This Month’s Theme:
Wrapped Up In His Presence

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6

Illustration of 3 people remembering the joy of Christmas Jesus' birth

Reflection

Isn’t it such a gift to be able to experience this season, with all the lights, presents, food, and many more? However, they often distract us from the biggest Gift in our life: Jesus! 

Unlike the other gifts that run out or become broken over time, this Gift—God Himself—is timeless and priceless. So, don’t keep Him inside that dusty storage! 

These days, God keeps reminding me to always bring Him into my daily life. Just like what is written in Isaiah 9:6, He is the Wonderful Counselor! Whenever good things happen to me, it is because He helps me through the journey. And whenever bad things happen, I know He is beside me and is teaching me something to develop my character. Being in His presence changes my life so much.

Let’s not take Him for granted. May others see Him in our life, so that they may also receive the same Gift that will change their life!

– Sharon Leman

Join in the Conversation

How was your 2022? Was it a year of answered prayers and miracles, or one with heartaches and disappointments?

As we end off the year and look forward to Christmas, we remember the gift given to us 2,000 years ago. He’s the “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6) that has been promised to the world, and His birth ushers in new beginnings and hope for all mankind. 

This December, let God wrap you up in His presence. His arms are wide open, ready to embrace each of us in His love–to rejoice, celebrate, mourn, or cry with us over all that’s taken place this year. And as we pour out His love and care for those around us this Christmas, may they too taste the deep love of their Saviour who has also come for them.

Before the year ends, maybe you’d like to take the opportunity to share what God has placed on your heart this year that you’ll bring into the next. Read our writer’s guidelines and get those stories penned! Do also browse our sub-themes and article prompts for more inspiration (see dropbox below).

Topics to Explore

Forgetting what is behind:

  • How can reflecting on our past help us move forward?
  • Is it possible to forgive and forget?
  • Should our past indicate our future?
  • Seeing our past in the light of God’s work on the cross

Pressing on toward the goal 

  • Are we serving out of love or duty?
  • Goals worth setting as Christians
  • How do I know if I’m pressing towards the wrong goal?
  • How do I keep in the Word when God seems silent?

God’s heavenward call for me 

  • Why didn’t God take us straight to heaven after saving us?
  • Does eternity really start now?
  • Why should I think about heaven when I’m still young?
  • How does our heavenly reward impact our life on earth?

Join in the Fun

If you’re more of a visual person, you can be a part of the YMI community by contributing or tagging your artworks with our hashtag #ymitoday. Check out our creatives’ guidelines and send us your artworks.

We know you love your colours, so do we! Every two months, we set a colour theme that we’ll work around. Use the colour palette below to increase your chances of getting featured!