Week 4 - Love The Good News (Luke 2:16-20)
Love, Day 1:
Scripture: Luke 2:16-20
So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.
Devotion:
The shepherds spread the word about the Christ Child and glorified God. They were filled with such joy they had to spread the good news that the Messiah was born! It was a night that changed their lives. The Son of God was born! This amazing news continues to transforms lives today, and it’s not only up to the shepherds to share God’s loving gift. Our Heavenly Father calls us to share the good news of his Son and his everlasting love. We know there are so many people who do not know the unconditional love of our God. All who hear it will be amazed.
Prayer:
Father God, it was the night of nights for a group of shepherds so many years ago. It was a night that changed their lives. Be with us as we share the good news of his birth and guide us to the people who need to hear this message this Christmas. May our lives continue to be transformed by your love. In Christ’s name we pray, Amen.
Love, Day 2:
Scripture: Jeremiah 31:3
"I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you to myself with an unfailing love and kindness."
Devotion:
"So long as we imagine that it is we who are looking for God we will often lose heart. It is the other way about --God is looking for us." (Simon Tugwell)
God loves you. Christmas is proof. God left the beautiful heavenly realms to join us here on earth. He became one of us and experienced life just like we experience life—the good days, the normal days and the bad days. God did this because he loves you. He is searching for you because he loves you. Today, whatever you are going through, listen: God is saying, "I love you."
Prayer:
Dear God, thank you for loving me and others. Amen.
Family Time:
A famous band once sang a love song with the lyrics “All you need is love, love is all you need.” There are all kinds of love songs on the radio in all different styles: rock, country, gospel or classical. Sing some love songs toour Lord and Savior…or get creative by making up your own song by clapping, snapping or humming. If you aren’t feeling creative, just create your own playlist for your Savior and Redeemer.
Love, Day 3
Scripture: John 4:25-27
The woman said, “I know that Messiah” (called Christ) “is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us.” Then Jesus declared, “I, the one speaking to you—I am he.” Just then his disciples returned and were surprised to find him talking with a woman. But no one asked, “What do you want?” or “Why are you talking with her?”
Devotion:
One might wonder, what does an outcast Samaritan woman have to do with Christmas? Everything. God sent his one and only Son to save everyone. Everyone. Outcasts. Marginalized. Sinners. Dregs of society. All. God is in the business of redeeming, and not just those sitting beside us in the sanctuary. He came to redeem even those we might not “see,” like the Samaritan woman who had questionable character.
God uses ordinary people in extraordinary ways, just like in story of the Samaritan woman. She is the one who Jesus truly reveals himself to by the well. Salvation has come to everyone. Salvation began in Bethlehem. Who will you invite to meet the Savior this Christmas? Who will you “see” this Advent season?
Prayer:
Father God, thank you for loving us, and sending us your Son to teach us about your love. Help us remember that your love will never come to an end and is available to all. Strengthen us to love others as you have loved. Open our eyes to those who need to feel your love. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
Love, Day 4
Scripture: Luke 18: 15-17
People were also bringing babies to Jesus for him to place his hands on them. When the disciples saw this, they rebuked them. But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.”
Devotion:
When we look at this passage, parents wanted Jesus to touch or hold the children in an act of blessing. A number of times throughout the Bible, we learn that Jesus touches to bless and heal. It is easy to understand that the children love Jesus and he loves them. Even the disciples could not stop the children from meeting Jesus. Jesus tells us that the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. In verse 17 Jesus says, “I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child, will never enter it.” Notice that Jesus doesn’t say that the kingdom belongs to little children. He says that those who inherit the kingdom will be “like” these children: “Such as these.” How can we have that childlike love for Jesus today?
Prayer:
Our Heavenly Father, help us to make the most of each precious window, in conversation, in character, in loving like you love us and displaying your gospel in our relationships. In the name of your Son we pray, Amen.
Family Time:
How do you show someone you love them? Some people are huggers, they hug the ones they love. Some people are talkers, they say loving things to the people they love. Some people are all about action and they do things for the people they love. In what ways do you show love?
Love, Day 5
Scripture: Psalm 63:3-5
Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you. I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands. My soul will be satisfied as with the richest of foods; with singing lips my mouth will praise you.
Devotion:
Do you remember a Christmas gift that really stood out? That was super cool? It was exactly what you wanted? Were you so excited that you couldn’t contain yourself? You had to get on the phone and call your friends, show it off in the neighborhood, talk about it in school (take a picture and post it on Facebook!). Was your soul satisfied? How long did that satisfaction last? Until the next “new” thing came out?
