“So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 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.” Luke 2:16-19 NIV
Father God,
The Shepherds hurried to find You. They told Mary what they had seen and heard. Mary treasured all these things in her heart. A new mother far from home in impoverished circumstances. No room service or fluffy towels. Unmarried in a world where it was a disgrace even though she had her intended with her. Yet she treasured up all these things. Remembered, stored them away. It does not say she was afraid or confused.
The Shepherds confirming what the angel had told her. “You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.” (Luke 1:31-33).
Help us to treasure the Words You speak to us through the Bible. Help us treasure the assurance, the guidance and the promises Your Holy Spirit whispers to our hearts. And to obey. Help us to treasure Your unchanging love that surrounds us. Thank You that You are always Good News.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen
Suggestions for prayer . . .
Father God,
For our family, friends, neighbours, and those we promised to pray for.
For our Christian family. Christmas services and meals planned.
For our king and His family and all those in authority (1 Timothy 2:2).
For our Government and for peace in our nation in this season.
For Ukraine and Russia. A miraculous end to war.
For Sudan freedom from dictatorship of any kind. Middle East peace.
For farmers who cannot cease from checking on and caring for livestock..
For those who must return to work or have had to work through Christmas.
For Your plans for next year to unfold in our lives.
For us give thanks for all we have and be able to be kind and generous to others.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen
Worship Thursday 26th December 2024
Go tell it on the mountain,
over the hills, and ev’rywhere;
go, tell it on the mountain
that Jesus Christ is born.
While shepherds kept their watching
o’er silent flocks by night,
behold, throughout the heavens
there shone a holy light.
The shepherds feared and trembled
when lo, above the earth
rang out the angel chorus
that hailed our Savior’s birth.
And lo, when they had seen it
They all bowed down and prayed
They travelled on together
To where the babe was laid.
Down in a lowly manger
the humble Christ was born,
and God sent us salvation
that blessed Christmas morn.
Lyrics: John W Work Jnr