So I'm back in Dallas and I'm starting up classes again. I had a really relaxing Christmas, which I really needed. It was a real good Christmas gift. So let's see, my apartment is still here. It was amusing to see how gift trends go in my family. We have a cousin gift exchange thing and the two hot items this year were starbucks and beef jerky. I got three or four separate packages of jerky.

I spent almost all of my devotional time thinking about the angels' announcement to the shepherds in Luke 2:8-14. Their message introduced Jesus and the things he would bring to fulfillment.

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." 13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 14 "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."

They said not to be afraid, which John later repeated, saying "perfect love drives out fear." (1 John 4:18). Next its 'good news of great joy'. That's what the gospel is. Then they said that the gospel would be for all people, not just the religious, not just the Jews. Then the angel said mentioned the town of David, showing that Jesus would fulfil the prophecies about the coming Messiah. Next he says that He is our Savior and then immediately follows it by saying he is Christ and Lord. Then the angel gives another sign to prove who Jesus was. But he also foreshadowed how Jesus would live a life of poverty and shame. But then the all of the angels burst forth and show how the glory will go to God. Finally, they show that He will bring peace to those who God favors.

Having those themes established at His birth really makes them fuller to me. Christ final few hours were not the only important aspects of His life. Its a lot more than just getting us to Heaven. It would be interesting to hear a full sermon on how Jesus' birth introduces His life's purpose and themes. This feels like I'm rambling, but maybe you can get something out of it.