It’s Christmas Eve, and the fog, like a foaming milk, has covered the world. The music is washing over me, as I let the beautiful, age-old carols warm my heart and soul. The angel atop my tree sends its love into the world, saying, “Peace on earth, good will to men!” So many memories call to me from the tree ornaments, and the pure white lights say, “I am loved by the One who sends His light into the world with the birth of His beloved Son.” May those who do not have such a beautiful gift from God feel His love and know that they, too, are His beloved children.
Far from the glow of the warm fire place and the peace and quiet of my living room, there is darkness lurking like a serpent in the world, and that darkness is trying to destroy every ounce of love that people want to give to their fellowman. The people who walk in darkness will see the great light of Jesus Christ, and the grace of God will appear in the birth of His Son. In our broken world, the angels will proclaim that a Prince has been born among us. God has come to us in the flesh, and we are the bearers of divine light to all who will believe.
To those who receive this Child and who believe in Him, they will be the children of God. The Word became flesh and lived among us, not as a king but as a common man. He grew to be a man of great wisdom and love and was crucified on a cross so that we may be forgiven our sins.
The glory of the Lord has come to bless us, and the darkness will be vanquished from the earth and its people. Nations and kings shall see and praise the light. It shines through the fear, pain, and violence of a non-believing world. The serpent has raised its head to devour our world, but he has been defeated by the power of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Christ’s glory, the Father’s glory, shines for all people. Christ was born tonight, and through Him, we receive His truth and grace.
“Let us, oh Lord, walk in the light of Jesus’ presence, and in the last days of our lives, may we be bathed in the light of His glory. Remember us, Lord, on this night and always, so that being lost in a darkened world, we may find our way by walking with Christ. Help us to be the light penetrating our world, a world needing His grace and love. May the night be filled with a heavenly light so that all may see the star and follow it to a tiny manger and the beloved Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. As Christ’s light cannot be diminished by death on a cross, may our lights shine brightly before all men so they will come to know this Prince of Peace. Amen.”
In the early morning light, when the fog has lifted and we see the Creator’s love in our families and neighbors, may the Lord bless and keep you. May His face shine upon you and give you peace. Emmanuel, “God is with us.”
Anna Hartt
