Advent December 6, 2006

"In the same region, shepherds were living out in the fields and keeping watch at night over their flock. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them…and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid, for you see, I announce to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people: because in the city of David was born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.'"
--Luke 2:8-11

What will occupy you most this Christmas season: burdens or Joys?
The shepherds that first Christmas night were probably burdened…with all the usual culprits: straying lambs, wool ticks, cut hooves, nighttime cold.
Then suddenly they were exposed to angels, international news, and glory--brilliant, radiant, Shekinah Glory! They could never be the same again.
The shepherds returned ”glorifying and praising God for all they had seen and heard” (Luke 2:20). Sure. They returned to wool and ticks and cut hooves, but forever after they would see all their annoyances through new eyes.
Christians, are you burdened with the “usual”?
You, too, have been exposed to all the splendor, all the joy, all the majesty of God’s eternal plans, set in motion by the birth of Jesus.
Then don’t be absorbed by the burdens! Do your daily work this Christmas glorifying and praising God for all you have seen and heard.
"The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had seen and heard." Luke 2:20.

Excerpted from:

How Great Our Joy: Family Memories and Meditations for Christmas, by Ray and Anne Ortlund

Used with the kind permission of our friends at Broadman and Holman