Podcasts about shepherds

The shepherds were ordinary people, faithfully tending their flocks, when God interrupted their routine with extraordinary news. Chosen to witness the birth of the Savior, these humble outcasts responded with immediate obedience, awe, and heartfelt praise. Luke’s Gospel reminds us that God meets us exactly where we are—not where we think we should be. True worship isn’t limited to church services or special moments; it flows from obedience, attentiveness, and living each moment for God’s glory. Like the shepherds, we are invited to respond to Jesus with joyful praise and to glorify God in the everyday rhythms of life. Main Takeaways You’ll learn why God often meets us in ordinary moments, just as He did with the shepherds. Discover how obedience to God naturally leads to joy and worship. Understand that worship extends beyond singing—it includes everyday acts done for God’s glory. Be encouraged that God can use you right where you are, regardless of your circumstances. Reflect on how living with eternity in mind shapes a life of praise and purpose. Bible Verse References Luke 2:20 – https://www.biblestudytools.com/luke/2-20.html Luke 2:8–14 – https://www.biblestudytools.com/luke/passage/?q=luke+2:8-14 Luke 2:15–16 – https://www.biblestudytools.com/luke/passage/?q=luke+2:15-16 Psalm 139:7–8 – https://www.biblestudytools.com/psalms/passage/?q=psalm+139:7-8 1 Corinthians 10:31 – https://www.biblestudytools.com/1-corinthians/10-31.html Your Daily Prayer Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You meet us where we are and work through ordinary lives for Your glory. Open our eyes to see Your presence in our daily routines and help us respond with obedience, joy, and praise. Teach us to do everything—both big and small—for Your honor. May our lives reflect worship in spirit and in truth, and may we boldly share the good news of Jesus, just as the shepherds did.Amen. Want More? Subscribe to Your Daily Prayer for daily encouragement rooted in Scripture. Leave a rating or review to help others discover the podcast. Visit LifeAudio.com to explore more Christ-centered podcasts. Read more devotionals and Bible studies at Crosswalk.com and Christianity.com. Relevant Links & Resources Study today’s Scripture passages with helpful tools at:BibleStudyTools.com – https://www.biblestudytools.com Faith-based articles and Christmas devotionals:Crosswalk.com – https://www.crosswalk.comChristianity.com – https://www.christianity.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The shepherd ornament takes Miss Dee Livery into the fields near Bethlehem, where ordinary shepherds received the first announcement of Jesus' birth. Angels filled the sky with praise, and the shepherds hurried to meet the newborn King. As we near Christmas, the Jesse Tree reminds us that Jesus came for everyone—and His birth is good news for the whole world.Follow Us:Instagram | Website | Newsletter Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The first announcement of Jesus’ birth wasn’t delivered to kings or crowds—it was given to shepherds under a night sky filled with glory. Luke 2:9–12 reveals a powerful invitation to come and see the newborn Savior, reminding us that the Good News of Christmas is meant to be received personally and shared boldly. Highlights God chose ordinary shepherds to receive an extraordinary invitation. Heaven’s announcement of Jesus’ birth was marked by joy, peace, and glory. The shepherds responded immediately—moving from fear to action. Encountering Jesus naturally led them to tell others what they had seen. The Christmas story begins with an invitation and continues through sharing. Bold faith has always been central to spreading the message of Christ. Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: The Shepherds’ Invitation: Come and See By Lynette Kittle Bible Reading: “And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.’” - Luke 2:9-12 What a terrifying, yet amazing, birth announcement, to be awoken in the middle of the night, greeted with a host of heavenly angels filling and illuminating the dark sky to tell the shepherds the Good News of Jesus’ birth, inviting them to come and see the newborn King. As written in Luke 2:13-14, “Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests.’” If that isn’t a royal, over-the-top, fanfare invitation, then what is? Even though the invitation startled the shepherds awake, once they recovered, they willingly accepted God’s gracious heavenly invitation to see the newborn King. As Luke 2:15-16 describes, “When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.’ So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.” Spreading the Word: Inviting Everyone to Come and See After coming and seeing, Luke 2:17-18 describes what happened next, “When they had seen Him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.” Accepting the angels’ invitation to come and see Jesus led the shepherds to spread the word by inviting everyone they met to go and see Him, too. It was a divine response from their hearts. As well, once we see Jesus for ourselves, our hearts are moved to invite others to come and see Him, too. Jesus Invites Everyone Jesus entered the world with an invitation, and He left us with one, too. Some of Jesus’ last words on earth are found in Mark 16:15, where He said to His followers, “Go into all the world and preach the Gospel to all creation.” The shepherds on that first Christmas night did just that, spreading the word of His birth and coming to the earth. They also told others how to find Him, and as they did, so are we all called to tell others, too. In school, I knew Jesus, but I didn’t tell anyone, so sadly, I didn’t lead anyone around me to faith in Him. Yet, my future husband made sure to tell everyone he met about Jesus at school, to the point that some other students who had heard about him avoided him. Even so, he still led more people to faith in Jesus than his preaching scared them away. Dr. D. James Kennedy, the late and great senior pastor of Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church and founder of Evangelism Explosion, was known for his tremendous boldness and fearless sharing of the Gospel with everyone he met. He didn’t even second-guess sharing his faith with individuals of other religious beliefs, or let people in high-profile positions in life keep him from sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ with them. Because of Dr. Kennedy’s fearlessness, countless souls have been invited to meet Jesus as their Savior, and countless numbers continue to be saved through his ministries, teaching others to be bold in sharing the Gospel with those around them. Intersecting Faith & Life: As Christians, are we inviting individuals to come and see Jesus, our newborn King, at Christmastime and all year round? Or, are we hesitating, not wanting to offend, or have people shy away from us? Are we like the shepherds so many years ago, willing to boldly tell others because we know it is the Good News of Christmas? Further Reading:The First Time Shepherds Heard about Jesus Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

