Christmas Lights: Taking Them Down?
We all know people who keep their Christmas lights up until Easter. But what about the light of Christ that we shine? Should we take those lights down after Christmas? The scriptures give us a resounding “No!”
Daily Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for shining your light in us and through us.
Keep our lights shining brightly for you, even after the holiday season. Amen.
Monday, December 28
Read Luke 18:1-8. We never know when or how God will answer our prayers. When have you given up praying because you thought the situation was hopeless? When you have you continued to pray even though the problem seemed insurmountable?
Tuesday, December 29
Read Acts 4. Peter and John had healed a crippled man in the name of Jesus. The religious leaders wanted them to stop. What was Peter and John’s reply? What forces in our world want you to put the light of Christ away? What’s your response?
Wednesday, December 30
Read 2 Peter 1:1-11. Peter lists a number of character traits of believers in God’s promises. Take some time to meditate on each one. What does Peter say is the purpose of these character traits? Why does perseverance show up on the list?
Thursday, December 31
Read Galatians 6:1-10. Paul encourages us to carry each other’s burdens. What happens when you carry something heavy for a long period of time? How can we make sure we don’t give up doing good for others, even if it’s hard?
Friday, January 1
Read Romans 5:1-11. Loving people is hard, messy work. The forces of darkness in our world don’t like when the light exposes what happens there. Why would Paul encourage us to “rejoice in our sufferings?” How does that produce perseverance? What is our motivation to keep on going?
Saturday, January 2
Read Hebrews 10:11-25. According to this passage, what has Jesus accomplished for us? Why is it so important for us to continue to meet together? Why can’t we just do this on our own?
Bethel Lutheran Church, St. Paul, MN – bethelstpaul.com