I the Lord have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles;
To open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison house.
Dear Heavenly Father, be my guide and protect me from these things that surround me that I do not understand or that influence me in ways that are not from You. Lord I want to be and act as close to You as You’ve always wanted Your children to be. Lord give the strength to stand against the evil in this world, the distractions and influences. Help me to not fear and worry about these issues that continue to affect everything around us. Thank you Lord for Your protection, direction, and love. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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Behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. He came in the Spirit into the temple.
When the parents brought in the child, Jesus, that they might do concerning him according to the custom of the law, then he received him into his arms and blessed God, and said,
“Now you are releasing your servant, Master, according to your word, in peace; for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared before the face of all peoples; a light for revelation to the nations, and the glory of your people Israel.”
Joseph and his mother were marveling at the things which were spoken concerning him. Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary, his mother, “Behold, this child is appointed for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which is spoken against. Yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul, that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
There was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher (she was of a great age, having lived with a husband seven years from her virginity, and she had been a widow for about eighty-four years), who didn’t depart from the temple, worshiping with fastings and petitions night and day. Coming up at that very hour, she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of him to all those who were looking for redemption in Jerusalem.
Dear Heavenly Father, be my guide and protect me from these things that surround me that I do not understand or that influence me in ways that are not from You. Lord I want to be and act as close to You as You’ve always wanted Your children to be. Lord give the strength to stand against the evil in this world, the distractions and influences. Help me to not fear and worry about these issues that continue to affect everything around us. Thank you Lord for Your protection, direction, and love. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee.
Dear Heavenly Father, be my guide and protect me from these things that surround me that I do not understand or that influence me in ways that are not from You. Lord I want to be and act as close to You as You’ve always wanted Your children to be. Lord give the strength to stand against the evil in this world, the distractions and influences. Help me to not fear and worry about these issues that continue to affect everything around us. Thank you Lord for Your protection, direction, and love. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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There were shepherds in the same country staying in the field, and keeping watch by night over their flock. Behold, an angel of the Lord stood by them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.
The angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be to all the people. For there is born to you today, in David’s city, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
Dear Heavenly Father, be my guide and protect me from these things that surround me that I do not understand or that influence me in ways that are not from You. Lord I want to be and act as close to You as You’ve always wanted Your children to be. Lord give the strength to stand against the evil in this world, the distractions and influences. Help me to not fear and worry about these issues that continue to affect everything around us. Thank you Lord for Your protection, direction, and love. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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But when the fullness of the time came, God sent out his Son, born to a woman, born under the law, that he might redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as children.
Dear Heavenly Father, be my guide and protect me from these things that surround me that I do not understand or that influence me in ways that are not from You. Lord I want to be and act as close to You as You’ve always wanted Your children to be. Lord give the strength to stand against the evil in this world, the distractions and influences. Help me to not fear and worry about these issues that continue to affect everything around us. Thank you Lord for Your protection, direction, and love. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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Now in those days, a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be enrolled. This was the first enrollment made when Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to enroll themselves, everyone to his own city.
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to David’s city, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David, to enroll himself with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him as wife, being pregnant.
While they were there, the day had come for her to give birth. She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him in bands of cloth and laid him in a feeding trough, because there was no room for them in the inn.There were shepherds in the same country staying in the field, and keeping watch by night over their flock.
Behold, an angel of the Lord stood by them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. The angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be to all the people. For there is born to you today, in David’s city, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
This is the sign to you: you will find a baby wrapped in strips of cloth, lying in a feeding trough.” Suddenly, there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly army praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace, good will toward men.”
When the angels went away from them into the sky, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem, now, and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” They came with haste and found both Mary and Joseph, and the baby was lying in the feeding trough. When they saw it, they publicized widely the saying which was spoken to them about this child.
All who heard it wondered at the things which were spoken to them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these sayings, pondering them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, just as it was told them.
Dear Heavenly Father, be my guide and protect me from these things that surround me that I do not understand or that influence me in ways that are not from You. Lord I want to be and act as close to You as You’ve always wanted Your children to be. Lord give the strength to stand against the evil in this world, the distractions and influences. Help me to not fear and worry about these issues that continue to affect everything around us. Thank you Lord for Your protection, direction, and love. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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For centuries, prophesied of His coming. For generations they longed for redemption, always waiting in hope that God would keep His word. And all of a sudden, in the stillness of a night, in a small town called Bethlehem the Word became flesh, and the Promise was fulfilled.John 1:1
Jesus did not enter this world with trumpets or thrones, but with the cry of a newborn that heaven’s plan unfolded. The Son of God entered a world wrapped in darkness to bring light that would never go out.