It was Christmas Eve, and the Hutchcraft family was acting out the Christmas story. Our daughter was Mary, with a towel draped over her head. Our oldest son was Joseph, bathrobe and all. Our then two-year-old son was the closest we could come to a baby, so he was in the giant laundry basket. I was, of course, an angel dressed in a white sheet, sitting celestially on the back of the couch. And my wife - well, she wanted to be a sheep. So she was crawling around the living room floor with our sheepskin rug draped over her, doing her very best "baaa's." And the doorbell rang! It was two teenage girls from our youth group. Their folks were home getting drunk, and they were wondering if they could come to our house for a little sanity. When they came in, our Christmas players were in full gear, "baaa" and all. The door was open and we invited them right into our Christmas. I'm Ron Hutchcraft and I want to have A Word With You today about "The Open Door at the Manger." It was only appropriate that we should say to anyone who came to our door on Christmas Eve, "Come on in." After all, that's what God did when His Son was born that first Christmas. He threw open the door and said, "Come on in" no matter what you're like. He might be saying that to you this very day. Anybody's welcome to come on in and join God's family. How do we know? Well, for one thing, look at who got the first invitation to "come on in." Shepherds. These guys were considered the lowest of the low-lifes. They were unfit to even be allowed in God's temple. So of all the people God could invite to the first Christmas party, who does He ask to come? Shepherds. It says so in Luke 2, beginning with verse 8, in our Christmas word for today from the Word of God. "There were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them..." The angel made this startling announcement: "Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord." So Jesus begins His life on earth by welcoming in people that most would say are definitely "not His type." Maybe that's how you feel; you're not the religious type. Maybe you, like the shepherds, have experienced your share of closed doors, rejection, condemnation, and plenty of loneliness. It could be you've done a lot of things, and made a lot of mistakes, just looking for love and acceptance. And you know you've done a lot of wrong things. But that's the very kind of people Jesus came for! The people who miss Jesus and miss heaven are the people who think they've got it all together, who are very religious and very good and they think not really in need of a Savior who died on the cross for their sins. But just like He did for those shepherds, whether you were born in church or never been in church in your life, Jesus is throwing open the door to His family and to His heaven and He's saying, "Come on in. I died. I rose again so you and I can be together forever." The greatest mistake you could ever make would be if you missed what Jesus died to give you. Can you think of a better time to throw open the door of your life to Jesus than Christmastime - the time He left heaven to come here to rescue you? He's waiting for you to reach out to Him and put your total trust in what He did for you on the cross - whatever you've done. This isn't about what you've done. It's about what He's done on the cross for you. Right where you are, at this very special time, why don't you tell Him, "Jesus, I'm Yours from this day on." Your life will never be the same. I would love to help you right now make that new beginning of making the Savior your Savior this Christmas season. I just invite you to go to our website and there you can find for yourself how to be sure you've begun this relationship with Jesus. The website is ANewStory.com. And as we celebrate the day Jesus was born, you can celebrate the day you get born into His family. Go to sleep tonight with Christ in your heart with His peace in your soul. From Him, and from our team here - Merry Christmas!

December 23 | Zechariah 11:1-17; Revelation 18:11-24; Ps. 146:3-10; Prov. 30:21-23 For more on the book of Revelation and understanding end times, check out the Wisdom Words podcast with Pastor Dale and Pastor Joel. lifereachresources.com/wisdomwords   Join us in person or online on Christmas Eve for a Communion and Candlelight service at New Song Nashville as we Come to the Table of the Lord together! December 24 @ 4:00 p.m., 316 Southgate Court in Brentwood. newsongnashville.com     

