Are you thinking what I'm thinking? Why are we reading "Christmas verses" during Lent? This is about baby Jesus - this is what we read every Christmas Eve.
Yes, it is. But when we put these verses in the context of Lent, the most solemn time of year for the Christian, leading to the most joyful time of all, Easter, they take on deeper, richer meaning. This little baby, born in modest circumstances, is heralded by angels as the Savior, Christ the Lord.
Picture the shepherds. It's a quiet evening. They're tending their flocks, hunkering down for sleep. And suddenly - out of nowhere - an angel of the Lord appears. After this angel tells them not to be afraid (I would be shaking, shaking in my boots!), "a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God." (verse 12).
This is no ordinary night. These humble shepherds have received incredible news, and you know the story - they hurry to Bethlehem to see this baby that the Lord's messengers have told them about.
Our sermon series is called "Before the Throne," and this week's verses focus on "The Crowned King." Jesus has been crowned King by these heavenly messengers: "I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord (v. 10)."
I bolded all. Yes, Jesus is my King. He's your King. He's King to all who call on his name to be saved. He is waiting, and he is longing for you to come to him. Matthew says it best:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Matthew 11:25-30
Lord, you are my Savior and my King. I marvel that you chose to come to earth as a baby. And that you chose humble shepherds to share this good news with first. I pray that today I will rejoice in this good news, and that you will help me as I serve you. Amen.
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