READ
Luke 2:8-20
CONSIDER
Even before the first snowfall, Christmas lights and decorations can be seen all around us. Whether in our own living room or on our houses, in the mall or on the streets, they signal the holidays just around the corner. People gather for tree lightings at events in the city and carols can be heard on the radio or playing off Spotify. But does the glitz and extravagance of it all distract us from this season of waiting on God and preparing for the arrival of the Saviour? Are we focusing on what He’s saying and doing among us at this moment?
Famous author and hymn writer Fanny Crosby penned the lyrics of this well-known song:
To God be the glory, great things He hath done!
So loved He the world that He gave us His son,
Who yielded His life an atonement for sin
And opened the Lifegate that all may go in.
The shepherds in our passage this week, Luke 2, were also aware of God’s glory and faithfulness on full display as they were told of the birth of Jesus. Although they were unlikely candidates to be among the first to know of the coming Messiah, at least by their society’s standards, God chose them to bear witness and proclaim this good news. In a very fitting way, the Great Shepherd reveals Himself and His
purposes to shepherds. This coming Sunday, we will be exploring the surprising message and messengers of the good news, along with its movement into the world.
Grateful for our time together,
Pastor Jon Nip
PRAY
Gracious God, we praise you for you are the One who shepherds our lives. You guide us by your rod and staff and are with us through green pastures and the darkest valleys. We are reminded during the Advent season to long for and anticipate your work among us. Lord, help us to see how you are redeeming and saving all things, including our lives and communities. Empower us to both listen to your voice through others and be messengers of good news to all people. Holy Spirit, move us into action to participate in your ministry. We ask that we grow deeper in knowledge and embodying of your good news as your church and to those you call us to minister to.
Amen.
DIVING DEEPER
What are some examples of God’s work in our midst? In what ways do we long for the completion of that work?
Have there been moments when we’ve seen and heard His leading and voice through someone unexpected? Are there people we might tend to dismiss and overlook as His messengers?
How might I be able to participate in the movement of the Good News into our neighbourhoods and the people around us?