Hearken to 'good news of great joy'

"And there were shepherds living out of 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 of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."

- Luke 2: 8-12 (NIV)

An angel brought "good news of great joy." The messenger was an angel and not a man, because this birth was from above. This birth was not according to the will of man, but according to the will of God. This baby was God who became flesh. The fullness of the godhead dwelt in him in bodily form. God was in Christ!

The "good news of great joy" was that a Savior was born. Jesus was the greatest teacher the world has ever known. He was the best philosopher, psychologist, sociologist, philanthropist and physician, too. But the "good news of great joy" was that a Savior was born, One who could save from self, sin and death.

This Savior would be Christ - the Anointed One. As Prophet, he is the final and perfect Word. As High Priest, he is the only mediator between God and Man. As King of kings and Lord of lords, he has all authority in heaven and on earth.

This Savior would be Lord. Lord means master. Yet this Master's yoke is easy, and the load is light. This Master sets captives free. This Master serves His servants. This Master gave His life as a ransom for many.

This Savior is "for all the people."

He's for kings and peasants, the wealthy and the poor, the wise and the foolish, the influential and the seemingly insignificant, you and me.

He's the Savior of the World. What a Savior! Is He yours?

• Dr. Ken Haskins is pastor of First Christian Church.