Advent is one of my favorite times of year. As a storyteller who coaches storytellers, I love that there’s a whole month of the year where we spend time reflecting on the greatest story ever told. The story of Christ’s birth is worth telling – and telling again. My organization’s mission is to help others get ready to speak – and THIS is what we’re called to speak about.
In chapter 2 of Luke, we read about the angels’ proclamation of the Messiah’s birth to the shepherds in Bethlehem. Their reaction to the news – and that phenomenal experience – is such a wonderful example of why we all need to be ready to speak.
Shepherds of biblical times weren’t generally the people you’d think would be chosen to spread such important news as the story of the Messiah’s arrival. They were generally poor, illiterate, and didn’t run in close circles with the “important” people of the day. And yet, God chose these humble men to be the first evangelists of his Gospel.
The shepherds showed they were ready to speak in these ways:
Despite their immediate fear, they listened attentively to the divine message and believed
They responded immediately to the good news, “hurrying off” to find Jesus (v. 16)
They sought verification, not simply accepting what they heard but eagerly went to confirm the truth of it so they could share it with conviction (v. 15)
They spread the word with joy, quickly transitioning from witnesses to evangelists (v. 17-18)
Their story didn’t end with the telling; they continued glorifying God for everything they saw and heard (v. 20)
No one is disqualified from getting ready to speak by social or economic status. The shepherd’s readiness stemmed from their direct encounter with the divine. They were attentive, willing, and had a posture of heart that was ready to glorify God for the gift of Christ.
What about you? What personal encounters with God’s work in your life could bring him glory or spread joy? What can you take away from the shepherd’s example to be ready to speak about it with others? Where are some places you or your family need to be ready to speak this Advent season?
Blog post originally from teresamoon.org
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