“Good News of great joy for all people.” An angel showed up and reduced the shepherds to abject terror when he appeared to them and spoke this message. “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah (Christ), the Lord.” Luke 2:11. Of course the first words the angel said were, “Do not be afraid,” because being terrified is a natural response to being approached by such a powerful Heavenly being! God sent His mighty angel and His warrior armies to bring Good News and sing a spine-tingling chorus of Hallelujahs to the lowliest of the low that first Christmas.
We’ve heard this Christmas message so often. May I insert us into this setting? This morning I pray we would experience the angel as did the shepherds; wherever you are sitting, whatever you are stressing over, however anxious or disappointed you may be feeing at this moment – this powerful Angel messenger has come to YOU and speaks to you in your fear. DO NOT BE AFRAID. His news is GOOD NEWS. It is for YOU – this Savior has been born to YOU. He is for you, he loves you, he is a gift given to you from Almightly God Himself.
Good News of Great Joy
Regardless of the disappointments, painful losses, and mindbending circumstances ALL of us have endured this past year, the Christmas story tells us that God is with us – Immanuel. “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”). Matthew 1:23
So Do not be afraid.
Christmas looks very different this year. Our plans changed at every turn. Annual traditions took a leave of absence for 2020, parties and get togethers were replaced with ZOOM. And singing ~ well, heavenly choirs singing “The Hallelujah Chorus” from years past were enjoyed online as I sang from my car.
Even so, Lord Jesus, we celebrate Your presence with us this Christmas. We need You and are grateful You make Your presence known to us. In spite of our fears, our disappointments, and yes our confusion, we ask for the JOY of Your great love to fill us this week as we love on those around us: our neighbors, co-workers, family and friends – even if it is remotely!
Praying you will seek the gifts of the King of Kings this Christmas: among them being love, mercy, grace, forgiveness, joy, peace and the very presence of God Himself.
Prayers and Paintbrushes 