Praising Armies

Suddenly the angel was joined by a vast host of others—the armies of heaven—praising God and saying “Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.” (Luke 2:13-14)

Usually, armies are thought of as either defensive and protecting, or offensive and attacking. They are warriors who keep a population secure, or are warriors who go forward to conquer. Or both.

But these armies mentioned in verse 13 of Luke 2 are praising armies. Sounds like the group that is led by the underlying concept of Lord Sabaoth—the Lord of hosts. The Lord of Angel Armies. The mighty warriors are present! Here, they aren’t in battle; here they are a choir.

Added to the out-of-the-blue word from the angel to these terrified shepherds was this sudden array of warrior choir members. I don’t think the “terrified” state in which the shepherds found themselves ended soon enough!

And the content of the choir anthem was amazing:

Glory to God in highest heaven…

That is, in the “highest” (most intimate, most ‘secure’, most different-from-here place), the one that is in the heavens, praise is going up and out to God….

And peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.

From that highest place to this lowest place—certainly low compared to the highest of heaven!—an announcement of lasting peace comes for those who belong to God Almighty. This is available even to those who live in the low place. Excitement is spilling out: the low place is not all there is to life! The King is coming and heaven is on alert! This announcement is clear and succinct.

From the highest heights to the lowest lows, praise goes up and God’s people are provided for, eternally. The Rescuer is on the way. Rejoice!

Now, that was one choir anthem that had the full and undivided attention of the congregation.

“Father, thank you for this warrior choir that announced your good news of the birth of the Messiah to a captivated audience of shepherds! We are thankful that your Greatest News continues to ring out in this advent season around the earth.”