Luke 2 – Look, See, Pray

An ordinary evening, they thought. “We can light a fire, huddle round, and watch the sheep dozing. Hopefully it will be a quiet night.”

It just so happened that God had a different plan.

Suddenly the peace and quiet was broken. A messenger from God, an angel, appeared and spoke reassuringly: “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people.” (Luke 2 v10)

These shepherds, the lowest of the low, are sent to Bethlehem as eyewitnesses to the arrival of the Messiah- the baby born to Mary. Before they could get over the shock and “explain it all away” a host of angels arrived as backup, praising God and proclaiming glory and peace.

I find it hard to imagine that a “host” of angels would be anything other than awe-inspiring as they spoke/shouted/sang… so much for a “quiet night.”

How very fitting that it was shepherds who witnessed the arrival of Jesus, the Lamb of God – “who takes away the sin of the world.”

May your Christmas Eve be special- and your Christmas Day a celebration of hope and Love. Peace and grace be with you!

The early Sun shining through the edge of the woods of Ashridge Estate

Walking in woodland is wonderful. If you move quietly and respect the life around you, the sights, sounds and smells are invigorating. They even prompt the human brain to produce the happiness hormones, and reduce stress levels.

This photo came from an early morning walk through dense woods in Buckinghamshire- I got lost. All the trees looked the same, and I took a wrong path. I was never in any danger: but being lost is unsettling and inconvenient.

I knew that if I walked in the general direction of the rising sun I should find my vehicle and the road home.

Gradually the light grew stronger and I could see the edge of the wood.I felt instantly better, and could confidently enjoy the woods again.

Luke 2 gives the narrative of Christmas. A favourite part is when angelic messengers awaken shepherds in the dark hills above Bethlehem: the Light of the Glory of God bursts into their quiet reality. A message of HOPE sends the men off to see the new-born child. No longer lost in the dark, their way becomes clear.

It’s almost Christmas Eve. I’m going to be reflecting on that holy Light that came to the world- because we sure do need some brightness and hope! Ponder these words and apply them to your own situation: Luke 2:14 (NLT) “Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.”

Have a wonder-filled Christmas.