Scripture:
Luke 2:1-21
Sat, 24 December 2022

The Christ of Christmas Is for Everyone

Observation:

Though often overlooked in their time, humble shepherds were the first
recipients of this “good news of great joy” that “a Saviour is born in the city
of David, who is Christ the Lord”.

Deeper Reflection
CHRISTMAS IS MEANT TO BE A JOYOUS TIME OF THE YEAR. But it is also a most difficult time of the year for many people: the destitute, the sick, the prisoners and foreigners who are unable to return home to be with loved ones. In verses 1 to 21, we read about the angelic hosts appearing in glory and proclaiming the Good News of the Saviour’s birth to lowly shepherds.17 They were told that the birth of the Christ-child had taken place, but not in a palace or amidst pomp and pageantry. The shepherds immediately and hastily left to witness the nativity scene in Bethlehem for themselves.The simplicity of the scene of “a baby wrapped in swaddling clothes lying in a manger” was remarkably inviting for these shepherds, if nothing else for its ordinariness. Yes, the story behind Christmas is remarkable though a simple one. It is remarkable because God chose to become a human being and came as a humble infant to an ordinary Jewish family. Perhaps the majestic hymn of praise by the heavenly hosts to signal the coming of this Christ-Child (vv.13-14) is this: to underscore that this infant Jesus is no less divine even though he chose to be “born in the likeness of a human” (Phil 2:5-11; cf. Col 1:15-20). The Christmas story is also a simple one: on Christmas day “is born in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord” (v.11). Let’s take every opportunity to share the joy of this “good news” with everyone, especially with those who are often overlooked in our midst. Be blessed this Christmas!
17 It is a well-known theological emphasis of Luke to focus on the poor, the needy and the marginalised people in his Gospel.
Application:

Do we celebrate the joy of Christmas without any thought of those who may
be left out during this festive season?

Prayer:
Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.
Prayer Pointers:
  • Give thanks and praise
  • Pray for Church Board: To be united and wise in deliberating decisions and formulating church policies as we face a changing and challenging future ahead
  • Pray for significant people
  • Pray for those in need
  • Pray for self

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Daily Devo
Daily Devotional Journal
Scripture:
Daniel 5:7-17
Wed, 31 May 2023

Answering God’s Call in Vocation

Observation:

What significant observations can you make about Daniel?

Deeper Reflection
Daniel did not choose to serve Babylonian kings in Babylon. It was circumstances – a national crisis of his country – that compelled Daniel to be where he was and doing what he was doing. Daniel did not have the privilege, opportunity or freedom to pursue a career of his own desire. However, it was out of these adverse circumstances, that Daniel discovered God’s call for him: To serve God through serving Babylonian kings. And God gave him the specific competency to fulfil God’s call (Dan 1:17). After Daniel told Nebuchadnezzar about his dream and the interpretation, he was “promoted” to be “ruler over the whole province of Babylon and chief prefect over all the wise men of Babylon” (Dan 2:48).When Belshazzar gathered his wise men to interpret for him the inscription on the wall, Daniel was not among them. Daniel was not unknown to Belshazzar.59 He knew him as “one of the exiles from Judah, whom my father the king brought from Judah” and “appointed him chief ” over all the wise men of Babylon (vv.11-12). It was only when the queen mentioned Daniel to him, that Belshazzar called for him (vv.10-11). Belshazzar “deliberately ignored Daniel”60 . Daniel was sidelined. How do you respond to being sidelined? For Daniel, he felt secure. Daniel was secure because he had no ambition to climb the corporate ladder. He had no interest in rewards and promotion. Daniel said to Belshazzar, “Keep your gifts for yourself or give your rewards to someone else” (vv.16-17). But Daniel interpreted the inscription for Belshazzar. Daniel was answering God’s call for him.
59 Ernest C. Lucas, 131 60 Ernest C. Lucas, 131
Application:

What positive attitudes do I need to cultivate in my workplace?

Prayer:
Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.
Prayer Pointers:
  • Give thanks and praise
  • Pray for leaders
  • Pray for significant people
  • Pray for the Generations: To view their vocation as answering God’s call for their lives
  • Pray for self
 

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