Monday, 25th December 2023
Bible Reading: Matthew 1: 18-25
Memory Verse: Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. John 3:3 (KJV)
You will agree with me that even though Jesus is the reason for this season, many have ignored or are not willing to hear about Him nor know Him. The focus most times is the funfare attached to the season especially in the developed countries of the world. Why should a generation forget their God? Why should we neglect so great a message of salvation? (Heb. 2:3). My heart bleeds.
We celebrate a season devoid of the celebrant. Christmas songs, Christmas trees, Christmas food, Christmas lights, Christmas carnival, Christmas clothes, Christmas house, beach parties, and amusement parks filled to the brim, etc, are some of the characteristics of this season.
In Africa, a whole street, and perhaps a community could declare a 3-7 days of carnival. But, can we seat down for a minute to ask: Where is the risen Christ in all of these parties and festivities? It is not wise to celebrate a party when the celebrant is absent.
Do you think Jesus is in those parties where people drink themselves to stupor? Do you think Christ who is the author of order will put pressure on anyone to go build a mansion in his village solely for Christmas because he wants to oppress his fellow siblings? Do you think Jesus is happy with people who are celebrating a season but not His person at the centre of the season?
Many who are celebrating Christmas have not made Jesus their saviour talk less as their Lord. This is a burden in my heart. Pray for the salvation of your sibling, your parent, your neighbours, or your colleague in this season. Until then, our many carnivals, fiesta, jamboree is only a waste of time and effort.
Call for Salvation: Today, O Lord, I recognize I am a sinner. I humbly come before your throne, please have mercy upon me, wash me by the Blood of Jesus whom we celebrate on this day, and please write my name in the book of life.
Quote: The reason for this season has been defeated if Jesus is not at the Lord over your heart.
Prophetic Decree: The purpose of the birth of Jesus shall not go in vain over your life, in Jesus name.
Prayer Focus
1. O Lord, we repent for any misuse of a day like today meant to realign ourselves back to you, but spent on revelling.
2. O Lord, in your infinite mercies, shed your great light upon this generation, in Jesus name.
3. Let the spirit of genuine repentance, genuine conviction and genuine conversion envelop my family, in Jesus name.
4. O Lord, as a result of today, capture the heart of our leaders for you, in Jesus name.
5. I command the two leaf gate of my city to be opened for the King of glory to come in, in Jesus name.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 Peter, Jude