Dec. 25, 2012

When the angels returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go right now to Bethlehem and see what’s happened. Let’s confirm what the Lord has revealed to us.” They went quickly and found Mary and Joseph and the baby lying in the manger. – Luke 2:15-16

It’s one thing to find out some news. It’s another thing to act upon it. When the messengers came to the shepherds, it might have been overwhelming to the shepherds. Do they go? Do they stay? What about the sheep? Will they get fired if they leave their post? (The evening shepherds were accountable and hired by the daytime shepherds.) What this a hoax or was it for real?

Every day, we have opportunities to make good choices. Choices in which we can reflect the light and love of Christ … or not. Some choices we make seem insignificant: what to wear, what to eat, whether we make a quick call a loved one. Other choices are a big deal. Where would our energy best served? What is the appropriate way to handle personal finances? How is God calling me to be a servant?

My guess is the shepherds had little discussion about what to do because they decided to go “right now” to Bethlehem. Their quick decision was rewarded with finding things just as the messenger told them.

Growing up, my Dad always called me Pokey. This little piece of information is something I rarely disclose. He chose this nickname because I was so pokey about making decisions. At the store, I’d ponder and ponder over which pair of shoes to buy, knowing it would be a long time before I would get another pair.

Today, I can make quick decisions. Other decisions take much longer. Rick and I have been pondering purchasing a different vehicle for months. Based on the “challenges” my vehicle has had, my family is advocating for a different vehicle. It is a big decision; one we are not making quickly. One we haven’t made “right now.”

On this Christmas Day, my prayer is that we won’t hesitate about running towards the One True Light of this world and asking Jesus to guide our hearts, our lives and surround us with the love we desperately long for.

Jesus, we need you. Thank you for loving us despite our poor choices. May we value and appreciate the choice you made for us in sending Jesus into this world to redeem us. May we choose to let you guide our lives and choices not just on this Christmas Day but every day.  Amen.

Blessings –

Dianne