The Joy of Being Brought Back—Unwrapping Reconciliation: Advent Day Twenty

Read:
 Romans 5:11 (NIV)
 “More than that, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”

Reflect
Christmas is about more than gifts and gatherings—it’s about restoration. In Christ, God has done the impossible: He’s brought us back to Himself. We call this reconciliation. It’s not just a theological word; it’s the heart of the gospel. We were separated, but now—through Jesus—we are brought near.

But how do we practically receive this reconciliation? And how do we make it a source of real joy? The answer is beautifully simple: we look to Jesus. We fill our hearts with the portrait of Christ found in the Bible—His words, His works, His love. Our joy in God is rooted in what we see and know of God in the face of Jesus.

Paul says in 2 Corinthians 4:4–6 that conversion is about seeing “the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” When we see who Jesus is and what He’s done, our hearts are stirred to rejoice—not just in what He gives, but in who He is.

So as you reflect this Advent, don’t leave the gift of reconciliation unopened. And don’t treat it as just a ticket to other pleasures. Open it. Enjoy it. Rejoice in Jesus Himself. Let your heart be satisfied in Him, your greatest treasure.

Quotes for Today:
“Jesus himself shines forth from the wrapping—the indescribable gift—as God in the flesh, and stirs up all our rejoicing in God.” – John Piper
 “Rejoicing without the content of Christ does not honor Christ.”

Apply

• Are you enjoying Jesus as your greatest gift, or just using Him as a means to other things?
• How can you focus your joy today on who Jesus is, not just what He gives?

Action Steps

1. Read a favorite passage about Jesus (like John 1, Luke 2, or Colossians 1:15-20) and thank Him for the gift of reconciliation.
2. Take a moment to rejoice in Jesus—not just with your mind, but with your heart and words. Tell Him you treasure Him.

Prayer Points

1. Thank Jesus for purchasing and giving you reconciliation with God.
2. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you make Christ Himself your deepest joy and delight.