The Joy and Peace of a Savior

Do you still find joy in the words of the angels about the Savior? Laura shares.

“An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in clothes and lying in a manger.’ 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 2:9-14).

I love sitting in our quiet church praying. There are times in which my body revolts and I can’t get to church so when I’m able I rejoice. When It is a weekday, I often sit in solitude praying after services.

Christmastime is different, however. The church is adorned with beautiful trees, lights, candles, and decorations. And something remarkable happens–the building becomes packed. Church is so full on Christmas Day oftentimes it is standing room only.

All for a baby.

But this is no ordinary infant–this is Jesus. People come from far and wide, regardless of their Christian denomination, to pack churches and celebrate the birth of the baby Jesus, the Savior of the world.

And while churches are crowded there is great peace found in these houses of worship. Peace is in the knowledge that Jesus is King. And people want to sing and shout loudly that Jesus has come.

Hark! the herald angels sing,
“Glory to the newborn King!”
Peace on earth, and mercy mild,
God and sinners reconciled
Joyful, all ye nations, rise,
Join the triumph of the skies;
With th’ angelic host proclaim,
“Christ is born in Bethlehem.”

Yes Jesus is indeed the Christ child born in Bethlehem. And amazingly, throughout the world, people celebrate this miracle of birth–this child born in a stable to these simple people.

While our lives can be difficult and we may not be able to celebrate the way we had hoped, it is remarkable to think the love of this beautiful baby can stop a large portion of the world one night; give pause; bring joy and some peace to our world.

For… Hark! the herald angels sing, “Glory to the newborn King!”

Prayer: Dear Lord, in this holy season we praise You for the great wonders You have sent us. Help us to embrace this beautiful season despite what challenges we may face, and share our faith with others. Amen.

About the author:
Laura Seil Ruszczyk lives in New York with her husband and three kids.She loves the Christmas songs sung at church during this season, especially Silent Night.

How do you find peace during the Christmas season?

This accapella version of “Hark the Herld Angels Sing” is my favorite song for 2014. it is both classic and joyful with a true gospel sound behind it. It gives me a small glimpse into the amazing voices we will hear when we get to heaven, as we all sing together. May it bless you, Lisa