Luke 2:15-18
When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.” So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them. Beyond the Manger was inspired by the writing of Joseph Martin and Ray Bakke.
Find out what churches, mattress stores, and shepherds can teach us beyond the manger!
Beyond the manger, We hear no Silent Night
There are no sounds of animals, No star is shining bright
Beyond the manger.
Beyond the manger, We see healing in the streets
Words of hope and forgiveness meet, But now we hear the angry crowd
The sounds of the hammer fall, I see a rugged cross, the chill of night.
Beyond the manger.
Beyond the manger, We see no see no swaddling clothes,
No host of angels sing, There is no candle glow.
Beyond the manger.
Beyond the manger, On the dump outside of town
Amazing grace breaking his heart, The messiah hangs upon a cross
Beyond the manger.
Because the tomb was empty, our lives can be filled
Beyond the manger.
Like the shepherds, you have met at the manger tonight. And can now see beyond it! To the life, words, signs, and work of Jesus. To the cross. The empty tomb. The ascension and promised return!
And you are being sent out as deputy shepherds! That’s right. Each of you has a job to tell the community: There is hope. Spiritual resources are available for young and old. Our mission is to those who have not been reached. To proclaim the Good News about Jesus, and if necessary, use words!
What have you heard? Will you make it known?
What gift have you received? Will you share it?
What hope and peace have you felt? Will you go and tell the amazing news!?
Then our entire community can see God’s amazing love and get the spiritual resources it needs for wellness and living the abundant life Jesus promises!
Now, get up, deputy shepherds, and go!
