22 Dec 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8V7sLV2uqIs

21 Dec 

https://youtu.be/FZCyrLzQ33Y

When the Magi did not return to King Herod as he had requested, Herod realized they had outwitted him. Furious and determined to eliminate any threat to his rule, Herod issued a horrifying decree. He ordered that all boys in Bethlehem and the surrounding area, two years old and under, be killed. He based this on the time he had learned from the Magi about the star's appearance.

This brutal act brought great mourning and sorrow. Families in Bethlehem were devastated as their children were taken from them. Matthew records this tragic event as a fulfillment of prophecy: “A voice is heard in Ramah, weeping and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because they are no more.”

Even in this dark moment, God’s sovereign plan was at work. Jesus, the child Herod sought to destroy, had already been taken safely to Egypt by Joseph, following God’s guidance.

Devotional Thought

The massacre of the innocents reminds us of the deep brokenness of our world, where power and fear often lead to devastating actions. Yet, even in this darkness, God was working to preserve His plan of salvation through Jesus. It is a reminder that God’s light shines brightest in the darkest places, bringing hope and redemption.

Reflection

Are there times when the brokenness of the world feels overwhelming? This story reminds us that God’s purposes are never thwarted, even in the midst of pain and suffering. Jesus came into this broken world to bring healing and hope. Let us hold on to that hope, trusting that God is working all things for His glory and our ultimate good, even when we can’t see it clearly.



 

20 Dec 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5UxJuf3vZU

19 Dec 

https://youtu.be/_HInMBsr0ck

After the Magi departed, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, delivering an urgent warning: “Get up, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.”

Joseph didn’t delay. He rose immediately, taking Mary and the baby Jesus during the night to begin their journey to Egypt. It was a long and likely arduous trip, but Joseph’s obedience and trust in God’s direction ensured the safety of the Savior.

The family remained in Egypt until the death of Herod. This fulfilled the prophecy spoken through the prophet: “Out of Egypt I called my son.” Meanwhile, Herod, enraged that the Magi had not returned to him, ordered a tragic and brutal decree—the massacre of all boys in Bethlehem and the surrounding region who were two years old and under. This fulfilled the prophecy of Jeremiah, describing the great weeping of Rachel mourning for her children.

After Herod’s death, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in another dream, instructing him to return to Israel with Mary and Jesus. But when Joseph heard that Archelaus, Herod’s son, was ruling in Judea, he was concerned. Warned again in a dream, he moved his family to Galilee, settling in the town of Nazareth, fulfilling the prophecy that Jesus would be called a Nazarene.

Devotional Thought

Joseph’s story shows us the importance of trusting God’s direction, even in times of fear and uncertainty. His immediate obedience protected Jesus and Mary, and his reliance on God’s guidance helped navigate difficult circumstances. Each step of their journey demonstrates that God is faithful to provide and protect, even in the most challenging situations.

Reflection

Are there moments in your life when God’s leading feels uncertain or requires great trust? Joseph’s faith encourages us to act when God calls and trust in His plans, even when the path seems unclear. When we rely on God’s guidance, we can rest assured that He is working for our good and His purpose, providing strength and safety along the way.





 

17 Dec 

https://youtu.be/ZpIwoxQJof0

Sometime after Jesus was born, wise men, often called Magi, came from the east to Jerusalem. They had seen a star rising, which they understood to mean that a great king had been born. They asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”

When King Herod heard this, he was disturbed, as were all the people of Jerusalem. Herod called together the chief priests and teachers of the law to ask where the Messiah was to be born. They told him the prophecy from Micah, which said the ruler would come from Bethlehem. Herod then secretly summoned the Magi and asked them when the star had appeared. He sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search carefully for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him.”

The Magi set out, and the star they had seen went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where Jesus was. Overwhelmed with joy, they entered the house, saw the child with Mary His mother, and bowed down to worship Him. They presented their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh—valuable offerings that symbolised Jesus’ kingship, divinity, and future sacrifice.

But God warned the Magi in a dream not to return to Herod, so they took another route home. Meanwhile, Herod’s true intentions would soon be revealed, showing the dark contrast between his jealousy and the Magi’s devotion.

