2020 Daily Devotion - Day 257

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Many years ago, I read the biography by David McCullough on the Wright brothers. There is an amazing story about the early days of their work.

In December 1903, after many attempts, the Wright brothers were successful in getting their "flying machine" off the ground. Thrilled, they telegraphed this message to their sister Katherine, "We have actually flown 120 feet. Will be home for Christmas." Katherine hurried to the editor of the local newspaper and showed him the message. He glanced at it and said, "How nice. The boys will be home for Christmas." He totally missed the big news--man had flown!

Well, this happens with spiritual things as well. There are many people who can go their entire lives blinded as to who God is and what He wants to do in their lives. Many are unaware of the great hope we have in Jesus Christ. They can be like the newspaper editor and miss the point. Advent can be a time when we stop and listen – listen to the announcement of the Prophets and the Angels that a Savior has come into our world to rescue us.

After Jesus told His listeners a parable, He ended it with these words:

Matthew 13:9
“Let anyone with ears listen!”

How can you take time to listen to what God is trying to say as we prepare for Christmas? How about we open our Bibles and read the Christmas story in the Gospels. With an open heart, allow God to speak a new word to you.

Pray with me:
Heavenly Father, give us a desire to want to hear from You. Use Your Word to speak a new word to us in this important time. Allow this Advent to be a time when we become better listeners. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Yours because of Him,
Pastor John R. Steward
Senior Pastor
Mount of Olives Church
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