Luke 2

It really has been a blessing to study the Christmas story through the Book of Luke; and to be able to see things I had not really realized before.  Even with a narration as familiar as that of Luke 2:1-20, this is the first time that it sunk in that God was able to use a census decreed by a pagan ruler (Caesar Augustus) to bring about the fulfillment of prophecy from Micah 5:2 that a rule (the Messiah) would come out of Bethlehem.  Also, when the shepherds heard the good news and saw the Messiah, they reacted just as we should with all amazing good news, which was to spread the word.

And the psalm of praise by the host of angels "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests"  (the Gloria in Excelsis Deo, based on the Latin version of the first line) actually gives Glory to God in heaven, who has given peace to those on earth whom He has shown grace (or chose) through His gift of salvation.   Now, that truly is a praise!

3-Jan:   In a rare glimpse at the early life of Christ, we see that Simeon and Anna, moved by the Holy Spirit, recognize the baby Jesus as the Messiah and praised God for His salvation both to the Gentiles and to the Israelites, and for His redemption.  Both of them waiting for the fulfillment of God's promises, and it is interesting that the word used for waiting showed that they waited with expectant hope, and assurance that it would come to pass (even though they apparantly waited till they were advanced in age, similar to Zachariah and Elizabeth).  Then, when Christ is twelve, He demonstrated His recognition of God as His Father and of His coming ministry, as well as His willing submission to his earthly parents.   And He "grew and became strong; He was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was on Him"  (vs 40).  He also continued to grow "in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man" (vs 52).