Passage: Luke 2:8-14
8 And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear.10 And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,
14 “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”
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Devotional Thought:
In response to Jesus’ birth, the angels proclaim something which feels so foreign to us: peace. The angels do not proclaim the opportunity to remove us from our circumstances, but to give peace which transends circumstances. Throughout the early church in Acts and beyond, we find followers of Christ holding onto peace in uncertain and chaotic times. Perhaps you find yourself in a season that is chaotic, uncertain, or both! Let’s take some time this season to remember the peace that surpasses all understanding, which is only available in Christ.
Questions for Reflection:
1.)Read Philippians 4:1-13. Paul tells us that he has learned the secret to be content in all circumstances…What can we learn from Paul as we face chaos and uncertainty?
2.) Think of your daily schedule + activities… What reminds you or Christ’s peace? What robs you of Christ’s peace? How could you orient your day towards Christ’s peace?
3.) How can you serve as an example of peace to those in your life?
Suggested Song:
Silent Night by Sufjan Stevens