“An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” (Luke 2: 9,10 NIV)
The shepherds were “terrified” when the angel appeared to them. We too can be seized with fear when unexpected things happen. However, the angel reassures the shepherds and us today that the birth of Jesus is “good news that will cause great joy for all the people”. Good news and great joy for everyone is something that is especially needed after 2020 which has been a difficult year for many. This good news and great joy of Jesus is always available to us. However, we can live our lives consumed with fear and forget this. Let us strive to live as joyful people who know about the good news of Jesus and let us try to spread this good news to all the people.
Dear LORD, this Christmas season, let us be reminded again of your good news that causes great joy for all the people. Help us to always remember you and your birth. Help us to keep the joy of Christmas alive in our hearts all the time. Amen.