A Christmas Devotional By Word of Life Fellowship
A Christmas Devotional By Word of Life Fellowship
© Copyright 2023 by Word of Life Fellowship. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission. Cover design by Jess Harbold, interior design and layout by Teresa Stursberg. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations are taken from the The Holy Bible, English Standard Version® (ESV®), © Copyright 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. All rights reserved. The perspectives of the author(s) in this devotional do not necessarily represent the perspectives of Word of Life Fellowship.
DECEMBER 1 THIS CHANGES EVERYTHING By Don Lough, Jr. President and CEO, Word of Life Fellowship
And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus.” (Luke 1:30–31)
Life can change in the blink of an eye. You go about your daily routine, making your usual plans; suddenly, the unexpected occurs, altering everything. Take a moment to step into Mary’s sandals. She was a young woman with big plans and dreams, eagerly anticipating her marriage to Joseph. Then, out of nowhere, the angel Gabriel appeared, delivering a message that would shake her world to its core. "You will soon be pregnant with a Son, and you must name Him Jesus." Imagine the flood of fear and questions that surged through her heart. Talk about life change! This was a life-altering moment, turning her world upside down. Why did this happen to Mary? Did she somehow deserve to be the Messiah’s mom? Not at all. Like the rest of us, Mary was an unworthy sinner who needed a Savior (Romans 3:23). God’s choice of Mary lies with one powerful word in verse 30: “favor.” “Favor” is typically translated “grace,” which means undeserved or unmerited favor. God’s favor extended to Mary was not based on her good works or character but on grace. It was God’s gift of grace that forever changed her life. As we enter the Christmas season, God freely offers His gift of grace to anyone willing to receive it. We do not deserve it, but we desperately need it. Because of our sinfulness, we cannot earn our way into heaven and obtain favor with God. He sent His Only Son, Jesus, to earth on a mission to die on the cross, rescuing us from the death penalty we rightly deserve (Romans 6:23). God graciously offers His free gift of eternal life to you right now. Have you ever accepted it?
DECEMBER 2 THE GREATEST GIFT EVER GIVEN By Dwight Peterson Professor, Clarks Summit University Adjunct Faculty, Word of Life Bible Institute
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16)
Whenever I think of Christmas, one of my first thoughts is gifts. I am still such a little boy who can’t wait to open my gifts or watch others open the gifts I give them. I remember receiving gifts that I knew would change my life. From a new laptop to a putter last Christmas, gifts have changed my life in specific ways. The reality is that Christmas is about gifts. It started with the greatest gift ever given. God gave us this gift to change our lives forever. That first Christmas, God’s gift of a baby born to Mary and Joseph would one day pay the price for our sins and change our lives forever. I have thought often about how radical a change that gift has brought to my life and the lives of countless people. Think about how that gift changed the life of the apostle Paul. He was transformed from being the greatest threat to the message of Jesus to becoming its greatest messenger. The gift of Jesus changed his life and the course of human history. So, this Christmas, take some time to reflect on how that first gift changed your life. Think about the people in your world with whom you can invest relationally – people who, like Paul, need the gift of Jesus to change their lives. If the gift was available to a man like Paul, it is available to anyone.
DECEMBER 3 SCANDALOUS GRACE By Michele Jones Florida Dean of Women, Word of Life Bible Institute
And Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab… And David was the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah… and Jacob the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born, who is called Christ. (Matthew 1:5-6, 16)
The Gospel of Matthew opens with the genealogy of Jesus Christ. Within the pages of Scripture, our tendency can be to skip over the lists of names. But tucked in Matthew’s opening verses are several names that should catch our attention. These names include Rahab, a prostitute; Ruth, a Moabite woman from a pagan nation; Bathsheba, who played a starring role in one of the greatest scandals in the Bible; and Mary, the mother of Jesus, who was an unwed pregnant teenager. These women’s lives were surrounded by scandal; and yet, Matthew chose to include their names in the list with kings, prophets, and priests. It’s clear that Jesus Christ’s lineage is marked by names that would be considered a social disgrace. None of the people in Jesus’s genealogy lived a perfect, holy life as He would. So, why would Matthew include them? Your own life may not be scandalous, but it probably hasn’t been perfect either. Romans 3:23 reminds us that we all “fall short of the glory of God.” But God offers grace for our disgrace. Jesus came to bring life change to all those who put their trust in Him. We are all sinners in need of God’s amazing grace – grace we don’t deserve and can never earn. As you consider this Christmas season and why Jesus came, let me remind you of Jesus’s words spoken to Zacchaeus, the chief tax collector: “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:10).
As we celebrate the birth of Jesus and reflect on our own sinful, scandalous lives, may we rejoice in the grace God has poured out through His Son, Jesus.
