WATCHWORD:
8 Nearby, in the fields outside of Bethlehem, a group of shepherds were guarding their flocks from predators in the darkness of night. 9 Suddenly a messenger of the Lord stood in front of them, and the darkness was replaced by a glorious light—the shining light of God’s glory. They were terrified!
10 Messenger: Don’t be afraid! Listen! I bring good news, news of great joy, news that will affect all people everywhere. 11 Today, in the city of David, a Liberator has been born for You! He is the promised Anointed One, the Supreme Authority! 12 You will know You have found Him when You see a baby, wrapped in a blanket, lying in a feeding trough.
13 At that moment, the first heavenly messenger was joined by thousands of other messengers—a vast heavenly choir. They praised God.
14 Heavenly Choir: To the highest heights of the universe, glory to God!
And on earth, peace among all people who bring pleasure to God! Luke 2:8-14 The Voice
Meditation:
Christmas Is Over!
Christmas day has come and gone. Wait! That’s not right! Let me start over — Christmas day has come, thank God. Christ is with us now and forever, as he has always been. What’s his name? That’s right, Emmanuel, God with us. Make it personal, God with you! God with me! Live that!
We are so privileged, and I’m afraid, too often, we are careless with the blessings we have been given. The greatest present we could ever receive is the Presence of our Lord. Think on this: The Creator of everything, the heavens and the earth, the stars that shine, the beauty around us, the snow that falls, the animals large and small, your loved ones, on and on and on. All gifts to You and to me, free and clear, batteries included. Complete. The only thing remaining is our acceptance of these gifts, as we accept this Divine Baby, this Savior and Lord, this God Almighty in the manger. Do not minimize the power and glory of the Gift that has been given.
From Verse A Day: The arrival of Christ is cause for celebration! ‘Good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.’ Lord Jesus, we are so grateful for You and to You. It’s because of You that all people have been extended grace; and in surrender to You, we find true life. You lived to do the will of God the Father. Lord, please give us the courage to live for You, and help us remember that Your Grace is sufficient, it’s enough. You offered us the greatest gift we can ever receive: Eternal life with our Father in Heaven. How can we thank You enough? We praise You God and say with open hearts, ‘Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to those on whom Your grace and favor rests. Amen.
Doxology Prayer:
Praise God from whom all blessings flow, Praise Him, all creatures here below, Praise Him above the Heavenly host, Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen
