December 24

Introduction

Luke 2:1–20: Luke’s account of Jesus’s humble birth is set in a geopolitical backdrop. A census was ordered by Emperor Augustus to regulate the collection of taxes and remind the people of Rome’s domination. Mary and Joseph travel to Bethlehem, where Jesus is born. Angels announce the news of his birth to shepherds in a nearby field. The shepherds hurry off and find the baby Jesus in a manger.

Today’s Key Verse: Luke 2:11

[The angel said:] “This very day in David’s town your Savior was born—Christ the Lord!”

Reflect

Shepherds were on the low end of the social scale, yet they were the first to hear the news of Jesus’s birth. Why do you think they were chosen to hear this news? What was the angel’s message to them? What did they choose to do? With whom will you share the good news of Jesus’s birth?

Pray

Glory to God in the highest! Lord Jesus, I join in singing the angels’ song and celebrate your birth. You are my Savior, and the good news of your birth fills me with great joy. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

John 1:1–18: Jesus is presented as the living Word.