by Rev Don Schatz

Merry Christmas!

You can listen today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.”  So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them.
Luke 2:15-18, New International Version

“Let’s go; let’s see; let’s tell.”  Those three phrases can sum up the shepherds in the Christmas story.

They saw the angels, heard the message and said, “Let’s go…”  The Word of God, living and active, makes a living among active people.  Today, may the Word of God, in the voice of the angels, have you saying, “Let’s go…to church!”  You are the shepherd’s feet today.

The shepherds heard the good news about Jesus and they wanted to see with their own eyes.   We also need to see with our own eyes, to worship with the church, and to witness the God of wonders who does wonders in our lives.  Today, may you also say, “Let’s see…through the Word the wonder of God, the Word in the flesh!”  You are the shepherd’s eyes today.

Finally, the shepherds left, telling everyone everything they had HEARD and SEEN.  Who will you tell, today?  You are the shepherds’ voice today.

“I am coming quickly,” Jesus said.  The whole church prays, “Amen, Come Lord Jesus.”, and so he has.  He has come to you again today.  He comes for you!  He comes to be Immanuel, God with you.

Awesome God, may I be your instrument today to go into the lives of all I meet, and share what I have known and seen:  Jesus Christ is Lord!  In the mystery of the Incarnation you join our story, and make it one of victory.  Thanks be to you, Oh Lord!  Amen.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, CO