Advent Devotional: Day 1

December 1st, 2024
by Campus Bible Church

Philippians 2:5b–8 - “…Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men. Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” (NASB)

The miracle of God made flesh in Jesus Christ is the greatest miracle of all time. God clothed Himself with mere dust in the womb of a young, virgin girl. This is beyond our comprehension. He who created the entire universe from nothing has concealed Himself that He might reveal Himself to us. But, notice what this text tells us. Christ, the God-Man, became flesh that He might have something with which to suffer and die in order to redeem you and I. Christmas exists because of God’s plan for Good Friday and Easter.

During this season of Advent, we celebrate Christmas as we cherish thoughts of baby Jesus. But, let us not disconnect Christmas from Good Friday. Christ was “born in the likeness of men” to become obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. That soft baby’s brow was made for a crown of thorns. Those precious, chubby feet and hands were formed for crucifixion spikes. The Savior was born to suffer the weight of our sin, so that you may savor the weight of His glory forever.

Prayer: Most Gracious Father, no words can describe the unimaginable gift of Christ and Him crucified. We thank You for sending Your Son in the flesh that we may truly have “God with us.” We are humbled as we think on the King’s birth and the perfect life He lived in order to pay the perfect sacrifice and to purchase the glorious kingdom. Strengthen our souls and soften our hearts to worship Him this Christmas. Amen.

For Reflection & Discussion:
What comes to your mind when you think of the day Jesus was born? What comes to mind when you think of the day he died?

New American Standard Bible (NASB)
Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation

Posted in Advent Devotionals
Posted in Advent Devotionals