Takeaways

Through the angels, God brought unique messages to each person in a unique way. He does the same with us – He speaks to each of us in a special, personal way that resonates with how He created us!  

At the time of these messages, the people would not have been aware of the cross, like we are. So we need to consider the messages in the context of what they knew at the time. 

Zechariah

-What God wants is always possible, even though Zechariah was at first unsure that it would happen

-His son would “go before” the Messiah and help to turn the hearts of the sons of Isreal back to God

Mary 

-She would give birth to the son of God.

-His name would be Jesus, meaning “The Lord Saves.”

Joseph

-He was not given an angelic message initially but later received a message of comfort

-Jesus would save people from sin

Shepherds

-They were told to “fear not” and that the message should bring great joy.

-Jesus would be a Savior!

The common thread in all the angelic messages was the coming of the One who would save, that hearts would be turned back to the Lord, and of God’s desire to have a right relationship with people.

What does it mean to have that relationship with God? Where are you on that journey?

Some are:

Wondering – Zechariah wondered and was initially skeptical, but God kept drawing him closer to Himself and he was part of a wonderful story.  The fact that you are wondering means God is revealing more of Himself to you.  

Pondering – Mary and Joseph were given big news that required much slowing down, trusting and pondering to process.  Like them, we won’t understand everything all at once and will continue to grow!

Celebrating – The shepherds were given tidings of “great joy.”  We can and should have moments of simple celebration. God is at work ALL THE TIME and we get to witness that!

Never stop wondering, pondering, and celebrating!  Christmas is more than just about the birth of a baby – it’s about the Lord Christ who Saves!

🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃🍃

Reflection Prompters

1.  Spend some time reflecting again on the angelic message to Zechariah. (Luke 1:5-25)

2.  Spend some time reflecting again on the angelic message to Mary (Luke 1:26-38)

3. Spend some time reflecting again on the angelic message to Joseph (Matthew 1:18-25)

4. Spend some time reflecting again on the angelic message to the Shepherds (Luke 2:18-24.)

5. Where do you most often find yourself in your journey with God? Wondering? Pondering? Celebrating?