Abiding in ChristmasSample

"Abiding in Christmas: Daily Advent Thoughts" by Bryan Craig

DAY TWENTY-FOUR

When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them. (Luke 2:15-20 ESV)

Imagine the excitement and curiosity that filled these shepherds after being visited by a heavenly choir of angels, lighting up the night sky, and hearing about this special child which had been born. It says they went with haste. They hurried to Jesus. The only clue they had was that the baby would be lying in a manger. I think the bright star that guided the wise men to find him could have also shone a spotlight to help the shepherds find the location, or perhaps they already knew where to go. Once they found Jesus, the first thing they did was share the news with everyone they knew. Finding Jesus brought them joy and prompted praise. And I love the little line that gets lost sometimes, “Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart.” Once you come face to face with Heaven, your heart can never be the same.

APPLICATION: Have you seen Jesus with the eyes of your heart? Do you relate to the shepherds and to Mary and the treasure of joy that filled their hearts? If not, run to Jesus by falling on your knees and worshiping Him. He will give you this treasure.