Surprise: Luke 1:8-20 - The unexpected announcement. The story starts w/Zecharias, Elizabeth, & John the Baptist, not Jesus, Mary, or Joseph. We see emotions ranging from surprise, to fear, to joy when the angel talks with Zecharias. Perplexed: Luke 1:26-38 - Gabriel gives Mary the news. Mary couldn't see how this was humanly possible. The angel wants her to understand this is of God, not man. This type of thing didn't happen every day. Joy: Luke 1:39-45 - When Mary visits Elizabeth, her cousin, the baby leaps for joy. Mary's exaltation of God, the Magnificant is in Luke 1:46-55. Here she recounts God's goodness & recognized Him as her Savior. Conflict & Fear: Matthew 1:18-25 - Joseph's Dilemma. What was he to do w/Mary? The angel tells him her pregnancy is of the Lord. Rejoicing: Luke 1:67-79 - Zecharius rejoices when he can finally speak after the birth. He refers back to the OT of God doing great works. Frustration, Relief & Exhaustion: Luke 2:1-8 - Mary & Joseph are worn out after the long journey. They are finally relieved to see their child born. Fear & Surprise: Luke 2:9-14 - The angels announce the birth to the shepherds. Eager Anticipation: Luke 2:15-20 - The shepherds rush to see the baby, they go away rejoicing @ who they've seen. Today Jesus' birth doesn't have the same impact as it made back then. He was everything they were waiting for after decades and decades. Show great joy today! |
