Lisa Sheffler, author
God’s holy angels delivered the amazing news that the Savior of the world was coming! Consider how that news was received, and how we should receive it today.
Reflect
Reflect on the passages we looked at this week:
What lessons can we learn from the various reactions to the angels’ announcements of Jesus’ birth?
Connect
Many of our Christmas traditions are about reminding us of a brighter, warmer, and more carefree time of year. We make the best of winter with reminders of light and life. We put up Christmas trees and decorate with garland made of evergreen branches. We hang twinkling lights on the eaves of our house or the balcony of our apartment. We enjoy warm cider and roaring fires. Though it is cold, dark and lifeless now, we anticipate the renewal of spring. The change of the seasons points us to a God who brings life from barrenness. Spring is the promise we cling to in winter.
When Jesus came, he offered new life. Everyone who has accepted his offer by putting their faith in him has been given a deposit on an even greater renewal. Like the green shoots that come after the final frost, we see evidence of new life in our own Spirit-led transformation. As we turn from our sin and break free of its shame, we are glimpsing the promise of an even greater transformation. At the second Advent of our Savior, we will experience complete renewal along with all of creation. The Son will banish the darkness and his life conquers all death. We’ll bask in the warmth and light of the glory of God.
As you reflect on the anticipation the angels must have felt at seeing the marvelous plan of God unfold before their eyes, allow yourself to anticipate the final act in this drama of redemption. As wonderful as Christmas is, it should remind us to be ready for the second arrival of our King. The angels brought news of great joy and peace. Consider how we should live in light of that news today. And think about someone to whom you should deliver the message of salvation.
Not everyone feels joy at Christmas. Some of us are burdened by loss or grief. Allow the lights and evergreen branches of Christmas to bring you hope and comfort because of the faith you have in Jesus, the Savior and King. We can look forward to the day when those feelings will be distant memories. In the meantime, reach out ask for help to bear your burdens. You might be surprised by how willing others are to listen, pray, and share the love of Christ.
Respond
What is your next step?
The angels received different responses from each of the people with whom they shared Christ’s birth. Is there a message the Lord is sending you this Christmas? You don’t need the arrival of an angel to tell you God’s will when so much of it is spelled out in Scripture. How can you seek and respond to the call of the Holy Spirit.
Christmas provides us with an opportunity to have meaningful conversations with others about Jesus. It’s also a time when we can offer faithful presence and prayer to those struggling with loneliness, addiction, anxiety, or other issues. Is there a friend, neighbor, or family member the Spirit is prompting you to check on? Make a plan to reach out.
