The Significance of What God Did at Christmas

"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 earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” Luke 2:13-14 (NIV)

After the angel of the Lord gave instructions to the shepherds on where they would find the newborn Christ, a whole host of angels—a large heavenly army—suddenly appeared! Their proclamation explained the twofold significance of Jesus’ birth.

Glory to God in the highest heaven!

First:

God, who alone lives in the highest heavens, was eminently glorified by it. The humble, inconvenient, unexpected way the Messiah entered the world brought great honor, renown, and praise to the God of the whole earth. In a surprising pivot, it was the very lowliness of the circumstance which brought Him the most glory. God — the highest — becomes the lowest, and in this way is shown greatly to be praised.

And on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests.

Second:

Through it, peace came to the earth. This peace, however, is specifically experienced by “those on whom His favor rests.” The meaning of this phrase is found in the Old Testament, where it refers to the favor of God resting on those with whom he is in covenant relationship (Ps 51:18; 89:17; 106:4). It has nothing to do with human merit or earning God’s good pleasure. Instead, it highlights God’s initiative in extending His favor toward His covenant people, though even they do not deserve it.

Jesus, thank You for the message of the angels on the night of Your birth. You made Yourself low, and for that You deserve the highest praise. You brought peace into our lives, a peace we didn’t earn or have any right to claim. Amen.