Today I have the privilege of sharing over at First 5 as we continue our Advent study. I hope you’ll head to the First 5 website to read the entire teaching, or download the app to study along with us! Here’s a preview . . .
Today’s Reading: Luke 2:15-20
Luke 2:20 (ESV) “And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.”
If I told you about a delicious dessert I enjoyed at a new restaurant or a captivating piece of artwork at a nearby museum, would you be satisfied with simply hearing me describe it? Probably not! If you care anything about food or art, you’ll want to head to the restaurant or museum and experience it for yourself.
The shepherds were the same way. A chorus of angels lit up the night sky and brought the news that a Savior had been born in Bethlehem. (Luke 2:9-14) But the shepherds didn’t just take the angels’ word for it. They wanted to see it for themselves. After they responded in faith to the angels’ message, they shared the good news and worshipped God.
The shepherds responded in faith. (Luke 2:15-16)
I wonder how long the shepherds sat there in shock after the angels vanished back into heaven. This night of looking after sheep wasn’t turning out at all like they had planned. But in response to the angelic visit, the shepherds “went with haste” to Bethlehem (Luke 2:16). The sight of Mary, Joseph and the baby confirmed the good news: a Savior had been born in Bethlehem. (Luke 2:11)
The good news about Jesus demands a response. Have you responded in faith to the gospel message? When we run in faith to Jesus, we find that He is all that He promises to be.
You can read the rest of this teaching at the First 5 website or by downloading the app. I hope it will encourage you as we look forward to celebrating the birth of our Savior!
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