January 28

Morning

We proclaim Him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. — Col 1:28 BSB

Do you ever feel that you are far from perfect? Each day seems to remind you of your imperfections. Every tear you shed cries “imperfection,” and every harsh word that slips from your lips speaks “imperfection.” You’ve seen your heart enough to know you’re not perfect. But even though you’re deeply aware of your flaws, here’s your comfort—you are “perfect in Christ Jesus.” In God’s eyes, you are “complete in Him,” and even now, you are “accepted in the Beloved.”

But there’s more! There is a perfection yet to come, one that is guaranteed for all God’s children. Isn’t it wonderful to think of the day when all your sins will be completely gone, and you’ll stand before the throne without any spot or wrinkle? On that day, Christ’s Church will be so pure that even God’s perfect eyes won’t see a single flaw. You will be so holy and glorious that the words of Joseph Hart will ring true: “With my Savior’s garments on, holy as the Holy One.”

Then, you will fully experience what it means to be “complete in Christ.” Only then will we understand the full depth of salvation in Jesus. Doesn’t your heart leap at the thought? No matter how flawed you are now, one day you will be spotless! What an amazing salvation this is—Christ takes a sinner and transforms them into something pure and glorious, fit to be His companion forever! My soul, stand in awe of this beautiful truth: you are perfected in Christ.

Evening

The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, which was just as the angel had told them. — Luke 2:20 BSB

What did the shepherds praise God for? They praised Him for what they had heard—the good news of great joy that a Savior was born for them. Let’s follow their example and sing songs of thanksgiving that we’ve heard of Jesus and His salvation.

They also praised God for what they had seen. The sweetest music comes from what we’ve personally experienced, what we’ve felt in our hearts, and what we’ve made our own. It’s not enough to just hear about Jesus; hearing may tune the harp, but faith must play the music. If you’ve seen Jesus through the eyes of faith, let no cobwebs gather on your heartstrings—play them loudly in praise of God’s grace!

Another reason the shepherds praised God was that what they had seen matched what they had heard. They said, “It was just as we were told.” Have you not found the same to be true? Hasn’t the gospel proven itself true in your life? Jesus promised to give you rest—have you not found the sweetest peace in Him? He said you’d find joy, comfort, and life through faith—haven’t you received all of that? His ways are indeed pleasant, and His paths are filled with peace. You can say with the queen of Sheba, “Not even half of it was told to me!” Christ is far sweeter than anyone could have described. You’ve seen His beauty, and it outshines anything you could have imagined!

So, let’s glorify and praise God for a Savior who is both precious and satisfying.