Devotional Readings for the Christmas Cycle: Biblical Passages Related to the Annunciation, Birth, and Second Coming of Jesus the Christ

The Christmas Cycle encompasses three liturgical seasons in the church year: Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany. Each season focuses on a particular dimension of the cycle, beginning with preparation and anticipation, followed by the celebration of the Savior’s birth, and concluding with the fulfillment of God’s inclusive love for the entire world.

Events related to the annunciation and birth of Jesus the Christ are recounted in scriptural hymns of praise and in ancient promises. With thankful hearts, people of faith responded with “spiritual songs to God” in response to God’s intervening graciousness and power. Throughout the three seasons of the church year that comprise the Christmas cycle, you are invited to reflect on the incarnation of God in the person of God’s Son, and be guided by Scripture texts so that you, too, can join the chorus in praising God with a thankful heart.

Devotional Readings:

• With Thankful Hearts We Prepare for the Lord’s Coming
• With Thankful Hearts We Welcome and Receive the Lord
• With Thankful Hearts We Await the Lord’s Coming Again
• With Thankful Hearts We Respond with Joy and Thanksgiving to God’s Wonderful Gift
• Appendix: The Ancestors of Jesus