“So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.  When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.” (Luke 2:16-18)

     Upon hearing from the angel, the shepherds were pointed in the right direction in order to find the Christ child.  Because of the joy they felt and the knowledge they had gained, there was no way that they would keep this to themselves.  This was certainly “good news that will cause great joy for all the people,” because they had first-hand knowledge of the Messiah, the Savior of the world.

     Suppose that you just watched a fantastic movie, attended a great concert, or went to an exciting ball game.  Or how about the feeling of being a new parent or grandparent?  Wouldn’t you want to share this with others?  The same ought to go with knowing what Jesus has done for you, of how he has affected your life.  We can spread the joy, just like the shepherds did, because we would also like others to share in this joy.  We don’t want anyone to miss out!

Prayer: Dear Lord, with the knowledge of your saving grace, I know that there are many others who would benefit from this.  Give me the words to say to others, genuinely expressing how you have changed my life.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.