12-11-15 The Angels

12/11- Luke 2:9-13 The Angels
9An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.10But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”13Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,”Glory to God in the highest and peace on earth to those on whom his favor rests.”

Thoughts: Christmas without angels would be hard to imagine.  But we restrain angels to the memory of Christmas instead of the mysterious reality of today’s Christmas.  The term “angel” means “messenger.”  These powerful messengers woke the shepherds up from their status quo. The sheperds’ response was to also be messengers by going and telling everyone they met about Jesus’ birth and what they saw.  We can be messengers of the good news as we share the hope we have in Jesus with others.  People need their fear shattered by those who bring good news- “Do not be afraid for I bring you good news of great joy for everyone.” 

Prayer: Lord, help me to be a good messenger of your great news. 

Activity: Angels were messengers of good news.  How can you encourage someone today?  Compliment and encourage someone to build them up.

Song: Hark the Herald Angels sing, glory to the newborn king!  Peace on earth and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled.  Joyful all ye nations rise; join the triumph of the skies; with the angelic host proclaim, Christ is born in Bethlehem.  Hark!  The Herald Angels sing- glory to the newborn king!