DECEMBER 4 BEEN WITH JESUS By Sean Pierce Director, Hudson Baptist Association Adjunct Faculty, Word of Life Bible Institute
“And they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with us). (Matthew 1:23b) And they recognized that they had been with Jesus. (Acts 4:13b)
As a father of eight children, a father-in-law of two, and a newly minted grandfather of one, one of the things I treasure most is time with family. There is truly no greater gift I could receive from my family this Christmas than time with them – simply being together, enjoying life, and celebrating the family we have together. Looking at past Christmases as a child, what I loved the most wasn’t a particular gift – I can barely remember more than a couple. I appreciate the memories and time as a family. That’s also what I look forward to most this Christmas. I’m struck this holiday season that Jesus is not just God for us, meaning He died on the cross for our sins and rose again victorious over our sin that separated us from God. He is also God with us. That sacrifice removes the barrier between God and us through faith. With that newfound relationship, the blessing isn’t just freedom, forgiveness of sin, or a future in heaven. We get to be with the God of the universe today, the God who is never too busy for us and wants to be with us. Never a day goes by that we are not with Him once we enter that relationship through faith. That’s a comforting reality. It is also life changing. People around us tend to notice that change. What the religious leaders who arrested Peter and John noticed wasn’t their clothing, a strange accent, or their former professions as fishermen. They noticed that they were common men who spoke differently with boldness and clarity. They noticed they had been with Jesus. So, I’m encouraged today to know that I’m truly with Jesus and He’s still changing my life. I’m challenged to live that out every day. I’m grateful for and challenged by those realities. Have you taken that faith step, and will you live that new life with Him today?
DECEMBER 5 NO ADVANTAGES By Ron Moore Founder, The Journey Ministry Board of Directors and Bible Institute Adjunct Faculty, Word of Life Fellowship
He had no form or majesty that we should look at him... (Isaiah 53:2b)
“You’re kidding!” Those were my friend’s words when I told him he would be preaching at our church’s second Christmas Eve service. My wife Lori was pregnant, and her labor pains intensified while I was preaching at the first service. “Seriously, tell me you’re joking,” my friend said again. But I wasn’t. Lori and I were headed to the hospital – and, ready or not, my friend was headed to the church. Lara Kristen made her entrance into the world early Christmas morning. We held our baby girl, all bundled up and wearing a red-and-white-striped cap. It’s hard for us to believe that was over thirty years ago! Over 2,000 years ago, another baby was born. Herod’s census came at an inconvenient time for Mary and Joseph, who had to register in Joseph’s hometown. Mary was far along in her pregnancy and, no doubt, felt every jolt on the ninety-mile trip. There was no one to meet them and no room in the crowded city. A stable was the only option. Joseph helped Mary deliver a baby boy. Mary swaddled Him and laid Him in a feeding trough. Our Savior closed His eyes and slept. It had been a long journey for Him as well. The Father sent Jesus to the back of the line to experience all the pain of humanity. Mary’s pregnancy was scandalous. The birth was unsanitary. The long-expected Messiah was not strikingly handsome or a head taller than the rest (Isaiah 53:2). He was “despised and rejected by men” (Isaiah 53:3). Although He was fully God, He was “a man of sorrows” (Isaiah 53:3). Jesus was “pierced for our transgressions” and “crushed for our iniquities” (Isaiah 53:5). God’s Son was given no advantages in life, and He died a brutal death – all for you and me. We were the ones who turned to our own way. But God laid our sin on Jesus, and He paid sin’s penalty in full. There is only one way to respond to such love: Bow down and worship Him, every day, with your whole life!
DECEMBER 6 HIS NAME IS LIFE By Bruce Scott Director of Program Ministries, The Friends of Israel Gospel Ministry Ministry Partner and Speaker, Word of Life Fellowship
Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life. (1 John 5:12)
Although I’ve never experienced it, I can’t think of a more difficult thing than to lose a child by death. I’m sure the widow of Nain thought the same (Luke 7:11–17). Previously, this woman had lost her husband. Now, she had lost her only son. As she accompanied the funeral bier carrying her son, she wept, feeling the crushing weight of irretrievable loss. She was in the presence of death.
Until Jesus arrived.
Jesus saw her. He had compassion for her. He even told her to stop weeping. Why would anyone tell a grieving mother to stop weeping over the death of her son? The only possible answer is that the Lord of life was there. With His presence, the purpose of mourning had become irrelevant. Jesus then spoke to the corpse and commanded it to get up. Life immediately infused what was once dead, and the young man sat up and began talking! The stunned crowd began glorifying God and spreading the news everywhere. But here’s the most touching part of the story: “and Jesus gave him to his mother” (Luke 7:15b). This poor woman received the best gift she had ever had. Imagine what unspeakable joy went through this woman’s soul as she saw her son come back to her arms, alive and well! I’m sure she continued to weep, but this time from joy and not from sorrow. Her life was forever changed because of Jesus. All this occurred because Jesus Christ is the source of life. His absence forfeits life. His Word imparts life. His fame spreads life. “In him was life, and the life was the light of men” (John 1:4). Aren’t you thankful He came into this world?
