Advent DevotionalSample

The Story of Jesus

The arrival of famous and powerful people typically involves over-the-top fanfare. Imagine a celebrity rolling up to a press tour. What do you see? Perhaps a large crowd elbowing past each other for a glimpse. Paparazzi swarm the red carpet with hundreds of flashing cameras. Off to the side you might see burly security determined to keep some form of order. Then, the first sighting of the celebrity produces screams, cheers, and crying as a wave of emotion sweeps the crowd. That’s a typical response to the arrival of a prominent person in our world, right?

Well, in the Kingdom of God, the arrival of the most important person in the history of the world prompted a far different response. When Jesus, the one and only Son of God, was born there were no crowds or paparazzi present to greet Him. Instead, Jesus chose for Himself the humblest of beginnings: a dirty manger in an overcrowded town among a poor and despised people. Why would the King of the universe choose to start his reign in such a way?

By taking on the likeness of humankind and adopting the role of servant, Jesus made it possible for Himself to submit to a shameful and excruciating death on a cross. The lowly origins of Jesus demonstrate that there is no limit to what God will do to display His love and saving power for us! In the world, we are tempted to think of fame and power as the means to achieve self-worth. However, the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus shows that servanthood and humility are the path to praise and exaltation in the Kingdom of Heaven.

Reflect

Read Philippians 2:1-11, coupled with Luke 2:1-7. What do these verses teach you about the character of God? In what areas of your life can you practice the humility of Christ?

Pray

Father, thank You for the outpouring of Your love for us! There is no length You will not go to demonstrate Your saving power. You are complete and utter in Your forgiveness of our sins. We are grateful for how Jesus humbled himself by taking on human flesh, adopting the role of a servant, and choosing to die for our sins. His humility is worthy of our praise and exaltation! We worship you King Jesus in all your might and glory. Amen.