The Spiritual Light the Shepherds Saw
- The shepherds were watching over their sheep in the dark of night when an angel came to them. The shepherds may have had a fire burning to keep them warm, but its light was nothing compared to the light that enveloped them when the angel appeared.
- This light was a spiritual light, and it was desperately needed in the world. The heavenly light of truth no longer shone in people’s minds. Spiritual darkness can be present with us today as well. But if we look to the Lord in the truths of the Word, the glory of the Lord—heavenly light—can shine in our minds and dispel our spiritual darkness.
- Imagine what the shepherds saw when they hurried to see the baby Lord. Perhaps they saw bright light around the infant and Mary, His mother. They surely knew that this Child was like no other.
- As we prepare to celebrate the Lord’s birth, it may be helpful to think about why He came on earth. “To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace (Luke 1:79).
Read about the light the Lord brought into the world
- “The Glory of the Lord” by Lawson M. Smith (ages 7-14)
The glory of the Lord is like light, and this light comes to us through His Word. - “Christmas Light” by David R. Simons (ages 7-14)
This family talk compares natural darkness with spiritual darkness, and explains why the Lord had to be born on earth to bring spiritual light to us. - “Christmas Candles” by Lorentz R. Soneson (ages 7-14)
A family article on how beautiful candles at Christmastime can remind us of the "glory of the Lord" that shone around the angel who appeared to the Shepherds on the first Christmas. - The Shepherd in Us by Karl R. Alden (ages 18 and up)
What is the shepherd in us that will guard our innocent love in times of darkness?
Projects and activities for all ages
- The Birth of the Lord (ages 3-10)
Make a picture of baby Jesus with light shining around Him. - Shepherds with Flock at Night by Robert Glenn
Illustrates the light shining on the shepherds as the angel of the Lord appeared to them. Includes text from Luke 2:9. - Nativity Luminary (ages 6-12)
Create a luminary to show the brilliant light of truth that shone at the Lord's advent. - In a Manger by Robert Glenn
This striking illustration pictures Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds gathered around the manger and may be colored. - Making and Using Candles (ages 7-up)
Here are several ways to make or decorate candles and a variety of suggestions for incorporating candlelight into your Christmas celebration. - Cookie Cutter Candles (ages 5-14)
Put a wick in the middle of layers of beeswax cut into special shapes with cookie cutters. - Teen Prayers for the Christmas Season (ages 15 and up)
Four prayers for Christmas with a beautiful color border.
Conclusion
As we enjoy the illumination of candles and lights during this Christmas season, let us think about the glory of the Lord and welcome the heavenly light shining through His Word.
Come and let us walk in the light of the Lord (Isaiah 2:5).
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