Vertical Integrity

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men (Luke 2:14, KJV).

As I read this simple song of the angels, I see three spiritual directions that are important for everyone to follow.

First, the angels focused their attention vertically. When decorating for Christmas, the selection of a fitting tree is traditional. When choosing a natural tree, the straightness of the perennial should not be taken for granted. Only trees that have balanced dimensions are considered to have the desired “vertical integrity” to please those who view them.

Spiritually, God expects all of us to have vertical integrity. David declared “I know also, my God, that You test the heart and have pleasure in uprightness (I Chronicles 29:17).” God is pleased by a person who “walks uprightly (Psalm 15:1-2).” We walk uprightly by giving God the honor and glory He deserves.

Second, the angels declared that Jesus came to work internally. The angels declared that the birth of Jesus brought peace. A fulfilling vertical relationship with God comes only after reaching “internal peace.” In addressing how this inner harmony with God can be obtained, Paul was inspired to write, “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God (Romans 5:1).” So, vertical praise must be preceded by an internal transformation that Jesus referred to as being “born again (John 3:7).”

Third, the angels shared a truth that impacts humans horizontally. If God has changed our lives through a “new birth,” our lives will render a “horizontal generosity.” We, like God, should show “good will toward men.” It is fitting that Christmas is celebrated with the giving of gifts. God gave us Jesus, who is the greatest gift of all. So, at Christmas, we should give to people in need. God expects us to show goodwill to all people.

Consequently, may our lives mirror the truths of the angels’ song vertically, internally, and horizontally. Then, we will truly have, and share, a merry Christmas.