DECEMBER 7 WHAT IS YOUR PERSPECTIVE OF JESUS THIS CHRISTMAS? By Scott Foreman Vice President of Growth and Impact Strategies, Word of Life Fellowship And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel. (Matthew 2:6)
Matthew 2 showcases three outlooks on Jesus.
1. Gentile Perspective – Magi from the East journeyed to worship Christ. These Gentiles bravely inquired of Herod about Jesus’s birthplace. After worshiping the newborn king, the Magi were cautioned by God to leave via an alternate route, escaping Herod's threat. Reflection: Will you boldly stand as these wise men did, challenging an unbelieving world through your worship? 2. Jewish Perspective – King Herod feels threatened by the Magi's arrival and urgently seeks birthdate details to eliminate potential rivals. He consults Jewish leaders, who rightly pinpoint Messiah's birthplace but take no action. Their biblical knowledge bears no fruit. Reflection: Is your understanding of Jesus clouding sincere worship? Does knowledge translate to closeness with Christ? 3. Biblical Perspective – Matthew cites Old Testament passages (Micah 5:2, Hosea 11:1, Jeremiah 31:15) to authenticate Jesus as the Messiah. These prophecies underline Jesus as God's promised Messiah, revealing divine faithfulness. Reflection: Is Christmas a mere holiday or a testament to God's unwavering commitment across millennia? In these perspectives, we encounter a challenge to express faith courageously, avoid knowledge without action, and grasp the essence of God's faithfulness in the Christmas story.
DECEMBER 8 THE WORST CHRISTMAS I’VE EVER HAD By Stephen Bramer Department Chair of Bible Exposition, Dallas Theological Seminary Adjunct Faculty, Word of Life Bible Institute
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. (2 Corinthians 5:17)
Several years ago, my family spent Christmas in a town a few hours from our home. In a hotel room, we set up a small tree we had brought and decorated it with a few ornaments. We placed some Christmas presents around the tree and waited for the time when we were allowed to pick up our son to join us. Our son was in a recovery center for adolescent guys. Due to various struggles, he had self-medicated with alcohol and drugs. Since he walked away from the Lord, not seeing Him as his solution, he found himself addicted. He grew up in a Christian home, attended church, and studied at a Christian high school, but his life had taken a terrible turn for the worse. Later, as a family, we sat around that little tree, read the Christmas story, and prayed, thanking God for Jesus. Again, I whispered my constant prayer for this Jesus to change my son’s life. This past Christmas, our family sat around a Christmas tree. The family included our son, his wife, and his five precious children. My heart welled up in thanks once again to Jesus, who changed my son’s life. Jesus, the Son of God, the baby born in Bethlehem, transformed him once he turned to Christ for deliverance and strength. Now, he and his family serve the Lord Jesus Christ by teaching at Word of Life Bible Institute in Hungary. Christ can change a life, including yours as you turn to Him. Why not trust Him this Christmas?
DECEMBER 9 LIFE CHANGE THAT OVERCOMES GRIEF By Christopher Cone President and CEO, Agathon EDU Adjunct Faculty, Word of Life Bible Institute
Behold! I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. (1 Corinthians 15:51–52) One definition of change is to substitute one thing for another. Paul describes one kind of life change that will come with certainty for everyone who believes in Jesus Christ. He tells the Corinthians that we will all be changed in the twinkling of an eye at the last trumpet. Paul explained this concept to the Thessalonian believers as he outlined the future event we often refer to as the rapture (1 Thessalonians 4:13–17). He encouraged the Thessalonians – some of whom were dealing with grief at the death of loved ones. Paul wanted them to know their certain, future hope of resurrection and eternal life with Christ and with loved ones who also believed in Christ. Especially during the holidays, we can be acutely aware of the pain of loved ones departed. Where they once came alongside us in celebration and rejoicing, they are no longer present. Where there once was joy, there is now hurt. But, because Jesus has conquered death and given us His grace through faith, we know death and loss will not overwhelm us. We can be encouraged and rejoice because of the life He has given to all who believe in Jesus. This life change is coming, and it provides us great comfort. It is because of this great change that, while we grieve temporary loss, we never have to lose hope. We know and understand our future in Christ is certain. One day, we will substitute everything associated with our mortality and trade it in for the imperishable and the immortal. Christmas reminds us what Christ did for us and that, no matter the depth of our grief, the certain hope of our final life change (resurrection) overcomes all grief.
