What’s it all about? – December 21, 2022

Read: Romans 1:1-7

This gospel is about his Son—who in the flesh was born a descendant of David, who in the spirit of holiness was declared to be God’s powerful Son by his resurrection from the dead—Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Romans 1:3,4

What’s it all about?

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

“What’s it about?”

Maybe a friend is recommending a movie or a book. Perhaps you were invited to a party… of some sort… but you’re not sure what to bring. “What’s it about?” That question is a question of curiosity, a question of value:

• Will this book, this movie, this party bring joy and connection to my life?
• Will I enjoy attending this going-away party, or should I schedule some time to say goodbye privately?
• Does this book have content that’s suitable for my child, or is it a little beyond their age level?

“What’s it about?” It’s a question that we ask about everyday events, entertainment, movies, and so much more!

If someone asked you that question about the Bible… what would you say? “This Bible on your shelf—I’ve seen one before, but I’ve never read it. What’s it about?”

It’s a question of curiosity, a question of value: Will this book be worth my time? Is this book going to bring joy to my life, or will it be boring? Will it drag down my day?

What’s it about? In our reading from Romans 1, Paul gives us his answer: This gospel is about his Son—who in the flesh was born a descendant of David, who in the spirit of holiness was declared to be God’s powerful Son by his resurrection from the dead—Jesus Christ, our Lord.

What’s it about? Jesus Christ, true man, descended from Adam and Abraham and David and Mary. Jesus Christ, true God, begotten of the Father from eternity, whose resurrection means that sin is forgiven and death is broken.

Wow, what a joy! Now you know what this Advent season is all about! It’s about the most fascinating person in the whole world—Jesus!

What’s it about? It’s still a question for us to consider—a question of curiosity, a question of value. Is this Jesus worth your time? Is his Bible going to bring joy to your life, or will it be boring?

Listen again to Paul and Paul’s answer: “This gospel is about his Son.” This gospel is worth your time—and your eternity.

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank you for becoming a human and showing how much you want us to be with you forever. Lead us to your Word and to always be curious about what you say there and respond, “You are so worth it! 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’s the Bible about?
• In our devotion, we named a few people who were ancestors of the Savior. Can you name one person who was an ancestor of Jesus?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What would you tell someone who said that they’ve never read a Bible?
• How can our family stay focused on the events of Advent this year?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• “He has redeemed me, a lost and condemned creature… with his holy, precious blood.” Look again at the Bible verses in today’s devotion. Why does Paul say that Jesus’ blood is holy and precious?
• Someone says: “I don’t really care what the Bible’s about, because I can be a good person without a book.” How could you respond?