The Humility of Heaven’s Arrival
“In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world… And everyone went to their own town to register. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David” (Luke 2:1–4).
From a political decree in Rome to a stable in Bethlehem, God was moving history toward His promise. Nothing; not the power of an empire, the discomfort of travel, or the lack of a proper room could stop His plan.
When the moment came, the King of kings was born not in a palace, but in a place for animals. He was laid in a manger, a feeding trough, because there was no room for Him elsewhere.
This scene reveals the paradox of the gospel: the Almighty became small so that we could be lifted up.
He entered poverty to bring us the riches of grace.
He stepped into weakness to give us strength.
He did not arrive in grandeur, but in gentleness, He was approachable, touchable, human.
Isaiah had foretold this hundreds of years earlier:
“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.” (Isaiah 9:6)
It says: “To us a child is born, to us a Son is given.” The child was born in Bethlehem, and the Son, the eternal Son of God, was given from heaven. The birth of Jesus wasn’t just a moment in time; it was the moment eternity entered time.
Heaven Announces the Good News
While the world slept, heaven couldn’t stay silent.
“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 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.’” (Luke 2:8–11)
The first announcement of Christ’s birth didn’t come to kings or priests, it was proclaimed to shepherds. These were ordinary men, often looked down upon by society, yet heaven’s light found them first. This is the heart of Christmas: God’s glory revealed to the humble, with His salvation offered to all.
The angel’s message contains the entire gospel in a single sentence:
“A Savior has been born to you.”
The Savior wasn’t just born for humanity, He was born to humanity. The eternal Word became one of us, stepping into our world to redeem us from within.
And when the angel finished, the sky erupted with worship:
“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests.” (Luke 2:14)
Heaven rejoiced, for peace had finally come! It was not political peace, but the reconciliation of God and man. The war of separation caused by sin was ending in a manger.
The Shepherds Respond in Faith
The shepherds didn’t debate or delay.
“When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.’” (Luke 2:15)
Faith moves. The shepherds left their flocks, their comfort, and their night watch, all so they could find the newborn King. And when they found Him, wrapped in cloth and lying in the manger, their hearts overflowed. They couldn’t keep it to themselves, would have you been able to; they “spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child.” (v.17)
True encounter always leads to proclamation. When we meet Jesus, we can’t help but tell others, because His love demands to be shared.
Mary’s Quiet Wonder
Amid the celebration, one verse stands out with gentle beauty:
“But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” (Luke 2:19)
Mary had seen the supernatural and the simple intertwine; angels and shepherds, prophecy and poverty, heaven and earth meeting in her arms. Her response was not noise, but wonder.
In the rush of the Christmas season, Mary teaches us to slow down and treasure everything God has done. The Savior’s birth invites us not just to rejoice, but to reflect, to hold in our hearts the miracle that the infinite, our God came near.
The Fullness of Time
Paul captures the meaning of that night perfectly in Galatians 4:4–5:
“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.”
At the exact right moment, not too early, not too late, God fulfilled His promise. Every prophecy, every shadow, every longing heart found its answer in Jesus.
Christmas, then, is not just about a birth; it’s about the beginning of redemption. The manger points to the cross. The swaddling cloths that foreshadowed the burial linens. The gift of life in Bethlehem that would one day give His life at Calvary.
But for this night, heaven rejoices, the Light has come. (Isaiah 60 1:1)
Reflection for the Week
What does the humility of Christ’s birth reveal about God’s character?
Why do you think God chose shepherds as the first to hear the news?
How can you “treasure” the miracle of Christmas in your own heart this week?
Personal Application
This week, let the story of Christ’s birth draw you into deeper worship. Meditate and pray on it taking time to reread Luke 2 slowly. Try to imagine yourself among the shepherds, gazing upon the newborn King. Let awe and gratitude fill your heart as you remember: God kept His promise.
Pray:
“Lord Jesus, thank You for coming for me. You left heaven’s glory to bring me grace. As I celebrate Your birth, let my heart overflow with gratitude and peace. May Your light shine in me, that others might see Your love this Christmas.”
