December 24, 2019
For full passage click: Luke 2:1-14 … “But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord.’” vss. 10-11
Tonight, people of all races and nations will gather to celebrate the birth of Jesus over 2000 years ago in an obscure village not far from Jerusalem. In their worship they will hear in their own languages this most remarkable little story from the Gospel writer Luke. Hymns and carols will be sung, in many places candles will be lit. It really is a spectacular celebration. Most of those who gather for worship do not take Luke’s words literally, singing angels are beyond their belief systems. Yet we love the story, not because it’s factually true, but because it touches our hearts. It gives voice to our hopes and dreams better than any other story we have. We truly do want peace and joy for all people; we deeply desire good news instead of the petty partisan bickering we see and hear from our leaders. And we know in our heart of hearts that any hope we have for the future is wrapped up in the swaddling clothes of the child Jesus. In him we see the Christ, the beginning and the end! In him we see clearly the light that shines in the darkness of our souls. No wonder tears fill our eyes as we sing Silent Night. In the Child of Bethlehem, love came down and the world has been changed forever.
Thought for the Day: What do I feel in my heart on Christmas Eve?
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