Devotional Thought

The Magi’s journey reminds us of the importance of seeking Jesus. They traveled a great distance, overcoming obstacles, driven by their desire to worship the true King. Their gifts reflected their understanding of Jesus’ identity: as King (gold), God (frankincense), and Savior (myrrh).

Reflection

How far are we willing to go to seek Jesus? The Magi’s story encourages us to pursue Him with humility, devotion, and joy, offering the best of what we have in worship. Like them, we may face distractions or challenges along the way, but when we fix our eyes on Jesus, we find the One who fulfills our deepest longings. Let us, too, bring Him the gift of our hearts and worship the King who came for us.

16 Dec 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=90mcg1gBN7E

15 Dec 

https://youtu.be/zt-_3KifiV4

Eight days after Jesus was born, Mary and Joseph had Him circumcised and named Him Jesus, as the angel had instructed. Then, when Jesus was about 40 days old, they brought Him to the temple in Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord, according to the law of Moses.

In the temple that day were two devout people: Simeon and Anna. 

Simeon, a righteous man, had been waiting his whole life to see the Messiah. The Holy Spirit had revealed to him that he wouldn’t die before seeing the Lord’s promised Saviour. On this day, he felt led by the Spirit to go to the temple, and when he saw Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus, he knew this child was the one he’d been waiting for. Simeon took Jesus in his arms, praising God and saying, “My eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations.” He blessed Mary and Joseph, and he spoke of how Jesus would bring hope and salvation, yet would also face opposition.

Nearby was Anna, an elderly prophetess who had devoted her life to prayer and worship. When she saw Jesus, she immediately recognised Him as the Redeemer. Filled with gratitude, she praised God and began telling everyone who was waiting for the Messiah that He had arrived.

Devotional Thought

Simeon and Anna waited a lifetime to see the Messiah, and they remained faithful, trusting in God’s promise. When they finally saw Jesus, they recognised Him as the hope and salvation they had longed for. Their patient faith reminds us that God fulfils His promises, sometimes in ways we don’t expect but always at the right time.

Reflection

Do we look for God’s presence and promises with the same faith as Simeon and Anna? Their story encourages us to keep our hope in God, even when we face long seasons of waiting. Let’s pray for eyes to recognise God’s work in our lives, just as they did. And may we, like Anna, share the good news with others, knowing that Jesus is our hope and salvation.

14 Dec 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-aCpzNM6gaY&list=OLAK5uy_ll5OSkOpzcDneiktsgfcerD5ieOawOO2c

13 Dec 

https://youtu.be/EXcuKmnqfpM

Angels Appear to the Shepherds (Luke 2:8-20)

On the night of Jesus' birth, there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks. Shepherds were considered humble and lowly, often overlooked by society, yet it was to these shepherds that God chose to announce the birth of His Son. 
Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them. The shepherds were terrified, but the angel reassured them, saying, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David, a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

Then, a multitude of heavenly hosts appeared, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favour rests.” It was a magnificent scene, a glimpse of heaven’s joy at the arrival of the Saviour.

After the angels left, the shepherds decided to go to Bethlehem to see this miraculous event. They hurried to find Mary, Joseph, and the baby lying in the manger, just as the angel had described. The shepherds were filled with awe, and they spread the word about what they had seen and heard, glorifying and praising God for all they had witnessed.

Devotional Thought

God’s message of peace and joy was first given to shepherds—people on the outskirts of society. This choice reveals God’s heart for everyone, especially those who feel overlooked or unworthy. The shepherds' story shows us that the good news of Jesus is for all people, regardless of status or position.

Reflection
Are there times when you feel disconnected or distant from God’s love? The shepherds remind us that God’s message of salvation is meant for each of us personally. We don’t have to be special by the world’s standards to receive His love. Just as God reached out to the shepherds, He reaches out to us with the same love and joy. May we embrace this message and share His love freely, knowing that the birth of Jesus is good news for everyone, everywhere.

12 Dec 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xK2LDaBGCKw

11 Dec 

https://youtu.be/bWhMViarlGw

In Bethlehem, Mary’s time came, and she gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him in cloths and laid him in a manger because there was no room available for them in the inn. This simple act marked the arrival of Jesus, the Saviour of the world, in the humblest of circumstances. Surrounded by the warmth of the animals and laid in a feeding trough, Jesus entered the world quietly, without fanfare, into a setting far removed from the halls of kings and rulers.

