December 19, 2025
- djohnstoncc
- Dec 19, 2025
- 2 min read
THE CHALLENGE OF CHRISTMAS
TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
“That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified… When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, ‘Let’s go to Bethlehem! Let’s see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.’ They hurried to the village and found Mary and Joseph. And there was the baby, lying in the manger.”
Luke 2:8–9, 15–16 NLT
TODAY’S THOUGHT
The shepherds’ role in the Christmas story has always been intriguing to me, and for good reason.
First, the shepherds were low on the social ladder.
God did not send angels to announce the birth of Jesus to kings, politicians, or religious elites. The angelic announcement did not echo through a palace or a temple. Instead, it came to ordinary men doing ordinary work in an open field.
This reminds us that we don’t have to be important, influential, or impressive to hear from God. God speaks to everyday people who are simply being faithful where they are.
Second, the shepherds were terrified.
Their fear was understandable. When God interrupts our routine, fear is often our first response. God’s purposes are usually bigger than our understanding, and it can be overwhelming to realize that the Creator of the universe has something personal to say to us.
Fear doesn’t mean God isn’t speaking—it often means He is.
Third, the shepherds were willing.
They had plenty of reasons not to go. Who would watch the sheep? Was this truly from God or just a strange experience? Would they look foolish searching for a baby in a manger?
Yet they chose faith over fear. They acted on what God had revealed, even when the details didn’t make sense.
That is the challenge of Christmas for us. God still speaks. The question is whether we are willing to listen—and then respond.
What might God be wanting to say to you this Christmas?
TODAY’S PRAYER
Holy Spirit, give me ears to hear Your voice this Christmas. Help me to be willing to obey You, even when it feels uncomfortable or uncertain.
“Scroll down to share what you feel God is saying based on today’s reading.”
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