SUNRISE
David Coy
In many ways this is a beautiful time of year because it emphasizes whom we should be lifting up every day of the year. There is a song that expresses this beautifully, Hark! The Herald Angel Sing, by Charles Wesley and Mendelssohn, and it is based on Luke 2:8-14, a pivotal passage in the New Testament. I would encourage also you to examine Malachi 4:2 in the Old Testament. Even if you are sad during this time of year for obvious reason, you would not for long if you examined the above passage along with the song cited above. Read along as I cite a portion of the second verse of the song. “Mild, he lays his glory by, Born that man no more may die; Born to raise the sons of earth, Born to give them second birth.” Wow!
Now examine the paragraph in Luke 2:8-14; a portion states, “And there were shepherds in the same region, lodging (living) in the fields and keeping the night-watches over their flock…” This season began at Passover time in April, until autumn, when flock pastured continually in open fields and shepherds remained there, also with their flock. Christ’s birth had to have been at some point during this season per this passage and the other accounts. Nevertheless, lifting up the hope for the world can only lift the heart of sorrow, even if only for a brief moment in time, if you take the time to examine this paragraph and this song together. “A messenger (angel, possibly Gabriel, cf. Luke 1:19) stood by and proclaimed ‘Good news of great joy! This day a savior is born, Christ the Lord!’” As we move through this season, even if we are sad and not looking forward to this time, take a few moments to focus on these things, and see if it does not lift your heart. Reach out to someone you know and treat them the way you wish to be treated and share this dynamic duo. Happy and healthy holidays to one and all! ~David