DECEMBER 10 WAITING FOR CHRISTMAS By Paul Barreca Executive Director, Fellowship International Mission Adjunct Faculty, Word of Life Bible Institute
Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ. (Luke 2:25–26) The Nativity scene is a family tradition kids remember all their lives. One creative dad built anticipation for Christmas by setting up the Nativity with Mary, Joseph, shepherds, and angels carefully placed around the manger – but, instead of putting baby Jesus in the manger, he put a mystery note with a clue to where the family could find Jesus. Every morning, the children ran downstairs to get their clue and begin their search. Every night, Dad created another clue and hid Jesus. The waiting ended on Christmas morning when the children awoke to find baby Jesus in the manger. Luke’s Gospel tells of a man who eagerly anticipated Jesus’s arrival. His name is Simeon, a man “filled with the Holy Spirit.” He was “just and devout,” living justly toward others and devoutly before the Lord. The story impacts our lives today because Simeon was a faithful servant who waited patiently for Jesus. Upon seeing Jesus, Simeon knew this baby was Israel’s Messiah. Simeon responded, “Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace, according to your word” (Luke 2:29). “Depart in peace” was a term used to describe a soldier after his duty was finished. Simeon could die knowing he had waited for the Lord and his prayer was answered.
Simeon reminds us that God shows Himself to those who wait upon Him. “You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13).
Like Simeon, our hearts should be focused on Jesus. When we meet Him, we will never be the same.
DECEMBER 11 THE HUMANITY OF JESUS By Wayne Slusser Dean, Baptist Bible Seminary Adjunct Faculty, Word of Life Bible Institute
Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. (Hebrews 2:17)
Let’s explore how the author of Hebrews identifies Jesus’s humanity and the implications as gracious gifts from God.
Jesus’s Identification (2:14–15) – Since man has flesh and blood (cf. 2:9–13), the one who identifies with man must also have flesh and blood. Jesus became man to serve humanity, to make the devil’s power over death ineffective, and to free believers from the fear of death. Jesus’s Intention (2:16) – Jesus helps Abraham’s descendants, and He does so because death enslaved them. Jesus "takes hold of,” or “helps” the children of God to safety, bringing them into fellowship. Jesus’s Incarnation (2:17) – Jesus identified with humanity in every respect. Through an obedient earthly life, He qualified for the office of priest. Christ’s incarnation brought man and God together, and those who place their faith in Jesus will not experience God’s wrath. Jesus’s Intervention (2:18) – Jesus’s birth exposed Him to the sufferings and tensions of human life, the climax of which was His death. He was faithful to death and did not divorce Himself from the sufferings of life. Therefore, He is able to help those who suffer (cf. 4:14–16). Jesus became man to free the believer from the fear of death and to provide comfort to the suffering believer. He helps believers even through the most difficult testing of this hostile world. How are you going to respond to the birth of Jesus this Christmas season?
DECEMBER 12 THE GREATEST GIFT By Jon Burdette Speaker and Trainer, Dare 2 Share Ministries Ministry Partner, Word of Life Fellowship
For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. (Ephesians 2:8–9)
My favorite Christmas gift came in 2017. My wife and I had begun remodeling our home, but I am no handyman – so, we called Bobby. Bobby could do it all. He was a hard worker, but he had some issues. In fact, he was struggling with drug addiction. Some questioned our decision, but I saw it as an opportunity to share the gospel with him while he helped us complete the project. Bobby was raised in a religious home, but all he'd ever heard was a works-based message. He didn't think he could become a Christian until he stopped sinning. He'd been taught he couldn’t be saved until he quit drugs completely, but the truth was that Bobby couldn’t change without the presence of Christ in his life. Over months of remodeling, I shared the gospel several times. Most of these conversations were in my car because he often didn't have transportation. I told him salvation wasn't about "trying" but about trusting in Christ alone. Then, on December 23, 2017, it happened. After a hard day's work, I shared the Christmas story on the drive home. Right there in his driveway, Bobby called on Jesus and trusted Him as his Savior. I watched him receive the greatest Christmas gift, and that became my favorite Christmas experience. Bobby was transformed by the power of God and was delivered from the monster of drug addiction. There are so many people around us like Bobby and so many muddy and false messages out there. Let’s commit to clearly sharing the pure gospel of grace as much as possible!
