One starry night in Bethlehem, shepherds saw the glory of God through visiting angels, who shared the news — a Savior is born!
Picture a star-filled night over pastureland outside of the city where shepherds are resting, with their flocks, after a long day’s work. Then, all of a sudden, they see an angel appear before them saying:
“Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” –Luke 2:10-12
Can you imagine it! And, as if that wasn’t glorious enough, the gospel of Luke goes on to tell us a multitude of angels appeared and began praising God, saying:
“Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” –Luke 2:14
Finding the source of our joy – Jesus
Well, after all that, the shepherds had to see for themselves this thing the angels announced. So with this in mind, they went into Bethlehem to look for this sign the angles told them to find.
Do you think that night changed them?
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13
From then on, I like to think those shepherds had a calm spirit, a subtle smile, and even a twinkle in their eyes only the sweet joy in the Lord can produce. Specifically, it’s the kind of deep joy that comes from His overflow. That is how those who trust in God can share His joy without even trying.
Merry Christmas, Friends.
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This post is a preview of Week Three in the Advent Series. Come on back to read the full post available this coming Sunday.
Celebrating the Season of Advent – O Come, O Come, Immanuel
Visit the Joyology 101 Series to learn more about experiencing joy in the Lord. Click here to find it.
Merry Christmas to you and your family!
Thanks, Melissa. Merry Christmas to you and yours, as well.
Beautiful post, Suzette! I love sitting with the word, “behold”; it speaks so much in 6 little letters. God always reveals more to us when we sit at His feet and listen! Wishing you and your family all the Christmas JOY God has for you!
Donna, thanks for the thoughtful comment, and Merry Christmas to you.
I love this, Suzette: “Specifically, it’s the kind of deep joy that comes from His overflow. That is how those who trust in God can share His joy without even trying.” It takes the pressure off of us. 🙂
Yes, Lisa. If we would simply rely on God, He takes all the pressure for us. Thanks for the encouraging comment.
Merry Christmas to you and your family as well.
Thanks, Sandra!