GPS Guide – December 3, 20018
GREAT JOY
Read: Psalm 23:1-6
“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” (NIV Psalm 23:1-6)
Study: David become Israel’s greatest king—but he knew a shepherd’s job description from his own experience. In this Psalm, David portrayed God as his shepherd. He found in God the perfect expression of the qualities he himself had exercised as caregiver to his flock of sheep. News of Jesus’ birth was first sent to shepherds, seen as low-class members of society. These humble men could not bring Jesus the rich material gifts that the magi brought later. What did God, the Great Shepherd, provide for Joseph, Mary, and Jesus through the Shepherds at the manger? What people has God used to give you similar gifts?
Prayer: Lord of the Shepherds; Lead me in the week leading up to your son’s birth. Show me what gifts I have to serve the savior Jesus. Amen