DECEMBER 13 SAUL, CALLED PAUL By Doug Bookman Professor, Shepherds Theological Seminary Adjunct Faculty, Word of Life Bible Institute
But Saul, who was also called Paul… (Acts 13:9a)
Saul of Tarsus was an able and accomplished man before he confronted the risen Jesus on the road to Damascus – and he was very proud of that. But the encounter recorded in Acts 9 changed him. It confronted him with the reality that his pride was an insult to the God who is the Giver of all good gifts, certainly including whatever strengths the man Saul possessed. That life change seems to be reflected in a “sidebar” note found in Acts 13:9: “But Saul, who was also called Paul…” Luke always referred to him as “Saul” to this point. From here through the book of Acts and in all his writings, he goes by the name “Paul.” Why this change? There are many theories, but I would argue Saul probably took the name Paul in memory of a confrontation between the prophet Samuel and King Saul of Israel – doubtless the apostle’s namesake. Samuel had discovered King Saul in a deliberate, prideful sin. He had refused to obey King Yahweh regarding the spoils taken in his victory over the Amalekites. Getting to the heart of the spiritual issue at stake, the prophet rebuked the king with these words: “When you were little in your own eyes… did not the Lord anoint you king over Israel?” (1 Samuel 15:17–23 NKJV). Interestingly, the Greco-Roman name “Paul” means “little.” Pride remained a struggle for the apostle Paul throughout his life (2 Corinthians 12:7–10). He later confessed that his “thorn in the flesh” was God’s way to remind him that only when he acknowledged his weakness was he strong (12:10). Another very practical way in which he contrived to resist that besetting temptation to pride was this: Every time he was addressed by his name “Paul,” he was reminded, “Only when I am little can God use me for His purposes and glory!”
DECEMBER 14 EMBRACING LIFE’S DIVINE CHANGES By Shean Phillips Lead Pastor, Vienna Baptist Church Adjunct Faculty, Word of Life Bible Institute
And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus.” (Luke 1:30–31)
Life is a journey marked by constant change. Just as the seasons transition and the tides ebb and flow, we, too, experience shifts that shape our existence. In the Gospel of Luke, we find a profound example of life-altering change in the story of the virgin Mary. Luke 1:26–31 reveals the moment when the angel Gabriel visited Mary, announcing she would give birth to Jesus. Mary's life was forever changed in an instant. Her ordinary days were interrupted by an extraordinary message, and she was called to embrace a divine plan beyond her understanding. Much like Mary, our lives are punctuated by unexpected turns. These changes can be both thrilling and terrifying. Yet, as we delve into Mary's story, we discover an essential truth: God's plans are often wrapped in the unexpected. Mary's initial fear was transformed into faith-filled acceptance. She surrendered to the divine plan, despite the uncertainties ahead. As we reflect on Luke 1:26–31, let's remember that change is an avenue for growth and transformation. God is continually honing our lives toward a greater purpose that brings Him glory. If you have not received Christ as your Savior, the first life change He has for you is to bring you into a loving relationship with Himself. His birth led to His death for our sins; then, He defeated death and rose from the grave on the third day. This radical yet historical message is for your salvation, and today is the day. If you know Christ, may your heart be encouraged in knowing He desires to do incredible works in your life that often come packaged in the unexpected. Be open and exercise your faith in Him.
DECEMBER 15 WHEN GOD CAME DOWN By Ray Pritchard President, Keep Believing Ministries Adjunct Faculty, Word of Life Bible Institute
Turn to me and be saved, all you ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other. (Isaiah 45:22)
"Christmas means we all need saving, and Jesus is the Savior we need." That might make a good banner to hang over the front door of every church – at least it would serve up a dollop of humility every time we passed under the banner. Those of us who believe in Jesus aren’t any better than anyone else. Sometimes we seem like we’re worse than a lot of people, but that’s not the point. God came down to us. That’s what happened in Bethlehem long, long ago. If you ever visit the Holy Land, one of the sites you will visit is the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem. The church was built over the reputed spot where Mary gave birth to Jesus. To get inside, you first walk across a broad plaza and then come to a very small entrance. In fact, it's so small you have to duck down low to get inside. The entrance is deliberately made low because, several centuries ago, the local big shots liked to ride their horses right into the sanctuary. The priests felt that was inappropriate, so they lowered the entrance to force the great men to dismount before entering the church. The same is true of salvation. If you want to go to heaven, you've got to get off your high horse. Until you do, you'll never be saved. The familiar words of Phillips Brooks are a delight at this point:
How silently, how silently, the wondrous Gift is given. So God imparts to human hearts the blessings of His heaven. No ear may hear His coming, but in this world of sin, Where meek souls will receive Him still, the dear Christ enters in.*
So He does! May that be your experience this Christmas season.
*“O Little Town of Bethlehem.” Phillips Brooks, 1867.
DECEMBER 16 CHRISTMAS CHANGED EVERYTHING! By Greg Sanford
Missionary and Mobilizer, Wayumi Program: Ethnos360 Ministry Partner and Speaker, Word of Life Fellowship
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:14)
Christmas is a great time of year! The atmosphere in the country seems to change – people become friendlier and kinder, happiness and lightheartedness are in the air, companies host their Christmas parties, and cookies and treats are everywhere. As Christians, we are celebrating the birth of the Lord Jesus – God sending His very own Son to become one of us! It is almost impossible to grasp God’s love for humanity, that He would stoop to become one of us and would deal with our sin problem on Good Friday and Easter morning. I remember living among the Yanomamo, an Amazonian tribe, and being struck by the reality that they had lived for 2,000 years without knowing the wonderful truth we celebrate this time of year. Luke 2:10 says, “And the angel said to them, ‘Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.’” This good news had finally arrived for the Yanomamo deep in the Amazon Rain Forest. They now have John 1:14 in their language. They can read it and understand what it means. It is marvelous to watch how it has impacted them. Some have become pastors and preachers of the gospel! Christmas changed everything for them. God becoming flesh on Christmas night changed the whole world. Let’s praise Him for what transpired that incredible night we call Christmas 2,000 years ago. Let’s thank Him that we know about it – and that the Yanomamo now know, too!
DECEMBER 17 WHEN CONFUSING LIFE CHANGE HAPPENS By Terry Mortenson Speaker, Writer, and Researcher, Answers in Genesis Adjunct Faculty, Word of Life Bible Institute
And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. (Luke 2:4–5) Life change happens. Some changes in life are expected. Others are unexpected. Some are sudden. Others are gradual. Some are happy changes. Others bring sorrow and leave us confused with unanswered questions. Some require small lifestyle changes. Others are very life-altering. What do we do when our journey brings life-altering bends in the road? Joseph and Mary had many unexpected, perplexing, and life-altering changes over a three-year period in their young lives related to the birth of Jesus. Both were visited by angels before Mary became pregnant supernaturally. They had to travel by foot (or donkey) about 70 miles from home for a census while Mary was “great with child.” Magi gave them unusual gifts soon after Jesus’s birth. Then, an angel told Joseph in a dream to take his wife and son to Egypt in the middle of the night so Herod would not kill Jesus. Some of these changes were joyful, but some were arduous and dangerous. No doubt they experienced doubts and fears. Joseph (like Mary, Luke 2:19) must have pondered, “What is God doing? What is ahead?” But they trusted and obeyed God. I’ve had plenty of unexpected ups and downs of life as a missionary in Eastern Europe, then as a Ph.D. student, then on staff with Answers in Genesis. Some changes have been very perplexing. None have been as momentous and significant as Mary’s and Joseph’s. But I have struggled with doubts and fears. I, too, have needed to trust and obey our faithful God, especially when life has been confusing and the future very foggy. What about you?
DECEMBER 18 THE SIGHT THAT CHANGES EVERYTHING By Mark Strout Executive Dean of Florida and Global Bible Institutes, Word of Life Fellowship And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. (Luke 2:8–9) What's the most breathtaking sight you've ever seen – a stunning sunset, awesome mountains, a powerful storm, or the heavens on a dark night? Though many earthly sights can take one's breath away, none can radically change a life forever – but seeing God does. It's hard to imagine what the shepherds experienced. It was just an ordinary night like thousands before, but their lives were about to be radically changed. In a flash, darkness was displaced by stunning light swirling all around them. God's glory had not been seen like this since it had left the temple centuries before. The shepherds would never be the same. Three disciples experienced it on a high mountain when Christ was suddenly transfigured before them in a blaze of radiant light as bright as the sun. Being struck by lightning would not have been as stunning. Peter was still talking about it 35 years later (2 Peter 1:16–18). It happened to another man on an ordinary road leading to Damascus. The monotony of the journey suddenly gave way to a blinding light flashing all around him as God showed up and forever changed Saul's life (Acts 9:3–4). Could there be a more shocking transformation? Simple shepherds, a self-confident denier, and a seething persecutor were forever changed at the sight of God. What can change us forever? No earthly scene or experience ever will. Only by keeping our eyes on Christ will it ever happen. As we behold His glory through His Word, we'll be gradually transformed to become more like Him (2 Corinthians 3:18). Let's stop fixating on others or on ourselves and focus instead on Jesus Christ. It will inevitably change us forever!
DECEMBER 19 A BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENT By David Payne
Senior Pastor, Flemings Chapel Baptist Church Adjunct Faculty, Word of Life Bible Institute
And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. (Luke 2:17–18)
Practically everyone has seen a birth announcement on social media. There are statistics (weight, date, and time of birth) and photos of the precious baby. We look with interest. Birth is a time to celebrate. Two millennia ago, the first people who came to see Jesus made their way back down the road in Bethlehem. They were simple shepherds from society’s lowest rung. They were so excited about what God had revealed that they couldn’t keep it to themselves. Words overflowed from hearts brimming with the things the angels had proclaimed. They described how the sky went from darkness to blazing light. They spoke reverently of the wondrous child lying in a feeding trough. They marveled at having seen the Messiah. On their way back, these shepherds “made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child.” They had to tell such good news. It’s easy to see how this experience became the defining moment in the shepherds’ lives. Face to face with the promised One, these humble keepers of the flock were allowed to see God’s perfect Lamb. Don’t allow the years that separate us from that moment to dampen the wonder. This baby deserved a host of angels to make the announcement. He was worthy of a team of shepherds who looked and listened with awe. Seeing the Lamb turned simple shepherds into eager evangelists.
