Now there were shepherds nearby living out in the field, keeping guard over their flock at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were absolutely terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid! Listen carefully, for I proclaim to you good news that brings great joy to all the people: Today your Savior is born in the city of David. He is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign for you: You will find a baby wrapped in strips of cloth and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a vast, heavenly army appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among people with whom he is pleased!”
Angels, Luke 2:8-14
The voices of God’s angels were the first to carry the good news of salvation to the ears of God’s lost creation. The good news brings great joy and peace to all who believe.
After the Angelic voices faded into the memory of the shepherds the responsibility of the message was given to those who first heard it. This is the pattern that God has used throughout history to reach each generation with the good news. We who have heard, we who have been saved by Christ must be the ones who proclaim God’s vast invitation. His message must be on our lips!
Our hope for you today is that you will be the source of good news to someone who needs to hear about God’s Salvation.
Bonus Content:
The stirring Christmas hymn “There is a song in the air” which accompanies todays Christmas devotion was written by a journalist named Josiah G. Holland. It is an error to think that God only works through those called to serve him in pastoral positions in the church. God works in all believers everywhere! No matter what walk of life you find yourself in God has a plan for you! Listen and do what He wants you to do!
That first Christmas night shepherds were given the message of Salvation! The clergy, theologians, pious and righteous had to hear the Good News from the “common” working man. God does not need you to be a polished speaker, or a respected leader He needs you to be willing to share His message!
There’s a song in the air!
There’s a star in the sky!
There’s a mother’s deep prayer
and a baby’s low cry!
And the star rains its fire
while the beautiful sing,
for the manger of Bethlehem
cradles a King!
There’s a tumult of joy
o’er the wonderful birth,
for the virgin’s sweet boy
is the Lord of the earth.
Ay! the star rains its fire
while the beautiful sing,
for the manger of Bethlehem
cradles a King!
In the light of that star
lie the ages impearled;
and that song from afar
has swept over the world.
Every hearth is aflame,
and the beautiful sing
in the homes of the nations
that Jesus is King!
We rejoice in the light,
and we echo the song
that comes down through the night
from the heavenly throng.
Ay! we shout to the lovely
evangel they bring,
and we greet in his cradle
our Savior and King!
With much love,
The Downings
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