“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16 (NIV)

Behold

There are moments in time that stick with you, both good and bad. Recently, I was blessed to be invited to a special meeting with my grandsons and Santa.  The youngest was hesitant at first, fearful of the situation; but Santa knew just what to do. His reassuring kindness, cheerful manner, and engaging voice soon had all three boys drawing near in wonder. It was a good moment and a sight for this MiMi to behold.

“And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. And the angel said to them, ‘Fear not, for behold I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.’” Luke 2:8-12 (ESV)

Fearful at first, the Shepherds weren’t sure about the situation they found themselves in at all. But the reassuring promises of the Angels, the joy they proclaimed, the inviting message soon had them in awe at all they’d heard and their fear became anticipation. They’d been “invited” to a special meeting with a Baby in a manger, Jesus, our Savior. They drew near and were filled with awe. It was a sight to behold!

Behold: to witness, regard, contemplate. That’s exactly what I did as I stood off to the side taking in this memory making moment, and it’s exactly what the Angel told the Shepherds to do when visiting them in the fields that night. My friends, it is what Christmas reminds us to do, too. 

We know that life can be challenging. Devastation occurs, the unexpected happens, evil abounds, and it may leave us feeling fearful of our situations; but God knows just what to do.  Christmas arrives, saying, “Fear not! Christ the Lord has come for all people!” Yes, the reassuring promises, great joy, and invitation to draw near to Jesus the Angels brought to those Shepherds long ago, are offered to us today and everyday. 

So this Christmas season, while we’re making memories with our family and friends, let’s bear witness to the miracle that was placed in a manger, regard receiving the gift of Jesus with praise, and contemplate the good news of great joy we’ve received. Then, may our lives, in good moments and bad, shine the glory of the Lord around us, being a sight for the world to behold!