Good News of Great Joy

Verse:

“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” (Luke 2:11-14, KJV)

Devotional:

Imagine you're a shepherd, tending to your flock on a quiet night when suddenly, an angel appears before you, announcing the birth of a Savior in the city of David. The angel tells you to look for a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger. Then, in an instant, the sky is filled with a multitude of heavenly hosts, all praising God and proclaiming peace on earth.

It's hard to imagine the awe and wonder that the shepherds must have felt at that moment. The good news of a Savior, born to bring peace to the world, was announced to them first. What an incredible privilege!

But the good news isn't just for the shepherds on that hillside. It's for you and me, too. The birth of Jesus Christ is the ultimate demonstration of God's love for us. He came to earth as a baby, grew up to be a man, and died on the cross to take away our sins and reconcile us to God. Through faith in Jesus, we can have peace with God and the promise of eternal life.

As we celebrate Christmas, let's remember the good news of great joy that was announced to the shepherds that night. Let's reflect on the incredible love that God has for us, that He would send His only Son to save us. And let's share that good news with others, just as the shepherds did when they went and told everyone they met about the Savior's birth.

Daily Challenge:

Take some time to reflect on the good news of Jesus' birth and what it means for you personally. Then, think of one person in your life who needs to hear that good news and find a way to share it with them this Christmas season.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the good news of great joy that You announced to the shepherds so long ago. We thank You for sending Your Son to save us and bring us peace. Help us to never forget the incredible love that You have for us and to share that love with others. Give us the courage and the words to share the good news of Jesus with those around us. In Jesus' precious name, we pray. Amen.