What the shepherds saw and learned was worth sharing over and over. It still is!
DECEMBER 20 GLORIOUS ILLUMINATION By Karen Smith New York Dean of Women, Word of Life Bible Institute
For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. (2 Corinthians 4:6)
The theme of light is woven throughout Scripture from Genesis to Revelation. At the dawn of creation, God spoke light into existence, and darkness was gloriously illuminated: “And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light” (Genesis 1:3). God called the light “good.” Much later, Isaiah described the illumination that is God Himself: “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone” (Isaiah 9:2). This passage foretells Jesus’s birth, mission, and ministry. He is the long-awaited Messiah, and He is the Light. The wonderful verse of 2 Corinthians 4:6 draws these two passages together: “For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” Referencing the words He spoke at creation, God speaks of a different kind of light. This light is not created light, but the Light of God. Jesus came to make His Father known and to offer salvation that allows each of us to know God deeply. This is the reality of the believer – to live in the light of the knowledge of God. In John 1:4–5 and 9, light and life are connected. Jesus promised in John 8:12 that if we follow Him, the Light of the world, we will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life. What a glorious promise; we walk in the light of His presence! Lastly, in Revelation 22:5, we read about the glorious illumination of the New Jerusalem. Friends, this is what we can look forward to – days of glorious light in the presence of our Savior! Maybe these days find you struggling to see the light. Look to Jesus. Allow these truths to illuminate your heart as you celebrate the Light of the world.
At Messiah’s birth, God used the light of a created star to point to the Light of the world. May we be lights who point to Him.
DECEMBER 21 BRINGING HOPE AT CHRISTMAS By Matt McAlack Director of Youth and Family Ministry Programs, Cairn University Adjunct Faculty, Word of Life Bible Institute
And he rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed to Egypt. (Matthew 2:14)
Christmas is a wonderful, joyful time to celebrate the birth of our Lord. However, for some, Christmastime is difficult because of life’s circumstances. I think it is important for us to have eyes to see those who are hurting and to reach out to bring them hope at Christmastime. When I was a teenager, our family had a tradition of attending the Christmas Eve Candlelight Service. One Christmas Eve, all five of my siblings and my parents packed into our Volkswagen bus to attend the service. On the way, we made an unexpected stop – we picked up five-year-old Rusty and his dad. Instead of welcoming our guests, we huddled together, one on top of another, in the back of the van. It must have appeared ridiculous to our guests. On the way to church, Rusty’s dad made small talk with my parents while the rest of us remained awkwardly silent. The return trip after the service was more of the same. After Rusty and his dad said goodbye and went into their rented apartment, my dad explained that Rusty’s mom had recently passed away. The medical bills piled up, and they had to leave their home to live here. This was their first Christmas without mom and without their home. I wished I could turn back the clock and give Rusty and his dad a hug. Of course, I couldn’t. I had missed my opportunity to be a blessing. That was a life-changing moment for me. I decided then and there that I would keep my eyes open for those who are displaced, grieving, and sad at Christmas, and try to find a way to welcome them into my life and encourage them. Isn’t this what Jesus would want?
Is there someone you can encourage this Christmas? It’s a perfect way to celebrate the birth of our Lord.
DECEMBER 22 WASHED WHITE AS SNOW By Drew Burtis New York Dean of Students, Word of Life Bible Institute
Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow. (Isaiah 1:18b)
If I asked what your least favorite thing about snow is, you would probably have answers right away – shoveling snow, driving in it, or having it turn to ice and rip the gutters off the front of your house (a true story for me). However, if I asked what your favorite thing about snow is, your answer would likely come just as quickly. It’s beautiful, majestic, and pure. Think of how it glistens in the sun after a fresh coat falls through the night, and how stunning the pine trees look wearing their coat of white. Think of the majestic snowcapped mountain juxtaposed against the cool blue sky, and how peacefully the steady, slow flakes fall as the night sets in. Another thing to love about snow is that it comes with this reminder: Just as we are stained with sin, we can be washed white as snow. The prophet Isaiah said this about the Lord’s power to save a life. During my freshman year at Word of Life Bible Institute, the reality of my sin met the magnitude of His grace and mercy. I had been a church kid all my life and had even believed in Jesus at a young age, but I didn’t fully understand what Jesus was offering me. Jesus didn’t come to make bad people good or good people better. He came to make dead people alive. He came to wash people stained with sin as white as snow. This is the transformation in my own life because of the Lord’s power. When you look at the snow this Christmas season, remember the life change you can have in Jesus. You are stained with sin, but because of Jesus’s birth, life, death, and resurrection, you can be washed white as snow. My life has been changed – and yours can, too.
