Glory // Luke 2:14

Luke 2:14 (NIV) | “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

Merry Christmas Eve! This is the day when many will gather to celebrate the glorious birth of Jesus amidst circumstances most — if not all — would consider sub-optimal. Remember that the word, glory, refers to the presence of God. As we consider this with Jesus’ birth announcement from the angels, we see that God’s glorious presence fills the heavens above and the earth below; in other words, the promise of Immanuel (GOD WITH US!) is filled and fulfilled among the earth. Perhaps the best part of this what we see in the last part of the verse that God’s glory extends to those with whom His favor rests. That’s all of us, my friends! I hope you take today in faith to contemplate the beauty of today as we once again remember that God is real, He loves us, and has a plan and purpose for our lives. I love how this is framed in Hebrews 11:6 as we move from just receiving God’s favor to actually pleasing Him, “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him” (NIV). This is the perfect time to think about how God dressed Himself in our human frailty to exhibit His incomprehensible power, proving He loves us all. Glory, indeed!