Christmas Family Devotional 2025, Week Three: God’s Love Is Stronger – “From the Manger to the Cross”

Week Three of Four

God’s Love Is Stronger – “From the Manger to the Cross”

Scripture: John 3:16–17  

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.”

The Christmas story doesn’t end with the baby in the manger. It's only the beginning of the world's greatest story! The manger points to the cross Jesus would die on to save us. That's the most important piece of the story and the one that is often forgotten. 

The whole Bible points to this very big truth and then what happens when Jesus returns to judge and rule the world. The story is an adventure and a mystery at times, but most importantly, it is a love story about the One True God who loves the people He created. That's me, you, and the people on this earth.

Jesus died in place of you! Yes, that’s how much God loves you. He saw how our sin hurts the people He loves. He saw how it hurts us, too! He saw the brokenness in our world—the hate, the fear, the ways of living that bring pain to His heart. He knew He had to step in because we couldn't fix any of it. Without Him, we'd be totally lost. We'd have no hope, no purpose, no joy. And our eternal future would be pretty awful!

When we look at Jesus, we see the Father’s love in action. It’s not a distant, “maybe someday” kind of love. It’s real, personal, and strong enough to change our lives.  He is the very definition of love, and He is the Conquering King who will return to earth one day! 

Discussion Questions

• What does God’s love shown through Jesus mean to you personally?
• If you really believed God’s love is that strong, how might it change the way you live, the way you treat others—or yourself?
• Who in your life needs to see this kind of love through you this Christmas? How can you show it?
• Who do you know that needs to understand this story about why God sent Jesus to the earth? Try practicing how to tell them.

Prayer

Describe back to God all His characteristics. Tell Him why you love Him. Then ask Him to give you strength to live for Him. Think about the people you know who do not know Him. Talk to God about them by name, and ask Him to show them who He is and how much He loves them.

(All content copyright Mark Taft.)