The Nativity SceneEgzanp

In ancient times when Rome would celebrate a military victory, a new peace treaty, or the birth of new emperor, they would send out messengers announcing the good news to everyone they met. These messengers had an important job since there was no social media or means of mass communication during that time.

Word of mouth was how good news was spread during the time of Rome. Now look to the Roman-occupied nation of Israel. In a sleepy little village in the middle of a field in the dead of night, a group of shepherds were trying to stay warm while they watched their flocks of sheep. All of a sudden, a great light turned the night sky as bright as the morning dawn and a host of angels appeared proclaiming the good news that a new king was born.

Not a Roman emperor, but a Savior for the whole world. 

Upon hearing this news, they ran off to see this baby. After they met Jesus, they proceeded to go throughout the village telling everyone what they had heard. 

We too have the same good news that the shepherds had, and we too should be compelled by the amazing news that the Savior of the world has come. The shepherds were not ashamed to knock on doors in the middle of the night to announce to everyone the good news of Jesus’ birth. We have the opportunity to announce to the world about, not only the birth of Jesus, but also His death and resurrection. Just like the Roman messengers and the shepherds, God is asking us to spread the good news of his Son to everyone in our circles of influence. 

Reflection Questions:

What advantages do we have over the shepherds in our ability to communicate the good news about Jesus to people today?

Who are three people in your circle of influence that you can pray for and seek opportunities to share the Good News about Jesus with? Pray about that now.