“But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:10 NIV).
The shepherds were watching their sheep at night when suddenly an angel appeared and told them about the birth of Jesus. Can you imagine how they felt? Have you ever wondered why God would tell shepherds first about His Son’s birth? Interesting isn’t it? But if you recall David was a shepherd and a man after God’s own heart. Shepherds had a lot of time to think and pray to God. After the one angel told them the news, then a heavenly host appeared with angels praising God. Now, I don’t know about you, but I would have fallen on my face in wonder and fear. But these shepherds immediately went to Bethlehem to find the Christ child. They found Mary and Joseph, and the baby Jesus lying in a manger. Then they did something which actually made them Christ’s first disciples, they told everyone what had been told them about Jesus and everyone was amazed.
The shepherds did exactly what we should be doing. Those of us who are Christians are to proclaim that Jesus Christ was born and died for our sins so that we might have eternal life. Jesus commanded this by saying, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19 NIV). We can not act like this is a big secret. There are people all around us who are lost and need the Good Shepherd to lead them back to the path towards Heaven. It is up to us to tell them of this Savior who loves them so much and wants them to come out of the darkness into His wonderful light.
So this Christmas ask someone to come to church with you on Christmas Eve. Lead them to the manger and watch what God can do.
A miracle indeed is waiting for those who give their lives to Christ. The gift of salvation is the most precious gift of all.
Dear Lord,
As Christmas approaches quickly help us to remember to proclaim to others why Jesus was born. Help us to lead someone to the One who can forgive them of their sins and give them the peace that only Christ can give.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen
