O Holy Night

“The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.” Luke 2:20

Christmas? Yes, today is Christmas at Grace! Well, today is the day that we are recording some of the main portions of this year’s Christmas Eve children’s service. For generations, Grace children have led us in worship on Christmas Eve, carrying candles, forming the cross, and pointing us once again to the manger. We won’t be able to do these things in the same way this year, but the Grace kids will still be leading us in worship through the video that is being produced. While we would all prefer to worship together in person, I think this recorded service will be a gift to treasure for years to come, a surprising blessing in this year of so much loss.

Blessings come from surprising places. That’s what the Christmas story is all about, a God who would deign to come to earth. Born into oppression and obscurity, Jesus lives and dies to save us. Even in October, it’s good to hear this message. And it’s good to glorify and praise God for the good news we have seen and heard. Goodness knows we could use more good news in these days. Keep watch! The God who was born in Bethlehem still shows up today.

Be well, friends. You are loved.

God of glory, we praise you for the mystery of the Incarnation. In taking on our flesh, you have gifted us with the joys of heaven. May the good news of Christmas be always in our hearts. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Image: The Lyle family Christmas tree, 2014.