Glad Tidings Of Great Joy: A Christmas Invitation Series

Glad Tidings of Great Joy: A Christmas Invitation

Introduction:

Good tidings of great joy! On this Christmas Day, we turn our hearts to the timeless narrative in Luke 2:8-11, where shepherds on the Bethlehem hills received a celestial message that forever changed the course of human history. Today, let us unwrap the profound meaning behind the angelic proclamation and discover the everlasting joy it brings.

Point 1: The Humble Audience (Luke 2:8)

"And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night." In a society that often overlooked their role, God chose shepherds as the first recipients of the Christmas message.

The selection of shepherds highlights God's inclination to reveal His greatest truths to the humble and marginalized. It emphasizes that the good news of Christ is for everyone, regardless of social standing.

Quotation: Psalm 138:6 resonates with this theme, "For though the Lord is high, he regards the lowly, but the haughty he knows from afar."

Illustration: Imagine a majestic sunrise painting the sky, capturing the attention of those who might have otherwise missed its beauty. Similarly, God's message pierces through the darkness to reach those earnestly seeking, regardless of their societal status.

Call to Action - Embrace Humility:

As we celebrate Christmas, let us embrace the humility demonstrated in the choice of the shepherds. Recognize the value in every person, irrespective of their status. In our interactions, may humility guide our words and actions.

Point 2: The Angelic Announcement (Luke 2:9-10)

"An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.'"

The angelic proclamation unveils the essence of Christmas—the arrival of good news that transcends fear and brings unparalleled joy. The message is not exclusive but inclusive, intended for all people.

Quotation: Isaiah 9:6 prophesied this inclusive joy, "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."

Illustration: Picture a brilliant light breaking through the darkness, bringing reassurance and warmth. In the same way, the good news of Christ pierces through the fears of life, offering a message of hope and joy.

Call to Action - Embrace the Good News:

The angel's words echo through the ages, inviting us to embrace the good news of Christ. In a world often burdened by fear and uncertainty, let the joy of Christmas fill your hearts. Accept the invitation to experience a joy that surpasses circumstances.

Point 3: The Messiah's Arrival (Luke 2:11)

"Today in the town of David, a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord."

The culmination of the angelic message is the proclamation of the Savior's birth. Jesus, the Messiah and Lord, enters the world to bring salvation, marking the fulfillment of God's promise to humanity.

Quotation: Micah 5:2 foretold this significant event, "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times."

Illustration: Envision the anticipation before the reveal of a long-awaited gift. The birth of Jesus is the ultimate gift—a gift of love, redemption, and eternal life.

Call to Action - Receive the Gift:

As we celebrate Christmas, the invitation stands: receive the gift of Jesus Christ. He is the answer to our deepest longings, the source of true joy. Open your heart to Him, acknowledging Him as Savior and Lord.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the Christmas story is a universal narrative of joy, meant for all, irrespective of background or status. Let the humility of the shepherds, the joy of the angelic proclamation, and the significance of the Messiah's arrival inspire us today.

May this Christmas be a moment of personal encounter with the Savior. As we share in the shepherds' joy, let us extend this invitation to others, ensuring that the good news resonates far and wide.

May the grace and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.