The tendency among some people of faith is to ever-more rigidly define who is in and who is out and what standards must be met to be considered In. Circles are drawn smaller and smaller this way. Control becomes stronger and stronger this way. This way leads away from Psalm 67, Luke 2:10, and John 3:16. 

God’s purpose in selecting one people group for unique relationship and fellowship was to bless the whole world, including every people group everywhere. Racial, ethnic, language, and cultural barriers among and between people groups all fall down because of what Jesus has done for us. Listen to Ephesians 2:13, 14:

But now in Christ Jesus, you who were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he is our peace, who made both groups one and tore down the dividing wall of hostility. 

Psalm 67:3 says, “Let the peoples praise you, God; let all the peoples praise you.” These words are repeated in verse 5. 

The main verses and the refrain of God’s Word, the Bible, is that he loves everybody and so should we. He wants all people to be saved and no one to perish (John 3:17; 2 Peter 3:9). 

Everyone. 

Everywhere. 

Salvation. 

Praise. 

Christmas is a message of beautiful, wonderful unity among all who joyfully declare and freely confess that Jesus is our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. He is our Savior, Redeemer, Healer, Friend. He is the Gift of all Gifts for All People Everywhere. 

How could we not join the angels in singing his praise?

“Let the peoples praise you, God; let all the peoples praise you.”

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