Here is today’s devotion to start your day.
Available now at Power, Love & Miracles:
Saints, Sinners, and Scandals: Prophecies of the Messiah: Longings Fulfilled [PLM+]
Christmas: When Power Bows to Providence. The Bible Unplugged podcast, episode 68
Sunset’s Dawn, Part 20. Jake saves Jen
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Scripture: Philippians 2:7
“He emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of men.”
Reflection
The manger is more than a prop—it’s a proclamation.
Before Jesus preached a single sermon, He preached with His presence. Before He spoke of humility, He lived it. Born not in silk but in straw. Cradled not in a palace but in a feeding trough. Greeted not by diplomats but by shepherds.
This is the gospel: He emptied Himself.
He laid aside His glory—not His divinity, but His divine privilege. He stepped down, not out of obligation, but out of love. He chose downward mobility, the path of the servant, the way of vulnerability.
And it began with a manger.
It’s not just a sweet symbol for nativity sets. It’s the first signpost of a downward journey that would lead to washing feet… and eventually to the cross.
The gospel is not God demanding we climb higher. It is God coming lower. To meet us where we are. To save us as we are. To lift us by stooping down.
If you’re feeling low, small, unseen—there’s good news. You’re right where grace begins.
Centering Prayer
Jesus,
You laid aside majesty to meet us in hay and hunger. The manger is my sermon today. Teach me to serve with humility, to empty myself with joy, and to remember that love begins low—where the world doesn’t bother to look. – Amen
Practice for Today
Find an act of humility to perform today—washing dishes, kneeling in prayer, picking up someone else’s burden. Let your body echo Christ’s downward path.
Journaling Prompt
How does the image of Jesus emptying Himself at birth shift my understanding of power, love, and leadership?
Blessing for the Day
Let the manger speak louder than the throne.
Let humility rise above all pride.
You are loved by a God who knelt low to find you.
And in that low place, He lifts you into life.
Pray As You Go
Breathe in: You emptied Yourself…
Breath out: … to fill me with grace
