Scripture to Read: Luke 2:12-14
After proclaiming the good news of Christ's birth, the angel gave the shepherds the reason for having genuine joy in Luke 2:12, "And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger." After the angel told the shepherds this incredible news, "a multitude of the heavenly host" joined the angel of the Lord, and they all started praising God together. God led Luke to record what the angels said as they praised God, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom He is pleased" Luke 2:14). God Almighty had sent the "Prince of Peace" into the world, for peace is only found through a relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:27; John 16:33). The Good News is the Gospel and the salvation Christ provides to everyone who surrenders to Him. The gift of salvation is so wonderful that even the angels eagerly watch as Christ transforms souls each day (see 1 Peter 1:12). Our response to the Good News of salvation, which comes through our Lord Jesus Christ, must always be to give glory to God. God deserves all of the glory because He gave His all for us through Christ on the cross. Because of the life, death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus, we (all born-again believers) have become those with who God is pleased, and we all find our peace in Christ. The joy and peace people long for is only found in Christ. Therefore, we must share Him so others can have this same peace and joy.
Challenge & Application
1. How does the response of the angel and heavenly hosts transform your response to the Good News of Christ’s arrival?
2. How do you know God is pleased with you and that you have peace with Him?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!