A Christmas Story

Have you ever heard a group of elementary schoolchildren reciting the “Christmas story” from Luke? There’s nothing like it! We experience, again, the story of the shepherds, tending the flocks at night, and being visited by an angel.

Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:10-12)

Many adults can recite this story right along with the children. That’s how familiar people are with the story of Jesus Christ’s birth.

When we read the Bible, we quickly discover that God is a “seeking” God. He sought out individuals, including Adam, Noah, Abraham, Mary, and countless others to accomplish His plans and bless His people. We are inspired in our faith when we explore how others respond to Jesus. When we read, or hear again, the story of the shepherds being told about Jesus' birth, we see that they are at first afraid, but then their fear was transformed.

These shepherds, with faithful hearts, responded to the good news of a Savior born in Bethlehem, acted on it, shared it with others, and praised God. As we look forward to celebrating the birth of Jesus this week, let’s take a look at their response to this amazing news.

• Belief: The shepherds said, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass” (Luke 2:15). They didn’t say, “Let’s go see if this came to pass.” They had believing hearts.
• Motivation: After hearing the news, the shepherds wanted to go immediately to Bethlehem. And once there, they shared their story with all who would listen (Luke 2:17). Belief generated action.
• Praise: As the shepherds returned, they praised and glorified God for all that they had seen and heard (Luke 2:20)

During this Christmas season, may our hearts be filled with wonder at the reality of God's goodness to us, in sending His Son into this world. As we sing the familiar Christmas carols, may we exalt God and praise Him for the gift of Jesus. May our holiday decorations point others to Christ. As we read again the Christmas story accounts in the gospels, let us look for ways to talk about Jesus’ birth with family and friends who may not know Him. Make sure that everyone within earshot of you hears about the great things that God has done for you (Luke 1:49).

RESPOND:

God, thank you for seeking my heart, and for sending us your Son. May the reminder of Christ's advent turn my belief into action and praise. And may I always share with anyone who will hear the good news of You. Amen.

RENEWING RESOURCES:

In the A Woman After God's Own Heart Bible, you can read the Christmas story and about Christ's life in this devotional Bible.

You can also shop our Advent and Christmas prints here. These make great gifts and reminders for this holiday season!

REFLECT:

May the reminder of the coming of the Savior inspire a fervent reaction in your soul. Pray for the opportunity to tell others about the coming of the Christ and His love for you.

REMEMBER:

This Christmas, let’s make sure that everyone within earshot of us hears about the great things God, who is mighty, has done for us.