GPS Guide – December 7, 2018
GREAT JOY
Friday
Read: Luke 2:8-20
“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.” (NIV Luke 2:8-20)
Study: For many of us, this scene (seen mainly in Christmas pageants) has a lovely glow about it. But not so much when it happened! Remember that the shepherds were sent to find the newborn king “in a parking garage” (that’s what a first-century stable was), lying on a bed of straw where the animals ate. “Look! I bring good news to you—wonderful, joyous news for all people. Your savior is born today in David’s city. He is Christ the Lord. This is a sign for you: you will find a newborn baby wrapped snugly and lying in a manger.” Try to hear these words for the first time, like the shepherds. What most makes this message joyous news for you?
Prayer: New born King, I lift up praises for you. My heart is filled with excitement for Christmas day. Like, a child or the shepherds, let me hear this good news as if it were new. Amen