Scripture to Read: Luke 2:10-11
Yesterday, we saw the audience and the messenger of the Christmas story. Today we focus on the message of the Christmas story. Remember, the shepherds were fearful, but in Luke 2:10-11, "the angel said to them, '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." The angel's proclamation to the shepherds answers three questions about the meaning of Christmas. The first question answered, "How should we respond to this good news?" The words of the angel are clear; he brought "good news of great joy." Rather than being fearful, the proper response to our Savior's arrival is rejoicing. Now, who is meant to rejoice in this good news? God's Word tells us that this good news "will be for all the people." So, the good news of what God has done was not just for Israel, but this good news is for all the earth, people from every tribe, tongue, and nation (see Revelation 5:9-10, 7:9-10). This good news that gives joy to the world leads us to the last question, "Who is the message of the good news about?" We know this good news is all about Jesus, who came to save us from the penalty and power of sin and who lives forever as our Lord. Let's spend this Christmas focusing on Christ our Lord, rejoicing in the salvation we have in Him and sharing the good news of the gospel with all people.
Challenge & Application
1. Why does the good news of Jesus’s coming bring us joy and not fear?
2. How can you be involved in sharing the good news with all people?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!