Advent devotions: Dec. 25, 2017

Monday December 25

Luke 2-1-20 The Birth of Jesus

In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to their own towns to be registered. Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

 In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.’ And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying,
‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!’

 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.’ So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them. But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.

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Today as I celebrate the birth of Jesus it becomes in my family a triple celebration. Not only is it Jesus’ birthday but also my grandson and grandson-in-law who were born on this day. I always told Dan he was special because of this and now we acquired a new family member who is also special. To share a birthday is really a great honor but to have two family members share this day is even more special. When Dan was very young and had learned that twins were two children born on the same day he proudly announced that he and Jesus were twins and was very proud of that fact. Of course we explained to him this was not true but it made him feel important. God is still in his life and will be forever. Happy birthday to Jesus and all those special people born on this day.

Prayer: Heavenly Father we ask that you be with all who celebrate this day the birth of Your Son. As always keep watch over all Your children on earth and guide us to a peaceful world. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen

Dorothy Kafalas