Friday December 25, 2020

Today’s Reading: Luke 2:8-18

After seeing [them], they reported the message they were told about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.

Luke 2:17-18

Reflection: If you witnessed a sight as incredible as the Promised Messiah wrapped in swaddling cloths, would you be able to keep the sight to yourself? The shepherds were quick to tell others about what they witnessed. They not only experienced the event, but also understood the magnitude of it. They knew the significance of the Messiah’s arrival to His people. They recognized that the news they were given was important for others to know.

The weight of this glorious event is just as heavy today. Do we bear the news of Christ’s birth as readily as the shepherds did on that Holy Night? The arrival of Jesus was very real. Because they had first drawn near to the Lord in the manger, they were able to report their message with absolute certainty. And all who heard this message were amazed. The angel of the Lord, the multitude of heavenly hosts, the virgin mother were sights to behold. But none were as amazing as the Baby Who was lying in a feeding trough. The sight of Him was humble and plain, and yet it was wonderful. The wonder of it embeds itself deep into opened hearts and grows into a blossom of faith which is to be shared with all who will receive it. Be like the shepherds this day and all the year through: report the message you recall about the birth of our Lord Savior Jesus Christ!

Prayer: Lord, I come to You amazed at the story of the Birth of Your Son. I praise You for Your Love, Mercy, and Faithfulness. Thank You for this day in which to celebrate the Love that came down at Christmas. Thank You for sending Jesus my Savior. As I recall His Life, Death, and Resurrection, Lord, please help me to tell this story to others, that they too would be Saved by You. I pray these things in Jesus’ Holy Name, AMEN.

Thru the Bible in a year (credit: Biblestudytools.com): John 10:22-42; 2 Chronicles 9; Psalm 74