December 25 — Luke 2:8–14

And there were shepherds residing in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks by night. Just then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid! For behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people: Today in the city of David a Savior has been born to you. He is Christ the Lord! And this will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.”

And suddenly there appeared with the angel a great multitude of the heavenly host, 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


On this holy morning, Scripture leads us into one of the most wondrous scenes in all of the Bible: heaven bending low to announce the birth of the Savior. The message is not delivered to kings, priests, or scholars, but to shepherds—ordinary, overlooked people watching their sheep under a dark sky. Christmas reminds us that God delights to reveal His glory to the humble. The brilliance of the angels’ song bursts into the silence of the night, declaring that the world has changed. “A Savior has been born to you.” Not to someone else, not to the important or powerful, but to you. Christmas is God’s personal declaration of love.

The angels proclaim good news of great joy for all people. This joy does not depend on circumstances, success, or the ease of life. It flows from the presence of Christ Himself—the Savior, the Messiah, the Lord—who enters our world not with intimidation, but with tenderness; not in a palace, but in a manger. Christmas teaches us that God’s peace does not arrive with force. It enters quietly, yet powerfully, through the birth of a child who will redeem the world through love, sacrifice, and mercy.

As you reflect on this passage today, consider these questions: What does it mean to you personally that a Savior has been born to you? How does the humility of Jesus’ birth shape your understanding of God’s heart? Where do you need the “peace on earth” announced by the angels to rest in your life—your thoughts, relationships, or fears? And how might you carry the joy of Christ into the world today, even in small, gentle ways?

For today’s practice, take a few moments to step outside or look through a window at the sky. Whether it is bright or dim, remember that on a night long ago, heaven opened above ordinary fields to declare Christ’s birth. Whisper a simple prayer of gratitude: “Glory to God in the highest.” Then consider one joyful act you can offer today—an expression of kindness, a gift of encouragement, a prayer for someone in need—as a way of sharing the good news that has come into your heart.


Loving Father, 

Thank You for the gift of Jesus, my Savior. Let the joy of His birth fill my heart today and anchor my life in Your peace. Help me receive Him with wonder and share His love with others. Glory be to You in the highest, both now and forever. 

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

-

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