Revealed in Plain Sight: The Messiah We Were Always Meant to See

 

The Daily Devotional

Saturday, December 13, 2025

Revealed in Plain Sight: The Messiah We Were Always Meant to See

“And calling together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. They told him, ‘In Bethlehem of Judea; for so it has been written by the prophet.’” — Matthew 2:4–5

Introduction

Advent reminds us that the coming of Christ was not a mysterious secret buried in shadows. Centuries before Jesus was born, the prophets had already spoken, and the Scriptures had already proclaimed where and how the Messiah would appear. Today’s devotional invites us to see that God’s plan—though often overlooked—was never hidden. The identity and mission of Jesus were always meant to be recognized.

Reflection

When the Magi arrived in Jerusalem, their question—“Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews?”—sent shockwaves through Herod’s palace. Yet the answer was readily available. The Scriptures had long declared that the Christ would come from Bethlehem, David’s town. The startling truth is not that Jesus’ arrival was unknown, but that so many failed to take notice, even though the information was right in front of them.

It’s much like finding a missing item you’ve searched for all morning—only to discover it sitting on the kitchen counter in plain sight. We sometimes overlook what is familiar or disregard what doesn’t immediately demand our attention. The priests and scribes knew the Scriptures, but knowing is not the same as seeking. Knowledge remained in their heads, but longing did not move their hearts.

Advent invites us to look again—because the greatest truths of God often sit quietly in the open, waiting for us to truly see them.

Application

Today, reflect on where God may already be at work in your life in ways that are “in plain sight.”

• Is there a nudge toward prayer or scripture reading you’ve been ignoring?

• A person God has placed in your path who needs encouragement?

• A moment of peace or beauty you haven’t paused long enough to receive?

Just as the Magi followed the light they were given, we are invited to follow the clarity God has already provided. Look for the Messiah’s footsteps in the ordinary moments of your day.

Conclusion

The birth of Jesus was not a puzzle to be solved but a promise fulfilled in the open. Advent teaches us to slow down, to notice, and to awaken to the truth that Christ is already moving in our midst. When we open our eyes, we begin to recognize that God’s presence is far clearer—and far nearer—than we often imagine.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, open my eyes to see You in the places I often overlook. Teach me to recognize Your presence in familiar routines, unexpected interruptions, and quiet moments of grace. As I journey through this Advent season, help me follow Your light with sincerity and joy, trusting that You have revealed Yourself so that I might draw near to You. Amen.

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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.