It’s been several decades since I heard a version of the following story on the radio. Its message has stuck with me all this time. I couldn’t find it on the web to give credit to the original author, but I think it’s worth resharing. Perhaps it can be read to children around the Christmas tree this year.
“All heaven was astir. The news had moved with the speed of light through the galaxies. As unbelievable as it seemed to every celestial being, the report had been validated at the highest levels:
The Son of the Most High was to become earth-born, flesh.
This was not just a visit as in times past when the Almighty had manifested himself on earth to select individuals. The Creator was going to become created, born flesh and blood from the womb of a woman. The Holy Spirit was to make this happen.
The greatness of the generosity and the humility of the act elicited resounding praise from throughout the angelic realm. The perplexing wonder of this initiative of the Triune God became the exulted conversation of every heavenly creature. The boundless love the Eternal One had for the crown of His creation—mankind, who was still in rebellion—was to be displayed to an even greater extent in their time-space world.
So it was of no surprise when the archangel Michael appeared in the throne room of the Holy One. He was bidden to speak, and declared enthusiastically:
“O Most Exalted Sovereign, multitudes of your host have petitioned to be enlisted in the ‘Praise of Song’ that we seek to trumpet throughout the earth for a thousand years. We have arranged harmonies and choruses, sonatas and ballads, arias and chants. Every variety of instrument will be used, as well as solos and cadenzas. From earth’s lowest valleys to the farthest reaches of the universe, there will be unceasing angelic singing appropriate for such a moment.
Moreover, creation longs to celebrate with a never-ending array of stars of every size and color: blazing orange, shimmering white, iridescent yellow, and crystal blue. There will be supernovas, and red giants blazing in the heavens. Comets, galaxies, planets, and moons long to display their glory across the skies to celebrate the awe of this event, this astonishing kindness of God to the sons and daughters of Adam and Eve.”
Michael paused, breathless with excitement.
The Father looked appreciatively toward His noble servant.
“There will be no grand celestial displays, no prolonged choruses.”
Stunned, Michael gaped, as he tried to take in what he had just heard.
Right then, the radiant Son of God took HIs place before the Father:
“I am ready to go.”
The weight and wonder of the moment collided in Michael’s mind with the Father’s words that he had just heard spoken. As to himself, Michael murmured:
“No thousand years of song? No heavenly display of glory and light?”
The Son looked at Michael and smiled. The joy, and love that was upon that beatific face caused Michael to worship, even as he pondered. He turned to go when he heard the Father call his name:
“Michael.”
Michael looked towards the Eternal One. “Yes my King?”
“Just one star.”
And after a pause:
“And, just one song.”
REFLECTION:
-If you’re sharing this with children around a Christmas tree, it’s probably a good time to sing: ‘Angels We Have Heard On High”.
Merry Christmas!
Beautiful!!! Thanks. I needed that!