21 Gifts of AdventSample

The Gift of Clarity

It was a night like no other! The angelic announcement came out of the dark night to the shepherds watching their sheep. Imagine their reaction. They were the outcasts relegated to the lowest job, caretakers of the dumbest animals, and were in charge of the smelliest livestock. They were the lowest of the low taking care of those who can't think for themselves. 

Despite the not-so-great job description, shepherds were very dedicated to their profession. So much so, they lived near the pens they guarded. Some of them even slept at the sheep gate to watch for predators in the night. I love the picture of young boys taking turns, protecting their flock in shifts, and keeping their eyes trained on the surroundings. 

But that night was different. All of a sudden, there was a heavenly light everywhere, and they were frightened, terrified, and shocked.

"Fear not" had to be comforting to hear. In shocking situations, fear rises quickly. The angels found them on their nightly watch and made a grand birth announcement. At last, the outcast, the least, the forgotten, were included—through an illuminated night sky. 

When the divine voices spoke into this Holy Night, it was heard far and wide. I mean how could it not be heard? At the very least, the brilliant light from the angels had to light up the sky larger than fireworks on the 4th of July! 

God knew the exciting news would be shared with great enthusiasm. Such responsibility was given to the first “street team” for Jesus. “Fear not! For unto you is born on this day a Savior, who is Christ the Lord!” The shepherds had a vibrant passion to tell the greatest story ever told! 

The Lord revealed to me that in the lowest souls, Heaven’s announcement would be shared in the clearest way. The promise the shepherds heard came to ready hearts, and the message was contagious. They couldn’t wait to see for themselves, so they left immediately. The expected promise was finally here!

Advent reflection: Catch the clarity of the gospel! Jesus is the Light of the world! God's glory pierces the darkness, every fear, and all unknowns. God's truth rings our hearts with the most heavenly chorus of love. In our most lowly places, even on lonely hillsides, the gift of God's truth is heard loud and clear.

I hope this devotional was helpful to better focus on Christmas.  More encouraging and faith building thoughts are available here.