Daily Devotional: Friday, December 13 - Behind Enemy Lines

“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” — Luke 19:10

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If you’ve been involved in sports for any length of time, you’re aware of the significant differences between playing at home versus competing on your rival’s turf. Playing on the road presents an entirely new level of challenge. You’re venturing into hostile territory, surrounded by opposing fans eager to see you fail.

As we prepare to celebrate Christmas, let us be reminded that Jesus entered hostile territory and a world that was in rebellion against God (John 1:10-11). The “enemy lines” here represent the dominion of sin, death and Satan.

On that first Christmas, the birth of Christ marked the beginning of a divine rescue mission — to save each one of us and bring us into the freedom and hope only He can provide. Despite facing much opposition throughout His ministry, Jesus remained unwavering in His mission. He came to seek and save not just the world in general, but you and me personally.

From the moment He lay in the manger, He was stepping boldly behind enemy lines, entering a broken, sin-stained world to bring freedom and redemption. His arrival wasn’t just the beginning of a story; it was the launch of a liberation campaign, destined to set captives free (John 8:36).

As we prepare to celebrate the birth of baby Jesus, let us not forget that His arrival marked a bold mission: stepping behind enemy lines to rescue us and set us free. This Christmas, may we remember that the manger was just the beginning of a journey that would lead to our redemption and eternal hope.

— Melissa Motes

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