A Host of Angels
After the single angel delivered the good tidings to the astonished shepherds, something even more magnificent happened. Luke 2:13 (KJV) records it: "And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying..."
Imagine the scene: The night sky, dark and silent, is suddenly flooded with light, and the silence is shattered by the sound of an entire army of angels—a "heavenly host"—not fighting a battle, but singing a song of praise!
And what was the song? Luke 2:14 (KJV): "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."
This is the sound of heaven celebrating the birth of the Savior. It was a worship service unlike anything ever heard on earth. It was a declaration of what Christ’s birth achieved:
Glory to God in the highest: The primary purpose of the Nativity was to bring ultimate honour back to God.
Peace on earth: Christ’s reign starts with the promise of reconciliation.
Good will toward men: This birth demonstrates God’s unconditional favor and kindness toward humanity.
I find this scene so inspiring because it shows us that God deeply values worship. The moment the Messiah enters the physical world, the heavens erupt in a passionate chorus declaring His worthiness.
Sometimes our worship can feel a little dull or routine. We might sing the songs, but our hearts aren't fully engaged. The angels give us a powerful reminder that the birth of Jesus is the most glorious, earth-shaking, and worship-worthy event in history! It deserves our fullest, most enthusiastic praise.
We are invited to join that heavenly host! When we sing a carol, or when we simply take a moment to thank God for sending His Son, we are participating in the same cosmic worship service that startled those shepherds.
Today, let’s intentionally pause and worship. Let your heart join that ancient chorus. Let’s focus on bringing "Glory to God in the highest" by recognizing His majesty and His kindness, His "good will," towards us. We don’t need a multitude of angels to join in; we just need a grateful heart to declare His goodness and the peace He has established between heaven and earth.