Scripture Reference: Luke 2:1-20
To help you reflect on the message of Jesus’ coming this season, consider these suggestions:
- Yesterday, we focused on what happened when the angel announced to the angels that the baby in Bethlehem was the Savior of the world. Read how the angel also appeared to Mary, the future mother of Jesus (Luke 1:26-56), and also to Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist (Luke 1:5-25 and 1:57-80). These are long passages, but they are worth it.
- In the message, Don reminds us that the angels’ appearance to the shepherds would not show up in the normal news! Why do you think that God chose shepherds to announce Jesus’ birth, instead of the powerful, the politicians, or pop stars?
- The shepherds responded to the announcement with self-forgetful humility. In other words, they didn’t think about the possibility of getting fired from their jobs (tending sheep in the fields) or what others thought about them (knocking on doors and telling neighbors about the Christ child). Think of a specific way you could practice self-forgetful humility this week. In other words, what one thing can you do this week that allows you to serve someone else without any expectation of receiving something in return?
- The shepherds also responded with praise and giving glory to God (read v. 20). How do you praise and glorify God? Try something creative to expand your worship. Imagine your neighbor asked you to write down the reasons why you worship God. Remember that praise is about the person you are praising and not about you. Write two sentences or short paragraphs and share your answers with someone else. Start with, “I praise God because He…..”
- “A Savior has been born to you. He is Christ the Lord.” This statement changed history. It can also change someone’s life. Ask God to show you someone who needs this world-changing good news. Now write a card to that person and include a note that shares this good news. Pray that God opens that person’s heart. Call the person next week and ask what they thought of the note!
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