Christmas Eve - the night the angels came

Tonight we remember how the birth of Jesus was announced to shepherds out with their flocks in the hills outside Bethlehem.  The starry sky was overshone by the glory of God as the angel announced:

“Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.”     (Luke 2: 10-12, NRSV)

Then the heavens were filled with angel voices as they sang:

Glory to God in the highest heaven,
    and on earth peace among those whom he favors!    (Luke 2:14)

But sometimes angels are less obvious.   Sometimes angels wear PPE as they tend patients sick with Covid-19.  Sometimes angels wear the faces of neighbours who shovel our driveways and do other kind deeds.  Sometimes angels are dear friends and family members who lift us up from our pandemic sadness.

And sometimes we think of our loved ones, who are now with God in heaven, as angels too.  We can be comforted by our belief that they are with us always, remembering that our church tells us to believe in the ageless communion of saints.

This year we have created an Angel Tree at the corner of our property.  You're invited to join the many people who have dedicated little angels and hung them on the tree.  It's a way to say thank you to the ordinary angels among us and a way to remember those with God.  We have dedicated this tree in the memory of Amanda Rogers, one of God's newest angels.

Blessings this Christmas Eve and always

Pastor Ann Krueger