The shepherds saw the Light and it changed them. More joy than guilt.

Notes And Next Steps

Luke 2:8-14  + Part 3 of the series “Advent: The Light Has Come"

Why would God’s game plan for the announcement of his Son’s birth call for his angelic messengers to head back to heaven …

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night … Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest!” … The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told. (Luke 2:8,13,14,20)

Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas tells us something about Christmas joy.

Praising God isn’t just for angels, but every man, woman, girl and boy.

Nobody can steal Christmas from our home, our church, our city, our heart,

Because like the shepherds, we all play a part.

Adjust your vision.

Gaze on the beauty of the Lord. (Psalm 27:4)

Announce the gospel.

“Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy … a Savior has been born to you.” (Luke 2:10,11)

Discussion Questions

1. Tell about any experiences you’ve had with children’s Christmas programs. Were you ever in one? Your kids? Special memories?
2. How can the angels’ absence and the shepherds’ joy help you with A) facing an overwhelming list of responsibilities, B) connecting more closely to Jesus, or C) inviting a friend to church?
3. Which is more of a challenge for you, adjusting your vision or announcing the gospel? What can you pray about that will help?
4. Read Philippians 4:4-9. Some have said “joy has many faces.” How many “faces” or expressions of joy can you find in these verses? “It looks like ________."