Christmas Series: The Shepherds
“There were shepherds living out in their fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 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. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger” Luke 2:8–12
“They hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them”
Luke 2:16–18
3 THOUGHTS ABOUT THIS PASSAGE:
1. EVERY HEART IS SEARCHING FOR TRUE JOY.
“For everything in the world--the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life--comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.“ 1 John 1:16-17
2. TRUE JOY BEGINS WHEN YOU ENCOUNTER JESUS.
Your words were found, and I ate them, and your words became to me a joy and the delight of my heart, for I am called by your name, O Lord, God of hosts. Jeremiah 15:16
Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance. Luke 15:7
3. IT’S NORMAL PEOPLE (SHEPHERDS) LIKE YOU AND ME WHO ARE CALLED TO SHARE THE JOY.
Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 1 Corinthians 1:26-27
OUR RESPONSE:
A. Embracing the Hope and Joy That Has Been Given
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.” Philippians 4:4–5
B. Remember Hope and Joy Can’t Be Taken Away
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28
C. Don’t Settle for Anything Less
“My sin is always before me. Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight….. vs 12- Restore to me the joy of your salvation.” Psalms 51
J- Jesus
O-Others
Y- You