One of the most shocking parts of the Christmas story isn't the virgin birth or the angels—it's who got invited first. Pastor Levi shares how Shepherds, who were outcasts, couldn't testify in court, religiously unclean, and totally unwanted, were the VIPs at Jesus' birth. This reveals something stunning about God's Kingdom: it operates completely upside-down from everything we expect. If you've ever felt unqualified, too messy, or like you're in the wrong place for God to use you—this Christmas message will show you why those are exactly the credentials Heaven celebrates!GIVE YOUR YEAR-END OFFERING:Be a part of building the Kingdom: https://freshlife.church/give/NEXT STEPS:Ask for prayer or connect with a pastor: https://freshlife.church/contactRegister your decision to follow Jesus and receive free resources: https://freshlife.church/know-godGive a financial gift to support what God is doing as we take steps forward to see the Gospel reach far and wide: https://freshlife.church/giveSUBSCRIBE:Sign up to receive encouragement straight to your inbox, and to stay up to date with announcements, events, and more: https://church.us13.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=6ea4d82b2567db3e86b7767cd&id=451f2fe63eDon't miss a video! Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/freshlifechurch?sub_confirmation=1CONNECT ON SOCIALS:Website: https://freshlife.churchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshlifeFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/freshlifechurchTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/freshlifeYoutube: https://youtube.com/c/freshlifechurch/Fresh Life Church was pioneered by Pastors Levi and Jennie Lusko in 2007. We exist to see those stranded in sin find life and liberty in Jesus Christ. Today Fresh Life's ministry impacts people with the radical, life-changing message of Jesus' grace, spilling across Montana, Oregon, Utah, Wyoming, and Idaho… and beyond.

Send us a textWhat happens when you change one word in the title of a classic Christmas hymn? A new perspective and a fresh reason to dive into Scripture. This week's song, “O Come, All You Unfaithful” by Sovereign Grace Music, invites us to consider the people God included in the Christmas story—and how we are just like them.This song flips the script on who is invited to come and see what God has done. Instead of calling the faithful to gather in celebration, it beckons the weary, the broken, and the unfaithful—the ones who feel disqualified. That single word change in the title opens the door for us to explore the heart of God revealed in Scripture: a God who draws near to the weak and the waiting, the guilty and the hiding, and offers hope through Christ's birth.Key PointsThe opening line of this song—“O come, all you unfaithful”—offers a perspective shift worth exploring.The lyrics list characteristics that mirror real people in the Christmas narrative: Weak and unstableBarrenWaitingWeary of prayingBitter and brokenFears unspokenGuiltyHidingGod included these kinds of people in His redemption story—and He invites us too.Hosea's prophecy reminds us of God's faithfulness despite our unfaithfulness.We are unfaithful until we are redeemed by the Faithful One—Jesus.Scriptures ReferencedMatthew 1–2 and Luke 1–2 (Christmas narrative)Luke 1:5–7; 11–20 (Zechariah and Elizabeth)Luke 2:8–9; 25; 38 (Shepherds, Simeon, and Anna)Matthew 1:18–20; 24 (Joseph's obedience)James 2:5 (God chooses the poor)Hosea 2:16–20; 6:3; 6:6–7 (God's steadfast love and faithfulness)BITEs (Bible Interaction Tool Exercises)Read in context—Matthew 1–2 and Luke 1–2Read aloud—alone or with a friendShare with a friend—Share Scripture with someone over coffee and Christmas cookiesCompare and contrast—Compare and contrast God's faithfulness with the faithlessness of His people in Hosea's prophecy Remember, the people in Scripture were real—just like usAdditional ResourcesDownload the free Episode GuideLyrics - New Release TodayBible Interaction Roadmap Bible Study - videos and assignments that will equip you with habits you can use over and over in your own Bible Study - Learn MoreLearn more about my favorite Bible Study Software with a 30-day free trial and links to my favorite Bible resources - Logos Bible Software Affiliate LinkThis Week's ChallengeRead Matthew 1-2 and Luke 1-2. I suggest reading the text aloud alone or with a friend. The story is familiar, and this habit will slow you down. Download the Episode Guide for a list of the human characteristics featured in our song, and look for these characteristics in the real people featured in the Christmas narrative. Read the prophecy of Hosea and compare and contrast the faithfulness of God to the unfaithfulness of His people. ThePurchase your copy of A Seat at the Table today! Change your music. Change your life. Join my free 30-Day Music Challenge. CLICK HERE.

We've heard this story so many times that it doesn't surprise us like it ought to. And what boy hasn't dressed like a shepherd for a Christmas play? But what was an ordinary workplace for these blue-collar sheep farmers became holy ground on this particular night. They were in for five surprises that would stay with them forever. Let's try to put ourselves in their sandals.I. The Audience (v. 8)II. The Angels (v. 9)III. The Announcement (vv. 10-12)IV. The Anthem (vv. 13-14)V. The Accuracy (vv. 15-20)Talk with God: Ask the Lord for opportunities to turn your workplace into holy ground this week.Talk with others: Invite a friend or family member to join you for a Christmas Eve service.Talk with kids: What does it mean to worship Jesus as King?

