by Rev. Dr. Kristin Huffman, Frontier Fellowship Associate Director
Why do we often lose our wonder as we grow up?
My granddaughter, Cora, just turned two. I love watching her discover new things—shapes that match, sweet and sour tastes, words, dances and twirls. Surprises and changes of direction.
In his book, Dangerous Wonder, Mike Yaconelli encourages readers to rediscover childlike wonder in their relationship with Jesus: “I want a lifetime of holy moments….I long for a life that explodes with meaning and is filled with adventure, wonder, risk and danger….I want to be with Jesus, not knowing whether to cry or laugh.”
A group of shepherds experienced such holy wonder one unexpected night. It had been an ordinary evening for them in the pastures outside Bethlehem—watching their flocks, sharing stories, gazing at the night sky. Into this seemingly mundane moment, an angel suddenly appeared, enveloping them in the bright light of God’s glory: “Fear not, for behold…” (Luke 2:10 ESV).
This astonishing encounter changed their lives. Hope was kindled as they heard that Israel’s long-awaited Messiah was born for them—shepherds without power and privilege—and for all people. After finding Jesus just as the angel said, they went to share the Good News with others—“And all who heard it wondered…” (Luke 2:18 ESV).
Many still need to hear about God’s extravagant love through the gift of Jesus. The news that He came not only to give us an eternal future, but redemption, transformation and fullness of life here and now—in all places, among all peoples, regardless of their status.
Since that night when the sky shone with heaven’s glory and angels proclaimed peace to a weary world, echoes of the story continue. As you hear its familiar words, perhaps at a Christmas Eve service tonight, ask God to show you how to share the story with others. Ask Him to recapture your sense of wonder at the miracle of Christmas: Jesus’ arrival that brought Good News of great joy for all people.
Read more from our Advent devotional series.
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