[MUSIC - "LUKE 2"] [MUSIC - "LUKE 2"] And it came to
pass in those days, that there went out a
decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world
should be taxed. [NON-ENGLISH SPEECH] And she brought forth
her firstborn son, and wrapped him in
swaddling clothes, and laid him in a
manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the
same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping
watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of
the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord
shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. [NON-ENGLISH SPEECH] And they came with haste,
and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had
seen it, they made known abroad the
saying which was told them concerning this child. [NON-ENGLISH SPEECH] The shepherds heard Him as they
heard heavenly hosts testifying of Him. As we celebrate
that sacred event, we likewise can hear Him. In doing so, we will
find peace and joy amid the trials
that surround us. Let us show gratitude for
the numerous blessings we have been given this
Christmas season, greatest among them our knowledge of
the birth of the Son of God. We testify that He is the Light
and the Life of the World. Of this we solemnly
testify in His name, even Jesus Christ, amen.