The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told. Luke 2:20
Listen: Luke 2
TODAY’S MESSAGE
God loves to pen a twist in the story—working in ways we would not expect. This is certainly true in the story of Jesus’ birth.
The fanfare and procession are great when royalty bears a child! You would expect the birth of the King of Kings (Jesus) to have a magnificent entrance into this world. But that’s not how it happened.
Jesus was born in a stable with a feeding trough for a bed. The angels appeared to shepherds, not diplomats or royalty. They were Nomads smelling of sheep with no wealth or extravagance. The brilliant angel Gabriel proclaimed this world-altering event to humble people. God chose the humble to receive and participate in the advent of the Messiah. God works in ways we often would not expect.
Perhaps today you are experiencing the post-Christmas “let-down.” Parties, eggnog, presents and family are all wonderful experiences, but their joy is temporary. Our expectations can leave us feeling a bit empty and disappointed. There is only one gift that sustains the joy of our hearts. His name is Jesus. Our relationship with God through Christ sustains our joy, peace and wholeness.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Offer a prayer to God acknowledging that a relationship with him is better than any gift or experience you might have had over the past week of festivities. Pray something like this: “Dear Father, thank you for sending your Son Jesus to rescue me. Thank you that I am yours forever. Knowing you and being known by you is better than any gift I’ve ever received. You are my joy and strength. Amen.”
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
