Read
Luke 2:17-18, 20,
"When they had seen Him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. ... The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told."
Think
Whenever we see a fabulous movie or discover a great new restaurant, we can't wait to tell others all about it. We love to give play-by-play details of what we saw, heard, tasted, and felt. Why, then, do we sometimes hesitate when given the opportunity to share the life-change we've experienced as Christ-followers? In biblical times, shepherds were not highly regarded members of the community. So, consider how unlikely it was for them to go about proclaiming the birth of an unknown infant! Literally societal outcasts, this news must have been shocking – yet all who heard it were amazed. Perhaps, just as the news itself, people were drawn to the men's glowing and animated account. This is quite telling of God's grace and love as the lowest of the low were the first to experience the presence of the Most High. Movies and restaurants come and go, but a Christ-filled life lasts forever. So, the next time you feel like giving a glowing recommendation, why not make it for the only place Jesus ever built - the local church! After all, the message of Christ is just too good not to share!
Act
Continue to "spread the word concerning" the life-change, hope and unending joy that can only happen through having a personal relationship with Christ.
Pray
Dear Lord, I'm thrilled to be a part of the life-change happening each week at church. Open the hearts of all the guests attending Christmas services at Fellowship Church. May they experience what it means to have You at the center of their lives. In Jesus' name, Amen.