Luke 2:12-14
12 And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,
14 “Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”
Can you imagine... can we even began to fathom the excitement, the fear, all the emotions wrapped up in this singular moment? Put yourself on a hillside late one evening as an angel appears to proclaim a great announcement. Then, as if the great announcement were not enough, the heavenly choir, “angels from the realms of glory” as the old hymn sings, strikes up in praise to God, giving him honor for what has taken place. It is an AMAZING scene!
The angel's chorus gives us a commentary on how glory should be given to God in the most exalted of ways, and what this child means to those in whom God’s favor rests! As a believer and follower of King Jesus, it is great to know that we are numbered in those whom God’s favor rests, those who have responded to God’s grace. For those who have responded to this gift of grace, peace will be given. What a great reason to rejoice!
So often we can be bogged down by the “hustle and bustle” of the Christmas season. Have you ever been in the parking lot of a mall or shopping center this time of year as you search for those last minute gift ideas and blowout sales? Let me tell you, it is hard to find joy and peace there. Take joy in knowing that we can have true peace in our lives and that we can worship the One on High, the true bringer of peace, King Jesus, and we to can sing loudly, with great joy, “Glory to God on the highest!”
- Do you have peace in your life entering into this season of Christmas preparation?
- In what ways can you show God your worship and praise for the true peace he brings to us?