God chose to introduce His Son not in grandeur or splendour, but in a place so humble that few even noticed. Yet, it was this very humility that would characterise Jesus’ life and ministry—coming not to be served but to serve, offering love and hope to all people, no matter their status or wealth.

Devotional Thought

The birth of Jesus in a manger reminds us that God doesn’t need the world’s recognition or prestige to accomplish His purposes. He often works in quiet and unexpected ways, revealing His presence in the humble places of our lives. Jesus’ birth shows us that God values what the world might overlook—He is near to the lowly, the humble, and those who feel unseen.

Reflection

Are there areas in your life where you feel insignificant or unnoticed? Remember that God’s presence is not limited to grand places or moments. Just as He was present in the stable with Mary, Joseph, and Jesus, He is with you in your own “manger moments.” May we learn to look for God’s glory in the everyday and trust that He meets us where we are, transforming even the most humble of places with His love.

10 Dec 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6aGLV5CfoTU

9 Dec 

https://youtu.be/-is81XRxn3I

At this time, the Roman emperor, Caesar Augustus, issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. Every person was required to register in their ancestral town. For Joseph, this meant a journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem, the town of his ancestor, King David.

So, Joseph set off on the road to Bethlehem, bringing Mary along with him. Mary was now in the final stages of her pregnancy, and the journey—around 90 miles on foot and perhaps with the help of a donkey—would have been tiring and difficult. But both Mary and Joseph trusted that God was guiding them, even though the timing seemed challenging.

When they arrived in Bethlehem, they found the town crowded with people who had also come to register for the census. Mary was nearing the time to give birth, yet there was no place for them to stay. Eventually, they found a shelter—a stable, or perhaps a room where animals were kept. It wasn’t the place they might have hoped to welcome their firstborn, yet it was here, in these humble surroundings, that Mary gave birth to Jesus, wrapping him in cloths and laying him in a manger.

Devotional Thought

Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem teaches us that sometimes God leads us into difficult situations for a greater purpose. The timing of the census might have seemed inconvenient or even unfair, but it placed them exactly where God had planned for Jesus to be born—in Bethlehem, fulfilling the prophecy that the Messiah would come from David’s line.

Reflection

Are there times in your life when you’ve felt led into challenging circumstances? Perhaps you’ve faced difficult “journeys” that seemed to have no clear outcome. Just as God used Mary and Joseph’s journey to fulfill His promises, He can use our own difficult paths for His purposes. We may not see it immediately, but God is with us, even in the hard times, guiding us step by step. Let’s trust that, as He worked in the lives of Mary and Joseph, He is also working through the hard places in our lives, fulfilling His good plans.

8 Dec 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NzEX3QMuVPM

7 Dec 

https://youtu.be/VZcz858B7B8

After the miraculous birth of John, life for Mary and Joseph continued, but changes were on the horizon. Joseph, having received the news of Mary’s miraculous conception, was faced with a difficult decision. Engaged to Mary, he discovered that she was pregnant, and naturally, he was troubled. He knew he had not fathered the child, and the news left him in a state of confusion and distress.

In his heart, Joseph considered quietly divorcing Mary to spare her from public shame, as the law permitted. However, he was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to disgrace. As he pondered this dilemma, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream. The angel said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”

This message was profound, clarifying not only the origin of Mary’s pregnancy but also the significance of the child she would bear. The angel explained that this event fulfilled the prophecy from Isaiah, which foretold that a virgin would give birth to a son called Immanuel, meaning “God with us.”

When Joseph woke from his dream, he acted immediately. He took Mary as his wife, showing great faith and obedience to God’s command. He did not consummate their marriage until after Jesus was born, remaining faithful to God’s instructions.

Devotional Thought

Joseph’s response to the angel’s message demonstrates remarkable faith and courage. He was confronted with a situation that could have led to shame and social stigma, yet he chose to trust in God’s plan over his own understanding. His willingness to obey, despite the potential consequences, shows us what it means to act in faith.

