JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Light Reflection is from Matthew 2:1 and 2.

“After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”

The light of Christmas leads us to a place of worshipping Jesus. As the Magi brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh for Jesus, they also brought with them their hearts of worship. Their example reveals that Jesus is worthy of our very best that we have to offer Him. After all, God gave His best for us.

Their journey reflects the truth of Jeremiah 29:13, where the LORD says, “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”

This Light Reflection inspires us to seek Jesus earnestly for the honor of His name in the Year to Shine.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com

JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Moment of Celebration reflects on the chorus of praises surrounding the birth of Christ.

Christmas reminds us that Jesus is God’s ultimate gift to the world.

The birth of Christ was a cause for celebration for Mary, the mother of Jesus, who said, “My soul glorifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.”

The birth of Christ was a cause for celebration for the shepherds. After their encounter with the baby Jesus, they returned to their fields, glorifying and praising God for what they had heard and seen.

The birth of Christ was a cause of celebration for the wise men, who brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to Jesus. They also bowed down and worshiped him.

The birth of Christ was a cause of celebration for the heavenly angels, who said on the night of His birth, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”

We can join the chorus of praises in response to a loving God who remembered us and came to meet us at our point of need.

The birth of Christ is a reason to be glad in the Year of Celebration.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com