“So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph and the child lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them, and Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, just as it had been told them.” (Luke 2:16-20)

     On the very first Christmas, the shepherds made a great discovery.  They were told about this child who would be born into this world, and he would be the Savior of the world.  Following some divine directions, they went exactly to the place which was pointed out to them by this angel.  They found the Christ child and came away giving praise to God because of this glorious event.

     During this Christmas, let’s remind ourselves of the joy which is present.  The reason for this joy is because God loves us and wants us to invite him into our hearts.  This is a gift freely given by God.  We just need to be willing to accept this gift, because this is the greatest gift anyone can receive.

Prayer: Dear Lord, I am thankful for the fact that you gave us Jesus, the one who redeems us and frees us up to experience joy in our hearts.  Remind all of us about the great love you have for your creation.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.