Joy

Shepherds, Angels and Prophets

Listen to: Shepherds, Angels and Prophets

“I have good news that will bring great joy to everyone.”

Reflect:

Joy is not a common topic of conversation these days. We often hear that what is most important is to have fun. Joy can seem elusive. We feel happy when we get what we want or when we meet a goal, but is that joy?

The angels brought a message of great joy to everyone: “Today God’s Promised Savior has been born in Bethlehem in David’s hometown.” Notice how each person responded with joy in their own way when they heard the angels’ good news. The shepherds searched for the baby, testified to the parents about what the angels said, and then praised God as they returned to their fields. Mary treasured what the shepherds said. And Simeon was overjoyed to see the Promised Savior in his old age. Each of them experienced deep joy. This good news is still bringing great joy to people around the world today.

• How does the birth of Jesus, our Promised Savior, bring you great joy?
• What has brought you joy in the last few weeks?
• Ask God to help you experience joy this week.

Journal

What did you like in this story? What in the story challenges you or is confusing? What does this story show you about people? What does this story show you about God/Jesus/God’s Spirit? What does this story show you about yourself?