Listen to this devotion
So All May See
In the Word
"No one lights a lamp and puts it in a place where it will be hidden, or under a bowl. Instead he puts it on its stand, so that those who come in may see the light"Β (Luke 11:33).
Of the Word
If our Christmas tree sits by a big window, we keep the curtains open so passersby can see it. We want them to notice twinkling lights, colorful ornaments, and holiday garlands. When our neighbors do the same thing, the whole block looks festive and bright!
While few would dim the lights of their trees by pulling the curtains, many of us dim the Christmas story by drawing a curtain around our faith. We go along with the world's holiday themes, keeping the true reason for all the merriment confined to our homes, our churches, and our hearts. We talk about gifts and elves and Santa Claus, not wanting to offend anyone by speaking of the Christ Child born in a manger on a silent night in Bethlehem.
Empowered by the Holy Spirit, we can pull open the curtains we draw around our faith. He gives us the confidence to be who we are β lights shining as brightly as candles on a dark night. By God's grace, we can tell the real Christmas story.
Walking with my Lord
Lord Jesus, send Your Spirit into our hearts so we may shine the light of Your Gospel for others to see. Amen.
Mustard Seed: The Joy of Christmas. 15/32 Author: Patricia Mitchell. Β©2011 Lutheran Womenβs Missionary League, 801 Seminary Place Ste. L010, St. Louis, MO 63105. www.lwml.org
Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations are taken from The HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION Copyright Β© 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. All rights reserved worldwide.
