“When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds … went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this Child. And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen.”
(Luke 2:15a, 16b-20a ESV)
The shepherds go see the baby, of course. And they tell everyone what they saw and heard. But after that … they go home. Back to the sheep! Because glorious as the news is, the sheep still need minding, and that is the work God has given them to do.
This happens to us, too, doesn’t it? We may have some wonderful spiritual experience, and for a moment, we see God’s glory. But then it’s back to the desk—back to the chores—back to the children. Because whatever it is, that is the work God has given us. And by doing it, we honor God and bless our neighbor.
Jesus, too, would shortly be doing the work God gave Him. At first it was the same work every child is given—to grow, to play, to learn how people behave with each other. But in the end it would be the special work nobody but the Son of God could do—to give Himself up, even to death, so that everyone who trusts in Him might live. Jesus’ loving work for us is our salvation.
We Pray: Come with me, Lord, into my everyday life. Amen.
Reflection Questions:
* What is the most boring part of your day?
* Have you seen God at work in that area? If so, how?
* How can God use your daily life to bless other people?
Advent Devotions were written by Dr. Kari Vo.
Originally published in The Lutheran Hour on December 29, 2023
Used by permission from International Lutheran Laymen’s League, all rights