Morning Moments

THE GLORY OF GOD!

Lk 2:8. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watchd over their flock by night. 9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. 10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. 12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, 14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

The glory of God is frequently associated with His presence—especially His presence at the covenant ceremony at Mount Sinai (Exod. 24:16). Often a cloud was the tangible symbol of God’s presence, shrouding the brilliance of His glory (Deut. 5:24; 2 Chr. 5:13; 7:1). God’s glory is so dazzling people are permitted to experience it only indirectly (Exod. 33:18–23). Furthermore, His glory is so effulgent that it may be imparted to objects and persons that come in contact with God’s radiant presence (compare Exod. 34:33–35). God’s glory is displayed publicly in His work of creation (Ps. 19:1) and is manifest to the nations in His sovereign control of history (compare Ps. 145:10–12).

"The glory of the Lord shone all about them...". What a magnificent moment this must have been for these common men tending flocks. It is the "common man" that hears Christ gladly and it has always been the case. Those of humble heart are recipients of God's great treasures. Despite our diligent study, it is the devoted spirit that hears from and sees the glory of God, even when veiled.

My wife and I have spent this day in travel to spend Christmas with our children and grandchildren. We will celebrate with wonderful music at church, precious time together, but above all else, my sincere desire is for us to seek GOD's GLORY!

May the brightness of His glory and the express image of HIS person fill the place where you are this Christmas as we worship HIM who was born KING of the Jews, and Lord of GLORY!

BLESSINGS!