The Glory Of Christmas

 

The Glory Of Christmas
by Kenny Sallee, ThM

On a memorable night, the skies above Bethlehem transformed into a magnificent display of celestial wonder. As shepherds watched their flocks, an otherworldly event unfolded: an angelic being appeared, bathed in divine light, bringing tidings of immense joy. Luke's account describes the awe-inspiring scene:

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and  the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.” (Luke 2:8-14, NIV)

Shepherds in the field were greeted by an angel, radiating the splendor of God, who delivered a message of hope. A Savior, the Messiah known as Christ the Lord, had been born, a promise of salvation and joy for all.

The angel's message was clear:

“Do not be afraid, for behold I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of  David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:10-11, NKJV).

The long-awaited Messiah, the King and Sovereign of Israel, had come not as a conqueror but as a gift, born for the benefit of all. This momentous birth was a beacon of light, promising not just the resolution of immediate troubles but eternal kingship and guidance.

Every person yearns for some kind of savior, a guiding light or power to confront their challenges, ease their distress, or attain the ultimate goal of happiness. Our relentless journey encompasses everything from seeking success in our careers to discovering the perfect partner or ally.

In the realm of sports, this longing is evident. As seasons conclude with more defeats than victories, the collective yearn for redemption echoes with the phrase,—“Wait till next year!” The arrival of fresh talents or prospects rekindles hope among enthusiasts, pinning their aspirations on these newcomers to usher in triumph. Yet, often, these placed hopes surpass any realistic expectations.

In contrast, the radiant illumination over the Bethlehem fields heralded the coming of a true Savior capable of fulfilling these profound longings. This newborn, referred to as “Christ the Lord,” embodied a profound significance for the awe-struck shepherds. Recognized as the Christ, Israel's much-anticipated Messiah, every Jew was reminded of the divine promise of a deliverer, an anointed one from the Lord to liberate Israel. More than a savior, this Messiah was also the Lord, destined not just to save but to reign as King and Sovereign.

The angel's proclamation that this Messiah-Savior-Lord was born "unto you" signified more than a mere announcement; it was the revelation of a divine gift. This newborn King wasn't a herald of doom but a declaration of a gift given for the benefit of all, a sovereign born to serve and save us.
"Every person yearns for some kind of savior…"