Scripture Reading: Luke 2:1-20
As we gather on this holy Sunday, the day of anticipation and joy, we turn our hearts and minds to the timeless story that echoes through the ages—the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
In today’s text, we encounter a world awaiting the arrival of the long-awaited Messiah, and in the humble town of Bethlehem, the Light of the World is born. The story of Jesus’ birth is more than a historical account; it is a beacon of hope that continues to shine brightly, illuminating our lives even today.
In verse 2, the people were living in a time of uncertainty and longing for a deliverer. The world needed a light to pierce through the darkness, and that light came in the form of a baby in a manger.
Jesus, the Light of the World, did not come in splendour. God chose a humble and lowly birthplace, a manger in Bethlehem. This reflects the humility of God’s love, a love that meets us where we are, during our struggles and imperfections.
Heaven’s angels join shepherds to announce the birth of Jesus who would change history and give salvation for people. The angels proclaimed the birth of Jesus to the shepherds, bringing tidings of great joy. The birth of Christ was not a private event; it was a cause for celebration that reached the heavens. The shepherds, representing the common people, were the first to receive this glorious news.
The spotlight shifts from shepherds to heaven’s most glorious messenger. With the angel came God’s glory, His shining majesty, the side of God humans can see and to which they can respond in confession, worship, and praise.
Angelic presence does not last forever. Angels leave, and people respond. Gazing at God’s glorious angel terrified the shepherds, but the shepherds wasted no time; they went with haste to see the newborn Saviour. Their response teaches us the importance of seeking Jesus with urgency and joy. They became witnesses to the miracle and then shared the good news with others.
Everyone the shepherds met heard about angelic visits, angelic songs of praise, and a trip to a manger to find the baby of God’s glory. They shared what had been told them about this child. The shepherds found in a manger the Savior, the Messiah, the Lord himself.
The Gospel brings forth joy, not fear. Joy is the inward feeling of happiness and contentment that bursts forth in rejoicing and praise. Joy comes not only to shepherds, but it also comes to all people. In the most unlikely place, God brushed aside the world’s fears and provided the world reason for joy. Joy centres not in something you earn or possess. Joy comes from God’s gift, a tiny baby in a manger.
The happy family and shepherds and guests huddled round the manger where Jesus lay. Jesus is the centre of Mary and Joseph’s life, the song of the angels, the joy of the shepherds. Where the Christ child lays is home. This child is born for all the people. He is our Saviour, our Messiah, the one in whom our unsettledness gives way to great joy and peace.
As we celebrate Christmas, we are reminded that the Light of Christ continues to shine in our lives. In our moments of darkness, uncertainty, and despair, Jesus is the light that guides us. His love is a flame that cannot be extinguished.
Let us take this Christmas to reflect on the profound truth that God’s light entered our world in the form of a vulnerable child. The birth of Jesus is not just a historical event but a transformative moment that continues to bring hope and salvation to all who believe.
May the love of Christ and the Light of Christmas shine brightly in our hearts, homes, and communities. As we go forth from this place, let us carry the message of Christ’s love and share it with a world that still longs for the true Light.
Thanks be to God! Amen.
(Ref. Bible, commentaries, theological books, UCA materials)
