Advent Devotion - Day 20

DECEMBER 20 – Luke 2: 8-12

By: Diane Bechtold

8 In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people:  11 to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign for you:  you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.”

Imagine the night sky shining brightly and voices coming to us to announce the birth of Jesus! We’re told that Jesus always comes to us – we have no need to do special deeds, or have unwavering faith – Jesus still comes. He comes to us as we do our most humble tasks and announces that we are his, an announcement worthy of our rejoicing; an announcement that should make us want to move forward and tell others.

Prayer
Lord, God, you gave us Jesus to show us, once and for all time, the magnitude of your love for humanity. Show us the way to show our love, and reflect the grace that you so freely give.

Family Moment
The angels appeared to the shepherds to bring news of the newborn King. Their first words were “Fear not!” Then the angels proclaim that the good news is for ALL people. God’s love (made incarnate through Jesus) is truly for all people. Make a list or draw a picture of people you know. Then tell them that God loves them – God loves everyone!