Glory and Peace

December 7

(Luke 2:13-14 NIV) ““Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, {14} "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.””

(Romans 4:18-5:2 NIV) ““Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, "So shall your offspring be." {19} Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead--since he was about a hundred years old--and that Sarah's womb was also dead. {20} Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, {21} being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised. {22} This is why "it was credited to him as righteousness." {23} The words "it was credited to him" were written not for him alone, {24} but also for us, to whom God will credit righteousness--for us who believe in him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead. {25} He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification. {5:1} Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, {2} through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.””

The angels sent to deliver the good news of Christ’s birth could not contain their praise. A large number gathered above the shepherds to give glory to God. Their worship contains two truths about the Lord. First, no one is greater or higher than God. There is only one God, and to Him belongs all glory, honor, thanks, power, and praise. Worship Him alone. Have no other Gods before Him. Second, coming to know Christ is the access key to peace on Earth. When we come to Christ, and God’s favor rests upon us, the incomprehensible peace of God settles over our lives. This is why the dark side works so hard to distract our hearts at Christmas time. Lights, presents, parties, and even family can diminish our worship and steal our peace. Hear the voices of heaven this Christmas. Focus your attention on the Christ child. Worship Him, and let the peace of God settle over you. -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day