Third Sunday of Advent - Arrival
Sermon Meditation for Sunday, December 16th
Third Sunday of Advent
Arrival!
Part Three: “Great Joy!"
Luke 2:8-20
The passage before us is a beautiful story. Shepherds were watching their flocks at night. Most likely it was just another night, nothing to get excited over. Then, suddenly, an angel appears and light shines all around! The shepherds were fearful of what just happened. The angel speaks to them and declares them to be safe. The reason the angel came was to deliver a message - the greatest message ever received - the Savior is coming!
I've received some good personal news before from doctors, teachers and professors. I've received some good news from the news channel about fires being contained, and hurricanes in Florida not caring as much damage as they anticipated. From all of the good news I've received, not an ounce of that news compares to the good news of great joy of Jesus coming to earth.
The joy that's given to us when we believe in the redeeming power of Jesus is an untouchable joy. Our joy survives and endures through all trials because the joy is secure in an everlasting King. Our joy can't be touched by temporal circumstances because it is an eternal joy. What good news!
I can't wait to open the Word of God and study about this joy given to us who believe, and offered to those who hear it. Come expecting great things, and come with joy!
Pastor Luke
Growth Group Discussion Guide
Week of December 18th
Q: Where you even in a Christmas program? What part did you play?
Q: Parents: What was your reaction when you found out you were going to have your first baby?
READ FIRST: Luke 2:8-20
Q: What impresses you about Joseph and Mary in this story? Their humble surroundings? Their faith? Their lineage?
Q: Why do you suppose the Savior of the world was born in an obscure village and laid in a manger?
Q: Do you think Mary and Joseph understood the full significance of the child they brought into the world? What do you think might have been clear to them?
Q: Why do you think God chose to announce the birth of HIs son to shepherds?
Q: Who was the first “messenger” who told you about Jesus?
Q: Who would you like to tell about what Jesus has done in your life? Or invite to church?