If you’ve missed any of the previous days, you can go back and catch up at johnmarkharris.net—each day is building toward Christmas, and I don’t want you to miss the journey.
So, what is Advent—real quick? Advent simply means “arrival.” It’s the season where we remember the first coming of Jesus, and we look ahead with hope to His return. It’s like spiritually preparing your heart the way you’d prepare your home for Christmas—lights, warmth, anticipation.
Today’s verse is Luke 2:10: “But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.’”
Think about this: the first announcement of Jesus’ birth didn’t go to kings or celebrities. It went to shepherds—regular people, working the night shift, in the cold, probably tired and forgotten by society. And what does the angel say? “Do not be afraid.” Why? Because God is showing up—not with judgment—but with good news. Not just everyday good news, but great joy. And not just for the religious, the powerful, or the deserving—for all people.
That’s the heart of Christmas. The gospel isn’t advice about what we need to do—it’s good news about what God has already done. Jesus came to bring joy to a world that was stuck in darkness, fear, and hopelessness.
So here’s today’s challenge:
If Christmas is good news of great joy for everyone—then let’s not keep it to ourselves. Be a carrier of that good news today.
* Send a message to someone who’s discouraged.
* Speak life into a friend who’s struggling.
* Smile at the cashier, tip the server well, be kind when others aren’t.
Small acts of encouragement can carry big joy.
Because when the angel said this news was for all people—that includes you, and it can flow through you to someone else.
Let’s pray: “Lord, thank You for the good news of Jesus—good news of great joy for all people. Help us not to be afraid, and help us share that joy with someone who needs it today. Use us to shine Your light. Amen.”
Thanks for joining me today. Don’t forget, if you missed any devotionals or want to share with a friend, head over to johnmarkharris.net. I’ll see you tomorrow as we keep walking toward Christmas together.
