A cameo appearance is usually reserved for someone who has already made their mark.  In this case, Gabriel, the Archangel had appeared in Old Testament times to Daniel and Ezekiel, but now was his greatest hour.  He was referred to as the “messenger” angel and boy did he have a great message.

Things were not going well for the Jews. They continued to live in bondage, this time to a super power -the Roman Empire.  Many of them had been taxed to the hilt and the promise of a Messiah seemed remote to them.  They had pretty much given up.

Things are much like that for us as well.  We don’t live in bondage, but we see signs of evil all around us – man’s inhumanity to man – irresponsible behavior – not following the law – wars and rumors of war – massive destruction through weather and other natural events.  The news is full of tragedy and destruction every day.  Rarely do we hear anything heartwarming.

We know that our Messiah is coming back.  We don’t know when, but we can count on it. Many of us can’t wait to get to heaven.  Many of us aren’t ready to leave this world.  Many think this is as good as it gets.  God has promised us a new heaven and a new earth and God always keeps His promises.  We can count on it.

It’s time for some good news for a change – tidings of great joy!