By Doug Cox

As we move closer to Christmas, what a blessing it is to read about the Messiah’s birth. I like to imagine being there. Living as a shepherd in the hill country surely had its ups and downs. A hot bath was unheard of as far as I know. Regardless of how they smelled these despised shepherds had an important job.

They watched over the sheep destined for sacrifice at the nearby Temple in Jerusalem. It wouldn’t be long until the Passover Feast would bring scores of obedient pilgrims flooding into the streets of Jerusalem to worship the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Defective sheep were unacceptable, so the shepherds had to be on their toes to guard against wandering sheep, fanged predators and thieves.

So, imagine working the night shift. Fighting off sleep your head bobs up and down. Then suddenly, an angel of the Lord appears out of thin air, and the glory of the Lord is shining brighter than any light you have ever seen. With your heart pounding in your ears, you hear the angel say, “do not be afraid.” I’m curious. Did those four words produce immediate calm? It’s possible. Mark records that one day while out on a deadly storm-tossed sea, Jesus declared “Peace be still” and the sea and waves obeyed. I do wonder though if any of the shepherds had to change out of their soiled boxers.

Next, ‘Hark,’ the herald angel finishes his statement saying, “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. And this will be the sign to you. You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.” And then comes the grand finale with a heavenly host of angels praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (Luke 2:10-12, 14) Reading on you will see the shepherds went and found the swaddled Lamb of God, just like the angel said.

History shows us that the angel’s declaration of God being glorified and peace on earth has happened in part. Jesus wonderfully revealed God’s glory over and over, healing the sick, casting out devils, miraculously feeding multitudes, walking on water and raising the dead. He gained faithful friends and made enemies so full of vitriol they saw to His crucifixion. It seemed death had its way until the glory of God manifested again and Jesus rose triumphant over death.

The glory spread. Next came Pentecost and the birth of the church. Individuals can now experience the miracle of forgiveness, salvation, and a changed life through faith in the risen Jesus. Paul describes the growing Christian as one who goes from glory to glory.

Peace on earth comes and goes. A quick internet search shows that right now over 15 countries are fighting civil wars, not including the wars you see on nightly news. Don’t be fooled, world peace will not be found until Jesus, the Prince of Peace comes again in all His glory. In the meantime, inner peace is possible through faith in Jesus. He says “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you, not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:27)

Prayer – Heavenly Father help me focus on Jesus and live in obedience to Him as I celebrate His birthday this Christmas season.