An Ongoing Invitation
As Christmas draws near, we are reminded of the incredible truth that God invites us to be a part of His work in the world. The birth of Jesus is not just a story to be told. This is really an ongoing invitation to come, see, and share the good news of His love.
The Shepherds’ Response
Today, we reflect on this invitation through the story of the shepherds.
Luke 2:15-20 (NIV)
"When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.’ So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen Him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.”
The shepherds’ response to the angels’ message is amazing. They didn’t hesitate or overthink. Instead, they hurried to see the Savior, acting on God’s invitation with urgency and joy. Once they encountered Jesus, they couldn’t keep the good news to themselves.They shared it with everyone they met, glorifying and praising God for what they had experienced.
God Works Through Us
The story of the shepherds is an example of the truth that God uses ordinary people to accomplish His plans. These humble men were invited to witness the most extraordinary event in history, and they became messengers of the gospel. That truth is the same today. God is always at work -- healing, guiding, comforting, and transforming lives.
When we accept God’s invitation, we become His hands and feet in the world. He uses our actions to reveal His love and power, whether that means we are speaking words of encouragement, meeting a need for someone, or simply being present in a time of need.
Are You Listening to God’s Invitation?
Just as the shepherds were invited to “come and see,” we are also invited to participate in God’s work today. He calls us to witness His goodness and to share the hope we’ve found in Him. The question is, are we listening? Are we willing to respond with the same urgency and faith as the shepherds?
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