The Greatest News
But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord.” – Luke 2:10-11
The greatest news to ever come to the planet earth! God knows our suffering and He came to walk in it! The angel had to let someone know before returning to heaven. The shepherds’ fire was burning as they were awake tending their flocks and they, of all people, were chosen to hear the holy proclamation.
The angel announced that in Bethlehem, David’s hometown, a child is born. He is the Mighty Counselor, Prince of Peace, the Messiah. The promised anointed Lord. Jesus came for all – we are one in Christ. It is Good News for ALL people.
Interesting tidbit about scripture - did you know that the term “Do not be afraid” or in some translations, “Fear Not”, can be found in scripture 365 times? Wouldn’t it make sense that we start every day’s prayer and devotional time reminding ourselves that God compels us to trust in Him. His will be done, no matter our worldly circumstances. Jesus, Emmanuel - (God with us) is the reaction to the “Do not be afraid” reminder.
Anyway, it must have been terrifying to have been visited by this angelic being, and to witness the sudden arrival of a great host of angels, who radiated the magnificence and glory of God, and sang, "glory to God in the highest and peace on earth - to men on whom His favor rests."
The angel’s message was one of comfort and joy, which was not to be kept exclusively for the Jews. This good news was to be shared with the Gentiles - for everyone who will trust in the name of the only begotten Son of God will be saved by grace through faith in Him.
As we come to the end of another very stressful and oft times frightening and confusing year let us be purposeful to remind ourselves everyday “Do not be afraid” because He is with us, and He has promised to never leave us or abandon us. Rather, God’s work is to form us into His image so that our journey through this life is to live as Jesus teaches – for one another.
Merry Christmas!
Heavenly Father, thank You for the Good News of great joy, which is for all people who trust in Christ for the forgiveness of sins and life everlasting. Thank You for never abandoning us. Thank You that in Christ we have nothing to fear and everything for which to be thankful. In Jesus’ precious and holy name, we pray. Amen.