Verse of the Day
Monday, December 23, 2024
Luke 2:11-14
To you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth 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 heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!”
Introduction
Luke 2:11-14 is a well-known passage recounting the angelic announcement of Jesus' birth to the shepherds. This text captures the joyous proclamation of the Messiah's arrival and the peace and goodwill it brings to all humanity. These verses are a cornerstone of the Nativity story, emphasizing Jesus as Savior, Messiah, and Lord.
Commentary
Luke 2:11 – "To you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord."
The angel addresses the shepherds, ordinary workers who symbolize humility and the marginalized. By announcing the birth of the Savior to them, God reveals that salvation is not exclusive to the elite but is meant for all people. The titles "Savior," "Messiah," and "Lord" highlight Jesus' divine authority and fulfillment of God's promises to Israel.
Luke 2:12 – "This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger."
The angel provides a humble and unexpected sign: the Savior of the world will not be found in a palace but in a manger wrapped in ordinary cloth. This points to the paradox of God's glory revealed through humility and simplicity.
Luke 2:13-14 – "And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!'"
The angel's proclamation is joined by a multitude of angels, creating a heavenly chorus. Their message celebrates God’s glory and offers peace to humanity. The "peace" mentioned here is not just an absence of conflict but a restoration of wholeness and harmony between God and His creation.
Understanding the Context
The shepherds' role in this narrative underscores the inclusivity of the Gospel message. In first-century Judea, shepherds were often overlooked and considered unimportant, yet they were the first to hear of Christ's birth. This reflects the overarching theme of Luke's Gospel: Jesus’ ministry focuses on the marginalized and outcasts.
The declaration of peace "among those whom he favors" echoes the Hebrew concept of shalom—a holistic peace that encompasses spiritual, emotional, and communal restoration. The mention of the "city of David" ties the Nativity to Old Testament prophecies, particularly those about a Davidic king who would establish God's everlasting kingdom (2 Samuel 7:12-13; Micah 5:2).
Application for Today
This passage reminds us that God's message is for everyone, especially the humble and lowly. It challenges us to evaluate how we share the Gospel in our communities. Are we, like the shepherds, ready to respond with faith and action to the Good News?
The mention of peace encourages us to be peacemakers in a world filled with division and strife. How can we reflect the peace of Christ in our relationships and interactions? The angelic declaration calls us to glorify God in all circumstances and seek ways to embody His message of hope and reconciliation.
Reflection
Take a moment to place yourself among the shepherds on that quiet night. Imagine hearing the angel's proclamation and being surrounded by the heavenly host. How would you respond to the news of Christ's birth?
Reflect on how this passage speaks to your life today. Where do you need to experience God's peace? How can you share the Good News with others, especially those who may feel overlooked or unworthy? Let this passage inspire you to glorify God and be a vessel of His peace during this season and beyond.
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Bible, copyright © 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Verse of the Day is a daily inspirational and encouraging Bible verse extracted from BibleGateway.com. Commentary by Kenny Sallee, ThM.
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