Morning Devotional 122425 Heavenly Peace

Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room

December 24, 2025 

Matthew 11:27-30

27 “My Father has handed all things over to me. No one knows the Son except the Father. And nobody knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wants to reveal him. 28 “Come to me, all you who are struggling hard and carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest. 29 Put on my yoke, and learn from me. I’m gentle and humble. And you will find rest for yourselves. 30 My yoke is easy to bear, and my burden is light.”

Good Morning! The day has arrived!

How many times have you reached Christmas Eve and felt exhausted? I especially recall the years when we had to wait for the children to go to sleep, so we could play Santa. Some years took longer than others. 

I fondly recall a Christmas Eve about forty years ago in Jacksonville, FL. Santa was bringing the boys big wheels. Of course, they were hidden away until all had fallen asleep, and of course, there was some assembly required. Lowell had Christmas Eve duty, but would be home Christmas morning.

My mom and dad were visiting, so when the time came, I pulled out the big wheels so my dad and I could complete the required assembly. It was at that moment that I discovered our toolkit was in the vehicle, which was safely on the Naval base. 

Dad and I did our best with the assembly (Santa’s elves were probably laughing at us), using a butter knife to tighten the necessary screws and bolts. After several hours, we finally got it done. It was almost time for the boys to wake up!! We were physically exhausted but blessed when the boys came bounding into the living room. 

Jesus comes to take away our spiritual exhaustion. This weariness comes from living life on our own terms. We have a plan and work to make it happen, but mitigating factors often impede our progress. God sent us Jesus to invite us into a relationship through which we can share and release our burdens to God. 

28 “Come to me, all you who are struggling hard and carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest. 29 Put on my yoke, and learn from me. I’m gentle and humble. And you will find rest for yourselves. 30 My yoke is easy to bear, and my burden is light.”

Jesus offers this gift to all who come to him. Are you ready? Christ is calling us to come! Whether this is the first time or the umpteenth time, accept the invitation. 

Redeeming Lord, you bless us abundantly! We don’t know the words to properly thank you for your precious gift. Thank you for loving us! Thank you. We love you. In Christ’s name we pray, Amen.

Thought for the day: Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.

Come and accept the peace that Jesus offers! Pastor Liz