The God of Suddenly

Read:
“That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep.  Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified,  but the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people.” (Luke 2:8-10)

In Jewish culture at this point in human history shepherds were the outcasts of society. They were the criminals, liars, and thieves who were looked down upon by all and ESPECIALLY by the religious elite of the day.

They were the unchurched. The ones who had no hope, were broken, and desperately needed peace.

How many times did these men wake up and go to bed wondering if it was worth living another day?

How many nights did they cry themselves to sleep, beating themselves up over past mistakes? Wearing shame, guilt, and condemnation as a blanket as they watched over smelly sheep, isolated from anyone who loved them.

And then SUDDENLY, Everything changed forever.

We serve a God who has a plan and loves you right where you are. He sees you, and if you invite Him in, He will change you forever. 

He comes to bring GREAT JOY and that is something that nothing in this world can truly give. 

The message that the angels brought is the same message that is preached today. Jesus is here for you. God became one of us to save us forever. 

Don’t let the Christmas Story become familiar. Don’t be afraid, God is with you always.

Prayer:
Thank you Jesus for saving me. Elevate my perspective to walk in Your grace today. Deepen my faith and strengthen me by Your Spirit. Help me to love like You, talk like You, and to see others the way that You do. I love You and I need You. Thank you for who You are. Amen!