What’s So Good about the Good News?

And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the LordLuke 2:10-11, ESV

Have you ever been excited to give someone a gift? Or maybe you recall a time someone else was about to give you a gift, and the smile all over his or her face made you happy! Here in today’s verses we find the angels, a little jittery and giddy to share this good news about this long awaited gift from God, Jesus Christ the Lord! The angels say it is good news! Not bad news but good news. Today we learn why this news is so good.

First, the good news is good because it gives us joy! The joy that these angels were talking about was far greater than anything the world had to offer. It was a joy that came down from heaven. It was a divine gift of eternal happiness that comes from God’s spirit (Gal. 5:22-23). Here Luke says it is “great joy,” indicating that receiving this goodness about Jesus brings great joy!

Second, the good news is for everyone. God loves you. He loves you not because of what you do but because of what Christ has done. Don’t ever forget that! This good news wasn’t for a few people but for everyone. That means you! This gift is salvation, eternal life that would go far beyond the nation of Israel, but be for all people from other nations as well (Rev. 7:9).

Third, the good news is Jesus Himself. The angels repeat an important truth! “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” They are reminding the shepherds that God is a promise maker and a promise keeper (Is. 7:14, Mc. 5:2). Finally Christ had come, born in Bethlehem. The savior is here!

Questions for reflection and discussion
1. Which part of this good news stands out to you the most?
2. What do you think God is trying to teach you through His love for you?

Prayer
Lord, thank You that because You are good, I always have good news through my relationship with Your Son, Jesus. Thank You for loving me and giving me life. In Jesus’ name, amen.