When [the shepherds] saw [Mary and Joseph and the child lying in the manger], they made known what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them, and Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, just as it had been told them. 

Luke 2:17-20 (New Revised Standard Version)

In the shepherds’ story, I see themes surfacing that we have talked about throughout the year of Invite.  The shepherds were invited by angels to experience the power and presence of God in their midst.  As they respond to this invitation, they cannot help but share this good news with others.  These in turn are also amazed by this message, and likely spread it further.

As we heard when the angels showed up, the shepherds received no command to share this message of good news and salvation.  The angels who told them could not contain their excitement about what God was up to in the world, and could only tell them where to encounter this good news.  That encounter was all that was needed for the shepherds to tell others the amazing and wonderful things God had done.

We, too, continue to be invited to experience this power and presence of God in our lives.  We, too, are invited to know this good news of great joy.  And this good news grips us in such a way that we cannot help but glorify and praise God, we cannot help but share this message with others.  As we encounter Christ in the manger and at the table this Christmas season, may we do just that.

Prayer:   Dear God, help us recognize those times we have encountered your good news of great joy, and having recognized such an encounter, give us the courage, strength, and words to share this good news with all whom we meet.  Amen.

Wondering While Waiting: Think about someone who helped you become closer in your relationship with God and give thanks for them.

Daryl – Leadership Team: Inspire. Ignite. Invite.

Angola, IN