Weekend Scripture: Luke 2:1-20

After all the longing for a rescuer, God snuck into the world, mostly unnoticed. Only a few were let in […]

Support the show

Les Chapman, Senior Minister

A Christmas Message – What God Has Done For Us MESSAGE SUMMARY: The people in and around Jesus' birth were just ordinary people like us. In our celebration of Jesus' birth on this Christmas, we celebrate the event that transformed world history and many of our lives. The birth of Jesus was a supernatural birth and was God's intervention into the Universe's natural order. This birth was foretold hundreds of years before Jesus' birth, and these prophesies were written and recorded, for us, in the Bible. Jesus' birth was the birth, of a child, that did for the human race what the human race could not do for itself. Jesus was born for all people. This baby, Jesus, was born to be a Savior for all humankind. The birth of Jesus was the birth of God as both human and divine – the Incarnation, as the Angels told the Shepherds on the first Christmas Eve in Luke 2:9-11: “And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear. And the angel said to them, ‘Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.'". In Isaiah 53:4-6, Jesus, birth, death, and Resurrection, as our means for our Salvation, were foretold more than five-hundred years before Jesus birth: “Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.". God, through His Grace, gave of Himself what we could not do for ourselves, thereby, providing, through the birth of Jesus, us with the means for our Salvation from our sins and for our Eternal Life. This Gift of and by God is what Christmas and Christianity are all about. Is Jesus your Savior? God has given you the greatest Christmas gift that you will ever receive. Have you accepted His Gift and opened His gift into your life? If not, then why not? With your hands open, you can accept God's Christmas gift by saying: “I am sorry; thank you; and please”.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT. If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him! (Luke 11:13). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Luke 2:9-11; Matthew 1:21; Isaiah 53:4-6; Colossians 1:15-19; Hebrews 1-3; John 1:4; John10:30; John 14:8-11; John 3:16-17. (Click the blue below to read the full Bible text for these scripture references in BOLD.). A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “J As a Jesus Follower, the Greatest Witness for the Gospel that You Can Give Is for Others to See Jesus IN You”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Message from Jim Kitson on December 21, 2025

We would love to pray for you! Please send us your requests here. --------This Christmas, you can shine the light of Christ into places of darkness and pain with a purchase from the Joni and Friends Christmas catalog. You are sending hope and practical care to people with disabilities, all in the name of Jesus! Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org. Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

One of the amusing sides of Christmas is people shopping in departments they never otherwise shop in - generally clueless. Let me give you an example that I can relate to - men shopping in the ladies clothing department. Oh, we're a mess. Now, if you need a good laugh; you're feeling a little down, you ought to go to the ladies garment department somewhere; especially the more personal the item is, the funnier it is to watch men shopping. They're slightly embarrassed, generally incompetent at what they're doing, and it's very important if you're going to go shopping for a woman during the Christmas season that you get the woman's size: your wife, your mother, your sister, your girlfriend, or whatever. And you trust that the tags are right, of course, on the size. You know that a small had better be a small, because you don't know anything. A large had better be a large. Now, you want to know how to sow some confusion and have some fun? (Don't anybody do this, please.) Imagine if someone snuck into that store late one night and just changed the tags around. Well, people would make a lot of wrong choices, all because the sizes were wrong. Now, that doesn't happen to clothes, but it does happen to people, and it takes the Christmas Story to straighten out small and large. I'm Ron Hutchcraft and I want to have A Word With You today about "How Christmas Rightsizes the World." Our word for today from the Word of God is found in Luke 1:52-53. Mary is pregnant; she's carrying the baby Jesus, and we get a little idea of the insight God has given her as she prays this prayer, what is often called The Magnificat. She says, "God has brought down rulers from their thrones, but He has lifted up the humble. He has filled the hungry with good things, but He has sent the rich away empty." You know, Mary has the right sizes on the right people. She has the smalls on the small, and the bigs on the big. You see, the world would call these the big people - those people who are called rulers and rich. But she says, "the rulers have been brought down. The rich have been sent away empty." God's heroes - the people the world calls small. They're identified as the humble, who He lifts up, and the hungry, who He fills up. You see, what is a big deal to men is a little deal to God - big deal like money, gifts, title, fame. That's a little deal to God. Conversely, what's a little deal to men: "You don't have much money. You don't have much influence. Not many people know you. You're average." See, that's a big deal to God. You hear people say all the time, "Well, I'm just a... I'm just a student. I'm just a mother. I'm just a secretary. I'm just a helper. I'm just a Sunday school teacher. I'm just a laborer. It's just a small church. It's just a little class. I'm just a choir member." With God, there are no "just a's," not in God's value system. Bethlehem, we're told, was "little among the villages, but out of you (little village) will come the Prince," Mary, the peasant but the Mother of God's Son. Shepherds, the outcasts of their society, the first evangelists. I wonder if you have the two qualifications for God's heroes: humble, which means you are totally depending on the Lord, and hungry, restless to know and serve Him more. God likes to make folks like that big for Him - the humble and the hungry. Remember to give attention to the people others ignore. They're the big people to God - children, the poor, the powerless. Oh, by the way, don't ever call yourself "just a..." again. God does His biggest things through the smallest instruments. Call big what God calls big. Make sure you've got the right size.

