O Holy Night
2002 Advent Devotion Collection
December 11
READING: Luke 2
In that region there were shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flocks at night. Luke 2.8
"O Holy Night," God has
set the stage for this great event, pulling His people into place and
readying them for the miracle of the birth of His Son. Each year, all
over the world, Christians travel back in time to the first "Holy
Night" where God's plan unfolds.
Come along with Mary and Joseph on
this holiest of nights as they journey along the crowded roads to Bethlehem
for the census-taking. Mary knows the birth of the child is near and Joseph,
searching for lodging, finds there is no room at the inn. Only a manger,
as God planned.
Travel out to the fields where shepherds
are settled for the night, an angel of the Lord tells them, "Do not
be afraid…" The sky fills with a host of angels singing. Fearful
at first, then filled with joy, the shepherds hurry to Bethlehem in search
of this Christ child. They, the lowly shepherds, are the first to see
the baby and spread the news, as God planned.
Join the magi, ordered by King Herod
to follow the star and find out about this new king and report back to
him. As directed, they find the baby, present their gifts and return home
another way, as God planned.
Fast forward to early 1800, French
composer Adolphe Adam, is inspired to write the beloved hymn "O Holy
Night" describing events leading to the birth of Christ, as God planned.
Years later, in 7th grade this carol was our Christmas program finale. House lights dimmed and fifteen feet above center-stage, a rose window was softly illuminated, revealing Mary and the baby. Off-stage a soprano began to sing "O Holy Night." At the conclusion, we filed silently into a crisp star-studded night, hearts so touched, as God planned.
PRAYER: Our Heavenly Father, thank you for this Advent season, this time of reflecting and celebrating the birth of your Son Jesus Christ. Let us close our eyes and travel back in time, to where Mary and Joseph, the shepherds, the angels, and the Magi are taking their places. As we follow in their footsteps, may we relive the anticipation, wonder and joy of that "O Holy Night" so long ago, that you planned. Amen. -- Dorothy S.
Central Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
(217) 428-4336