Angels are mentioned over 300 times in the Bible: 45 encounters in the Old Testament and 70 appearances in the New. Described as created beings, they number in the millions. The shepherds probably did not see anything resembling our Christmas pageant characters robed in white and topped with silver halos. The only angelic description we have of the ones who appeared to the shepherds was they were accompanied by the glory of the Lord shining around the shepherds. Oh, to be in that field on that amazing night!
And yet, over and over when an angel appears, the angel’s first words are, “Fear Not!” Their awesome appearance is accompanied by an incredible message. Their message first told to the shepherds is for ALL PEOPLE. “I bring you GOOD NEWS that will cause GREAT JOY for ALL THE PEOPLE.” As if that isn’t enough, a great company of heavenly host begins praising God and saying, “GLORY to GOD in the highest heaven, and on earth PEACE to those on whom his favor rests.”
GOOD NEWS
GREAT JOY
PEACE ON EARTH
Oh, how we need to remember that message today! And, as Christians, how we need to share it with a war-torn world. Can we share through our actions, words, and hope that God does have this world in His hands and on His heart?
Can we, like the angels, be prepared with words of hope?
Many carols have profound lines that we may sing without thought. Rather than unconscious caroling, why not take a few lines from a carol, such as Hark the Herald Angels Sing, and discuss what they mean during dinner?
“Peace on earth and mercy mild, God and sinners RECONCILED!”
“Veiled in flesh the Godhead see”
“Mild he lays His glory by —born that man no more may die”
“Born to raise the sons of earth— Born to give them second birth”
Some carols, call us to—like the angels—herald the good news! Indeed, today, let’s go forward as messengers and
“With angelic host proclaim: Christ is born in Bethlehem!”
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About Ann Stewart
Ann just won the Christy Award for Best Debut Novel of 2017 with Stars in the Grass, originated AMG’s Preparing My Heart series, and writes “Ann’s Lovin’ Ewe” for The Country Register. When she's not writing, she's waving her arms directing musicals, teaching middle schoolers, or watching UVA Basketball, This is Us, or Madam Secretary. In her free time she hangs out with her husband, raising two lovely daughters and a whole flock of fuzzy sheep on Skye Moor Farm, in Virginia--where unscripted drama provides plenty of entertaining material.
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