Bursting With Praise

Reading through the familiar Christmas story, one common thread that runs through it is that when people encountered the tiny King, they BURST into spontaneous praise. Elizabeth was filled to overflowing with the Holy Spirit! With a loud voice she prophesied with power. John jumped & kicked at the sound of Mary’s voice. Mary sang a song from a soul that was ecstatic, overflowing with praises to God! The angels shared the most joyous news the world has ever heard and filled the skies with glorious praise! Upon seeing this miraculous sign, the shepherds recounted what had happened and everyone who heard their story was astonished! Simeon cradled the baby in his arms and praised God and prophesied. Anna BURST forth with a great chorus of praise to God for the child and told everyone that the anticipated Messiah had come! When the wise men arrived at the place the baby was staying, they were so ecstatic that they shouted and celebrated with unrestrained joy! When they saw the child, they were overcome, fell to the ground, and worshipped Him. In a world filled with so much negative news, I wonder what would happen if each of us had an authentic encounter with Jesus and responded with unrestrained, ecstatic praise! Would our praise drown out the negative noise and draw people’s attention to the Living Lord? ​