Good News of Great Joy!

I am so happy to bring this devotion to you today from the desk of my good friend Penny McGinnis. More of Penny's devotions can be found at Encouragement Journey.
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Good News of Great Joy!
by Penny McGinnis
11/2/09

Luke 2:8-11

vs.8And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.”

If I were outside at night sitting on a hill preoccupied with my job and an angel (or anyone else for that matter) appeared to me, I'd be terrified too. And, I would wonder why on earth an angel is telling me, a lowly shepherd, news that the whole world longed to hear. Of course God knew what he was doing, he always does. He knew that the shepherds believed, and that through their faith they would spread the news. Later in the scripture we learn that the shepherds did indeed spread the story and glory of Jesus. They lead others to see him in the manger outside of Bethlehem, where they worshipped him.

What message has God given us to share this season? Perhaps through our greetings and cards, he wants us to remind the world that Christmas glorifies his Son. Penning an encouraging email to brighten someone’s stressful day, or using words to create inspiring stories and essays may bring the joy and peace of the season to a reader’s heart.

Where are you in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the holiday? Are you a shepherd minding your own business or a shepherd spreading the news of the glorious King's birth?

Best wishes for a joy-filled Christmas.
Penny McGinnis


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