One On One: 100 Days With Jesus--ADVENTSample

Angels: The Ones who Cheered  

It was like they just had to tell us on earth what everyone knew in heaven: An amazing thing just happened! 

So perhaps the largest group the angels could find in Bethlehem were Bedouins huddled on a rocky slope outside of town tending sheep. One angel opened a window to the heavenlies and turned up the volume. 

“Hey—did you hear? He’s here, you lucky people! Today is the day! God kept His word.” 

And just like that, angels flooded the night sky like fireflies. Contrary to the stories, they didn’t sing—no, they shouted! They cheered like they were at a football game—back and forth to each other like fans gone wild. Literally, Scripture said “they let loose.” 

“He’s come! He’s here! He’s the gift that saves lives. Glory to God in the highest!” 

Ever since Eden, they had been watching for God’s promised plan to ransom creation from evil. Lately, rumors in the halls of heaven said a heavenly invasion was imminent, a plan hell-bent on destroying evil in the world. When the angels heard the formal announcement, all heaven broke loose. 

Over in the stable, the sweet newborn tucked in a makeshift crib, slept through it all. But to the angels, there was God Himself, swaddled in flesh. Mystery in a manger. On a mission to wage war. Come to rescue a hijacked creation. A baby’s cry signaled the beginning of a revolution. And the metanarrative of history spiraling downward since Eden, suddenly turned. 

Sometimes wonder is in the mystery; other times wonder is in the understanding. The angels understood what was happening, at least a little. 

“Unto you is born this day, your Savior.” Here to rescue you like you were the only one in the world needed saving. One for one. 

Joy to the world—your Savior has come. Explore that wonder in your head. Let it comfort your heart. Bow to His majesty. 

Tomorrow: One on one with one of the shepherds