Music attribution: David Nevue, Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus from O Come Emmanuel
Over Bethlehem, the hushed skies rumbled above the veil—waiting in anticipation.
With the Babe’s first wail, the veil split wide. And, in the profundity of that miraculous moment, curtained skies parted for all to see the hosts of heaven proclaim Glory!
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests” (Luke 2:8-14).
The pronouncement of the hosts of heaven, first delivered to lowly shepherds tending their flocks nearby, was as a melodious garland draped across the vaulted heavens—ringing throughout all of nature.
They sang the most blessed of news.
It was the message God longed to deliver to His people. It was the message prepared to announce the long-awaited birth of His Beloved Son.
Those awe-struck shepherds may not have fully understood the whole of the message. But they could grasp that it was meant for them . . . for others . . . for all.
The declaration, “A Savior has been born to you,” was for them. But it is also a message for you. And a message for those around you—because Jesus was born to all mankind. Many are hungry to hear . . . left wanting and in great need. The weary, the worried, the despairing and hopeless—all need to know their salvation has come.
If you ever struggle for words, not knowing what to say to others about Jesus, borrow their message. Simply quote the angels.
It’s a message already prepared. That’s what those shepherds did. They spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed (Luke 2:17b-18a).
Gift those around you this Christmas with the prepared message of God. It’s the good news to swell every longing heart.
Merry Christmas!
Comments