“Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” – Luke 2:15

How far would you go to celebrate Christmas? More than mileage, what would you be willing to do to experience the full meaning of this special season? What is Christmas worth to you?

The Gospel of Luke tells the story of some shepherds who were watching over their flocks on the night Jesus was born. They were doing what shepherds do, sitting… watching… talking… watching… thinking… watching. It was their job to keep and eye on the sheep throughout the evening. It was their job and their life. They cared for sheep. It was an important job, but one without much influence.

On this night, as they were about their work, a dramatic interruption came. There, on their little hillside, an angel appeared to them and declared the good news that a savior was born. Jesus, Savior of the world was born in Bethlehem. Suddenly a whole multitude of angels appeared and began praising God for this wonderful gift. It was an amazing moment, but what happened next was even more amazing. The shepherds did the unthinkable… they left the sheep and went to see the Savior.

In a moment, this group of shepherds risked everything. They could lose the sheep. They could lose their jobs. They could lose income and be known as those who deserted the sheep in the middle of the night when they were very vulnerable. They risked everything to see this thing the Lord had told them about. They were willing to put it all on the line to see Jesus.

There are just some experiences in life that demand a response. When the King of Kings comes to set His people free, you respond. When the host of heaven inform you of God’s activity, you respond. When the Savior of the world invites you to share life with Him, you respond. God revealed His will and plan to a group of shepherds near Bethlehem on the night of Jesus’ birth, and today, He invites us to join Him as well. He invites us to respond.

Just as on that first Christmas, multitudes went about there business with little or no recognition of the powerful act of God that was occurring in their midst, so today, many celebrate the holiday with little understanding of its true significance. God extends His invitation, but the business and noise of the season drowns out the tender voice of the heart of God.

Others hear the invitation, but the cares of the world keep them from responding. The cost of following God’s call seems too great and they respond by saying, “not right now. I simply cannot leave my sheep at this time.” They stay on the hillside of their life and miss the miracle that will change their life.

Some, however, like the shepherds on that glorious night, hear the call of God and drop everything to experience what God is doing. Their amazement turns to passion as they leave it all to see the Savior, and when they have, nothing is ever the same.

This Christmas, God is inviting you to meet with Him. God is sharing His heart with you and inviting you to join Him on the journey of a lifetime. It may require some sacrifice, but it will be worth it. The invitation is extended… how will you respond?

May God richly bless you with His presence as you respond Him this Christmas season.