DAY SIXTEEN (16 DEC 2020) - COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS

by King's Cross Training December 16, 2020

“But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favour with God.”

Luke 1:45

Extra readings: Proverbs 3:5-6; Isaiah 26:3-4

What an announcement! Have you ever put yourself in Mary's shoes? It is sort of impossible to hear this news and not celebrate, and that is exactly what Mary did.

The angel did omit a few details about the story. There was no mention of facing a possible divorce and having to navigate suspicion and gossip. I'm not sure Mary imagined having to travel on a donkey while very pregnant only to have to lay her newborn in a dingy manger. And I don't think she thought she would ever see her son ascend the throne of His father David by suffering violent torture and being crucified.

Did the angel lie? Certainly not! Every word is true, but the way to its fulfillment was not expected. You will never be asked to give birth to the Christ, but if you put your faith in Jesus then some of the words of the angel are true for you too: “Do not be afraid, you have found favour with God.” Only, expect the unexpected. Today renew your trust in God's favour in spite of what your current circumstances might be.

Prayer

Thank you, God, that I can trust in You and in Your hand upon my life. Today I renew my faith in you, Jesus. Thank you that your favour rests on me.

Want to do this devotional as a family?

1. Prepare by helping each child write down their Christmas wish list.

2. Begin by allowing each person to share about a time when something turned out unexpectedly, not in the way you thought.

3. Explain the devotion in an age-appropriate way. Mary was excited to be having this special baby but didn’t expect things to turn out the way they did.

4. Explain that there is resistance to the good plans of God for mankind coming to pass.

5. Finish by praying and blessing each child, then allow them to open their Day 16 Advent Calendar.