The Daily Devotional
Thursday, December 26, 2024
What’s Next? Walking in the Light of Christmas
When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. (Matthew 2:10-11)
Introduction
The day after Christmas often feels like a pause. The wrapping paper is discarded, the meals have been shared, and the joyful noise fades into quiet. The question that lingers is: What’s next? The story of the Magi reminds us that the journey does not end at the manger—it begins there.
Reflection
The Magi traveled far, following a star, driven by the hope of finding the promised King. When they arrived and saw Jesus, their response was profound: they worshiped Him and presented their gifts. After such a long journey, you might think the story would conclude there, but their encounter with Christ changed them. The Scripture later tells us that they returned "by another way" (Matthew 2:12). Their lives took a new direction after meeting the Savior.
This mirrors our own lives during the Christmas season. We spend weeks preparing for Christmas Day—decorating, singing, giving—but when the day is over, do we leave changed? The day after Christmas invites us to ask, How will I respond to encountering Christ? Like the Magi, our worship does not end at the manger. The “gifts” we bring—our time, talents, and hearts—can shape what comes next in our journey of faith.
Consider the story of a young boy who played the part of a shepherd in a church nativity play. After the performance, he asked his mother, “What do we do now? The baby Jesus was born, so is it over?” His mother gently replied, “It’s not over; it’s just beginning. Now, we follow Him every day, just like the shepherds and the wise men did.”
In the same way, Christmas marks the beginning of a journey with Christ. The joy and light we experience should not be packed away with the decorations. Instead, we carry the hope of Christ into the world around us.
Application
Reflect on how you can continue to honor Jesus with your life after Christmas. What "gifts" can you bring Him in the days ahead?
Look for small, daily opportunities to worship Jesus through acts of love and kindness toward others.
Ask yourself: What path is Christ calling me to take as I move into the new year?
The Magi returned home "by another way." Today, let’s commit to walking a new path—one marked by worship, service, and sharing the good news of Christ with others.
Conclusion
Christmas may be a day on the calendar, but its meaning extends far beyond. The light of Christ has come into the world, and we are invited to carry that light forward. Like the Magi, our encounter with Jesus should transform us. So, what’s next? Let’s rise from the manger and follow Him into a new season of faith.
Prayer
Gracious God, thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who brings hope, joy, and salvation to the world. As Christmas fades, may its light remain in our hearts. Help us to walk in the way of the Magi, offering our lives to You in worship and service. Guide our steps as we follow You into the days ahead. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993, the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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