Finding Joy in the Midst of Struggles: A Journey Through Advent Join us as we discuss the importance of joy during the Advent season, even amidst struggles and uncertainties. This episode includes important announcements for our Journey Christmas party and upcoming services. Explore the biblical context of joy, how it transcends circumstances, and how we can experience it despite challenges. Learn about the significance of hope, the role of joy in overcoming fears, and practical steps to recognize and ask for joy in our lives. Don't miss this uplifting and insightful message, culminating in a celebration of God's presence and love. 00:00 Welcome and Announcements 00:14 Journey Christmas Party Details 01:40 Upcoming Services and Events 02:20 Introduction to Advent Series 02:40 The Human Experience of Hope and Disappointment 03:42 Historical Context of the Christmas Story 06:24 The Shepherds and the Roman Empire 10:10 Understanding Joy in the Midst of Fear 19:50 Joy Rooted in Hope 23:30 Introduction to Paul's Importance 24:26 Paul's Message to the Thessalonians 26:31 Joy in the Midst of Suffering 28:15 The Gift of Joy 30:23 Finding Joy in Everyday Life 34:49 Celebrating Life's Joys 38:15 The Strength of Joy 41:30 Concluding Thoughts on Joy

Another dive into the Christmas story from Luke's Gospel highlights some important details we sometimes miss. Peter Walsh and Elizabeth Garnsey reflect on the historical accuracy of the enrollment, the importance of Bethlehem as the city of David, the symbolism of the swaddling cloths, and the powerful statement made by including the shepherds. Plus, does this story prove we need more Mary in the Advent lectionary?Themes & Application Unexpected Signs and Places of Salvation: A manger rather than palace; shepherds rather than priests or rulers. Where might God be breaking in where we least expect today?Witness and Response: How might we imitate the shepherds' movement from encounter to proclamation?Cosmic significance within everyday life: The “heavenly host” meets ordinary shepherds. What implications does this have for how we view our most ordinary contexts?Personal ReflectionPondering Like Mary: Mary “treasured and pondered” the events in her heart. Where in your life do you sense God inviting you to ponder rather than act quickly?Signs and Confirmation: Elizabeth notes Mary needed confirmation from others. Have you ever received reassurance that strengthened faith? What form did it take?Powerlessness and Vulnerability: The conversation reflects on vulnerability symbolized in the infant Christ. Where is vulnerability present in your own relationships or community, and how do you respond?Broader Spiritual Considerations Mary as theologian and first interpreter: Peter proposes the infancy narratives may be rooted in Mary's memory and theological reflection. How does imagining Mary as interpreter rather than passive mother expand how we read Scripture?Divine orchestration vs. human agency: Caesar's decree unwittingly serves God's purposes. How should Christians understand history where divine purpose transcends human intent?The hiddenness of God's action: Why might God choose to act in humility rather than spectacle? What does this reveal about divine character and holiness?Want to have your question or comment featured on the podcast? Leave a voicemail on our Rev'd Up hotline! Call (203) 442-5002.Learn more about St. Mark's at https://www.stmarksnewcanaan.org

In this final chapter of the 'Road to Bethlehem' series, we witness the culmination of Joseph and Mary's journey as they arrive in Bethlehem. The narrative captures the raw and intimate moments of Jesus' birth, highlighting the challenges and divine interventions along the way. The story emphasizes themes of faith, courage, and the miraculous nature of Jesus' arrival, as well as the humble and holy setting of the stable where shepherds and angels gather to witness the birth of the Savior. Keywords Bethlehem, Jesus' birth, Joseph and Mary, faith, courage, divine intervention, shepherds, angels, Savior, stable Takeaways Joseph and Mary faced numerous challenges on their journey to Bethlehem. The birth of Jesus was marked by divine interventions and miracles. Faith and courage were central to Joseph and Mary's journey. The stable was a humble yet holy setting for Jesus' birth. Shepherds and angels gathered to witness the birth of the Savior. The narrative emphasizes the miraculous nature of Jesus' arrival. Joseph's role as protector and provider is highlighted. Mary's strength and faith are central to the story. The story captures the raw and intimate moments of Jesus' birth. The series concludes with a message of hope and faith.

Luke 2: 15-20 - When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” [16] And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. [17] And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. [18] And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. [19] But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. [20] And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them. (ESV) THE EVENING MINDSET IS COMING! Beginning January 1 - 2026 - A new DAILY podcast will be available to help you wind down, reset your mind on God’s truth, and prepare for a night of rest and rejuvenation. “The Daily Mindset” will launch on the podcast player of your choice on January 1, 2026. Subscribe now so you don’t miss an episode: https://EveningMindset.com

Notes Luke 2:1-20 John 1:1-14 Summary In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Eric Fistler and Rob McCoy explore the significance of Christmas Eve, focusing on the Gospel of Luke and John. They discuss the nativity story, emphasizing themes of hospitality, community, and the deeper meanings behind familiar narratives. The conversation highlights the importance of welcoming God into our lives and the transformative power of the incarnation. Through reflections on the shepherds and the poetic nature of John's Gospel, the hosts invite listeners to engage with the Christmas story in a meaningful way. Takeaways This year Christmas falls on a Wednesday, which is exciting for many. The podcast will focus on the Gospel of Luke and John for Christmas Eve. Rob is hosting a preaching retreat in January for those interested in planning their sermons. The story of Jesus' birth is often simplified, but it holds deeper meanings. The concept of 'no room at the inn' can be reframed to highlight hospitality. Shepherds symbolize the vulnerable and caring nature of leadership in the story. The Gospel of John presents a poetic view of the incarnation. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness cannot extinguish it. The story of Jesus' birth invites us to reflect on our own hospitality. The community aspect of faith is emphasized in the discussion. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Christmas Eve Preaching 02:56 Retreat Announcement and Preaching Preparation 05:46 Christmas Reflections and Personal Experiences 08:52 Exploring Luke 2:1-20 - The Birth of Jesus 14:44 The Significance of the Shepherds 21:55 Juxtaposition of Empire and Hospitality 28:19 The Kingdom of God and Vulnerability 38:50 The Word Made Flesh: A Poetic Exploration 54:47 Radical Hospitality and Welcoming God 56:42 Community and Connection in Faith  

December 14, 2025Main Idea: In His coming to earth, Jesus became God's gift to us, so that by faith, we may become extensions of God's gift to others.

