​Choir time. Luke 2:8-16

"And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah,the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
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“Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace to those on whom his favour rests.”
When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”
So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.
Reflection. Many years ago, well about 12 years ago or so, I had a life altering moment. Leading a carol service in a little Chapel in Monk Brenton near Barnsley, we sang "While shepherd's watched their flocks by night." As we reached the end of verse one, a voice led us in the refrain, "Sweet Chiming Bells." I had never heard this before. There will be no comment as to the quality of the voice...Anyway, this is one of my fondest Christmas memories. My eyes are watering. Great thoughts! What makes your heart swell with Christmas memories?
I invite you to Google "Sweet Chiming Bells." You will find the carol on YouTube.
Prayer. Lord Jesus, we are hurrying to Bethlehem! Amen.