FJ brings us another article from the Ione Baptist Church newsletter. He writes about the connection between God’s glory and Christmas. We hope this adds to your Christmas.
© FJ Griffitts, 2024. From Friendly Words, Ione, WA.
“And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. 8In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. 10 But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; 11 for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.’ 13 And suddenly there appeared 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 men with whom He is pleased’”
Luke 2:7-14
God’s glory and Christmas
“The glory of the Lord shone around them.” Each year, Christmas reminds us how marvelously good God has been to us. The presence of God seems to be felt by more people at this season than throughout the rest of the year. The love of God touches people in many beautiful ways. And the power of God encourages Christians to worship and adore the Lord with renewed spiritual fervor. The reason is simple: God’s glory still shines around all who will behold it. God comes again, and in power honors the Lord Jesus Christ’s birthday with heavenly glory.
Angelic messengers revealed God’s glory and told the “good news of great joy.” Imagine the shepherds’ surprise that the greatness of God was spilling all around them, lighting up the night with dazzling brilliance. When God’s messengers of today—that means you and I—faithfully share the “good news of great joy” today, His power will be present. Jesus is the glory and the light of Christmas.
Join me in praying for that light to shine brightly. During this Christmas season, we ask that God’s glory be truly and completely revealed in all His children. I prayerfully hope this family of readers will see, know, and love anew the light of the world, Jesus Immanuel.
Closing thoughts
Now, do you see the connection between God’s glory and Christmas? Do you see how much it matters today?
How do you feel about Christmas?
See more about Christianity and the phrase “Glory to God” here.
Read another of FJ’s writings about the meaning of Christmas.
