John | Be Still...

John 1:1-18 💙 Christ, The Eternal Word

We often think of Jesus as the baby in the manger who grows up to do miracles, die on the cross, and be raised from the dead in three days. While he did all those things, Jesus’ identity encompasses so much more. In fact, we can’t even begin to wrap our minds around the miracle that happened when God sent his son, the Word, into the world.

If we replace the word “Word” with “Jesus” as this passage begins, we can get a clearer picture of another truth about Jesus. He is eternal and has been with God the Father from the beginning. I often refer to God as the “Creator,” but this passage suggests Jesus was also responsible, for “nothing was created except through him.” That gives our picture of Jesus a much richer dimension, doesn’t it?

John 13:1-20 💚 One Who Serves

Read John 13:1-20

Who is Jesus? That’s the theme we’ll be exploring for the next few readings. This passage is certainly full of clues. Jesus has even given us an example to follow, just as he did for his disciples. What stood out to you today?

Jesus as our servant has always been a powerful image for me. Foot washing was done by the servant in the house. You can imagine the disciples’ surprise when Jesus was making this offer. Peter can’t get over it. Jesus told him, “You don’t understand now what I am doing, but someday you will.”

Day 11 🌲 Away in a Manger

wooden manger with straw and bright light radiating from it

I’ve always thought of this carol as a great lullaby. This is a song that you have to start on a higher note since it starts at its high point. (Do I sound like a musician!) I’m picturing the hand motions I’ve taught children over the years to help them remember the words to the song. I love how spending time with each of these Christmas carols has opened up the flood of memories!

Away in a manger, no crib for a bed,
the little Lord Jesus laid down his sweet head.
The stars in the bright sky looked down where he lay,
the little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay.

Day 6 🌲 Hark the Herald Angels Sing

animated and colorful portrayal of angels flying in the sky with glory and shepherds and sheep below

In every Christmas pageant I’ve been part of, this song always seems to appear. Try explaining to children what some of these lyrics mean! It’s easy to point to the angels, because after all they are the ones proclaiming the message of the song.

Kids understand angels it seems. We adults may have a harder time wrapping our minds around them. At least for me, being visited by an angel would be a huge honor and definite high point in my life. That is, once I got past the “fear and trembling,” which seems to be a common reaction! Read Luke 2:8-14.

Day 1 🌲 O Little Town of Bethlehem

Merry Christmas!!

Fun Fact! The 12 Days of Christmas start on Christmas Day (if you’re following a liturgical calendar). As your 12 Days of Christmas begin this year, let’s take pause to explore the lyrics of some of our favorite Christmas carols. There is a richness I’m only now beginning to fully appreciate (and, as my kids tell me, “I’m old.”).