And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God, and saying: Glory to God in the highest, and peace on earth, goodwill toward men! (Luke 2:13-14)

I am inclined to look for formulae. What are the right components? In what combination? In what sequence?

Luke's heavenly host suggests: First recognize the glory - doxa - of God. Make a judgment regarding the grace of God.

This is the same doxa as a legal decision. It is a deliberate process of reaching a conclusion about reality.

The consequence of making this judgment will be peace - eirene - harmony, concord, and wholeness between nations and people.

As a formula it makes sense. But the first step requires a humility and realism that does not come easily.

You may listen to Glory to God performed by the Peabody Institute Symphony and Chorus. (This is the same audio as the last two days.)