THE UPPER ROOM DEVOTIONAL 18TH DECEMBER 2024, WEDNESDAY MESSAGE
Read The Upper Room Devotional 18th December 2024 written by Peg Arnold (Colorado, USA)
TOPIC: Beautiful Lights
Today’s Reading
Matthew 5:13-16
Walk while you have the light, before darkness overtakes you. . . . Believe in the light while you have the light, so that you may become children of light. – John 12:35-36 (NIV)
Today’s Message
I love the lights this time of year as I drive through neighborhood streets, sit in the glow of a Christmas tree, and walk through my town’s multi-colored display. However, these beautiful light displays require work. At our house, light strands always malfunction. This year we struggled to find a working strand to weave through an unlit section of our garland.
While staring at the dark section of garland, I was reminded that though we may be connected to the same power through our relationship with Christ, we do not all enter the Christmas season with bright spirits. The same decorations that bring me joy and comfort can trigger painful memories for others. I remember Christmases marked by grief: the death of a loved one, a job ending, and even the loss of a pregnancy. Having endured those challenging years, I know not everyone experiences the delights of the holidays.
In John 12:36, Jesus urges his disciples to connect with him so they can become children of the light, shining his light in the world. We are called to reach out to those with heavy hearts through hugs, prayers, and acts of kindness, weaving God’s light through their lives.
Today’s Prayer
Dear Jesus, as we celebrate your birth, may we focus on your love, hope, and purpose. Bring your light to those who need comfort and strength. Amen.
Thought for the Day
I will share Christ’s light and love with those whose hearts are heavy this season.
Prayer Focus
Those grieving during the holidays
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More From Peg Arnold
The Upper Room Devotional 18th December 2024, is a daily devotional magazine published in more than 30 languages and 100 countries around the world. The daily meditations are written by readers of the magazine and others interested in sharing their faith experiences through writing—both laity and clergy, published authors and new writers. Read More