A Glorious Encounter

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,

"Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened,
which the Lord has told us about."
[Lk 2:13-15]

Steal away today and read this passage. Pause your preparations and try to imagine this unimaginable scene. Marvel in reading the account when heaven and earth met face-to-face. When common man encountered an Uncommon God.

God peeled open the skies above the poor laborers in the field. A great company of heaven's hosts made the most wondrous announcement. These chosen men experienced gleaming glory divine. The Lord's glory. They peered into heaven as God revealed His splendor.

What a glorious display to match a glorious event! The simplicity of the stable and shepherds are a stark contrast to the grandeur and majesty of the arrival and the angel's revelation.

The shepherds left their field and flock and ran to worship. Would we? Had He been born in today's busy world would we stop? Would we detour our set duties and plans -- on faith? If only I would respond as they did! They hurried to bend a knee and worship the Lamb of God. Oh, for that day when every knee shall bow...

Now we are surrounded by the signs of the season that keep Him before us, in the forefront of our minds. The heavens may not part and angels may not descend -- today -- but we have no less cause to pause and worship.

God of Glory; You have revealed Your Glory and the pronouncement has been made that our Savior has been born. May we run from our chores to worship the Lord. May I join with the angels in singing Your praise. May His glory shine through me today.