Our church held its annual Christmas musical on three nights recently. We went with “Brand New Hallelujah” and I have been thinking on the theme of Christmas praise this week. Praise surrounded the birth of Jesus. The multitude of the heavenly host of angels praised God and said, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” (Luke 2:14). After the shepherds saw the baby Jesus they “returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.” (Luke 2:20). When the Magi finally made it to where Jesus was, “they bowed down and worshiped him.” (Matthew 2:11).

The only appropriate response to Jesus, it to worship him! Worship begins with understanding who Jesus is. He is God in the flesh. He left the glory of Heaven and entered this fallen world on a mission. Worship recognizes what Jesus has done. He came to seek and save the lost and gave his life as a ransom for many. He secured salvation for all who will believe. Worship anticipates what Jesus will do. He is coming again. Just like the Old Testament believers placed their hope in the promise that the Messiah would come, we place our confidence in the promise that the Messiah will come again.

I hope your Christmas is filled with praise, because Jesus is worthy of it!

Father God, thank you for all that the incarnation represents. You sent your Son into the world to save sinners. You gave the greatest gift that has ever been given in your Jesus! Help us to believe and have confidence in him, and anticipate his return! Lord Jesus, you will rule and reign over all of eternity and we will be blessed to give you the praise that you are worthy of. Amen!