DECEMBER 23 THE JOY OF FORGIVENESS By Brian Baker Vice President of Bible Institutes, Word of Life Fellowship
For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost. (Luke 19:10)
Christmas is a great time to celebrate the joy of knowing Jesus as Savior. Part of this joy is experiencing His forgiveness. Peter’s life is an excellent example of what this forgiveness looks like. Only hours after telling Jesus he would die for Him, Peter denied Jesus three times. Fast forward to John 21 (after the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ), when Peter decided to return to fishing. He and some other disciples fished all night with no success. Jesus showed up on shore the next morning and asked if they caught anything, then He instructed them to cast their net on the other side of the boat. Because they caught so many fish, they had difficulty bringing up the net. If this story sounds familiar, it is because a similar interaction happened in Luke 5 when Jesus called Peter to follow Him. Please notice the difference between Peter’s responses to encountering Jesus in Luke 5 and John 21.
“But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, ‘Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.’” (Luke 5:8)
“When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer garment, for he was stripped for work, and threw himself into the sea.” (John 21:7b)
In Luke 5, the holiness of Jesus caused Peter to feel unworthy to be in His presence. In John 21, Peter had experienced forgiveness and was living in the understanding that he was forgiven – even from the sin of denying Jesus. As a result, he wanted to rush into the presence of Jesus. Christ came to earth to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10). His forgiveness is life changing. During this special season, never forget how His forgiveness has changed you.
DECEMBER 24 JESUS CHANGES LIVES By Wendell Calder Local Church Evangelist Adjunct Professor Emeritus, Word of Life Bible Institute
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. (2 Corinthians 5:17)
My wife and I have seen many lives changed during sixty-four years of ministry on six continents. In this devotional, I want to share three of these life change experiences. During our first ministry in India, we saw many trust Christ as personal Savior. A teenager was brought to our meeting by a Christian friend – that night, he was gloriously saved! Several years passed, and we returned to India for ministry. Our host said, “A young pastor would like for you to speak at his men's breakfast.” Upon arrival, this man ran to me, throwing his arms around me, saying, "Several years ago I was saved in your meeting, and what a joy it is to have you speak to our men." We had over one hundred men in attendance, and he pastored one of the largest churches in the city. A life changed by the grace of God! Many years ago, we saw several teens trust Christ at a youth retreat in Canada. A few years later, I held a series of meetings in my home church. Upon arrival, the young pastor said, “I was saved in a youth retreat when you shared the gospel.” Another life who experienced life change in Christ! While I was serving as a pastor in Maine, we saw an entire family saved. Their son is a graduate of Word of Life Bible Institute and is presently a pastor in the state of Maine. I preach for him on a regular basis. Another life change by the power of the gospel! These three men located in India, Canada, and the United States are trophies of God's grace! I trust this Christmas season you will share the Christ of Christmas with someone. If you are reading this and do not know Christ personally, then accept Him today!
DECEMBER 25 BORN IN THE SHADOW OF A TREE By Don Lough, Jr. President and CEO, Word of Life Fellowship But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. (Galatians 4:4–5) Christmas day holds a special place in our hearts. It’s the day we joyfully celebrate the birth of our Savior. You might already find yourself unwrapping presents or savoring a taste of pumpkin pie with loved ones. Perhaps your plans for the day include playing board games, assembling toys, or even catching an exciting NBA or NFL matchup. While I certainly do not want to dampen your Christmas spirit, this day signifies much more than Jesus’s birth. Christ entered this world in the looming shadow of a tree, knowing His journey would lead to a criminal’s death on a rugged wooden cross. Galatians 4:4–5 serves as a poignant reminder that God sent His Son to earth with a purpose – to redeem all humanity from the grip and consequences of the law. The law reveals our sinful hearts and the vast chasm between us and God (Romans 3:20, 23). If we keep Jesus in the manger, we remain unchanged and stranded in the hopelessness and helplessness of our sin. As you celebrate Jesus Christ’s birth, remember that His arrival marked just the beginning of God’s remarkable plan to redeem us all. The lyrics of Harry Bollback’s song, “Ring the Bells,” echo this truth:
Ring the bells, ring the bells, let the whole world know, Christ was born in Bethlehem many years ago. Born to die that man might live, came to earth new life to give, Born of Mary, born so low, many years ago. God the Father gave His Son, gave His own beloved One, To the wicked sinful earth, to bring mankind His love, new birth.
The Word of Life family joins you today in celebrating Christ’s birth and His redemptive work on the cross.
WE ARE COMMITTED TO THE GOSPEL, BECAUSE THE GOSPEL CHANGES LIVES. Scan the QR Code to watch Full Circle : a video about Greg Fowler's journey to faith, and how God worked through dodgeball, discipleship, and the ministry of Word of Life to touch his story and countless others.
wol.is/greg
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