Daily Readings at Southeast

  The Meaning of the Gift The gift of Christmas is salvation. When God sent His Son into the world, He gave us a way to be forgiven, restored, and renewed. In  Titus 2:11 (NIV)  it says, “For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.” That grace began in Bethlehem and reached its fulfillment on the cross. Every miracle, every act of love, and every teaching that Jesus gave flowed from that moment when He entered the world as a child. In my home, we celebrate His birthday with joy and gratitude. We thank God for giving us His most precious treasure. The birth of Jesus was not just a beautiful story; it was the beginning of the greatest promise ever kept — a gift that will never lose its power to change lives. Scripture: Romans 5:8

  The Ultimate Present Every year, we spend time and effort searching for the perfect gift to give someone we love. Yet the most important gift was already given to all of us through Jesus Christ. In  Romans 6:23 (NIV)  it says, “...the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Once we understand that, we begin to see Christmas in a completely new way. The stress of shopping and the pressure to create a perfect celebration lose their meaning because the perfect gift has already been given. Imagine if, on your birthday, everyone forgot you and celebrated something else instead. That is often what happens when people forget the reason behind Christmas. It is not about Santa or decorations; it is about the birth of the Savior who came to rescue us. When we remember that truth, our hearts find peace, and our celebrations gain new purpose. Scripture: James 1:17

  A Time to Reflect Christmas is a season to slow down and reflect. I often imagine that night in Bethlehem, the long journey, the exhaustion, and the quiet faith of Mary and Joseph as they obeyed God’s call. Their path was not easy, yet their trust never wavered. In  Luke 2:7 (NIV)  we read, “...and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.” That simple moment holds a powerful truth. God chose the humblest place to bring His greatest gift into the world. When you see a nativity scene, think beyond the figures and lights. It is not just a decoration but a message. It speaks of courage, faith, and love. It tells us that God’s plan often begins quietly, in the hearts of those willing to say yes to Him. Scripture: Matthew 1:23

  Preparing for Christmas The story of Christmas began long before the manger in Bethlehem. It was spoken through prophets and awaited by generations who trusted that God would keep His promise to send a Savior. In  Isaiah 9:2 (NIV)  it says, “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.” That light is Jesus, the promised Redeemer, the One who would bring hope to a world in need. When the time finally came, many were waiting, but few were ready. The people expected a powerful ruler, not a child born in a stable. Today, the same question remains: are we truly prepared for Christmas? I am not speaking of gifts or decorations, but of the heart. Take time to prepare yourself spiritually. Make room for Him in your life and welcome His presence with a humble and thankful heart. Scripture: Micah 5:2

  What Christmas Means to You For many people, Christmas is a time to exchange gifts, share delicious food, and enjoy the company of loved ones. Those moments are beautiful and meaningful, but they are not the heart of what we celebrate. For Christians, Christmas is a time to remember the greatest act of love ever shown: God sending His Son to live among us and bring salvation to the world. In  John 3:16 (NIV)  we read, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” That single verse captures the true spirit of Christmas. It reminds us that this season is not about what we receive under the tree but about the love that came down from heaven for every one of us. When I think about that moment, I am filled with gratitude. No gift we give or receive can ever compare to what God has already given. As you gather with your family this year, take time to thank Him for the most precious gift of ...

  You Can’t Save Anyone Here’s something important you need to know: You can’t save anyone. It’s not your job, duty, or responsibility. That should take the load off a little bit. Phew! You’re not going to get to heaven and see a big scoreboard of lives you’ve saved.  Dang, only two lives saved? The requirement was three. The down escalator is over there. Oh, and P.S., wear shorts. It’s hot down there. Nope, not your job. God is the one who saves people. He is the only one who is powerful enough to make that happen. Your job is to plant a seed, to build relationships well, share, care, help, give hope, and let people know who God is, what God’s done for us, and why we need Him. You do that through living out your faith, and leave the saving to God. You think you can do that? Scripture: 1 Corinthians 3:5-11