This Christmas season, we’re preparing our hearts for the arrival of Jesus by going back to where the Christmas story really begins.
From the first pages of Genesis to the manger in Bethlehem, Christmas is the thread running through the whole Bible. It’s a story within God’s bigger story about how God plans to rescue the people He loves.
How to use this devotional:
Watch the episode. Reflect on and discuss the questions. Discover how to apply it to real life. Enjoy a simple prayer.
Key Scriptures: Genesis 1:26–31; Genesis 3:1–15; Genesis 12:1–3; Isaiah 9:6–7
1. WATCH
VIDEO SUMMARY
Have you ever wondered why, no matter how good life gets, something inside us still longs for more?
We long for peace, justice, love, belonging, and a world where everything is finally made right.
The Bible tells us that these longings aren't accidental. We were created for a world where humanity enjoyed an unhindered relationship with God, one another, and creation.
But something went terribly wrong.
In Episode 1, we discover how humanity's decision to live independently of God shattered that original harmony—and how God responded, not by abandoning humanity, but by beginning an extraordinary rescue mission.
The Christmas story doesn't begin in Bethlehem. It begins in Genesis.
2. REFLECT & DISCUSS
Use these questions for personal reflection or conversation with others.
→ THE LONGING: What are we really searching for?
What do you think people are most longing for today? Where do you see those same longings in your own life?
→ THE DESIGN: What were we created for?
Read Genesis 1:26–31. What does this passage reveal about God's original intentions for humanity? How does that compare with the world we experience today?
→ THE CHOICE: Who gets to decide what's good?
Read Genesis 3:1–7. In the video, Dale suggests that the real issue in Eden wasn't the fruit—it was trust. Where do you see humanity still struggling with the temptation to determine good and evil independently of God?
→ THE PROMISE: What does God's response reveal about Him?
Read Genesis 12:1–3. Rather than abandoning a rebellious humanity, God called Abraham and promised to bless all nations through him. What does that reveal about God's character and His intentions for the world?
→ THE ARRIVAL: Why does this change how we understand Christmas?
How does understanding creation, humanity's rebellion, and God's promise change the way you think about why Jesus came?
3. DISCOVER: Living the Story
This week, pay attention to the moments when you find yourself longing for something more—peace, security, love, acceptance, or hope.
Rather than ignoring those longings or immediately trying to satisfy them, pause and ask yourself:
What might this longing reveal about what God created me for?
Am I looking to God to satisfy my deepest needs, or am I trying to build a life independently of Him?
Take a few moments to talk honestly with God about what you discover.
A PRAYER
Father, thank You that You created us for a life of love, goodness, and fellowship with You. Forgive us for the ways we've tried to live independently of You. Help us recognize that our deepest longings point us toward something greater than this world can offer. And as we journey through this story, open our eyes to the wonder of Your love and the extraordinary gift of Jesus Christ. Amen.
COMING NEXT — EPISODE 2
The story moves to Nazareth, where an ordinary young woman named Mary discovers that God's extraordinary promise is about to be fulfilled.
