Advent 2024 Devotion: December 23

Scripture: John 3:16
¹⁶ For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

Devotion: The verse begins with this intense declaration: "For God so loved the world."  This love is not limited to a select few but extends to the entire world, encompassing all of mankind. The word "so" indicates the degree of God's love; it is an immeasurable and unconditional love that compelled Him to act on behalf of a world in need of redemption. God's love is the motivation behind the entire mission of Jesus. God's love is expressed through the giving of His most precious gift, His unique Son. The Greek word monogenē, translated as "one and only" or "only begotten" means "one of a kind" or "unique." No one is like the Lord Jesus in all Creation. He is the God-man. The giving of His Son demonstrates the depth of God's love for us. This gift is not something that can be earned; it is received through faith when someone "believes." The purpose of this divine gift is so “that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." The term "perish" does not refer to annihilation, but to an eternity apart from God, who is life. Eternal life is not merely life without end, but a life with God, which begins at the moment of belief.

As you celebrate Christmas this year, remember that the birth of Jesus is an expression of God’s love for us. God's love is not a sentimental feeling but an act of self-sacrifice that led Him to offer His Son for our salvation. Could you receive a more incredible gift than this?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your immeasurable love for the world, expressed through the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to believe in Him and receive the gift of eternal life. May we share this love with others this Christmas and always. In Jesus’ name, Amen