With the angels we rejoice, “Glory to God in the highest heaven and on earth peace among those whom he favors!” Advent is a wonderful time to celebrate a prayer answered, a promise fulfilled and a hope renewed. The gospel of Luke recounts the stories of Mary, Zechariah, John the Baptist and Simeon’s watchfulness, expectancy and hope that God would answer their prayers and fulfill his promise to bring Salvation. And indeed he did! In a humble place, the Christ child, the One Worthy of Worship, arrived as our Savior and Redeemer.

In anticipation of the Advent season, my colleagues have written reflections about the One Worthy of Worship. I hope this devotional will encourage you as prepare to celebrate the arrival of the Christ-child.

As those who anticipated the birth of the Redeemer, may we be people who celebrate not only the first Advent, but may we also be people who earnestly live according to the teachings of Christ as we eagerly wait for the culmination of our hope when Christ returns. May your Christmas season be filled with worship of the One who brings love, joy and peace to all.

Christmas blessings,

Kim S. Phipps, Ph.D.
President, Messiah College