Reflect Boldness in Faith
In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that the whole empire[a] should be registered. 2 This first registration took place while[b] Quirinius was governing Syria. 3 So everyone went to be registered, each to his own town.
4 Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family line of David, 5 to be registered along with Mary, who was engaged to him[c] and was pregnant. 6 While they were there, the time came for her to give birth. 7 Then she gave birth to her firstborn son, and she wrapped him tightly in cloth and laid him in a manger,[d] because there was no guest room available for them.
8 In the same region, shepherds were staying out in the fields and keeping watch at night over their flock. 9 Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.[e] 10 But the angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid, for look, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people:[f] 11 Today in the city of David a Savior was born for you, who is the Messiah, the Lord.12 This will be the sign for you: You will find a baby wrapped tightly in cloth and lying in a manger.”
13 Suddenly there was a multitude of the heavenly host[g] with the angel, praising God and saying:
14 Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and peace on earth to people he favors![h][i]
15 When the angels had left them and returned to heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go straight to Bethlehem and see what has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.”
16 They hurried off and found both Mary and Joseph, and the baby who was lying in the manger. 17 After seeing them, they reported the message they were told about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary was treasuring up all these things in her heart and meditating on them. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had seen and heard, which were just as they had been told.
Luke 2:1-20
THOUGHT
Luke 2 showcases the faith and bravery of Joseph, Mary, and the shepherds. Their actions demonstrate that faith is never passive but must be active and courageous. Mary and Joseph undertook a challenging journey to Bethlehem, while the shepherds quickly responded to the Lord’s call, leaving their flocks behind. This event highlights the importance of a bold and active faith in every moment.
These verses highlight a vital truth: a bold and proactive faith does not hold back or rely on ideal conditions to show faithfulness. Faith does not seek comfort or complete understanding but moves forward to serve the Lord. The bravery of Joseph, Mary, and the shepherds demonstrates God’s greatness and faithfulness. They openly shared their testimony, spreading the message and work of the Lord.
REFLECTION
We should reflect on our walk with the Lord to determine if we are living with a bold faith. Are we letting boldness define our capacity to follow Him obediently? When we act on God’s guidance, we show courage and reliance on Him, especially when the path isn't clear or easy. Living boldly in our faith acts as a catalyst to inspire others to follow the Lord.
PRAYER
Lord, grant me the courage to live boldly in my faith. I rely on Your strength to be courageous, and I seek Your guidance to stay in Your will. Please encourage me to walk in faith even when the way ahead seems uncertain. Fill me with the boldness I need to trust and follow You. Amen.
