THE MESSAGE

And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; 11 for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. Luke 2:9-11 (NASB)

I cannot imagine how spectacular the scene was that dark night long ago. There is something about being in a field on a clear night that makes every star shine brighter. Even the glimmer of a light far away can be seen. Darkness always makes light appear brighter. Noticeable too is the contrast between standing in the middle of the neon lights of a busy city looking at the sky, and that same sky from the stillness of the country. Visualize if you will the spectacular and even frightful event of an angel suddenly breaking through the night, and then a whole host of angels before your very eyes…why, one could talk about that kind of experience forever. Yet, there is something far, far greater in the narrative in Luke 2 above. It is themessage itself.

How easy it is to be caught up in the spectacular surroundings apart from the message. The person of the “messenger,” the style of the message, the surroundings or atmosphere of the message, and even my own experience can all too often override the message itself. There are four (4) words in Luke 2:11 that are the heart, the excitement, and the content of the message that night when angel and shepherds came face to face. Those words “unto you,” and “a Savior” make the message life changing for those who hear and respond. Many teachers, philosophers, religious experts, and prophets had come and gone. Our need was greater. What I needed….what you needed was a Savior (deliverer). I got one that night…so did you. He was our Savior and He was born unto us and for us so that He could be born in us. That is a priceless Christmas present.

1. What activities surround me in these times that seem to distract me from the real message?
2. What activities Jesus might you desire that will keep me from distractions?

Dear Lord, would you keep me focused not only on the marvel of your speaking, but on the content of your message to me? In your precious Name, amen.  From your father's heart