Glory to God in the Highest!

Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:

“Glory to God in the highest,

And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”

So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them. (Luke 2:4-20 NKJV)

In the city of David, the King of kings was born. What a day that must have been! I cannot imagine Miriam’s thoughts in that moment when the promise was fulfilled. I am sure she had endured so much as the betrothed young virgin who was expecting. And Joseph was a reverent man. I can imagine how relieved and overjoyed they both must have been when His Majesty came forth. Humble Miriam, pensive and introspective, and dutiful Joseph giving glory to God in the highest. Amen.

My Lord is the King that came forth that day. He is Lord over all who call on His name. I come before you Lord, worshipping in spirit and in truth. The rocks will not cry out for me. I give you praise Adonai! The angels testified then, and the heavens rejoice unto this day. For, truth resonates throughout all ages and cannot be undone: You are the Lion of the tribe of Judah, and the great I AM. You reveal yourself unto men. The command goes forth rapidly and will not be reversed. You are set to return to judge this earth. I wish there were goodwill on earth and peace toward all men. Nonetheless, come Lord come! I sing glory to God, who is on high, whose name is meant to be exalted. Blessed Savior you are my friend. Oh, Prince of Peace, what a joy you are to my soul!