Jesus24365 Weekly #10 | Art of Grace #4: A Child is Born – Light of the World |Jesus24365 Ministry | Sunday, December 22, 2024

Art of Grace #4: A Child is Born – Light of the World

Jesus24365 Weekly #10

Jesus24365 Ministry | Sunday, December 22, 2024

Dear Beloved Jesus24365 Family,

With Christmas just days away, I want to thank you for being here—for seeking Christ’s light and walking this journey of faith with me. I know this season looks different for each of us. Some are celebrating surrounded by loved ones, while others carry burdens, weariness, or longings. Wherever you are today, Jesus came for you. His light shines for you. His love surrounds you.

I’ll never forget my first Christmas morning at St. Marcus Lutheran Church in Milwaukee. The sanctuary glowed with morning light as hymns rose in worship, telling the story of salvation from beginning to end. I remember sitting there, listening to these songs—some familiar, some new—and feeling an overwhelming sense of peace and awe.

After the service, I joined a gathering at the home of Vicki, a church member. Her house was filled with warmth, laughter, and the beauty of fellowship. That day, I saw the fullness of Christmas: the light of Christ shining in worship, in community, and in our hearts.

This week, I want to share those very songs with you—the ones that stirred my heart and deepened my faith. Let’s journey together through three moments of Christ’s light breaking into the world, paired with hymns from that unforgettable morning. I hope this brings you the same peace, hope, and wonder as we celebrate the Savior’s birth.

Key Verse of the Week

"Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord." (Luke 2:11, NIV)

This verse is the heart of Christmas. A Savior has come—not just for the world, but for you. His light shatters the darkness, bringing hope, joy, and peace to every heart that welcomes Him.

Reflecting on Christ’s Light Through Word and Song

1. The Manger’s Light 🌌

What to See:

Picture the humble stable on that holy night. Baby Jesus lies swaddled in a manger, His light breaking through the shadows. Mary kneels in quiet wonder, Joseph watches protectively, and the shepherds bow low in reverence. The rough stable becomes a sacred place as the light of Christ transforms the darkness.

Song to Reflect On:" Once in Royal David’s City" – Choir of King’s College, Cambridge

This hymn captures the humility and beauty of Christ’s birth:

"He came down to earth from heaven,

Who is God and Lord of all,

And His shelter was a stable,

And His cradle was a stall."

As you listen, imagine kneeling at the manger. God came to meet us in the ordinary, broken places of our lives.

Reflection Prompt:

Take a quiet moment to reflect: Where do you need Christ’s light to shine this week—your relationships, your heart, or your plans? Write it down and pray: “Jesus, thank You for coming to meet me where I am. Shine Your light in this part of my life.”

2. The Angelic Proclamation 🌈

What to See:

Imagine the shepherds on a quiet hillside, surrounded by darkness. Suddenly, the sky bursts with radiant light as an angel appears, proclaiming: “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” A heavenly chorus fills the night, their voices echoing, “Glory to God in the highest!”

Song to Reflect On: "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" – Amy Grant

This hymn echoes the angels’ proclamation of joy and peace:

"Hark! The herald angels sing,

'Glory to the newborn King;

Peace on earth, and mercy mild,

God and sinners reconciled!'"

As you listen, let the message sink in: Jesus came to reconcile us to God. His birth brings peace to every troubled heart.

Reflection Prompt:

Who in your life needs to hear this message of hope and peace? Pray for them today, and consider sharing a word of encouragement, an invitation to worship, or a reminder of God’s love.

3. The Journey of the Magi 🌟

What to See:

Picture three wise men traveling across the desert, guided by the brilliant Star of Bethlehem. Their journey is long, but their faith drives them forward. When they finally reach the newborn King, they bow in worship and offer their gifts—gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

Song to Reflect On: "We Three Kings" – Koiné

This hymn tells the story of the Magi’s journey with reverence and joy:

"Star of wonder, star of night,

Star with royal beauty bright,

Westward leading, still proceeding,

Guide us to Thy perfect light."

Like the Magi, we are invited to follow Christ’s light with faith, determination, and worship.

Reflection Prompt:

What gift can you bring to Jesus this Christmas? Your time in prayer, a renewed trust in His plans, or an act of kindness for someone in need? Write it down and take a step this week to honor Him.

The Playlist: Nine Lessons & Carols for Christmas Day 🎶

These songs carried me through my first Christmas morning at St. Marcus, reminding me of God’s faithfulness and filling my heart with worship. I’ve gathered them here for you to experience the same peace and joy:

As you listen,

let the music guide your heart into

stillness, worship, and reflection.

Your Turn: Share Your Story

Music connects us to memories, faith, and each other. These songs became a cherished part of my Christmas at St. Marcus, and now I want to hear from you:

What are your most cherished Christmas songs? Which ones bring you peace, joy, or remind you of God’s light in your life?

Comment below and share! Your story may bless and encourage someone else.

Coming This Week

• Wednesday: Spiritual Nourishment #3 - Finding Strength in Psalms - A midweek reflection video—Four Psalms that connect beautifully to Luke 2:11.

  
  

• Friday: Founder’s Reflection #22 —I'll share my thoughts and goals to carry Christ’s light into the New Year 2025 with purpose and faith.

  
  

A Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus, the Light of the World. As we celebrate His birth, fill our hearts with peace, joy, and awe. Help us to reflect His light to those around us this Christmas and always. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

Wishing you the Happiest and Holiest Christmas!

May the light of Christ shine brightly in your heart and home.

With joy and peace in Christ,

Jeff❤️

Jesus24365 Ministry

P.S. If this letter blessed you, let me know by commenting below—even a simple ‘Amen’ is a reflection of faith and encouragement, or share your favorite Christmas song. And if you know someone who needs to hear this message, please share it. Together, let’s spread the light of Christ this Christmas.