Chris Tomlin - Adore - The Overflow DevoSample

Adore

We reserve our adoration for the things and people we love most. To adore is to regard with the utmost esteem, respect and honor. Time and time again, the Bible gives us countless examples of men and women who adore Jesus. You see it depicted in nativity scenes all the time. While Mary and Joseph are obviously gathered around the manger, there’s always some shepherds, three wise men (even though according to Scripture, they visited much later), and at least one angel. There’s normally some cows and donkeys thrown in for good measure, too. And while it’s a fun vignette as a child, it takes on even more significance as an adult. As you grow up, you begin to realize what a sordid, motley crowd was assembled in the stable that night.

Wise men bring their treasures / Shepherds bow low / Angel voices sing / Of peace on earth

Shepherds. Poor, dirty, lowly shepherds were invited to worship this child. They were invited by none other than a heavenly host, praising God. Luke 2:15-17 reveals the shepherds did exactly what the angels instructed: “When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.’ And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger.” (ESV)

Wise men—the most intelligent men in all the land, already living in the courts of a king. They, too, were invited to come and worship this baby.

From the meager offerings of the shepherds and the extravagant gifts of the wise men to the glorious praise of the angels, all who gathered were welcome, and what they brought was enough. It’s a beautiful reminder that Jesus’ invitation is open to everyone. We, too, are invited to come and worship this King. And our presence—our adoration—is simply enough.

Come, let us adore / O come, let us adore him / The Lord / Worship Christ The Lord / Let all that is within us / Adore

How can you express your adoration for Jesus this Christmas?