How can one rejoice when they are living under a foreign, cruel ruler-Rome? What is there to rejoice over when taxation had reached such crippling levels that stark poverty and struggle was their daily reality? This was the scene at the time of Jesus’ birth. Yet, in the midst of this darkness a Heavenly message came…
“There were shepherds out in the field keeping watch over their flock by night. And the angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them and they were filled with great fear. And the angel said to them, ‘Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for ALL the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord’…and suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of Heavenly hosts praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom He is pleased.’” (Luke 2:8-14)
The birth of Jesus was such a joyous occasion that the sky itself ripped open with an angelic jubilation, as if the heavenly celebration couldn’t be contained just to heaven. After all, Jesus said that “Abraham rejoiced to see His day and was glad.” (John 8:56). The joy couldn’t be contained! God had become man!
The plan put in place before the world was made was now in play…the Savior had come to pay the death penalty for our sins. Hell and the grave no longer had any power. His birth meant His death, burial and resurrection was certain, as God’s perfect plan can’t be thwarted. Nothing could stop this mighty move of God! (Hebrews 9:26) No wonder a multitude of angels burst forth in praise!
Friends, do we realize what we have in Christ? We have everything, from Salvation, to the ever-present Comfort of His Holy Spirit, to His guiding Hand helping us through these difficult times, faithfully leading us Home. Let us rejoice with the angels, despite how dark it is here. Jesus has come! Hope is born!
“Joy to the world, the Lord has come!
Let earth receive her King.
Let every heart prepare Him room,
Let Heaven and nature sing…”
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