For an awesome start to the day Pray this prayer each morning:
Dear Heavenly Father, help me to hear Your voice and obey without hesitation. Strengthen me to protect the promises You’ve placed in my life, even when the path is hard or unseen. Like Joseph, may my life speak louder than my words. Light the path you want me to walk, show the road and steps you want me travel. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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Dear Heavenly Father, Today, I take my place as a man of God and the spiritual leader of my home. I declare that I walk in God’s strength, God’s wisdom, and God’s protection.
I cover my home, my wife, and my children in the blood of Jesus. No evil can come near my dwelling. No plan of the enemy can succeed.
I declare that I have the courage to lead, the humility to serve, and the spiritual authority to protect my family.
I speak peace over my home. I speak blessing over my family. I speak unity, safety, and favor over every part of our day.
I refuse fear, anxiety, and confusion. I walk in faith, clarity, and confidence.
The Lord is my fortress. His angels surround my home. His Spirit guides my decisions.
As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Getting to Know Him
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When we think about the Christmas story, our minds often go first to Mary’s faith, the shepherds’ joy, and the wise men’s gifts. However, standing quietly in the background is a man whose obedience helped preserve the promise of salvation, Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus.
He never speaks a word in Scripture, but his actions speak volumes. God entrusted Joseph with protecting the Messiah. It was never through miracles or might, but through faith, integrity, and obedience in the face of misunderstanding.
A Man of Honor in a Moment of Crisis
The Gospel of Matthew begins Joseph’s story with tension:
“This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 1:18).
If we look at it from Joseph’s perspective, the situation looked devastating. The woman he loved and planned to marry was pregnant and it wasn’t his. If Joseph followed the law, he could have exposed her publicly, but Joseph’s heart highlighted his character:
“Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly” (v. 19).
Even in confusion and heartbreak, Joseph chose to have compassion. His first instinct was mercy. That decision, before any angel appeared, shows the kind of man God had chosen: one who sought righteousness, and humility without brutality and cruelty.
Hearing God in the Midst of Uncertainty
When Joseph resolved to act quietly, God intervened.
“But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins.’” — Matthew 1:20–21
God met Joseph in a dream, not through thunder or lightning, but in the stillness of the night. When life feels uncertain and confusing, often times God speaks in those quiet moments of surrender.
The angel reminded Joseph of who he was, “son of David.” That phrase connected him back to the royal line and reminded him that he was part of something greater. God was continuing to write redemption’s story through Joseph’s obedience.
Immediate Obedience — No Hesitation, No Excuses
When Joseph woke up, the Bible says:
“He did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife” (Matthew 1:24).
No delay. No argument. No need for a second sign. Joseph simply obeyed.
He trusted God more than his reputation, more than appearances, and more than the opinions of his community. He chose obedience over explanation — and that decision safeguarded the very life of the Son of God.
Through Joseph’s obedience, prophecy was fulfilled. Isaiah 7:14 had foretold,
“The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call Him Immanuel which means ‘God with us.’”
Joseph became the earthly protector of the Promise. He helped ensure that the Word made flesh had a home to grow in, a father to raise Him, and a covering of righteousness in a world that would not understand.
Obedience in the Ordinary
Joseph’s life highlights how God’s greatest works often happen through quiet obedience. Joseph didn’t preach great sermons or perform miracles, he used his faith which made room for the miracle of salvation.
He obeyed in small, daily ways working his trade as a carpenter, providing for his family, leading them with gentleness and integrity. He shows us that spiritual strength isn’t loud; it’s steadfast and unrelenting.
When Herod’s jealousy turned to violence and the angel warned Joseph again
“Get up… take the child and His mother and escape to Egypt” (Matthew 2:13)
Joseph didn’t hesitate. In the dark of night, he gathered Mary and Jesus and fled. Every time God spoke, Joseph would respond immediately. His faith wasn’t about understanding why, he just trusted Who was speaking.
A Model of Godly Fatherhood
Even though Joseph wasn’t Jesus’ biological father, God entrusted him with this fatherly responsibility. Joseph was the protector, provider, and spiritual leader of the household.
He modeled integrity, faithfulness, and humility these qualities would help shape the young Jesus’ earthly upbringing. Luke 2:52 says,
“Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.”
