The Annunciation to the Shepherds, 1663, by Abraham Hondius

Christmas is like an unforeseen kiss.

Because that’s how Jesus came to us.

We didn’t expect him to show up that night he was born in the manger. The shepherds didn’t expect to see angels declaring his glory in the sky above their pastures.

“Fear not,” the angels said to the shepherds, “for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.”

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 among those with whom he is pleased!”

“Heaven meets earth like an unforeseen kiss,” David Crowder sings in the song How He Loves.

That’s how it was on the day Jesus came to earth.

That’s how it was on the day Jesus came to me. Maybe that’s how it was on the day Jesus came to you. I hope so.

Like an unforeseen kiss. I never saw him coming. But I’m so glad he did.

He’s so good.

I’m so glad he came.

“Glory to God in the highest.”

Merry Christmas.

[Image of the The Annunciation to the Shepherds by Abraham Hondius via Wikimedia Commons]