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Joy to the World Bible in a Year: Zephaniah 1–3 Revelation 16 God so loved the world. John 3:16 Today's Scripture & Insight: John 3:1–8, 13–16 Every Christmas we decorate our home with nativity scenes from around the world. We have a German nativity pyramid, a manger scene fashioned out of olive wood from Bethlehem, and a brightly colored Mexican folk version. Our family favorite is a whimsical entry from Africa. Instead of the more traditional sheep and camels, a hippopotamus gazes contently at the baby Jesus. The unique cultural perspective brought to life in these nativity scenes warms my heart as I ponder each beautiful reminder that Jesus’ birth was not just for one nation or culture. It’s good news for the whole earth, a reason for people from every country and ethnicity to rejoice. The little baby depicted in each of our nativity scenes revealed this truth of God’s heart for the entire world. As John wrote in relation to Christ’s conversation with an inquisitive Pharisee named Nicodemus, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only , that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). The of Jesus is good news for everyone. No matter where on earth you call home, Jesus’ birth is God’s offer of love and peace to you. And all who find new life in Christ, “from every tribe and language and people and nation” will one day celebrate God’s glory forever and ever (Revelation 5:9). Reflect & Pray In what unique ways do you celebrate the birth of Jesus? How might the reminder of God’s love for the whole world bring joy this Christmas season? Father, thank You for providing salvation through the of Your . 
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We have several Nativity scenes: pictures, tapestry, candles, and figurines, including the old one my children made our of plaster of paris that has withstood the years with just a little crumbling and repainting. We don't always put them all out every year, but each one has special memories of Christmas past. This Christmas present has the opportunity to be sad and depressing, but we chose to focus on Jesus and the peace and joy that His presence brings. And we look forward to Christmas future, which may or may not be here on this earth. Yes, JOY TO THE WORLD, THE LORD HAS COME! LET EARTH RECEIVE ITS KING! Be a prism, spreading God's light and love, not a mirror reflecting the world's hatred.
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12/25/2020 11:13 am |
MARBELLA, MRS JOE MERRY CHRISTMAS THANK YOU BOTH FOR MESSAGES AND THOUGHTS. YOU CANT KNOW HOW MUCH U BOTH HAVE HELPED ME TO SURVIVE BLUE LIVES MATTER DEO VIN DICE
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Beautiful. I like seeing the Live Nativity scenes that one of the local churches puts on. I was working for a woman's recovery house and took the women to see it along with the Christmas lights. The message I was trying to convey to them is there is life after recovery. Abracadabra 
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Amen 
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