Christmas Eve 2024, Luke 2:1-14
The peace we long for is the product of God’s actions. We are experiencing peace this evening because we are acknowledging – like Mary, like Joseph, like the shepherds – that God has moved.
I know not all is right in the world, that all is not right in your life. There are secrets, deep and dark, that keep you up at night. There is an empty seat at your table. There is a diagnosis that you wish you could ignore. And, when Christmas is over, you will trudge your way into the full gray of January, where the bills from December await. Every day, you are moved by forces greater than your own. I know.
And that is why I say to you, like Luke, like the carols say, and like the glow of the candles reflect – I bring you good news of great joy for all people: to you is born this day… a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord… and on to all on earth, peace. Amen.
