Advent: A 25-Day Countdown to Christmasنموونە

Will You Come to the Party?

Let’s go back to the countryside outside of Bethlehem around two thousand years ago. Shepherd families around campfires, with few scattered among the sheep, when a stranger appears among them—an angel sent from God with good news.

The angel announced the birth of the promised Savior of the world, born in the nearby town of Bethlehem. Then, several angels appeared among the shepherds, singing praises to God.

But why these shepherds? Why not the people in town, the king of Israel, the Emperor in Rome?

Could it be that God has a habit of including shepherds like Abel, Abraham, and David in the story of the Bible and wanted shepherds present at the birth of Jesus?

• Or maybe God wanted to highlight how this good news wasn’t just for powerful rulers or religious elites, but it was for all people—from the king, down to lowly shepherds.
• Or God might have chosen the shepherds because they were mobile people, well-suited to spreading this joyful message all over the region.
• Or it could be that this was the largest group of people around, and the angels wanted a big worship party for the biggest night in human history up to this point.
• And could it be that, from day one, God wanted people to recognize Jesus as a good shepherd, kindly guiding His people?

The most likely answer is that it’s for all these reasons and more.

The angelic stranger announces the birth of Jesus and invites the shepherds to meet the newborn King. And when they hear the message, they don’t hesitate. They hurry to the town to meet baby Jesus, then go around town and all over the region telling the story of what they’d seen and heard.

This Christmas, you’ve heard a message of joy. Good news for all people. God hasn’t forgotten us or given up on us. Instead, He loves us and is working all things together for good.

So, how will you respond to this good news?

Hopefully, you follow the shepherds and work to share joy this Christmas. How?

• By worshiping God, even if it feels embarrassing or awkward.
• By giving good gifts to friends and strangers.
• Or by inviting someone to get to know God better through sharing a verse, or inviting them to church.

Joy is a resilient cheerfulness anchored in the goodness of God. And God’s given each of us the opportunity to spread joy wherever we go. So today, we invite you to say yes to God’s invitation and find a way to share the joy of Jesus with the people in your life.

Pause and Pray:

Lord, thank You for Your gift of joy. Please help me to enjoy Christmas as I remember who You are and what You have done. Let my celebration demonstrate Your love and faithfulness to everyone I meet. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Reflect or Discuss:

How can I let my celebration of Christmas show God’s joy to others?