God is Here

On previous days, we have contemplated the silence of God and the sovereignty of his timing. For generations, Israelites awaited the coming Messiah, and God remained silent. Some lost hope and sought ways to bring about the Kingdom on their own. Others, like Simeon and Anna whom we will meet in the coming days (Luke 2:25-38), waited patiently until the day would arrive.

Then seemingly out of the blue, God broke through the silence and told what was to come. At just the right time, He revealed His plans, first to Zacheriah and Elizabeth and then to Mary and Joseph. The moment that had taken centuries had finally arrived.

As we reflect on our verse today, we witness the continuation of this announcement as the shepherds in the field receive word that God is here. No longer would He remain a silent or distant God, but instead He was bringing good news for all people, and He invited the shepherds to witness this amazing work.

Often in our prayers, we grow weary and lose our way. We become frustrated with silent responses and delayed answers, and we fool ourselves to believe that God has abandoned us. Yet, God never abandons His children. Our timing is not His timing, and when His time arrives, He acts.

Are we ready to join with Him when He acts? Are we ready to leave the fields when He calls us to come and see? Are we prepared for that moment in our lives when the heavens declare that God is here, bringing good news to all people?

Prayer

Father, I thank You for the times in my life when You are silent. Even though I often grow weary and frustrated, I know that You are still there. Please help me to understanding that these times of silence are there to create in me a hope and longing for You. Help me to embrace these moments and continue to come to You and ask for Your grace, provision, and guidance.

And when You choose to act, when You choose to answer my prayers, will You please give me the diligence to listen for Your voice and obey whatever it is You call me to do. Thank You for breaking through the silence and announcing to the shepherds the good news that is for all people, and thank You that this good news applies to us still today. Please give me the grace I need to see where You were acting and the faith I need to join You in Your good work.

Amen.