Saturday, December 12, 2020
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. Luke 2:11 (Luke 2:8-20)
During this season of Advent, most eyes are directed to Christmas Day. Christmas Day is when we are excited about opening our Christmas presents to see what new stuff "we got." This excitement is contagious, the Christmas Spirit that passes from heart to heart. This season of Goodwill is extended with blessings of Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays and smiles that brighten the landscape with their affirmation of joy and hope. Ah, Christmas, it truly is the "most wonderful time of the year."
Over 2,000 years ago, during the first Advent season, not very many people were in the "Christmas Spirit." There had been a promise of a Savior, but to date, there were no signs that this hope was present. For most people, it was just another dreary season of cold and hard work. The bible records that on one such dreary night, some shepherds were attending their flocks. And as they were doing their jobs, an angel of the Lord appeared to them. And the glory of the Lord shone all around them, and they were afraid.
I imagine that if I was in a state of the doldrums or COVID fatigue and suddenly an angel appeared to me, I too would be afraid. Who am I that an angel of the Lord would appear and bring God’s light into my life? But that is what happened. And the angel told them not to fear, for unto to you is born this day in the city of David, a Savior which is Christ the Lord. They were given a special invitation to go and see the King. And just as suddenly, a host of God's angels appeared, lighting up the sky and giving praises to God. These shepherds were no longer bored or fatigued. They were excited and made their way to see the child for themselves.
Beloved, we may not get the fanfare that these shepherds got when the angel of the Lord made this astonishing announcement. Still, we do have the same Christmas present, the presence of God being with us. For unto us, a Savior has been born. Thanks be to God.
Let us pray. Gracious and loving God, thank you for yet another Christmas season. During this year, we are reminded of your love and not to take it for granted. We are grateful for all the grace and mercy that you bestow upon us. May you forever bless us with your presence. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Pastor Ron Bonner
