December 30, 2025 // Sixth Day in Octave of Christmas
Read the Word // Open your Bible to today’s First Reading: 1 John 2:12-17
I remember being mesmerized by the colorful twinkle lights on my family’s Christmas tree when I was a little girl. There’d be classic Christmas songs playing in the background, little silver bells ringing on our tree, and my mom making cookies. Meanwhile, I would lay underneath the tree and look up at all the lights and ornaments. Ever since then, there has always been something so beautiful to me about twinkle lights at Christmas time.
Sometimes, Advent (which we just finished) and Christmas are really some of the most wonderful times of the year. Other times, for many, it’s such a difficult season that might feel more like Lent, or even Holy Saturday, where you’re waiting and aching and praying, but still hurting. And that’s when I’m reminded that all the beauty in the decorations of this season isn’t for itself, looks, or just joy for joy’s sake, but it’s ultimately to console and bring lasting, true joy reminding us of the One Who came on Christmas Day.
Maybe this time of year brings up the nostalgia of a beautiful memory with your loved ones. In which case, it gives us a chance to thank God for them.
Maybe it brings up a yearning for something that we hope will be fulfilled. In which case, we have an opportunity to look back at the promises God has already fulfilled throughout history and be renewed with hope.
In either case, the “things of the world” that Saint John writes about in today’s First Reading (1 John 2:15) are all things that hopefully can lead us closer to the Lord if we see Him in them—rather than seeing them apart from Him. If we love Him more than them.
The One Who has come and is near right now created all these things that may bring you joy and consolation throughout this season. Let’s thank Him and enjoy them with His presence in mind.
Relate to the Lord // How can you make thanksgiving a part of your Christmas season? Start today by making a list of God’s graces and blessings in your life.
Annie Deddens is a writer and producer. She runs a prayer ministry with her husband, called Pray More Novenas. She has a heart for the sick & suffering, and she writes about living with greater faith (hope & love, too) in this imperfect world as a Catholic wife on her blog, Catholic Wife, Catholic Life. Find out more about her here.
Get Lent 2026 Devotional(s)
Get Your Prayerful Planner
