DECEMBER 17 GLORY TO GOD IN THE HIGHEST! By Justin Cousins Dean of Men, Word of Life Bible Institute, New York
Today’s Passage: Luke 2:8–14
Have you ever had someone, or something, surprise you so unexpectedly that your first instinct was fear? This is what we can imagine the shepherds in Luke chapter 2 experienced. They were faithfully tending their sheep just like on any other ordinary night. But, little did they know, this was no ordinary night. Their silent night was interrupted by heavenly messengers that would rightfully terrify any of us. The messengers are not the main point, though. Look at what their message is: “Don’t be afraid.” The first words of Christmas are spoken to terrified hearts, “Don’t fear.” The presence of God coming near to mankind (Immanuel) is intended to eliminate fear and insert peace. These Jewish shepherds in the field had likely grown up hearing the testimonies of generations before them. God had led them out of slavery and into the Promised Land. God had given them kings and a kingdom. He had faithfully brought them back from exile. But now what? For 400 years the Jewish people had not heard from God. Where was God now? These shepherds were the first to find out. God is here!
It is within this same thread that we must ask ourselves this Christmas season, “Where is God in the midst of my ________?”
Do not fear. The God who drew near in Bethlehem 2,000 years ago is near to you even today. Let the nearness of God be for our good (Psalm 73:28), and let His message of peace eradicate all fear.
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
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