view and a different type of clean, cool air. But little else. Maybe a bench, a book to sign, or a flag. But not much more.

Can you imagine climbing a high mountain and finding a huge, delicious meal waiting for you at the top? Can you imagine that it’s the best meal you’ve ever had? Imagine being told, “Eat and drink all you want it’s free!” What if the same person who said that also promised that he could take away all your problems, fears, and anxieties with a wave of his hand? Not only would your belly be full, but your heart would be calm and trouble-free. Would that be a mountain worth climbing?

Isaiah talks about a mountain where the LORD Almighty offers exactly that—a splendid feast and a scattering of fear. Where is it? How do we get there? It is a mountain that Jesus climbed. He climbed Mount Calvary with a cross on his back. He was nailed to it. He died on the top of that mountain. By his death, he gave us the rich food of forgiveness and took care of our greatest fear, the fear of death. Very near that same mountain, he came back to life. He tells us that he has provided food for our souls and rest for our hearts. But we don’t need to climb a mountain. It’s all there for us in God’s Word. It is made ours in baptism and given to us in the Lord’s Supper.

One day, Jesus will take us to his heavenly mountain and care for us forever. We’ll never want for anything or experience fear or sorrow again. We’ll never suffer or feel shame. Nothing will make us frown. Total happiness! In heaven, we’ll join all of God’s people on the mountain of the LORD to rejoice in his love and salvation forever.

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank you for providing me with my every need. Help me to treasure all you give me and to look forward to the day when we’ll feast in the joy and peace of heaven. 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 does the Lord tell us we’ll find on his mountain?
• What does it mean to trust in the LORD’s salvation?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What is Isaiah trying to tell you when he says Jesus “swallowed up” death?
• Why is that such a comforting thing for us to remember?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• In what way is going to church like going to this mountain of the LORD?
• In what way is going to heaven the full experience of this mountain of the LORD?