The Christmas Narrative
Luke 2:1-20
This time of year is incredibly hectic, with numerous Christmas programs taking place. Many individuals have portrayed Mary, Joseph, angels, and shepherds in various performances. However, you can't surpass the original characters who lived their roles over 2000 years ago. The true essence of Christmas can easily be overshadowed by the chaos of the season! Allow the authentic Christmas story to fill you with God's joy and happiness.
The first Christmas was not much different from our modern-day celebrations when you consider it. The day’s focus was also on spending money, leading to stress for many. People had to travel to fulfill their tax obligations, likely incurring costs they couldn’t afford for unnecessary items. You get the idea.
The Roman mandate for registration overshadowed that original Christmas, just as today's commercialization clouds our holiday. This pattern recurs yearly, with many failing to connect Christ with Christmas and some not even knowing who Jesus is! Let’s take a moment to reflect on the true purpose behind the Christmas celebration. Luke narrates the very first Christmas in Chapter 2 of his gospel. Luke 2 begins with God’s flawless plan. (vv. 1-3)
**I. The Flawless Plan**
“It came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed. (This taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.” (Luke 2:1-3 KJV) Joseph had to pay his taxes as well.
“And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David): to be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, who was expecting a child.
While they were there, the time came for her to give birth. She delivered her firstborn son, wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” (Luke 2:4-7 KJV)
While the government concentrated on taxation, God focused on helping humanity by bestowing upon them the ultimate gift – eternal life!
**II. The Perfect Announcement**
The angels celebrated with a joyous declaration.
“In the same region, there were shepherds out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock at night. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. The angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy, which will be for all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.’” (Luke 2:8-11 KJV)
Fear is a natural reaction to the unknown, but faith is our spiritual response to the cheerful news that God brings! Throughout the scriptures, we find the words “Fear not!” repeated.
“This will be a sign to you: You will find the baby wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly, there was with the angel a multitude of heavenly hosts, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.’” (Luke 2:12-14 KJV)
Sometimes, we fail to recognize God's signs because they come in unexpected ways. While we might be confused, the heavenly hosts rejoice, proclaiming, “Glory to God in the highest!”
**III. The Enthusiastic Response**
The shepherds responded with eagerness.
“As the angels went away into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let us go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.’ They hurried off and found Mary, Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said.” (Luke 2:15-18 KJV)
These verses contain a powerful evangelistic message:
- They heard (vv. 10-11)
- They believed (vv. 15-16)
- They told others (vv. 17-18)
- They rejoiced (v. 20) “But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” (Luke 2:19 KJV)
That single verse could fill volumes with insights!
**Conclusion**
“And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, just as they had been told.” (Luke 2:20 KJV)
When you confront your fears and respond with belief, you will discover the depth of God's good news and joy. But it's essential to pause, listen, and have faith if you wish to rise above! Romans 10:9-10 reminds us, “if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth, confession is made unto salvation.” (Romans 10:9-10 NKJV)
Let the true meaning and message of Christmas be shared loudly from your heart with everyone around you. Unite with the heavenly hosts in glorifying God for His presence in your life. As you settle in for the night, remember to thank God and embrace a peaceful sleep.
If you follow this, you will surely enjoy a Merry Christmas!
+Dan