SCRIPTURE: “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” - JOHN 1:14

The journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem was an arduous one: a pregnant woman about to give birth, probably walking or riding a donkey on a rough rocky road, a cold wind may have blown in as night fell, there was no reservation for a place to stay. These were poor people struggling to fulfill the will of Caesar Augustus who ruled with a firm hand over these Jewish peasants. To disobey Caesar could bring harsh punishment.

But in the midst of all these hardships, the most wonderful event was about to take place. The Light of the World was making its way to the manger at Bethlehem. Because Mary and Joseph were obedient to God and willing to accept disgrace, our Savior was about to be born. It was the most important journey that has ever been taken.

We, too, have been on an important, difficult journey recently as we made our way to the heart of Africa via the World Vision Step into Africa exhibit. There we experienced some very hard life stories of children who are affected in terrible ways by poverty, illness, lack of education, healthcare and clean water, loss of parents and sometimes ruled by cruel leaders. But, now, because of that journey so long ago to Bethlehem, we have the chance to bring the Light of the World to these children through our prayers, our support, and our gifts. Jesus calls us to journey with those who are the least of them and to share our great blessings with those in need.

This Christmas, we will have many opportunities to make life better for those in the Nkhoma area of Malawi. What better gifts to give to those we love than gifts that make life easier and better for the children and families of Malawi. These are gifts that will change lives, the lives of these children and our own lives; gifts that will bring us closer to each other and to Jesus. May we Light up the World this Christmas.

PRAYER: O Jesus, give us hearts that love others as you have loved us. Help us to get our priorities right so that your true Light may shine in us. AMEN

(Rosemary Davis)