What a wonderful event the angel's appearance to the shepherds is! Imagine their surprise and wonder at a glorious shining bright angel appearing where a moment before there had been only darkness! And then the angel reassured the shepherds and declared the joyful news of the Lord's birth: "I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord" (Luke 2:10-11). Then a heavenly choir appeared saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!" Their message of glory to God and peace among people on earth gives us direction and hope for our own celebrations of Christmas. How can we celebrate Christmas in a way that gives glory to God and allows us to sense the peace He wishes to give us? Darkness must first be overcome.

The Lord came to earth in a time of spiritual darkness. The Heavenly light of truth no longer shone in people's minds. That darkness can be present with us today as well. And when it is, we need the Lord to come into our lives. We need to look for Him in the truths of the Word with the desire to use these truths. Then the glory of the Lord - heavenly light - can shine in our minds and guide our path, dispelling our states of spiritual darkness. The angels gave glory to God in the highest. When we worship the Lord, and acknowledge that all life is from Him, we too give glory to God.

We hope that the resources provided this month will give you inspiration and joy in making your own Christmas celebrations and preparing a place for the Lord in your heart.