Daily Christian Devotional

30 December, 2025

1 John 2.12-17, Psalm 96.7-10, Luke 2.36-40

In his first letter, John writes with tenderness and clarity. He reminds us who we are: forgiven, known, strengthened by God’s word. Against this assurance comes a gentle warning — not to give our hearts to what is passing away. The world’s desires promise fulfilment but cannot last. What endures is doing the will of God, living rooted in love rather than consumption or pride.

Psalm 96 lifts our eyes beyond ourselves. We are invited to ascribe glory to the Lord and to recognise that God reigns. This reign is not tyranny but justice, setting the world rightly in order. Worship becomes an act of trust: we proclaim God’s kingship even when the world appears unsettled.

Luke introduces us to Anna, a prophet who has waited long years in prayer and fasting. She does not cling to youth or status, but to hope. When she sees the child Jesus, her waiting turns to praise and proclamation. Faithfulness over time sharpens her vision to recognise salvation when it appears quietly.

As believers, we learn from Anna’s steady devotion and John’s wise counsel. We are called to live lightly in the world, deeply in God, and attentively to Christ’s presence among us — worshipping, waiting, and witnessing with hope.

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Prayer

Lord God,
you have called us out of darkness into your light.
Keep our hearts free from what does not last,
and root us in love that endures.
Teach us to wait faithfully, to worship truly,
and to recognise your Son at work among us.
Through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.