Born in a manger and announced to unlikely shepherds, the arrival of Jesus turns the world’s expectations upside down.

Good Morning, ‘Hark!' ‘Do you hear what I hear?' ‘They said there'd be snow this Christmas; they said there'd be peace on earth' ‘Do they know it's Christmas?' ‘I pray God it's our last!' Throughout the land the lyrics of Christmas songs are being piped in shopping centres and pubs and, loved or loathed, we sing along. This year's official Christmas No1 will be decided on Friday. Current favourite is Kylie, with oldies from George Michael and Slade chasing hard. As Slade's Noddy Holder sings; ‘Does your granny always tell ya that the old songs are the best.' Then, in a tradition begun by Lennon and taken up by Rage Against The Machine, there are the Christmas protest songs. This year's from Brian Eno and Peter Gabriel with ‘Lullaby', a song for Gaza, and Billy Bragg's ‘Put Christ Back Into Christmas', with Bragg asking us ‘to stand with those who need the most' and reminding us that Christmas celebrates the birth of a refugee. It seems very British to me that we are free to mix protest in with sentimentality and silliness. The Christmas story is spacious enough to contain all our hopes and fears, our joy and praise, our rage and indifference. Even our scrooge-iest revulsion. For I contend that the birth of Christ is itself a kind of cosmic protest song. The original Christmas No.1 was after all sung by angels to people at the margins of society: the young Mary and Shepherds, those far from the corridors of power and status; a startling song that announces a change to the status quo, a tune sweeter and louder than the prevailing mood music of despair, the monotonous dirge of violence and oppressive power, of one bad thing after another: ‘Do not be afraid' it declares. ‘There will be peace on earth.' It's arguable that we might never have heard this story had the message not been sung to people who were immediately in tune with it, and able to sing back in words of astonished wonder and praise: ‘he has scattered the proud, put down the mighty, exalted those of lowly degree.' Or ‘My eyes have seen your salvation.' Once you've ‘hailed the incarnate deity'; or seen the Godhead veiled in flesh, the chances are you're going to sing about it. Christmas invites the world to sing a different tune. I'd even suggest that part of the reason we still sing about it – even if we stray into sentiment - is that its core melody is like a pop tune or great carol you can't help but sing along with. ‘No. I can't get you out of my head; because God and sinners are reconciled; because mild he lays his glory by; the hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee; And so this is Christmas.'

Send us a textSupport the show

Matt Shiles is out this week, so we join Pastors Gus and Josh as they discuss this week's sermon. Listen in as PG leads PJ through a discussion about "In order to understand the Good News, you have to understand your need for it". This is the third of our 4 weeks of Advent leading up to Christmas!

The Awe of the Shepherds by

Luke 2:8-20 Pastor Eric Mounts

Some of Israel's great heroes were shepherds: Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and David. Both Psalm 23 and Jesus compare God's care to that of a Good Shepherd. But in the first century, it seems, shepherds, specifically, hireling shepherds, had a rather unsavory reputation. But what about the New Testament shepherds of Luke’s Christmas infancy narrative? Ee47. Books by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson available at https://amzn.to/46ORT00 Gospel of Luke available at https://amzn.to/45vVii4 ENJOY Ad-Free content, Bonus episodes, and Extra materials when joining our growing community on https://patreon.com/markvinet SUPPORT this channel by purchasing any product on Amazon using this FREE entry LINK https://amzn.to/3POlrUD (Amazon gives us credit at NO extra charge to you). Mark Vinet's HISTORY OF NORTH AMERICA podcast: www.parthenonpodcast.com/history-of-north-america Mark's TIMELINE video channel: https://youtube.com/c/TIMELINE_MarkVinet Website: https://markvinet.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.vinet.9 Twitter: https://twitter.com/HistoricalJesu Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denarynovels Mark's books: https://amzn.to/3k8qrGM Sources: Shepherds in Bethlehem (Luke 2:8-20) by Dr. Ralph F. Wilson (JesusWalk Bible Study Series; Joyful Heart Renewal Ministries). Audio excerpts reproduced under the Fair Use (Fair Dealings) Legal Doctrine for purposes such as criticism, comment, teaching, education, scholarship, research and news reporting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joy to the World!In this Advent message, we explore the deep, transformative joy that Christ brings—joy that is not fragile or fleeting, but rooted in God's promises, God's presence, and God's coming Kingdom.From creation's beauty to the hope spoken through the Prophets… from Shepherds in a field to a baby in a manger… Scripture reminds us that joy is not the absence of hardship but the presence of Christ within it.

