A Second Meaning of the Manger

As good as the “Good News” (or “glad tidings”) of the manger was, it was never meant to stop in Bethlehem or with the immediate recipients. In addition to the good news of Jesus’ birth, the second key phrase of the manger addressed the good news “to all people” (Luke 2:10). Repeatedly this idea appears through the gospels, Acts, the letters of Paul, the general letters, and even in the book of Revelation. It was used by Jesus in the resurrection’s great commission to, “all the nations” (Matthew 28:19), and around the heavenly throne, “to every nation, tribe, tongue, and people” (Revelation 14:6). So when you gather with family and friends this Christmas, remember the good news of the season stretches to the ends of the earth, leaving no person, nor group out of its reach. Let us not forget that some have not yet heard the news while others are still rejecting it, and the sharing of it often brings criticism, even persecution. Yet share we must. The fact that it is sharable with all is what makes the good news so good.

Join me in praying for the following global concerns this week:
• Pray for those who live and serve cross-culturally as they share the true meaning of this Christmas season and why it is not simply a “happy holiday.”
• Pray for former missionary, Cathie, as she begins a new, trial treatment for her cancer, assuming her insurance company approves the treatment.
• Pray for Joe as he concludes his stateside time and returns to Ukraine on Jan. 2.
• Pray for Chaplains who share the Christmas message with men and woman who are separated from their families during this season.