Jeff Parker, Pastor, Elim Church Centre.
Similar to Cambridge, Bethlehem was, and still is, a small town with a population of around 25,000 today.
It’s not uncommon for farmers to be out working with their animals on the outskirts of Cambridge, as it was on that first Christmas outside Bethlehem.
One group, shepherds, looking after their sheep, were about to experience something that would change their lives forever. On what probably seemed like just another night, suddenly an angel appeared to them and told them that Jesus Christ was about to be born in Bethlehem and that they should go and search for Him. They did.
And everything changed for them that night.
A standout thought from this historical story is that God reveals himself to ordinary people. These guys were looked down on by many, but highly valued by God.
Like me, you may have often felt very ordinary. If so, you are in good company.
Right through history God has revealed His love and purpose to ordinary people who chose to open their hearts to Him.
It may not be through an angel turning up, but I assure you that God wants to reveal His love and purpose to you this Christmas season.
The question is, will you take the risk and seek him – just like the shepherds searched for Jesus and found Him?
Jesus later said these now iconic words… “Seek and you will find”. As you seek Him, may you have a wonderful Christmas and New Year. – Jeff Parker.
