Devotional For the Week—31 December 2007

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Devotional for the Week 31 December 2007

The Night An Angel Spoke
Scripture Text: Luke 2: 8-11
‘And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 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 of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.’

Introduction

There are three important things to remember from this scripture, the announcement of Jesus’ birth was given to the shepherds at night and in the outdoors.

1)

Why was the message of Jesus’ birth given to lowly shepherds and not someone in power or with religious significance to receive such a message? In those days, shepherds were considered of the lowest station in society. They were judged as insignificant and unworthy, yet they were chosen to receive the announcement of Jesus’ birth. The message is clear, it does not matter who you are, what you do for a living, what you have or do not have. Jesus came for everyone, regardless of stature, race or any other qualifying trait or quality. All that is required is for you to listen to God.

2)
Why was the announcement given at night? Night is symbolic of moral and spiritual darkness. People who have lost their way or are filled with hatred or life’s disappointments can be said to be living in darkness. It is impossible to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Is your life being lived at night because of the trials you are going through? Have you lost your job? Are you experiencing broken relationships or having financial troubles? Are these problems darkening your outlook on life?

Did you know that when the night is darkest, the stars shine the brightest? If all you see is darkness, the Son of God can show you the way. He will shine His light into your lives.

3)
Why was the message given outdoors? God does not belong to a certain church, a certain people or any other classification. The good news is for everyone - God does not discriminate.

Fear Not

Suspicion and fear filled the people before Jesus was born. He came to redeem us. However, the world is still filled with fear. Why do countries continue to prepare for war? They are afraid!

In Singapore, we are afraid of:

Failure. We live by the motto that there is no place for losers. It is either we be “number one” or “second to none”!

The Future. We all plan for the future, such as our retirement because we do not know what the future holds. It’s certain uncertainty! We do not know if we will be here tomorrow, or if we will be sick next week. No one can predict these things.

Fatality. Everyone fears dying. Death seems to rule us.

What is your fear today? As Christians, our fears have been dispelled because Jesus conquered death. We have nothing to be afraid of when we have God in our lives.

Instead of fear we should be filled with Joy. Joy is different from happiness. Happiness is an emotion that you feel when something pleases you. Joy is an attitude. Joy will stay with you no matter what your circumstances are, whether you are handicapped, underprivileged or going through trials.

Without God, there is only fleeting happiness. With God, there is constant joy.

God offers all people eternal life. The Saviour was born for each of us. All we need to do is confess our sin and accept Jesus as our Lord and Saviour. Jesus came to die for us so that we can live!

Prayer Response:

Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your son to live amongst us. Thank you for his life and for the sacrificial act of his death so that we could live. Father, we confess our sins to You and ask that we be filled with Your joy regardless of the situations or trials that we go through. We know that You are a faithful God and that we have no reason to fear anything with You by our side. In Jesus’ most precious name. Amen

Devotional based on sermon by Mr Michael Tan

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