WEEK 2 - REAWAKENING TO THE LIFE, DEATH, AND RESURRECTION OF CHRIST
This week, we will focus on various aspects of Christ’s Incarnation—from birth to death and Resurrection. We will turn our eyes to focus on the person of Jesus in all of His glory and continuously pray for deeper understanding of who He is.
DAY EIGHT - THE BIRTH OF CHRIST - NATE SANS
Luke 2:1-7
And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. 3 So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. 4 Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, 5 to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. 6 So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. 7 And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
The word “potential” finds its Latin roots in “being able” and “power.” It begins with what seems to be small and insignificant. Yet, when released, it causes a chain reaction exponentially altering all that it touches. An atom is minuscule; but when split, it has the potential to release enormous amounts of energy that can be terrifying; yet, that same power has the potential to light up a city for years.
Consider the potential riddled throughout Luke 2:1–20. Life-changing potential is gifted to a young, insignificant couple betrothed to one another. The nameless shepherds are caught up in a glorious acapella worship session led by angels. When the show is over, they band together, go to a tiny town, and find themselves in awe of a small new life with great potential.
Notice how the potential of Jesus’ entry extends in two directions—deep and wide. It goes wide as the shepherds experience Jesus. As good extroverts, they spread the news about “this child,” and all who heard were amazed. The deep-reaching impact of Jesus’ entry into the world is displayed in Mary’s classic introverted response as she deeply “treasures up all these things” and continues to “ponder them in her heart.”
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Ponder God’s great potential in the person of Jesus. Recognize how His humble entry into your world has changed you and equipped you to bring light into a darkened world that so desperately needs to hear that He can forever redeem any soul who calls on His name.
2. Pray that the Holy Spirit will help you see potential places where He is at work in those around you.
3. Ask the Lord to highlight areas in your life that you need to be convicted of and to bring comfort to areas that need His healing touch.