As with any parent, dad, We can imagine that Joseph’s steady example contributed to that growth. Throughout His young life, he taught Jesus what honesty looked like in workshop, what faith looked like in daily prayer, and what courage looked like when life was uncertain and overwhelming.
Fathers today can learn much from Joseph’s quiet strength. True leadership doesn’t demand attention; it serves in love. True fatherhood protects what God has entrusted, even when no one else sees.
Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. (Ephesians 6:4)
The Power of Silent Faith
There is no record of Joseph’s words in Scripture, he lead threw only his actions. Yet that silence spoke and emphasized trust.
Faith doesn’t need words; it needs obedience, walking the walk. Sometimes love doesn’t shout; it simply stands firm.
Joseph’s silent faith was loud in heaven. Because of his obedience it made him a partner in God’s redemptive plan.
When we obey in faith even in the unseen, uncelebrated moments we also steward and protect God’s promises in our lives.
Reflection for the Week
How do you respond when God’s plan challenges your expectations?
In what areas of your life is God calling you to quiet obedience?
What can you learn from Joseph’s courage to obey without explanation?
Personal Application
In the week ahead, follow Joseph’s example with his kind of faith silent, steadfast, and surrendered.
Take time to listen for God’s voice in stillness. When He nudges your heart, obey quickly and completely, even if others don’t understand.
Remember: God will often use those who are faithful in the quiet places to protect His greatest promises.
Pray this prayer each morning:
Dear Heavenly Father, help me to hear Your voice and obey without hesitation. Strengthen me to protect the promises You’ve placed in my life, even when the path is hard or unseen. Like Joseph, may my life speak louder than my words. Light the path you want me to walk, show the road and steps you want me travel. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.
Dear Heavenly Father, be my guide and protect me from these things that surround me that I do not understand or that influence me in ways that are not from You. Lord I want to be and act as close to You as You’ve always wanted Your children to be. Lord give the strength to stand against the evil in this world, the distractions and influences. Help me to not fear and worry about these issues that continue to affect everything around us. Thank you Lord for Your protection, direction, and love. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.
Dear Heavenly Father, be my guide and protect me from these things that surround me that I do not understand or that influence me in ways that are not from You. Lord I want to be and act as close to You as You’ve always wanted Your children to be. Lord give the strength to stand against the evil in this world, the distractions and influences. Help me to not fear and worry about these issues that continue to affect everything around us. Thank you Lord for Your protection, direction, and love. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife:
Dear Heavenly Father, be my guide and protect me from these things that surround me that I do not understand or that influence me in ways that are not from You. Lord I want to be and act as close to You as You’ve always wanted Your children to be. Lord give the strength to stand against the evil in this world, the distractions and influences. Help me to not fear and worry about these issues that continue to affect everything around us. Thank you Lord for Your protection, direction, and love. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins.
Dear Heavenly Father, be my guide and protect me from these things that surround me that I do not understand or that influence me in ways that are not from You. Lord I want to be and act as close to You as You’ve always wanted Your children to be. Lord give the strength to stand against the evil in this world, the distractions and influences. Help me to not fear and worry about these issues that continue to affect everything around us. Thank you Lord for Your protection, direction, and love. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily.
Dear Heavenly Father, be my guide and protect me from these things that surround me that I do not understand or that influence me in ways that are not from You. Lord I want to be and act as close to You as You’ve always wanted Your children to be. Lord give the strength to stand against the evil in this world, the distractions and influences. Help me to not fear and worry about these issues that continue to affect everything around us. Thank you Lord for Your protection, direction, and love. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.
Dear Heavenly Father, be my guide and protect me from these things that surround me that I do not understand or that influence me in ways that are not from You. Lord I want to be and act as close to You as You’ve always wanted Your children to be. Lord give the strength to stand against the evil in this world, the distractions and influences. Help me to not fear and worry about these issues that continue to affect everything around us. Thank you Lord for Your protection, direction, and love. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.
When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt: And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son.
Dear Heavenly Father, be my guide and protect me from these things that surround me that I do not understand or that influence me in ways that are not from You. Lord I want to be and act as close to You as You’ve always wanted Your children to be. Lord give the strength to stand against the evil in this world, the distractions and influences. Help me to not fear and worry about these issues that continue to affect everything around us. Thank you Lord for Your protection, direction, and love. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily.
But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins.
Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife:
And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name Jesus.
