Jan. 2, 2021
Adam and Eve experienced sin’s devastating effect when they yielded to the serpent’s (i.e., the devil’s) temptation and broke God’s command. Before sin, they were whole, good, and without fear or shame. Now they were broken, marred, and feeling shame.
Sin was now present and active in the world, but God had a plan to overcome humanity’s failure. Genesis 3:15 records the first promise of Jesus’ coming. Eve’s descendant would crush the serpent’s head and destroy sin forever!
Sin led to murder in just one generation. Cain killed Abel, and Cain’s descendants continued his evil ways. But none of this took God by surprise. His plan continued through Seth, Adam and Eve’s third child.
God’s plan for Jesus’ coming included the creation of the nation of Israel. Later called the “King of kings,” Jesus descended from Israel’s royal line, yet He came to save people of all nations and backgrounds.
Seven hundred years earlier, a prophet named Isaiah predicted Jesus’ birth. Isaiah said another name for Jesus was “Immanuel,” which means “God is with us.” God came to be with us through Jesus!
Mary conceived Jesus by the Holy Spirit’s power, and both Mary and Joseph trusted God’s plan. Jesus’ birth fulfilled Isaiah’s words. The Savior and serpent slayer was born!
Make It Personal
- What do you see about God’s character in today’s reading?
- How does Mary and Joseph’s faith challenge you in your walk with God?
- Ask God for help as you continue this 365-day journey. You can do this!
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