Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favour rests.” Luke 2:13-14
For most of us, the onset of December brings with it nostalgic memories of groups of carollers visiting our homes to share the joys of the Christmas season. As part of the children’s choir, I recall us singing enthusiastically through the night, as we visited the homes of our choir members. As we approached the house, we would start with a carol, which was meant to wake up the family. Once they turned on their lights, we would sing another carol inside the house, read a Bible verse, and then say a little prayer for the family. The best part of the carolling experience was the goodies that were kept ready for us. However, after visiting a few homes, we were so stuffed that these treats were no longer welcome.
I imagine that this tradition commemorates on that stupendous night when Jesus was born in Bethlehem, the wonderful news of the Saviour’s birth was announced by an angel to ordinary shepherds, who watched over their flocks by night. However, the best part was when this angel – accompanied by a multitude of the heavenly hosts – gave glory to God, and proclaimed peace and goodwill to all of humanity. God is worthy of our praise every day and all through our lives, so let’s not limit praising Him to certain seasons. David says in Psalm 104:33, “I will sing to the LORD as long as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.” (ESV)
There are two important aspects that we can glean from the angelic choir and song. Firstly, our songs should always glorify God, as it is written in Psalms 69:30, “I will praise the name of God with a song; I will magnify him with thanksgiving” (ESV). Secondly, our songs should encourage others. Paul says it so aptly in Ephesians 5:19, “speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in [our] heart[s] to the Lord” (NKJV).
May the melodies of this season echo in our hearts all year through, as we praise God in all we do.
Dear Father, just as the angels lifted their voices in harmony to announce your birth, may our lives always sing Your praise. Amen.
– Esther Collins
