The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Psalm 19:1

Mere days after the Christmas story from the shepherds’ viewpoint comes this verse from Psalm 19. It’s a continuation of the Luke 2 text we just discussed if you see it through the shepherds’ eyes. What did they see that was so fantastic? The Angel of the Lord, the host of angels, and of course, the baby in the manger. It started in the heavens and proceeded through the shepherd boys and to the people as they spread the word. The Glory of God, “the manifestation of the holiness of God” (John Piper)

The general understanding of this text is the creation and all its wonders, but what could be more important to display the glory of God than the chosen Messiah being born?

As we head into the new year, consider these words from John Piper

The glory of God is the goal of all things. “Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). All things were created for God’s glory (Isaiah 43:6–7).

The great mission of the church is to declare God’s glory among the nations. “Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples!” (Psalms 96:1–3; Ezekiel 39:21; Isaiah 66:18–19).