Reflection

Are there areas in your life where God is calling you to step out in faith, even when the path seems uncertain? Like Joseph, we may face situations that challenge our understanding and push us out of our comfort zones. Yet, when we trust God and obey His call, we open ourselves to His extraordinary plans. May we have the courage to follow His lead, knowing 

6 Dec 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mM9sTGIPal8&list=PL6Mb92FE5WdV7_5EIqoezu3LzPqZF9UVO&index=6

5 Dec 

https://youtu.be/5y4rK51AYNM

Shortly after the angel Gabriel’s visit, Mary decided to visit her relative Elizabeth, who lived in the hill country of Judea. Elizabeth was much older and had been unable to have children, but Mary had just learned that Elizabeth was now miraculously pregnant, as the angel had told her.

Mary set out on a journey to Elizabeth’s home. When she arrived and greeted Elizabeth, something amazing happened. At the sound of Mary’s voice, the baby in Elizabeth’s womb leaped, as if he recognised the presence of Mary’s child, the coming Messiah. Elizabeth was immediately filled with the Holy Spirit, and she exclaimed with joy, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favoured, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfil His promises to her!”

Humbled and grateful, Mary responded with a beautiful song of praise, later called the Magnificat. She glorified God for choosing her and for lifting up the humble. She praised Him for His mercy and for fulfilling His promises to His people. Mary stayed with Elizabeth for about three months, sharing this special time with her until Elizabeth was ready to give birth to her son, John, who would one day prepare the way for Jesus.

Devotional Thought

In this meeting, Elizabeth and her unborn child immediately recognised God’s presence in Mary’s life. Even before Jesus was born, His presence brought joy and blessing. Elizabeth’s joyful response reminds us to stay open to where God is moving around us. Sometimes, like Mary, we may feel unworthy or uncertain about God’s purpose for us. Yet, God chooses to work through ordinary people, just as He did with Mary and Elizabeth, to accomplish extraordinary things.

Reflection

Are there ways God might be showing up around you, even in small or unexpected ways? Like Elizabeth, we can invite the Holy Spirit to open our eyes to recognise God’s presence and blessings in our lives. And, like Mary, we can respond with faith, trusting that God’s work in us will bring blessing to others. May we approach each day with eyes and hearts open to the joy of recognising God at work.


 

4 Dec 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=skVyUI9MvK0&list=PLHDtq-EIG_lfzR6S74zLGQOn0Y2MrOgv4&index=2

3 Dec 

https://youtu.be/eZrCLSIHFAc

In the small town of Nazareth, a young woman named Mary was going about her daily life when something remarkable happened. Mary, who was engaged to a man named Joseph, was visited by an angel named Gabriel. The angel appeared suddenly, greeting her with the words, “Greetings, you who are highly favoured! The Lord is with you.”

Mary was startled and confused by this greeting. She wondered what such a message could mean, but Gabriel reassured her, saying, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favour with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.”

Mary was in awe, but she also had questions. “How will this be,” she asked, “since I am a virgin?”

The angel explained, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth, your relative, is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is now in her sixth month. For nothing is impossible with God.”

Hearing this, Mary’s heart was filled with wonder and faith. She didn’t fully understand everything that was to come, but she trusted God’s plan. Humbly, she responded, “I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled.”

With these words, the angel left her, and Mary was left with the incredible knowledge that she would play a vital role in God’s plan to bring salvation to the world. She was about to become the mother of the Saviour, Jesus—the Son of God—whose kingdom would have no end.

Devotional thought

When Gabriel brings Mary the message that she will bear the Son of God, it’s an extraordinary, even overwhelming, moment. Mary, a young woman from a small town, could never have imagined such a calling. Despite her questions and the uncertainties that lay ahead, she responds with faith: “I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled.”

Mary’s humble “yes” to God is a powerful example of trust and obedience. She didn’t fully understand what was to come, but she trusted that God’s plan was good, and she was willing to play her part.

Reflection

Is there something God may be inviting you to say “yes” to, even if it feels daunting or unclear? Like Mary, we don’t need to have all the answers before we take a step of faith. God calls us to be open and willing, trusting that He will equip us along the way.

As we consider Mary’s example, may we find courage to say “yes” to God, believing that He can use even our smallest steps of faith to fulfil His greater purposes.


 

2 Dec 

1 Dec