Dear Heavenly Father, be my guide and protect me from these things that surround me that I do not understand or that influence me in ways that are not from You. Lord I want to be and act as close to You as You’ve always wanted Your children to be. Lord give the strength to stand against the evil in this world, the distractions and influences. Help me to not fear and worry about these issues that continue to affect everything around us. Thank you Lord for Your protection, direction, and love. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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In Nazareth, there was an ordinary village tucked in the hills of Galilee, a young woman that was quietly living her life when heaven suddenly interrupted her plans. When it came there was no royal announcement, no grand stage just a simple home and a heart that was prepared to listen. Her name was Mary, and her response to God’s call would change the course of the world.
When the angel Gabriel appeared, he greeted her with words that must have startled her:
“Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you” (Luke 1:28).
Mary was “deeply disturbed,” by this greeting. Being young, maybe even a teenager and engaged to be married. At this point there is now an angel telling her that she would give birth to the Son of God. Nothing in her life had prepared her for such a moment, however everything in her heart had prepared her to say yes.
An Unlikely Choice — Yet Perfectly Chosen
In all rights, Mary was not the likely choice for such an assignment. She was poor, young, and from what was considered an insignificant town. When we read the bible we can see that’s exactly how God works. We can see over and over that He chooses the humble to confound the proud, and the ordinary to reveal His extraordinary power.
Gabriel told her:
“You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call Him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High” (Luke 1:31–32).
Her question was honest and pure: “How will this be, since I am a virgin?” (v. 34). She wasn’t doubting God’s ability she was asking to gain some understanding. The angel’s reply revealed the divine mystery:
“The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore, the Holy One to be born will be called the Son of God” (v. 35).
Mary’s womb become the dwelling place of the eternal Word. Heaven would take on flesh within her. The promise made in Eden, foretold by prophets, and long awaited by generations would now take root in her own body. (Isaiah 7:14)
Faith That Says “Yes”
Then came one of the most powerful responses in all of Scripture:
“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May it be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38).
When she spoke these words, heaven’s plan became earth’s reality. Mary not knowing how her family would react, how her soon to be husband Joseph would respond, or what her future looked like. But with all of those questions she trusted that God’s word was greater than her fear.
Her yes did not come with a paved highway. To those surrounding her, the pregnancy would look like a scandal, not a blessing. Yet Mary chose faith over reputation, obedience over comfort.
Know that faith is not the absence of fear it’s a decision to trust God’s word above everything else. Mary believed before she understood, and surrendered before she saw. That’s what it means to truly receive the promise of God.
Mary’s Song — The Overflow of Surrender
When Mary visited her relative Elizabeth, who had also become miraculously pregnant with John the Baptist, Elizabeth confirmed what God had spoken:
“Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill His promises to her!” (Luke 1:45).
Mary’s response was worship. Her song, was magnificat, and overflowed with joy and awe:
“My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for He has looked on the humble estate of His servant… He who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is His name.” — Luke 1:46–49
Her heart magnified God, not the role she played, not her fear, but His greatness. When we have true obedience always it will always lead to worship, through surrender it will allow us to see the hand of God more clearly.
Faith That Receives, Faith That Obeys
With Mary’s example it teaches us that genuine faith doesn’t just believe God’s promises it acts on them. She didn’t argue, delay, or demand proof; she simply yielded to the divine plan.
Humans tend to want to see how everything will work before we say yes. However, if we look, Mary shows us that obedience comes first. God will reveal His power on the other side of surrender.
When we say yes to God in everything, in our calling, our relationships, and daily routines He does more than we can imagine. Because of Jesus we have the same Holy Spirit that overshadowed Mary. Now the Holy Spirit dwells in every believer, this gives us the strength to carry Christ into the world. (Acts 1:8)
Paul writes in Galatians 4:19 that he labored “until Christ is formed in you.” When we completely give in to Jesus gaining the best relationship of our life, we are called to carry His presence spiritually. We will let His life grow within us and be revealed through us to those around us, a light that shines in the dark.
The Humility That Welcomes God
Mary’s life is a quiet reminder that humility opens the door for the miraculous. She was never a status seeker, she sought God’s will. In her humility, God found a willing vessel to accomplish His greatest work.
The true Christmas story is filled with human contrasts: a poor girl chosen for glory, a stable instead of a palace, shepherds instead of rulers. Every detail of the birth of Christ reminds us that God delights in using the humble and obedient.
