From Outsider to Honored Guest

God invited the social outcasts—the shepherds—to witness His Son’s birth first. What does that say about the purpose of Christmas?

THIS WEEK’S BOLD STEP DEVOTION

“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” (Luke 2:8–10).

Feeling like an outsider can be incredibly isolating. It’s a sense of being on the fringes, whether in social situations, workplaces, or even your own family. To those who feel like outsiders, the choice of the shepherds as the first visitors to Jesus’ birth speaks volumes about God’s heart for the marginalized.

Shepherds were often seen as societal outcasts—overlooked and undervalued. Their work kept them on the outskirts, both physically and socially, making them the perfect representatives of those who feel like outsiders. By appearing to the shepherds as Luke records, the angel conveyed that Jesus’ arrival was not just for the elite or the powerful but for everyone, regardless of their status or societal standing. This invitation to witness the birth of Christ is profound. It underscores a vital message: God’s love and salvation are available to all.

Jesus’ humble beginnings further emphasize this theme. Born in a manger to a working-class family and raised in an ordinary setting, He identifies with the struggles of the marginalized. The story challenges us to reconsider who we include in our circles and reminds us that God’s grace reaches the least among us.

You, too, may feel rejected or unloved in your own life. It’s my prayer that the shepherds’ experience at the manger illustrates for you how God seeks out those who feel overlooked, inviting them into His grace and love. It also should challenge us with a fresh perspective on why we should extend love and acceptance to those in our lives who may seem like outsiders, even when it’s hard or uncomfortable.

The Christmas story, at its core, is about belonging and the radical grace of God’s love. We each are honored guests in the story of redemption.

Listen to the sermon: You Are Invited

Part 1Part 2Part 3

Ministry Update from Mark

As we celebrate this Christmas season, we want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude for your faithful partnership with us. Your generous support has made a significant impact in our ministry, allowing us to reach countless lives and share the love of Christ throughout the year.

This time of year, we reflect on the blessings we’ve received and the difference we’ve made together. Thanks to your contributions, we have ministered to the Yao Muslims in Malawi who have found Christ through this radio program, shared the love of Jesus through shortwave radio in high maximum Texan prisons, and engaged the next generation with a message of hope on platforms such as YouTube and TikTok.

We are excited about what God has in store for us in the coming year, and with your partnership we can continue to make a lasting difference! Thank you once again for your unwavering support. Wishing you a blessed Christmas and a joyous New Year!