“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased” (Lk. 2:14).
We have already noticed that Luke records many of the wonderful songs of Christmas. Perhaps none is more beloved than the song of the angels. We will consider the audience for this heavenly choir in our devotional thought tomorrow. For today let’s look at the content of the message declared by the angels.
The song has two major chords—glory and peace. It is the work and ministry of the angelic hosts to glorify God continually. Now they are allowed to praise Him in the presence of a group of angels selected by God to see this celestial glory and hear the great promise of peace on earth. The coming of Christ is the high point of God’s self-revelation and thus it is the revelation of God’s glory. It is unimaginable that God’s glory would manifest itself in human flesh, born in a stable. But such is God.
The birth of Christ also makes possible authentic peace. Only Christ can give peace in the inner being. Only Christ can reconcile sinful man to holy God. Only Christ can enable a man to be at peace with himself and with others.
The final phrase of the song should render—“among men who are the recipients of God’s pleasure.” The good will or peace originates with God and is now available to man through Christ. Remember, Jesus later indicated that His coming also brought a sword (Matt. 10:34). How do we reconcile these two statements? The advent of God’s only begotten Son mandates that man is fully accountable to approach God through the means He provided—His Son who would declare that He is the way, the truth, and the life (Jn. 14:6). Yes, peace is available but only for those who have made room for Him in the “inn” of their heart.
Prayer: Thank you for sending Your Son to reveal Your glory and provide the means to know Your peace. Amen