Sermon Title: Christmas Gifts That Won't Break - The Gift of Peace
"An there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.' Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests.'"
Writer Julia Bettencourt makes this observation concerning the passage: "The first time I ever heard a choir sing Handel's Messiah in a live concert, it just amazed me. I was a senior in high school and the music just blew me away. I remember that, and the many performances of Handel's Messiah over the years, and then think if that is so amazing to hear, I wonder how a whole multitude of angels praising God could sound. When we think about those shepherds on the hillside in the Christmas story, we think about how the glory of God shown down on them, and the first angel appeared, and they were afraid, but what about what those shepherds heard that night? Wow! It must have been mind boggling to hear all of those angels praising God."
What are we hearing this Advent season? The noises of people demanding our time and attention, the worries in our hearts and minds or the constant tones of movement as we rush from place to place? I believe God wants us the hear from Him, and to receive the peace that comes from His presence, during this busy season. I encourage you to make time for Him today, to include Him in your activities, and truly remember that He is the Real Reason for the season. Include God in your life today and receive His peace as you do so.
I will speak more about this gift of peace that God gives to us as we celebrate the fourth Sunday of Advent this coming Sunday morning. I hope to see you then!
