Listen

Nearby shepherds were living in the fields, guarding their sheep at night. The Lord’s angel stood before them, the Lord’s glory shone around them, and they were terrified.

The angel said, “Don’t be afraid! Look! I bring good news to you—wonderful, joyous news for all people. Your savior is born today in David’s city. He is Christ the Lord. This is a sign for you: you will find a newborn baby wrapped snugly and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great assembly of the heavenly forces was with the angel praising God. They said, “Glory to God in heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors.”

When the angels returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go right now to Bethlehem and see what’s happened. Let’s confirm what the Lord has revealed to us.”

Luke 2:8-15

Think

Have you ever waited for something for so long that when it finally arrives it’s hard to believe it’s really there? Many moons ago, I waited for a sibling. I remember thinking that I couldn’t wait till he arrived, to be able to play with him, and to become a big sister. You see, I had been an only child for so long, and I was ready to have a sibling to share life with me. My mom’s pregnancy took forever. At last, my mom went to the final check-up, and she was told it was time for my baby brother to be born. I couldn’t believe it. All the wait, all the anticipation, all the prayers, all the preparing, and just like that, it was all over. On December 30, my baby brother Emmanuel was born. I remember being picked up from school early to see him. The wait was over.

I imagine the shepherds felt a similar excitement. After years of praying, preparing, and anticipating the arrival of the Messiah, the Light of the World, our Savior, the wait was over.

Marcia Quintanilla

Question to Ponder:

What is one thing you have been waiting for with much prayer and anticipation? How can you thank God for such a wonderful gift?

Pray

God of patience and perfect timing,

Help me trust in your will and perfect timing.

May I find confidence in your unending promises.

Amen.

Go

Glory to the light of the world

Glory to the light of the world

For all who wait

For all who hunger

For all who’ve prayed

For all who wonder

Behold your King

Behold Messiah

Emmanuel, Emmanuel

“Light of the World” by Lauren Daigle