Saturday, December 14, 2024
Please read Luke 2:8-20
Did you see the Aurora Borealis? It has been seen this year in places where it never has been seen before. Even if you did not see it, the photos and videos are awe-inspiring. We look at them in wonder and amazement. In the sky on the night Jesus was born, was a different spectacle, even more awe-inspiring. On the night Jesus was born, the shepherds in nearby fields were visited by an angel, and then by a heavenly choir. There was a brilliant light, brighter than our brightest day. There was an angel choir in the sky, singing praise to God. The music was more beautiful than any music here on earth. The shepherds were astounded at what they saw and heard.
Many preachers have taught that the shepherds were not always the most upstanding of citizens. Many were criminals who escaped into the hills around Bethlehem to escape the law. Others were anti-social, preferring the sheep to people. Yet it was to the shepherds that the heavenly host appeared on that night. No one else in Bethlehem appeared to have seen the bright light, or heard the heavenly music. Were the shepherds the only ones awake? Possibly, or God made a special effort to reach out to those who were outcasts from society. The shepherds needed to know that they were loveable. They needed to know that Jesus came to save everyone, not just those accepted by society. Those who feel they are on the outside looking in, those who do not feel accepted; they are the people that God sends angels to tell the good news. The shepherds’ lives were changed that night. They returned to their flocks glorifying and praising God. They believed the good news that a Savior had been born. They became faithful believers of the good news.
Are we faithful believers of the good news? Do we believe that a Savior was born for us? Jesus came for all people. He is a Savior to the faithful, as well as to the outcasts, and those who are not upstanding citizens. Jesus died for the sins of everyone; the faithful and the not always so faithful. No matter where you see yourself, Jesus was born, lived, and then died for you. Let this good news be life-changing for you. Glorify and praise God that a Savior was born for you!
Prayer: Thank you, God, for sending Jesus for all people. Much as we would like to see an angelic host singing in the heavens, help us to believe even without such a beautiful sign. May this Advent season be the sign that we need to believe in our Savior. May we glorify and praise you for the love you shower upon us, just as you showed your love to the shepherds so long ago. Amen.
Rev. Robin Myers,
Regional Elder in District 6