Follow a shepherd and their flock as they make their way down familiar mountain trails in the golden light of evening. The peaceful bleating of sheep mingles with the whisper of grass underfoot and the distant tinkle of bells. As the group descends through meadows dotted with wildflowers and past trickling streams, the day's warmth gives way to the cool promise of night. This gentle pastoral journey captures the timeless rhythm of shepherding and the quiet satisfaction of guiding others safely home. --Follow Michael Galyon on Instagram: @michael.galyon AND @lettingitsettleTik Tok: @coachmichael1Visit his website at https://www.michaelgalyon.com/Email the show at lettingitsettle@michaelgalyon.com Subscribe to Letting It SettleProudly produced and managed by Good Mess MediaSponsorship and brands, Please contact Tracey Thomas hello@goodmessmedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This Sunday, we slowed down a familiar story and discovered just how disruptive it really was. In Luke 2, the announcement of Jesus' birth may have taken only about 30 seconds, but in that moment the veil between heaven and earth thinned, time seemed to pause, and everything changed. What looked small—a baby in a manger, an announcement to shepherds—was actually God making a move that would shake the universe. While everyone else was expecting a king on a throne, God introduced the birth of Jesus, first to shepherds.Luke, the only Gospel writer to include the shepherds, wants us to see something essential: God does not see humanity through social status, credibility, or influence. He sees us through availability. Shepherds—considered culturally unreliable and untrustworthy—became the first witnesses and the first evangelists of the Messiah. From the very beginning, the gospel revealed itself to be upside-down, surprising, and deeply hopeful.This story may be two thousand years old, but it's still unfolding. The question it leaves us with is simple: Are we available and are we paying attention to when God moves in ways we didn't expect? May our hunger for God grow, our expectations be reshaped, and our hearts stay open to the kind of Kingdom that still turns the world upside down.Merry Christmas!For more info, you can go to our website, check us out on Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube. If you would like to support STUDIO financially, you can do so here.Have a great week!

What did the Magi and Shepherds get to take away?Support the show

Let's revisit the Christmas moment when God chose ordinary, overlooked workers to be the first witnesses of the greatest news ever told. This message reminds us that the gospel is good news for ALL people and is meant to be seen, shared, and celebrated. Like the shepherds, we're called to go, tell, and return to everyday life glorifying God for what we've heard and seen.

This week in our Advent series Come and Behold Him, we turn to the shepherds—the first public witnesses to the birth of Christ—and the angelic announcement that reveals the true purpose of Christmas.When the heavens opened over the fields of Bethlehem, the angels proclaimed a message that still defines the meaning of Christ's coming: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom He is pleased.” In this message, we explore why Jesus came—not first for our comfort, but for God's glory—and how true peace is found only in receiving the Savior He sent.Through the shepherds' encounter with the angels, we are reminded that:God's glory is the ultimate purpose of creation and redemptionThe peace Christ brings begins with peace with GodFrom that peace flows peace within our souls and with othersThose who truly behold Christ are compelled to proclaim HimThis sermon invites us to see Christmas as more than a sentimental story—it is the declaration that God has entered history to reclaim His world, receive glory, and bring lasting peace to His people.Come and behold Him—the Savior, the Messiah, the Lord.

Finding Joy in the Midst of Struggles: A Journey Through Advent Join us as we discuss the importance of joy during the Advent season, even amidst struggles and uncertainties. This episode includes important announcements for our Journey Christmas party and upcoming services. Explore the biblical context of joy, how it transcends circumstances, and how we can experience it despite challenges. Learn about the significance of hope, the role of joy in overcoming fears, and practical steps to recognize and ask for joy in our lives. Don't miss this uplifting and insightful message, culminating in a celebration of God's presence and love. 00:00 Welcome and Announcements 00:14 Journey Christmas Party Details 01:40 Upcoming Services and Events 02:20 Introduction to Advent Series 02:40 The Human Experience of Hope and Disappointment 03:42 Historical Context of the Christmas Story 06:24 The Shepherds and the Roman Empire 10:10 Understanding Joy in the Midst of Fear 19:50 Joy Rooted in Hope 23:30 Introduction to Paul's Importance 24:26 Paul's Message to the Thessalonians 26:31 Joy in the Midst of Suffering 28:15 The Gift of Joy 30:23 Finding Joy in Everyday Life 34:49 Celebrating Life's Joys 38:15 The Strength of Joy 41:30 Concluding Thoughts on Joy

Will you imagine something with me for a moment? You're a shepherd, out in the middle of the night, and then suddenly, the whole sky lights up! It's full of angels announcing the birth of a Savior. The One who will make all things right…God in human form…He's arrived. In that moment, everything changes. For those shepherds, they weren't especially rich or powerful people—they were just workers doing their jobs. Yet they were the first ones to hear the greatest news the world has ever known. Christmas was a world-changing event then, and it continues to change the world to this day. Jesus, Himself- He was born. He came for all of us. He came for you. And so this Christmas, don't let the Good News pass you by. Like those shepherds, you can respond with joy. You can believe the message, and you can follow Jesus. Always remember, there is hope with God. "The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David!" Luke 2:11 radio.hopewithgod.com