God offers you a gift that is better than life, a gift that will satisfy you for all time and never run out–his unending love. When we experience the gift of his love, we need to shout it from the mountain top! We need to share it in our neighborhoods, schools and workplace. We need to spread it to a world that so desperately needs to know his love! How are you spreading the gift of his love during this holiday season?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for your unconditional gift of love. We pray that others would draw closer to you as they experience your love overflowing in us, through us and beyond us. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
Love, Day 6
Scripture: 1 John 4:16
And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them.
Devotion:
Love is a word that is so often misused. People have a tendency to use the word “love” in place of “like” or “enjoy” or “approve.” But love is so much more than a fleeting “thumbs up.” Love is an intense feeling of deep affection, a longing to be in close proximity, in fellowship, with another. God loves us, and not because we are lovable or clever or obey the rules or do nice things for others. He loves us because. Just because. Because he is God and God is love.
God doesn’t just love us. According to John 3:16, he loves us so. That one tiny little adverb adds an unfathomable magnitude. He loves us extremely, immensely, deeply. He loves us so much that he was willing to leave the joyous perfection of heaven for a shockingly imperfect world just to get us to notice him. He loves us so much that he sent his only Son to ransom us from the bondage of sin in order to bring us close to himself. He loves us so. No matter how long it takes, no matter how far we roam, his unfailing love is that constant, brilliant star in the sky that will lead us to the manger, because he loves us so.
Prayer :
Lord, thank you for the indescribable gift of your Son. Thank you that you love us so, not because of who we are or what we have done, but just because. May the brilliant light of your amazing grace and unfailing love shine like a star through us, leading others to the manger and salvation through Jesus. Amen.
Family Time:
Let’s love like Jesus loves! Find ways to show your love this week to those around you. Be creative!
Love, Day 7
Scripture: 1 John 3:18
"Little children, let us not love with words and talk only, but in action, deeds and truth."
Devotion:
Love in Action:
Praying for a friend.
Giving gifts.
Saying, "Thank you."
Letting your brother or sister sit up front.
Helping prepare dinner.
Cleaning the dishes.
Giving gifts.
Taking your spouse out to dinner.
Holding the door for someone.
Listening to a friend.
Sending a missionary a letter.
Giving to missions.
Sharing a toy.
Encouraging someone.
Going on a mission trip.
Giving to the noisy offering.
Sending Christmas cards.
Going grocery shopping for the family.
Saying, "Hello."
Inviting a friend to church.
Keep the list going!
Prayer:
God, I am yours. Use me to show your awesome love and goodness to others. Amen.
Love, Day 1:
Scripture: Luke 2:16-20
So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.
Devotion:
The shepherds spread the word about the Christ Child and glorified God. They were filled with such joy they had to spread the good news that the Messiah was born! It was a night that changed their lives. The Son of God was born! This amazing news continues to transforms lives today, and it’s not only up to the shepherds to share God’s loving gift. Our Heavenly Father calls us to share the good news of his Son and his everlasting love. We know there are so many people who do not know the unconditional love of our God. All who hear it will be amazed.
Prayer:
Father God, it was the night of nights for a group of shepherds so many years ago. It was a night that changed their lives. Be with us as we share the good news of his birth and guide us to the people who need to hear this message this Christmas. May our lives continue to be transformed by your love. In Christ’s name we pray, Amen.
Love, Day 2:
Scripture: Jeremiah 31:3
"I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you to myself with an unfailing love and kindness."
Devotion:
"So long as we imagine that it is we who are looking for God we will often lose heart. It is the other way about --God is looking for us." (Simon Tugwell)
God loves you. Christmas is proof. God left the beautiful heavenly realms to join us here on earth. He became one of us and experienced life just like we experience life—the good days, the normal days and the bad days. God did this because he loves you. He is searching for you because he loves you. Today, whatever you are going through, listen: God is saying, "I love you."
Prayer:
Dear God, thank you for loving me and others. Amen.
Family Time:
A famous band once sang a love song with the lyrics “All you need is love, love is all you need.” There are all kinds of love songs on the radio in all different styles: rock, country, gospel or classical. Sing some love songs toour Lord and Savior…or get creative by making up your own song by clapping, snapping or humming. If you aren’t feeling creative, just create your own playlist for your Savior and Redeemer.
Love, Day 3
Scripture: John 4:25-27
The woman said, “I know that Messiah” (called Christ) “is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us.” Then Jesus declared, “I, the one speaking to you—I am he.” Just then his disciples returned and were surprised to find him talking with a woman. But no one asked, “What do you want?” or “Why are you talking with her?”
Devotion:
One might wonder, what does an outcast Samaritan woman have to do with Christmas? Everything. God sent his one and only Son to save everyone. Everyone. Outcasts. Marginalized. Sinners. Dregs of society. All. God is in the business of redeeming, and not just those sitting beside us in the sanctuary. He came to redeem even those we might not “see,” like the Samaritan woman who had questionable character.
