Counting the Days: December 18, 2025

Good News, Good Work

Cameron McDonald, B.M.
Methodist University
Class of 2022

Read: Luke 2:10-14 and Micah 6:8

“When the song of angels is stilled…..the work of Christmas begins.”
— Howard Thurman (AD 1899 – AD 1981)

When we think about the work of the angels, we think about their countless messages shared from God to the people of God. In Luke’s scripture, we receive one of the most profound messages from God — the beginning of the Christmas story.

Luke introduces us to three shepherds who are watching over their flock when suddenly an angel appears before them. “But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good

news… Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah. the Lord.” After this, a great company of heavenly hosts appeared singing the praises of God, “Gloria in excelsis Deo, Glory to God in the highest.”

And when these angels’ song ended, the good news did not end there. Howard Thurman guides us by saying, “When the song of angels is stilled…..the work of Christmas begins.” The angels’ song is not the finale but an invitation to all people on Earth to promote and build true peace.

That space between the song and work to be done can feel similar to what the shepherds felt in the passage from Luke. I remember my time as a senior at Methodist University. I was worried and unsure of what came next. Would I find a job after graduating? Would the school I work for be supportive of the arts? Would my choral program grow and size up to the programs of my future colleagues? The “song” of my college experience was ending, and I did not know what my “work” would be. I was blessed to begin working for a fantastic school, where I found my place with amazing people and excellent students. However, life is not always songs of celebration. The “work” is daily, and it is in that daily commitment – not the big announcement – that we find our purpose.

Micah reveals how we take this angel’s song and make it real in our community. “And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” To continue the angels’ mission is the “work of Christmas.” As we humbly walk with God through this Advent season, let us be the angels in our community. Let us be the hands and feet that sing the songs of good news through acts of justice and words of mercy.

Prayer: Lord, as the angels once proclaimed peace and joy to the frightened shepherds, help us receive that same message with courage and hope. Give us strength to carry the song of good news into our daily lives through justice, mercy, and humble love. Amen.