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Luke 2:13–14 — “And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”

Heaven could not remain silent at the birth of Christ. A multitude of angels appeared to the shepherds, praising God and declaring peace on earth. Their song captures the essence of Christmas: glory to God and peace for man. Gratitude swells when we join their chorus.

The first note is upward: “Glory to God in the highest.” Christmas is ultimately about God’s glory, not our gain. The incarnation is the supreme display of His wisdom, power, and love. Gratitude grows when we remember that salvation is for His glory.

The second note is downward: “peace, good will toward men.” Christ came to reconcile sinners to God, ending the war caused by sin. Gratitude for peace is gratitude for reconciliation, knowing that we are no longer enemies but children.

The angels’ song was first sung to shepherds, men of low status. Gratitude grows when we realize that God reveals His glory not to the mighty but to the humble. The good news is for all people, regardless of status or station.

For us, the angels’ song becomes our own. Every hymn, every carol, every word of thanks joins heaven’s chorus. Gratitude for Christmas means echoing the angels in glorifying God and proclaiming peace.

Christmas is heaven’s joy breaking into earth’s night. Gratitude lifts us to join the song that began in Bethlehem and continues forever around God’s throne.