God uses ordinary people in extraordinary ways, just like in story of the Samaritan woman. She is the one who Jesus truly reveals himself to by the well. Salvation has come to everyone. Salvation began in Bethlehem. Who will you invite to meet the Savior this Christmas? Who will you “see” this Advent season?
Prayer:
Father God, thank you for loving us, and sending us your Son to teach us about your love. Help us remember that your love will never come to an end and is available to all. Strengthen us to love others as you have loved. Open our eyes to those who need to feel your love. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
Love, Day 4
Scripture: Luke 18: 15-17
People were also bringing babies to Jesus for him to place his hands on them. When the disciples saw this, they rebuked them. But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.”
Devotion:
When we look at this passage, parents wanted Jesus to touch or hold the children in an act of blessing. A number of times throughout the Bible, we learn that Jesus touches to bless and heal. It is easy to understand that the children love Jesus and he loves them. Even the disciples could not stop the children from meeting Jesus. Jesus tells us that the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. In verse 17 Jesus says, “I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child, will never enter it.” Notice that Jesus doesn’t say that the kingdom belongs to little children. He says that those who inherit the kingdom will be “like” these children: “Such as these.” How can we have that childlike love for Jesus today?
Prayer:
Our Heavenly Father, help us to make the most of each precious window, in conversation, in character, in loving like you love us and displaying your gospel in our relationships. In the name of your Son we pray, Amen.
Family Time:
How do you show someone you love them? Some people are huggers, they hug the ones they love. Some people are talkers, they say loving things to the people they love. Some people are all about action and they do things for the people they love. In what ways do you show love?
Love, Day 5
Scripture: Psalm 63:3-5
Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you. I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands. My soul will be satisfied as with the richest of foods; with singing lips my mouth will praise you.
Devotion:
Do you remember a Christmas gift that really stood out? That was super cool? It was exactly what you wanted? Were you so excited that you couldn’t contain yourself? You had to get on the phone and call your friends, show it off in the neighborhood, talk about it in school (take a picture and post it on Facebook!). Was your soul satisfied? How long did that satisfaction last? Until the next “new” thing came out?
God offers you a gift that is better than life, a gift that will satisfy you for all time and never run out–his unending love. When we experience the gift of his love, we need to shout it from the mountain top! We need to share it in our neighborhoods, schools and workplace. We need to spread it to a world that so desperately needs to know his love! How are you spreading the gift of his love during this holiday season?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for your unconditional gift of love. We pray that others would draw closer to you as they experience your love overflowing in us, through us and beyond us. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
Love, Day 6
Scripture: 1 John 4:16
And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them.
Devotion:
Love is a word that is so often misused. People have a tendency to use the word “love” in place of “like” or “enjoy” or “approve.” But love is so much more than a fleeting “thumbs up.” Love is an intense feeling of deep affection, a longing to be in close proximity, in fellowship, with another. God loves us, and not because we are lovable or clever or obey the rules or do nice things for others. He loves us because. Just because. Because he is God and God is love.
God doesn’t just love us. According to John 3:16, he loves us so. That one tiny little adverb adds an unfathomable magnitude. He loves us extremely, immensely, deeply. He loves us so much that he was willing to leave the joyous perfection of heaven for a shockingly imperfect world just to get us to notice him. He loves us so much that he sent his only Son to ransom us from the bondage of sin in order to bring us close to himself. He loves us so. No matter how long it takes, no matter how far we roam, his unfailing love is that constant, brilliant star in the sky that will lead us to the manger, because he loves us so.
Prayer :
Lord, thank you for the indescribable gift of your Son. Thank you that you love us so, not because of who we are or what we have done, but just because. May the brilliant light of your amazing grace and unfailing love shine like a star through us, leading others to the manger and salvation through Jesus. Amen.
Family Time:
Let’s love like Jesus loves! Find ways to show your love this week to those around you. Be creative!
Love, Day 7
Scripture: 1 John 3:18
"Little children, let us not love with words and talk only, but in action, deeds and truth."
Devotion:
Love in Action:
Praying for a friend.
Giving gifts.
Saying, "Thank you."
Letting your brother or sister sit up front.
Helping prepare dinner.
Cleaning the dishes.
Giving gifts.
Taking your spouse out to dinner.
Holding the door for someone.
Listening to a friend.
Sending a missionary a letter.
Giving to missions.
Sharing a toy.
Encouraging someone.
Going on a mission trip.
Giving to the noisy offering.
Sending Christmas cards.
Going grocery shopping for the family.
Saying, "Hello."
Inviting a friend to church.
Keep the list going!
Prayer:
God, I am yours. Use me to show your awesome love and goodness to others. Amen.