20th December 2025

Christmas Child

He made Himself of no reputation,

taking the form of a bondservant,

and coming in the likeness of men.  

Philippians 2:7  

Today's Bible Reading: Philippians 2:6–11.

Imagine the One who made cedars spring from seeds starting life over as an embryo; the One who made the stars submitting Himself to a womb; the One who fills the heavens becoming what would be in our day a mere dot on an ultrasound. Jesus, in very nature God, making Himself nothing (Philippians 2:6–7). What an astonishing thought!

Imagine the scene as He is born in a plain peasant village, among shepherds and angels and bright lights in the sky, with the bleating of animals His first lullabies. Watch as He grows in favour and stature: as a youngster, astounding teachers with answers to grand questions; as a young man at the Jordan, getting His Father’s approval from heaven; and in the wilderness, as He wrestles in hunger and prayer.

Watch next as He launches His world-changing mission—healing the sick, touching lepers, forgiving the impure. Watch as He kneels in a garden in anguish, and as they arrest Him while His closest friends flee. Watch as He is spat on and nailed to two wooden posts, the world’s sins on His shoulders. Then watch, as the stone rolls away, to reveal an empty tomb, because He is alive! Watch as He is lifted to the highest place (v 9). Watch as His name fills heaven and earth (10–11).

This Maker of the stars who became a dot on an ultrasound. This, our Christmas Child.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for making Yourself nothing so I could be forgiven my sins, and be saved for Heaven. I lift this prayer, in Your precious name. Amen.