"The Grace of God Has Appeared"
For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all. (Titus 2:11)
In his 2011 Christmas message, ELCA presiding bishop Mark S. Hanson draws on Titus' announcement of God-with-us. Christ's nativity reminds us that "God creates with deep beauty and profound mystery," the bishop writes. God's grace has appeared for a yearning and hurting world and for you, no matter how weary, worried or wondering you may be.
For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all. (Titus 2:11)
Yes
In this world where God creates with
deep beauty and profound mystery.
In this world where so many yearn for
God's healing and peace.
In this world where some have thought God has forsaken us:
Yes
Here, in this world, the grace of God has appeared.
Not just in this world but for you.
Yes
For you, weary from trying to meet the
expectations of others.
For you, worrying about an uncertain future.
For you, wondering if you are worthy.
Yes
For you, the grace of God has appeared,
bringing salvation.
Not just for you but for all.
Yes
For all, salvation has come in the wonder of
God in mercy bending low to meet us
in our humanity.
In the mystery of Christ's death and resurrection.
In the power and promise
of the gospel's proclamation,
God's goodness and loving-kindness has appeared
in the Savior Jesus.
So with angelic messengers and witnessing shepherds,
we raise our voices:
