The Noontimes

Luke 2: New Year’s Eve

Sunday, December 31, 2023

We have beheld God’s promise of creation. We have experienced the renewal of a new day. We have received the gift of Lord and Savior that we were promised in the child. Today is New Year’s Eve, a day when we put away the old in order to welcome the new. Let us rejoice and be glad.

When we read The Message translation of this favorite story, we discover a new perspective. We see, for example, that verses 8-12 give us a new angle on a very old tale.

An Event for Everyone: There were sheepherders camping in the neighborhood. They had set night watches over their sheep. Suddenly, God’s angel stood among them and God’s glory blazed around them. They were terrified. The angel said, “Don’t be afraid. I’m here to announce a great and joyful event that is meant for everybody, worldwide: A Savior has just been born in David’s town, a Savior who is Messiah and Master. This is what you’re to look for: a baby wrapped in a blanket and lying in a manger.”

When we find time today to explore the gift of this translation, we receive more than the gift of words. Behold, we receive Christ himself.

As we continue to move through Christmastide, we will explore the number of ways the Creator tells us that we need not be afraid.