We’ve made it through the darkest day of the year. The solstice is behind us, and the light is returning. On Friday we celebrate the birth of the Light.
I’m guessing you’re busy today. Perhaps family has already come with suitcases and packages. Or maybe you’re the one packing to head over the river. Or you’re stuck at work trying to wrap up that project. Or you feel chained to the stove preparing one last batch of cookies. Or no one is helping you with the mounting pile of dishes, and you’re left feeling anything but full of Christmas cheer.
Will you take just a moment to savor these verses today? To prepare for the blessing that is Christmas?
And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people, for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”
– Luke 2:9-11
I like the good “tidings” from other translations, but good news works just as well. Can you imagine the shepherds as they beheld the angel? Can you picture the angel’s great joy at getting to be the one to deliver the news?
I shared this angel’s photo here several years ago. She remains one of my favorite Christmas decorations, and I’m happy to share her with you again this year.
Merry Christmas, dear friends. May peace and blessings—and the Light—surround you in the coming days.
The Flourishing Tree 
🙂
My favorite Christmas song is “O Come All Ye Faithful” and during this time of hustle and bustle I find myself humming it to lift my spirits and to calm the stress. The tune is so joyful and the words are the happy reminder of the reason we are celebrating ! Thank you, Hope, for the gentle pause and for the reminder to breathe and to remember what is really important right now.
Merry Christmas!!
O Sing, choirs of angels,
Sing in exultation,
Sing all that hear in heaven God’s holy word.
Give to our Father glory in the Highest;
O come, let us adore Him,
Christ the Lord.
Now I’m humming “O Come All Ye Faithful,” too — thanks for the smile this morning! Merry Christmas!
What a beautiful message in reminding us to pause and savor the message of the scripture shared with us today! Often we get lost in the hustle and bustle of Christmas. Thank you, Hope, for reminding us to take a moment and remember the true meaning of Christmas! May we all recognize “the Light” that surrounds us on Christmas Day for the Lord has come as we sing in praise, “Hallelujah, a child is born and his name is Jesus, our Savior!” Merry Christmas to you, Hope!
Phyllis — I’m so glad you stopped by the blog today. I’m guilty of getting lost in the hustle, too. I needed this reminder today, and I’m happy it spoke to you. Merry Christmas to you and your family!