FRIDAY December 26, 2025
Rejoice in Our Reconciliation
Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid.
Luke 2:8-9
During the night, shepherds living in the fields faithfully watched over their sheep. All of a sudden, an angel stood before them. The bright glory of the Lord illuminated the dark night. What they saw was so unexpected! Speechless and in awe and wonder at the heavenly visitation, the shepherds heard the angel speak to them:
“Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger” (Luke 2:10-12).
The Lord chose to make known the birth of His Son to humble shepherds. From the fields, to finding a stable in Bethlehem, these shepherds would see for themselves a Savior wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger. Once they would see the Babe, they would be the ones to spread the news to people who were unaware of what had happened––Christ had come, Israel’s Messiah was born!
Instantly, the night sky was filled with a multitude of heavenly host––angels praising God, saying: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (Luke 2:14).
Jesus Christ came to be the Savior for all people, not only for His people in Israel. Salvation is available to everyone. The angels declared peace and goodwill toward men. This means through Christ alone we can have peace with God the Father. We are no longer sinners under a sentence of judgment for our sins. Jesus came to reconcile us to Him. In this we can greatly rejoice!
Look to Jesus this Christmas. Receive the reconciliation that he bought.
~John Piper~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
