Pastor Stephen Dedman

In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him.
‭‭I John‬ ‭4‬:‭9‬

Question
Where do you need to be reminded that God is near to you today?

Context
The apostle John writes to believers to remind them that God’s love is revealed in action. God did not merely say He loved the world; He sent His Son. Christmas is the clearest demonstration of that love. The incarnation shows us that God’s love moves toward us, steps into our world, and meets us where we are.

Application
At Christmas, love didn’t remain distant; love came near. God entered human history in the most vulnerable way imaginable: as a child. The manger tells us that God’s love is personal, approachable, and intentional. No matter how far we feel from God, Christmas declares that God has already come close to us.

When you doubt your worth or feel overlooked, return to the manger. Let the birth of Jesus remind you that God sees you, knows you, and values you deeply. Because God came near to us in Christ, we can draw near to Him with confidence and trust.

Truth For The Day
God’s love is proven by His presence.

Pray
Lord, thank You for loving me enough to come near. When I feel distant or discouraged, help me remember that You entered this world for me. Draw my heart closer to Yours as I reflect on the gift of Your Son. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.
‭‭John‬ ‭1‬:‭14‬

Question
Where do you need to recognize God’s nearness instead of rushing for an answer?

Context
John wrote to remind believers that the coming of Jesus isn’t distant or symbolic. God did not shout salvation from heaven, He stepped into humanity. In the middle of Roman rule, human weakness, and spiritual longing, God chose to dwell among His people. Christmas is the announcement that God entered our world personally.

Application
As Christmas draws near, waiting can feel heavy. There are still unanswered prayers, unfinished tasks, and unhealed places. Yet Christmas reminds us that God does His best work in the waiting. Jesus did not arrive when the world was ready—He arrived when the world was desperate. And He still comes near to us today.

Whatever you are carrying right now, you do not carry it alone. Invite Christ into your waiting. Look for His presence, not just His solutions.

Truth For The Day
God is not distant, He is with you.

Pray
Lord, thank You for coming close. Help me to trust You in the waiting and to rest in the truth that You are with me. Prepare my heart to receive You anew this Christmas. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart.
‭‭Luke‬ ‭2‬:‭19‬

Question
What promises of God do you need to treasure in your heart while you wait?

Context
By the time of Jesus’ birth, very little looked settled. There was no palace, no clear plan, and no immediate resolution to the tension surrounding Mary and Joseph. The shepherds came with wonder-filled words, angels had spoken, and yet life did not suddenly become easy. Luke tells us Mary treasured these moments and pondered them. She didn’t have all the answers, but she trusted the One who did.

Application
The days leading up to Christmas can feel unfinished with tasks left undone, prayers not yet answered, and burdens still present. Like Mary, we are invited to hold God’s promises close even when circumstances remain unclear. Faith is not always loud or dramatic; often it is quiet trust, choosing peace while waiting for God to complete what He has begun.

Truth For The Day
God is at work even when the story feels incomplete.

Pray
Lord, help me to trust You in the unfinished places of my life. Teach me to treasure Your promises and rest in Your peace, knowing You are faithful to complete Your work. In Jesus’ name, Amen.