Spread the Word

December 9

(Luke 2:17-20 NIV) “When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, {18} and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. {19} But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. {20} The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.”

(Mark 5:18-20 NIV) ““As Jesus was getting into the boat, the man who had been demon-possessed begged to go with him. {19} Jesus did not let him, but said, "Go home to your family and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you." {20} So the man went away and began to tell in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him. And all the people were amazed.””

(Acts 1:8 NIV) “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

The shepherds were not only the first to see and believe that Christ had come -- they were also the first in a long line of historical witnesses who have felt compelled to share the good news of Jesus. Luke reports that they spread the word about the child and who they believed He was. They had believed the angels and had the faith to go to Bethlehem. They saw the baby in the manger and believed that He was the Christ, their Lord and Savior. But they didn’t simply believe it and then go back to their regular life. They told everyone who would listen. They gave glory to God in a public way. They praised God with their words and deeds. This Christmas, consider following in their footsteps. Don’t just put up the tree and the lights. Do more than simply set up the nativity scene -- live it! Spend some time glorifying and praising God. Share the good news! Share the joy! Spread the word! -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day