Welcome to The Upper Room 30th November 2022 Devotional, Wednesday Message written by Adhiambo E. Ochien’g (Nairobi, Kenya). As you study today’s devotional, remember this; “Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15 (NLT)
TOPIC: Reason to Celebrate
TODAY’S READING
John 6:47-59
Jesus said, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats of this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh.” – John 6:51 (NRSV)
When I was a child, though my family was Christian, we didn’t celebrate Christmas. I remember seeing families going to church on Christmas Eve and Christmas morning, singing carols, gathering to celebrate, and doing all the merry things; but not us.
When I asked why we celebrated the death and resurrection of Jesus but not his birth, I was told that Jesus wasn’t born on December 25th; but we didn’t celebrate his birth on any other day either. It was like he had never been born.
Now as an adult, I am learning to fully celebrate Christmas, embracing it as a time to remember Jesus’ birth and his coming to dwell among us. Celebrating Christmas reminds me of the forgiveness and redemption we have received through Jesus’ sacrifice. This festive season gives me the perfect opportunity to share with others the material and spiritual gifts I have received from Jesus, the Bread of Life, and to invite them to feast on the living bread of Jesus with me.
TODAY’S PRAYER
Dear Jesus, thank you for coming into the world. We love you and pledge to follow you always. Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Christmas celebrates God’s gift of Jesus to us all.
PRAYER FOCUS
Someone celebrating Christmas for the first time
Thank you for reading The Upper Room 30th November 2022 Devotional Message for Wednesday. Encourage someone today by sharing this Gospel.
