THURSDAY | “O Holy Night”
Thursday | “O Holy Night”
Thursday, December 18, 2025
Reading For Thursday | Luke 2:8-20
The shepherds heard angel voices singing, proclaiming worship to God, saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men.” Have you ever tried to imagine what that might have sounded like?
It is worth noticing that the angels appeared to a group of shepherds who were quiet, unhurried, and gathered on a dark hillside. Perhaps the shepherds were among the only people quiet enough to pay attention to this encounter. Likewise, Scripture tells us that it was only when the Magi left the hustle and bustle of the busy city of Jerusalem that they were able to see the star again (Matthew 2:9–10).
Maybe there is a theme here—some dots we are meant to connect. If we want to hear the heavenly voices, we will have to get quiet. If we want to see heavenly things, we will have to look for them. Hearing God’s Word—listening for His guidance, His reassurance, and His invitations—will require us to slow down, listen, watch, and assume a prayerful, receptive posture. Like the shepherds, we too are invited to hear the voice of heaven, to listen for God’s Word, and then to confidently proclaim His availability.
It is worth noticing that the angels appeared to a group of shepherds who were quiet, unhurried, and gathered on a dark hillside. Perhaps the shepherds were among the only people quiet enough to pay attention to this encounter. Likewise, Scripture tells us that it was only when the Magi left the hustle and bustle of the busy city of Jerusalem that they were able to see the star again (Matthew 2:9–10).
Maybe there is a theme here—some dots we are meant to connect. If we want to hear the heavenly voices, we will have to get quiet. If we want to see heavenly things, we will have to look for them. Hearing God’s Word—listening for His guidance, His reassurance, and His invitations—will require us to slow down, listen, watch, and assume a prayerful, receptive posture. Like the shepherds, we too are invited to hear the voice of heaven, to listen for God’s Word, and then to confidently proclaim His availability.
Reflection Questions
- What voices require my attention most these days — fear, hurry, culture, or the voice of God?
- Where do I notice my mind and body experiencing peace, joy and love for others? Is it when I am hurried, anxious, stressed or when I am living at a reasonable pace?
- What might God be speaking into my life this season? What do I need to hear from Scripture?
Prayer Practice
Consider this as a prayer practice:
Sit in stillness for 3-5 minutes. Say to GOD, “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.” Listen carefully and commit to doing what HE invites you to do.
Sit in stillness for 3-5 minutes. Say to GOD, “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.” Listen carefully and commit to doing what HE invites you to do.