I AM Calling You today

 Here are two powerful excerpts from the unique devotional I AM Calling for this Christmas Season

D e c e m b e r 2 3 

Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in,the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one! The Lord is with you, blessed are you among women. But when she saw him, she was troubled at his statement saying, and considered what kind of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall name Him Jesus.” (Luke 1:26–31) 

Mary was quite surprised at the message of the angel, as nothing like this had ever happened to her before. The angel also delivered a divine proclamation that appeared impossible by human standards. Yet though she did not understand, she bowed to My will. This demonstrated her humble and accepting nature. You would do well to model her attitude. Trust Me with your life even if you do not understand, even if what I ask of you seems impossible or even ridiculous. Do not fear, nor look for angels to appear, but let life unfold and listen for My voice to direct you. I may require something small or great of you, but it does not matter. What’s important is your response. Be open to My will and to My Voice, and I will proclaim a word over you. Do not look for greatness, but obey Me in your heart. Do not fear what I speak to you, but contemplate and accept. 

DECEMBER 24

 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (Luke 2:13–14) 

My desire is for goodwill and peace toward men, but Satan desires your destruction. As you approach this day of celebration, pray for peace—not the temporary peace of circumstances, giving you what you want, but peace with God. My peace comes though reconciliation between you and Me, through the life and death of My Son. The angels greatly rejoiced because they knew that at long last, man could be freed from the chains Satan had forged since creation. Mankind could finally achieve a lasting peace with Me—a peace that was based not on the continuous shedding of blood sacrifices but on the blood of the Lamb. This is the joy of Christmas, the foreshadowing of His future and yours joined with Him! His birth is a miracle, but each child of God is a miracle as My Son breaks the bonds of sin and death. Join in that miracle and celebration today!