Grace and peace be upon you, Church!
We are just about a week away from celebrating Christmas, and as we often remind one another Jesus is the reason for the season.
While Jesus was not historically born on December 25th, this does nothing to diminish the profound significance of the birth narrative of our Lord and Savior. Christmas is not about a date on the calendar. It is about a divine moment in history when God invaded human space by taking on human flesh.
Jesus entered this world as a baby. He grew as a child, matured as a teenager, and lived fully as an adult man. The eternal God stepped into time showing us what a Servant of God looks like.
In our world today, the debate over the identity of Christ continues to rage. That is precisely why Christmas matters. As Christians, we are continually called to contend for the truth of who Jesus is and that defense begins with His birth. The incarnation anchors the gospel.
So I want to encourage you as we approach Christmas. Below is a simple chronological reading plan, beginning tomorrow and continuing through Christmas Day (18th-25th). Each day, take a few moments to read a portion of the birth narrative of Jesus.
If you have children, sit them down and read as a family. It may surprise you to learn that many of our children know more about the birth of Christ than some adults. Let’s change that! Let us be a people rooted in truth and intentional in teaching the next generation.
Chronological Birth Narrative Reading Plan – December 18–25
December 18 – The Promise Foretold
Luke 1:5–25
December 19 – The Angel Visits Mary
Luke 1:26–38
December 20 – Mary’s Praise & John Leaps
Luke 1:39–56
December 21 – Joseph’s Obedience
Matthew 1:18–25
December 22 – The Birth of the King
Luke 2:1–7
December 23 – Heaven Declares the Good News
Luke 2:8–20
December 24 – Hope Confirmed
Luke 2:21–38
December 25 – The King Is Revealed
Matthew 2:1–12
Bonus Reading for Christmas Day
John 1:1–14 — “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.”
If the Lord reveals something new to you through this reading, I would love to hear it. Share it with me.
Blessings be with you,
Pastor Lu