November 27: Read Luke 1:26-30 NLT
The Christmas story is full of wonderful and interesting characters, such as Zechariah and Elizabeth, Mary and Joseph, the Wise Men, Herod, the shepherds, the angels, and even the Star of Bethlehem. To Christians around the world these characters are so well known that they may know the story of each character by heart.
Yet, who is the main character of this story and thus of this journey? For myself, Joseph has always interested me. His faith, goodness, and obedience are an inspiration. Who most interests you each year when you once again read these familiar stories?
But is Joseph or some other person the main character? Certainly, we focus on baby Jesus as we should, but it is God who is the main character, made flesh in his son, Jesus Christ. God, who out of love came to this earth through his son – Emmanuel – God with us! God came to earth to show us how to live, how to love one another, be the sacrifice for our sins, and to defeat death for us so we can have eternal life. God is the star of this story! Indeed, God is the main character of the whole bible.
It is through the Christmas story that we learn just how much our Heavenly Father loves us. As we make this journey together, we should always keep our focus on God.
Prayer: God of grace and glory, help me in my journey through Christmas to rediscover the depths of your love for me.
Reflection Questions
The angel tells Mary, “Greetings, you who are highly favored. The Lord is with you.” Mary was troubled and wondered what kind of greeting this could be.
Q. Have you ever received news that troubled you and wondered what was going on?
Emmanuel – God with us is a promise to remember.
Q. How does knowing God is with you help you walk forward on the journey like Mary?
