Introduction - New Church Vineyard

In Luke chapter 2, we read of angels who appear to tell some shepherd of the Lord's birth in Bethlehem and to proclaim a message of glory to God and peace on earth. When we look to the Lord in the truths of His Word, the heavenly light of His glory can shine in our minds, dispelling our spiritual darkness and bringing us peace.

And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them,
and the glory of the Lord shone around them��(Luke 2:9).

To come and see the glory of the Lord, symbolizes to be enlightened in Divine Truth,
and thus to experience heavenly joy (Apocalypse Explained 427:3).

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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 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).

The Lord came to earth in a time of spiritual darkness. The heavenly light of truth no longer shone in people's minds. Spiritual darkness can be present with us today as well. But if we look to the Lord in the truths of the Word, the glory of the Lord - heavenly light - can shine in our minds and dispel our spiritual darkness.

The shepherds saw a host of angels giving glory to God. We, too, can give glory to the Lord when we worship Him and acknowledge that He is the source of all life. We hope that this month's materials will inspire your celebration of Christmas.

Highlights for this month include

"The Shepherd in Us" article by the Rev. Karl R. Alden

�Quotes from the Word on The Glory of the Lord (PDF)

"The Glory of the Lord" family talk by the Rev. Lawson Smith

�Overview of Projects and Activities for Families Relating to the Glory of the Lord (PDF)

�Children's Prayers at Christmas (PDF)

� Dramatize the Story of the Angel Appearing to the Shepherds (PDF)