The people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and for those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has dawned. - Matthew 4:16 (NRSV)

When I was young, I had a great fear of darkness.

One night the electricity went off. Darkness quickly enveloped my room, and I felt something bad was closing in on me. I screamed until my mother rushed to my rescue. As soon as the light from her lantern shone...

Today's Prayer
God of light, fill our hearts with the joy of Christmas so that the light of the gospel can shine anew in the world. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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Today's Reading
John 1:1-9

Thought for the Day

Christmas is the celebration of Jesus, the Light of the World.

Prayer Focus

Those who live with a phobia


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The RESILIENCE conference in 2021 was so uplifting and nourishing. It was wonderful to be with other Christians around the world at this retreat, who truly care about responding to trauma in a compassionate way by teaching spiritual practices to help with grounding and healing.”

Join us for the next RESILIENCE conference on September 29-30, 2023. Learn more at UpperRoom.org/resilience.