If we yearn to see God’s power in our lives, we need to approach Him with the same heart Mary had:
“Let it be to me according to Your word.” Luke 1:38
This one single sentence contains the full essence of faith, trust, and worship. It’s a sentence of declaration of surrender. It does not just happen once, but daily.
Reflection for the Week
What does Mary’s response teach you about trusting God when His plans interrupt yours?
How can you live out a “yes” to God’s call this season?
What fears or uncertainties might you need to surrender to say, “Let it be to me”?
Personal Application
This week, spend time reflecting on Mary’s faith. Write down one area of your life where God may be asking for your obedience. Pray Mary’s words as your own prayer:
“Lord, I am Your servant. Let it be to me according to Your word.”
Try to take one step of obedience, does not matter how small, in faith. Just like Mary, you may not see the full picture now, but a simple yes Lord can create the room for God to do something eternal in and through you.
Remember: Christmas began with one heart that fully surrendered to God’s promise.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, give me a heart like Mary’s humble, surrendered, and willing. Teach me to say ‘yes’ even when I don’t understand the full picture. Calm my fears, strengthen my faith, and help me trust that Your plan for my life is good. Form Christ in me as You formed Him in Mary, shaping me into a vessel of obedience and worship. Let my life reflect complete trust in Your Word. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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My little children, for whom I am again in [the pains of] labor until Christ is [completely and permanently] formed within you
Dear Heavenly Father, be my guide and protect me from these things that surround me that I do not understand or that influence me in ways that are not from You. Lord I want to be and act as close to You as You’ve always wanted Your children to be. Lord give the strength to stand against the evil in this world, the distractions and influences. Help me to not fear and worry about these issues that continue to affect everything around us. Thank you Lord for Your protection, direction, and love. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you. You will be witnesses to me in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the uttermost parts of the earth.”
Dear Heavenly Father, be my guide and protect me from these things that surround me that I do not understand or that influence me in ways that are not from You. Lord I want to be and act as close to You as You’ve always wanted Your children to be. Lord give the strength to stand against the evil in this world, the distractions and influences. Help me to not fear and worry about these issues that continue to affect everything around us. Thank you Lord for Your protection, direction, and love. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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Mary said “My soul magnifies the Lord. My spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior, for he has looked at the humble state of his servant. For behold, from now on, all generations will call me blessed. For he who is mighty has done great things for me. Holy is his name.
Dear Heavenly Father, be my guide and protect me from these things that surround me that I do not understand or that influence me in ways that are not from You. Lord I want to be and act as close to You as You’ve always wanted Your children to be. Lord give the strength to stand against the evil in this world, the distractions and influences. Help me to not fear and worry about these issues that continue to affect everything around us. Thank you Lord for Your protection, direction, and love. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of the things which have been spoken to her from the Lord!”
Dear Heavenly Father, be my guide and protect me from these things that surround me that I do not understand or that influence me in ways that are not from You. Lord I want to be and act as close to You as You’ve always wanted Your children to be. Lord give the strength to stand against the evil in this world, the distractions and influences. Help me to not fear and worry about these issues that continue to affect everything around us. Thank you Lord for Your protection, direction, and love. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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Mary said, “Behold, the servant of the Lord; let it be done to me according to your word.”
Dear Heavenly Father, be my guide and protect me from these things that surround me that I do not understand or that influence me in ways that are not from You. Lord I want to be and act as close to You as You’ve always wanted Your children to be. Lord give the strength to stand against the evil in this world, the distractions and influences. Help me to not fear and worry about these issues that continue to affect everything around us. Thank you Lord for Your protection, direction, and love. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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The angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore also the holy one who is born from you will be called the Son of God.
Dear Heavenly Father, be my guide and protect me from these things that surround me that I do not understand or that influence me in ways that are not from You. Lord I want to be and act as close to You as You’ve always wanted Your children to be. Lord give the strength to stand against the evil in this world, the distractions and influences. Help me to not fear and worry about these issues that continue to affect everything around us. Thank you Lord for Your protection, direction, and love. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, seeing I am a virgin?”
