WHEN HEAVEN CELEBRATES

The Word of God tells us of at least three occasions at which the angels of heaven rejoiced. One is found in Job 38:7 which describes the reaction in heaven to the beginning of creation: "When the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy?" Another occasion is at the Incarnation of Christ. The Gospel of Luke says, "And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men" (Lk. 2:13-14). God's only begotten Son is so awesome! The heavenly host could not contain themselves when He "humbled Himself." Paul wrote:

"Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a man (the Incarnation), He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross (the Crucifixion). Wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him (the Resurrection), and given Him a name which is above every name: that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow (the Glorification), of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" (Phil. 2:6-11).

And, as far as I am concerned, the most fantastic time the heavenly host celebrated the work of Christ was the moment I placed my trust in Jesus. The Scriptures says, "Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth" (Lk. 15:10). God's Word says, John 17:23, that He loves me with the same love He has for Jesus! And since God is no respecter of persons, He loves everyone reading this just as much (Acts 10:34).

Today, consider your response to Jesus’ arrival on earth. Are you able to celebrate the arrival of your King? Is He the Lord of your life? Will you be even more joyful when He returns for you? My hope for you this Christmas is that you have made room in your heart for worship on this day we celebrate His birth.

Grant us, Father, hearts of worship
At this time of Jesus’ birth;
We would see anew His glory
Shine throughout this sin-cursed earth. —D. De Haan

Heaven’s choir came down to sing
when heaven’s King came down to save.