Luke 2:8-15
The angel said to the shepherds, “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people…”
Our granddaughter, Maren, was about two years old. We and her family went to the late Christmas Eve Service at their church. It was a traditional service and from the choir loft the choir was singing a powerful classical Christmas number. Maren was standing on the pew, twisting her head upward to see the origin of the music. The choir made the announcement of the birth of Jesus followed by a great pause in the music, the tones suspended in the air. And it was at that specific moment, in the pregnant silence of anticipation, that out of Maren’s mouth and in a loud voice came, “Ta-Dah!” Of course, the congregation responded with smiles, twisted necks, and amusement.
But isn’t that the way it is? At the very moment when we are caught up in the opening of Christmas presents, nibbling on cookies, and bemoaning the separation from our families due to the pandemic, God comes with his great “Ta-Dah” to remind us that in the midst of all the anxieties and activities surrounding the holy day of Christmas, God’s coming in the form of the baby named Jesus, is greater than all these.
No wonder angels sang, shepherds left their sheep, and wise men were inspired to take a great journey to see this thing that was happening. The voices rang out, “Glory to God in the highest, and peace to all people on earth.” How amazing God’s activity in our world is! In those days over 2000 years ago, like today, the world seemed fraught with evil and the powers of the mighty lording over those of lowly birth. Yet, that is exactly when and where God chose to touch our lives with hope through the baby Jesus. What wondrous news it is—especially in this bleak midwinter of chaos both then and now.
Ta-Dah!
“For unto you is born this day…a Savior who is Christ the Lord.”
Song: Joy to the World (ELW 267)
Joy to the world, the Lord is come! Let earth receive her king;
Let every heart prepare him room and heav’n and nature sing…
Joy to the earth, the Savior reigns! Let all their songs employ,
While fields and floods, rocks, hills, and plains repeat the sounding joy…
Prayer: Wow, God! You know how to make a statement—one so big it changes the world—it changes everything—shepherds, two-year-olds, and all of us! Thank you for coming to us in this awesome way. Amen.
Tyger Penson