Glory and Peace

Read Luke 2:8-14

Zero in on the angel’s announcement to the shepherds:
“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” (Luke 2:14)

They refer to something happeninng in heaven and something happening on earth. Do you see that? “Glory in the highest heaven” and “peace on earth.” Of all the things that they could have annouced, why do you think they focused on “Glory and Peace.”

GLORY

Remember that scene in “Elf” where they’ve just finished making preparations for Christmas day and Santa tells them — with great excitement — that it’s time to start getting ready for next year! There is already celebration, singing, dancing and joy. Somehow, with the mere mention of another Christmas, all of that joy gets amplified.

I wonder if something similar happened in heaven on that first “Christmas Eve.” Make no mistake, heaven was already full of glory — the presence of God, complete perfection, splendor and majesty. Could it get any better? Perhaps. When heaven sends out the Messiah on His rescue mission, the joy and glory somehow ratchet up a notch! The celebration around the throne of God somehow got even greater when Jesus came to earth. All of heaven felt a sense of excitement and anticipation for what was coming! (In Luke 15, Jesus mentions similar celebrations in heaven every time someone is rescued and found.)

PEACE

Of all the things we are lacking, the choir of angels seemed to think that peace was the priority. We can’t argue with that. We desperately need peace. Peace on earth. Peace with God. The peace of God. A peace that surpasses our understanding. That is what Jesus offers.

Jesus came to bring us peace — a glimpse of it now, the fullness of it later. All of heaven rejoices when we turn to Him and take Him up on that offer.

//////////////////

Invite Jesus into specific relationships and areas of your life that need peace.

Don’t overlook the fact that heaven is cheering you on! Angels are leaning over the bannister as they anticipate the life that Jesus has in store for you!