Free Reading Plans and Devotionals related to Luke 2:40

The songs of Christmas stir our hearts and strengthen ties to God. We celebrate the Greatest Story of All as we sing carols. These songs are among the riches of the Kingdom that are the legacies from those who have gone before us. They come from varied times, lands, and cultures. What they have in common is that they are gifts that help us unwrap The Gift of Jesus, God-with-us.

We will reflect on Scripture in both the Old and New Testaments that all point towards the coming of Christ. As we look at the story of Christ’s anticipated arrival over this Christmas season, our prayer at New Life Church is that you would remember that Jesus came to be the embodiment of God’s promises for salvation and redemption.

In this devotional written from the perspective of Jesus' mother, Mary vulnerably and honestly details the intimate moments of her experience as a mom. In each compelling scene, Mary treasures a small token to remember it by. Little does she know the divine significance each item will play in the ultimate purpose of her son’s role on earth.

Luke’s Gospel is a beautiful and powerful telling of the life of Jesus. Luke focuses on Jesus as the Son of Man, the foretold Messiah who came to “seek and save the lost” (Luke 19:10). This Gospel shows us the “Upside-Down Kingdom” - that God uses what the world deems foolish and weak to shame the wise and strong.

Start a new Christmas tradition with a non-traditional twist on the season of Advent. An ideal start date for this adventure is December 1st, while an earlier start allows a more relaxed pace. Includes reflection questions and action steps to center each day on Christ. Great for individuals, families, or small groups.

Rahab and Ruth never expected to be in the lineage of the Son of God. Zechariah was simply showing up for his turn in the temple when an angel showed up too, announcing old Zechariah and old wife would have a baby! Augustus Caesar sent out a decree to tax the world, and ended up fulfilling a prophecy. Yet God was at work in all of these people and situations.

Christmas is truly the greatest story ever told: one of God’s perfect faithfulness, power, salvation, and unfailing love. Let’s take a journey over the next 25 days to discover God’s intricate plan to save the world from sin and the promises fulfilled in the birth of His Son.

Do you wonder if God has a tangible purpose for you in your current season of life? As you walk through the Advent season this year, may the Lord reveal your purpose, hope and joy as you learn from the people God placed in His Christmas story—the birth of the Messiah. Each person God chose teaches a valuable lesson that is applicable to the world today.

In this verse-by-verse plan through Luke chapters 1–2, excerpted from Paul Chappell's devotional book "Disciple," recapture the meaning of Christmas and the love of Christ for you. As these brief devotions draw you closer to the Lord, you’ll be challenged and encouraged to follow Jesus more closely and to walk with Him in practical ways throughout each day.

Get in the spirit of Christmas this year by spending the month of December reading through the story of Jesus's birth and finding practical ways share joy and love with others. Complete this plan by yourself or as a family!