Oh, What A Glorious Night!
“Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them. (Luke 2:14-20 ESV)
I love well known Christmas carols, like ‘Silent Night’ or ‘Angels We Have Heard on High’. However this year, I have a new favorite Christmas song. Not only have the Sidewalk Prophets arranged for a toe-tapping song, but they have included my favorite explanation what Christmas is all about, spoken by Linus from the Peanuts. The song I am taking about? “Oh What A Glorious Night”.
Sometimes I wish I could have been right there with the shepherds, the glorious night, when my Savior was born. I wonder if I would have been just as afraid as the shepherds were. I think so. However the angels said:
…“Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. (Luke 2:10-11 ESV – emphasis mine)
The angels said ‘great joy‘ the very first Christmas. There were no Christmas trees, twinkling lights, or wrapped presents. The first Christmas the joy came from a manger, where our Lord was wrapped in swaddling cloths. The greatest gift that was ever given to mankind.
This Christmas let us all slow down a little. Let us not get stressed because we are still shopping for the perfect gift for family or a friend. Instead, let us reflect on the very first Christmas, where Joy came to earth, bringing us true peace.
Lord of Joy and Peace. Thank You for sending Your Son Jesus so many years ago. Lord, help us to reflect this Christmas on the joy and peace that was placed in the manger. May we share that joy with the people you place in our path. In the precious name of Jesus, Amen.
Merry Christmas and Peace to you from our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Photo & Content Copyright © Iris Nelson
