Advent Reflection 12/15/14
When the angels went away from them to heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go, then, to Bethlehem to see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.” So they went in haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the infant lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known the message that had been told them about this child. All who heard it were amazed by what had been told them by the shepherds. And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, just as it had been told to them.
Luke 2:15-20
When the angels first appeared, the shepherds responded in fear; I probably would have, too! That response changed, though, once they had heard the good news. They went immediately to check it out. And then they told everyone they knew about what they had seen and heard. Then, just like the angels, they praised God.
Is there someone at your work or school who doesn’t know what Christmas is really all about? Watch for an opportunity to talk to that person about what Christmas means to you. Maybe invite him/her to come to church with you, or to your family’s Christmas celebration.
The shepherds shared their own faith story–what the angels had told them, and how they found the baby Jesus exactly as the angels had described. What is your faith story? How has Jesus entered your life? Pick one significant event in your faith journey, and write down the details. That will help you to Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope (I Peter 3:15b).
Joyful Wanderings 