Dear Heavenly Father, be my guide and protect me from these things that surround me that I do not understand or that influence me in ways that are not from You. Lord I want to be and act as close to You as You’ve always wanted Your children to be. Lord give the strength to stand against the evil in this world, the distractions and influences. Help me to not fear and worry about these issues that continue to affect everything around us. Thank you Lord for Your protection, direction, and love. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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Behold, you will conceive in your womb and give birth to a son, and shall name him ‘Jesus.’ He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David,
Dear Heavenly Father, be my guide and protect me from these things that surround me that I do not understand or that influence me in ways that are not from You. Lord I want to be and act as close to You as You’ve always wanted Your children to be. Lord give the strength to stand against the evil in this world, the distractions and influences. Help me to not fear and worry about these issues that continue to affect everything around us. Thank you Lord for Your protection, direction, and love. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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Having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, you highly favored one! The Lord is with you. Blessed are you among women!”
Dear Heavenly Father, be my guide and protect me from these things that surround me that I do not understand or that influence me in ways that are not from You. Lord I want to be and act as close to You as You’ve always wanted Your children to be. Lord give the strength to stand against the evil in this world, the distractions and influences. Help me to not fear and worry about these issues that continue to affect everything around us. Thank you Lord for Your protection, direction, and love. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord. My spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior, for he has looked at the humble state of his servant. For behold, from now on, all generations will call me blessed.
For he who is mighty has done great things for me. Holy is his name. His mercy is for generations and generations on those who fear him. He has shown strength with his arm. He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
He has put down princes from their thrones, and has exalted the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things. He has sent the rich away empty. He has given help to Israel, his servant, that he might remember mercy, as he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and his offspring forever.”
Dear Heavenly Father, be my guide and protect me from these things that surround me that I do not understand or that influence me in ways that are not from You. Lord I want to be and act as close to You as You’ve always wanted Your children to be. Lord give the strength to stand against the evil in this world, the distractions and influences. Help me to not fear and worry about these issues that continue to affect everything around us. Thank you Lord for Your protection, direction, and love. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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Now in the sixth month, the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man whose name was Joseph, of David’s house. The virgin’s name was Mary.Having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, you highly favored one! The Lord is with you. Blessed are you among women!”
But when she saw him, she was greatly troubled at the saying, and considered what kind of salutation this might be. The angel said to her, “Don’t be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.Behold, you will conceive in your womb and give birth to a son, and shall name him ‘Jesus.’
He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David,and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever. There will be no end to his Kingdom.” Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, seeing I am a virgin?”
The angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore also the holy one who is born from you will be called the Son of God. Behold, Elizabeth your relative also has conceived a son in her old age; and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren. For nothing spoken by God is impossible.”
Mary said, “Behold, the servant of the Lord; let it be done to me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her.
Dear Heavenly Father, be my guide and protect me from these things that surround me that I do not understand or that influence me in ways that are not from You. Lord I want to be and act as close to You as You’ve always wanted Your children to be. Lord give the strength to stand against the evil in this world, the distractions and influences. Help me to not fear and worry about these issues that continue to affect everything around us. Thank you Lord for Your protection, direction, and love. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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We can see that over and over again that every great move of God begins with preparation. Before Jesus stepped into His public ministry, before He preached, healed, or called His disciples God had sent a forerunner. John the Baptist was that voice crying in the wilderness, who was the one chosen to prepare the way for the Lord. Isaiah 40:3
The more familiar you become with the bible you will notice there is a theme of preparation that is woven all throughout Scripture. God will rarely move suddenly; everything He does is strategic. He will not just send His presence but He will prepare our hearts to receive it. And just as God prepared the world for Christ’s first coming through John, He still calls us to prepare our hearts to receive Him anew today. Romans 12:2
A Promise in the Wilderness
The story of John’s birth was miraculous all by itself. His parents, Zechariah and Elizabeth, were righteous followers of God. However they were childless and well advanced in years. One day, as Zechariah served in the temple, the angel Gabriel appeared and declared:
“Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John… and he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord” (Luke 1:13–17).
John was sent on a mission that was made clear even before he was born. He was sent to awaken hearts, call people to repentance, and prepare them to be prepared for the coming Messiah. The message he was given was simple yet powerful “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near” (Matthew 3:2).
In most cases repentance isn’t a word that gets associated with Christmas. However, repentance is an essential when trying to experience the full joy of Christ’s coming. True repentance is not merely feeling sorry for our sin but turning back toward God. Making sure we align our hearts with His will so that we can fully receive His grace. Ephesians 2:8-9
Preparing the Way — A Call to Readiness
Isaiah had prophesied hundreds of years earlier:
“A voice of one calling: ‘In the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God’” (Isaiah 40:3).
