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TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. Luke 2:10-11

Read: Luke 2:1-21
Listen: Luke 2

TODAY’S MESSAGE

For generations, the Israelites have been waiting for the arrival of the Messiah. He is the one who will fulfill the promise given long ago to their forefather Abraham and through whom the whole world will be blessed (Genesis 12:1-3). They hear nothing for hundreds of years. No prophets. No signs. No wonders. Then angels break through the sky to announce he is here. Nothing about Jesus’s birth is expected or typical. He is the King of Kings but doesn’t arrive in a palace or capital. His birth isn’t announced to powerful leaders but humble shepherds. His earthly family isn’t influential or known. God-in-flesh comes in humility. His birth mirrors how he will live, die and rise again.

This is just the beginning of the greatest story ever told. The good news, or the “Gospel” of Jesus, is still “great joy for all people” (Luke 2:10). What began so long ago in a manger continues in our modern times. Jesus, the Messiah, offers life, forgiveness and salvation to all. His promise is for all people, no matter the situation, background or upbringing. As the shepherds race breathlessly to see and then spread the news, so can we. May God renew our awe at the miracle of his birth. May the good news that began then continue in our lives today. And may we share the good news of God’s presence with us to all.

IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY

Meditate on the angels’ announcement that Jesus’s birth is “good news that will cause great joy for all the people” (Luke 2:10b). Pause on each word thinking about what they mean. Ask God to help this good news bring great joy to you and everyone you encounter today.

2023 SPIRITUAL PRACTICES

Join us all of 2023 developing a different spiritual practice each month. SPIRITUAL PRACTICES are intentional regular activities to deepen our relationship with God and mold us to be more like Jesus.

December is CELEBRATION. Keep track of our spiritual practices at beyondtheweekend.org/spiritualpractices.

Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.