“Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others—the armies of heaven—praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.’” Luke 2:13-14
If you’ve ever been to a 4th of July fireworks show, you know that it can be a pretty spectacular sight for 30-45 minutes. But combine all that into one display at one time and you can only begin to imagine the brightness of a host of angels showing up in the Judean darkness!
After the angel’s announcement, suddenly an innumerable number of angels fill the sky and start singing and chanting one of the most well-known phrases in the Bible: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” (Luke 2:14 KJV)
Glory and peace. God’s intention toward humanity is peace. God desires peace with humans and amongst humans. Out of His mercy and good will, He sent His Son for that very purpose. But peace really only happens when we glorify God.
The angels were glorifying the Exalted One. Everything begins and ends with the glory of God. He created all that is for His glory. In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word for glory is ‘kabod,’ carrying with it the idea of importance, honor, fame, weightiness, and majesty. In the New Testament, the Greek word is ‘doxa’, meaning fame, splendor, brightness, and beauty. The glory of God is all about the fame and beauty of God.
This Christmas, make sure you spend ample time making much of the fame and beauty of God. Glorify Him because He is worthy of it—and BTW, it’s good for you as well!
God, I do glorify You as maker of heaven and earth. You are holy, sovereign, just, loving—and so much more. Be glorified in me. Amen
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