You’ve heard the story: The shepherds were in the field, keeping watch over their flocks by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, terrifying each brave shepherd.
The angel declared good news of great joy given to all people in all of time—including you and me:
“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.” (Luke 2:10)
After delivering this stunning pronouncement, the angel was joined with a multitude of its fellow angelic beings, praising God and declaring: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”
I’m guessing you’ve heard those words many times and that you would claim them as words you want to declare this holiday season: Glory to God in the highest!
What does that look like though? “Highest” here refers to place or rank—it’s a word that refers to God Himself, or the heavens. Glory to God Most High in the highest places.
Lately, though I’ve been pondering a play on those words. Glory to God in the highest: that my life would give Him glory in the highest of my circumstances.
And glory to God in the lowest.
God Himself is the highest, in the highest places. He can be found in each high point and high place. And God Himself is in our lowest places as well, experiencing each one with us as we do, to His glory.
If you’re like me, you have a busy time coming at you as you embrace the hustle and bustle of this advent season. The kids will be on Christmas break soon, and the to-do list is as long as your youngest’s wishlist. You might be looking toward a couple of family get-togethers that have the potential to be challenging. You may be getting ready for company and thinking through how to mitigate hosting realities as everyone crams into tight spaces.
And then there’s the reality of the expectations of the season…the hope that we’ll have that beautiful silent night, the wish that squabbles will be at a minimum, the desire to see exhausted and over-sugared children respond to disappointments or relational challenges with the grace and joy of mature adults. The desperate longing for a loved one who can no longer join your festivities.
These are just some of the low points that we may encounter over the next couple of weeks.
How might we say “Glory to God in the lowest” in these circumstances as well?
Glory to God in the highest. Glory to God in the lowest. And on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased! And in your heart peace as you glorify Him with your life and your day.
Christmastime Is for Conversations!
Family and friends gathering over the holidays are the perfect opportunities to build relationships!
Join the Presently Engaged mailing list and receive my friendly 60-question “Conversations for Christmas” guide. You’ll have access to both the e-book and a mobile-friendly version so you can access question prompts on the go this holiday season! Curate deep, intentional conversations with the relationships that matter!
