"Come and See"
The Gospel of Luke gives an account of the shepherds that first Christmas. They were watching the flocks like any other night, then an angel appears with a declaration and an invitation!
“Don’t be afraid, for look, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people: Today in the city of David a Savior was born for you, who is the Messiah, the Lord.”
A declaration — God’s gift – the present – of his Son, the Messiah – the LORD – had arrived!
An invitation — experience His presence! Come and see first-hand this present of God’s presence!
The shepherd’s response? Luke’s Gospel tells us “they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby who was lying in the manger. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had seen and heard.” That experience led them to celebration!
This Christmas season, we echo the angel’s declaration – God’s gift – the present – of his Son, the Messiah – the LORD – had arrived!
And we, too, are extended an invitation — to experience His presence by spending 20 minutes a day with God in His word this Christmas season! And maybe consider inviting a friend to join us!
May experiencing the present of His presence lead us to celebration this Christmas season!!
Let us know you are "in" for Daily 20 in '23!
Invite a friend to come and see!
Make a list of 3 friends, prioritizing friends who probably don’t already know Jesus
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- Say a prayer for them to be open to your request!
Send a text message inviting them to read the gospels with you for one month.
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- Here’s a sample text you can tweak to get you started: “Hi! I’ve taken up a challenge of reading my Bible for 20 minutes a day every day in 2023 and have really enjoyed it. I wondered if you would join me for my last month! I have a plan to read the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. So, we would read all about the life of Jesus this Christmas season 4 different times. Would you join me in that challenge?”
If you get a yes, send them the Gospel reading plan and plan to check in a few times during the month to encourage them and share thoughts about what you are reading.
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- If you get a no, ask the next person and do not fret! God is always at work among us and we will continue to watch for Him to move in the life of your friend.
Watch for God to move! If they say yes, expect God to move through His Word!
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- Isaiah 55:10-11 – “The rain and snow come down from the heavens and stay on the ground to water the earth. They cause the grain to grow, producing seed for the farmer and bread for the hungry. It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it.”