Devotional Thought

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this." Isaiah 9:6-7

Christmas is the celebration of the greatest story ever told—the birth of Jesus, the Messiah. Isaiah 9:6-7 offers us a glimpse into the identity of this promised child. Jesus is not merely a baby in a manger; He is the Wonderful Counselor, offering wisdom and guidance; the Mighty God, demonstrating power and sovereignty; the Everlasting Father, extending eternal care; and the Prince of Peace, bringing restoration to a broken world.

However, not everyone celebrates Christmas with joy. Like Ebenezer Scrooge in A Christmas Carol, some resist the spirit of the season due to cynicism, materialism, or personal pain. But just as Scrooge’s heart is transformed by revisiting his past, present, and future, we are invited to see Christmas as a time to embrace God’s extraordinary gift of love and salvation.

As we prepare our hearts to celebrate the birth of Jesus, may we reject the cynicism of “Bah! Humbug!” and embrace the joy, generosity, and wonder that reflect the true meaning of Christmas.

Reflection Questions

1. Isaiah 9:6 lists four titles for the Messiah. Which of these resonates most deeply with you, and why?

2. Reflect on a time when the story of Jesus' birth brought hope or joy into a challenging season of your life. How can this encourage others?

3. Christmas often emphasizes giving gifts. How does the tradition of giving reflect God’s ultimate gift of Jesus?

4. The sermon highlights common objections to Christmas celebrations. How can you lovingly address these misconceptions with those who challenge its observance?

5. Consider the Christmas tree, nativity scene, or other symbols mentioned. How can these be used to point others to Christ’s story rather than being seen as distractions?

6. Reflect on a gift you gave that brought joy to someone else. How does this mirror God’s joy in giving us His Son?

7. How can you intentionally keep Christ at the center of your celebrations, amidst the busyness and commercialism of the season?

8. What opportunities do you have to share the "greatest story in the universe" with someone this Christmas? How will you prepare to do so?