Good News of Great Joy

“And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear. And the angel said to them, “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. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,

“Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”” – Luke 2:8-14 (ESV)

As we rush around trying to put all of the finishing touches on our Christmas celebration preparations, we need to keep in our hearts the true meaning of the season.  Two thousand years ago, brought into the world in the most humble of circumstances, God sent us His only begotten Son; to teach us, and guide us, and finally to die for us that we might be released from our bondage of sin.  Christmas isn’t about presents, or lights, or festive holiday parties… It’s about a Child, divine made incarnate, born to save the world.