In the past, when a king planned to visit a city, he would send messengers ahead to clear the roads and make a straight path for his arrival. They would remove rocks, valleys were filled, and obstacles leveled. Spiritually, John’s message represented, a call to clear away the obstacles in our hearts so that the King could come in unhindered. Proverbs 3:6
Before Jesus could bring salvation to the world, hearts had to be ready to receive Him. John’s baptism symbolized cleansing, they were a public confession that people were turning from sin to prepare for something greater. Mark 1:4
You can see it even today, God calls His people to be spiritually ready. We can’t experience the full meaning of Christmas if our hearts are cluttered with pride, busyness, or bitterness. The same God who sent John to prepare the world for Jesus’ first coming is calling His people now to prepare for His presence in their lives, and for His return. Hebrews 9:28
A Voice in the Wilderness
John the Baptist’s ministry didn’t take place in a palace or a synagogue but in the wilderness, a barren, uncomfortable place far from the noise of the city. Yet it was there that crowds came, drawn not by spectacle but by conviction.
The wilderness has always been a place of preparation. Moses met God in the wilderness. (Exodus 3:1-7) Israel was refined there for forty years. (Deuteronomy 8:2) Jesus Himself would be tested there after His baptism. (Matthew 4:1-11)
Sometimes God must lead us into seasons of “wilderness” it might be quiet, uncomfortable, sometimes feeling overwhelming. This helps “chaos” helps to prepare our hearts for something greater. It’s in those moments that our faith is purified, our pride is confronted, allowing our dependence on God to deepen. (Isaiah 43:2)
John’s wilderness message reminds us: God often prepares us privately before He reveals us publicly. He forms the heart before He sends the calling.
Pointing to the One Who Is Greater
John’s greatness was not in his fame but in his humility. When people tried to elevate him, he continually pointed away from himself:
“After me comes one more powerful than I, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie” (Mark 1:7).
John understood his purpose, he was the voice, not the Word; the messenger, not the Messiah. His role was to direct attention to Jesus, not to himself.
This is the essence of spiritual preparation: less of me, more of Him. In John 3:30, he declared,
“He must increase, but I must decrease.”
Those seven words are the heartbeat of every true disciple. As we prepare our hearts this season, we too must decrease. We need to make sure we are letting go of self-sufficiency, pride, and distraction so that Christ can increase within us. I know that this time of year can lend to many different appealing distractions. (1 Corinthians 10:13)
Preparing Your Heart This Christmas
As Christmas approaches, ask yourself: what would it look like to “prepare the way” for Jesus in your own life?
Maybe it means making space for quiet reflection instead of rushing through the season.
Maybe it means forgiving someone you’ve held bitterness toward.
Maybe it means returning to a daily habit of prayer or Scripture.
Whatever it looks like, preparation always begins with humility, a willingness to turn from what hinders you and return to the heart of God.
When you prepare room for Him, He fills it with peace, joy, and power. (Psalm 16:11)
Reflection for the Week
What “wilderness” moments in your life has God used to prepare you for His purpose?
What areas of your heart need to be made ready for Jesus this Christmas?
How can you, like John, point others toward Christ this season?
Personal Application
Take time this week to slow down, pray, read, meditate and reflect. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you anything that’s crowding your heart; any worry, resentment, distraction and invite Him to clear the way for Jesus. Each morning, pray this simple prayer of preparation:
“Lord, prepare my heart for You. Make straight the path of my soul. Remove what hinders me from hearing Your voice, and let my life point others to You.”
You’ll find that as you do, you’ll discover what John the Baptist understood so well. The greatest joy in life is not being the center of the story, but preparing the way for the King. As you wait, worship because the same God who brought light to Bethlehem will bring light to your path. John 8:12
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, from the very beginning You planned a way back for us. Thank You that when sin entered the world, Your mercy rose to meet it. I praise You for the promise of Jesus—my Redeemer, my rescue, my hope. Open my eyes this week to recognize the depth of Your love woven through Scripture from Genesis to the manger. Let my heart rest in the truth that You have always been working, even when humanity failed, even when I failed. Strengthen my trust in Your plan and anchor my hope in Your Son, the One who crushes the enemy and brings life. In Jesus Name Amen
Getting to Know Him
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Drink of Jesus 
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