As we take a close look at the song "O Come All Ye Faithful", sometimes we wonder about the "feelings" of Christmas. The Shepherds were in awe of Jesus, the Magi brought gifts and worshipped Him, and Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. When was the last time you were in awe? Have you ever beheld glory? Maybe this Christmas you can experience it all as though it were the first Christmas. Join us as we dive into the Christmas story.Each December, familiar carols fill our homes, our cars, our churches and our playlists. We sing them once a year–but their truths were never meant to be seasonal. In “A Christmas Playlist” we'll explore four beloved Christmas songs and discover how their powerful messages of hope, peace, presence, and joy–still speak to us today. Join us for service every Sunday at 9:15am or 11:00am (EST). Here are ways to connect with us!Text TODAY to 937-358-6565 to let us know you decided to say 'Yes!' to Jesus leading your life. Text BAPTISM to 937-358-6565 to find out more about getting baptized as an expression of your new faith.Text SERVE to 937-358-6565 to find a serve community to join that matches your skills and passions.Text PRAYER to 937-358-6565 to let us know how we can be praying for you!And if you would like to support The Valley Church financially or participate in Be Rich, you can GIVE online via our website: www.thevalley.church/give.Music: Bensound.com/free-music-for-videosLicense code: 1EBH3J7EM5DURCTO

What if the greatest announcement in human history wasn't given to kings, scholars, or warriors—but to ordinary men working the night shift? In Luke 2:8–20, the first people to hear about the birth of Jesus weren't the powerful or prestigious—they were shepherds keeping watch in the dark. In this message, we look at how God used these unnoticed, rugged men to teach us what real strength looks like: staying alert, recognizing our desperate need for a Savior, obeying quickly when God speaks, and returning changed because of an encounter with Jesus. The shepherds didn't just hear the good news—they moved with haste, shared what they had seen, and worshiped with transformed hearts. Their story reminds us that real men don't wait for perfect circumstances… they respond in obedience and lead with courage. How is God calling you to respond this Christmas?

Why did God choose angels, shepherds, and lambs to announce the birth of Jesus?In this message, Pastor Bayless Conley teaches from the Christmas story in Luke and shows how every detail points to Jesus as the Lamb of God who came to bring salvation and forgiveness. Be encouraged to reflect on the meaning of Christ's birth and the hope He offers to every person.

For more information on Living Hope Columbus, see the links below!---Website: www.livinghopecolumbus.comEmail: info@livinghopecolumbus.comFacebook: www.facebook.com/LivingHopeColumbusInstagram: @lhc_online

DateDecember 14, 2025SynopsisIn this sermon, we venture into the dark fields alongside the shepherds, discovering that the first announcement of the Incarnation was entrusted to those on the margins. We explore how the angelic proclamation disrupts our fear, revealing a joy that is not a scarce commodity for the pious, but a generous, cosmic invitation for all humanity. This is a story about a God who breaks through the silence to offer a love that is unapologetically inclusive and meant to be shared.Scripture: Luke 2:8–18About The Local ChurchFor more information about The Local Church, visit our website. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at brent@thelocalchurchpbo.org.To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

Luke 2:1-17; John 1:1-18 // Brooks NesseLuke presents the humble birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, focusing on the historical event, the census, the manger, and the joyful announcement to the shepherds. John's opening reveals the cosmic identity of Christ as the Word of God—who was with God, was God, and became flesh. This sermon beautifully connects the majesty of the eternal Son with the simplicity of the child in the manger, showing that the Creator entered His own creation as our Savior and Light. Essential for understanding the profound reality of Christmas.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2542/responses/new25.12.14

In this festive—and mildly chaotic—episode, we dive head-first into the wonderfully unpredictable world of children’s Christmas productions. Sure, adults dream of polished performances, but let’s be honest: the magic is in the mayhem. A sheep costume held together with hope, a shepherd who suddenly decides he’s done shepherding, and a Wise Man who moonwalks across the stage—this is the good stuff. It’s also a reminder that nostalgia is a powerful filter… because somehow we forget that our own childhood pageants looked like a dress rehearsal for herding cats. We also tackle the evolving role of Santa Claus, who now shares top billing with commercialism, candy canes, and whatever new toy requires a second mortgage. And when it comes to telling your kids about Santa? We discuss the delicate balance between “preserving the magic” and “accidentally launching a career in investigative journalism.” Asking questions, it turns out, might be safer than crafting a 14-chapter North Pole backstory. Music makes an appearance too—specifically those songs that lodge themselves in your brain and refuse to pay rent. We talk about how learning the missing lyrics can finally set you free, and how modern AI is now helping create songs you’ll be annoyed by in half the time. Add in family games, awkward commercials that break every emotional moment, kids’ songs that permanently alter the atmosphere of your home, and the amusingly alarming side effects of modern medicine, and you’ve got a holiday episode packed with cheer, chuckles, and just enough chaos to feel authentic. It’s Christmas culture, comedy, and parental therapy wrapped in one giant, glitter-covered bow. Enjoy!