Advent: The Worshipers

Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the reign of King Herod. About that time some wise men from eastern lands arrived in Jerusalem, asking, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star as it rose, and we have come to worship him.” Matthew 2:1-2

The ancient middle east, when Jesus was born, was just as tumultuous and dangerous as it is today. A trip from a distant land to Jerusalem wouldn’t have been easy and perhaps not even safe. But there were men of influence and knowledge who saw a sign that compelled them to make the journey, regardless of the difficulty.

When they got to the place where Jesus was they acknowledge his authority and worshipped him. Sometimes our journey in life is difficult, even dangerous. The question is - will we recognize Jesus authority and worship him? In sorrow or joy worship has the power to breathe hope into our souls.

How will you respond to Jesus this Christmas? Will you join the wisemen and worship him as king?

Advent: The Good News

“That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David!” Luke 2:8-11

The wait was finally over. The Savior was here! Heaven and earth met in the fields outside of Bethlehem. Sleepy shepherds snapped to attention as the night sky burst with the glory of God’s messenger. Salvation had come!

Sometimes life stretches on with no end in sight, the nightwatch feels like it will never be over. And then good news! Love shows up when we least expect it.

God honored the shepherds with news of his salvation. He set them on mission. He sent them to see the baby with their own eyes. After they recovered from the shock, they left the dark fields and ran to the light of love.

Later on in Luke it says, “After seeing him, the shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child.” After such good news the shepherds could never be the same again.

You may be waiting for good news. It’s here. Love has been born to set you free. How has news of God’s love changed you?