Text:  “Do not be afraid…” Luke 1:30; Luke 2:10 

Scripture Reading:  Luke 1:26-38 and Luke 2:8-14

Reflection:   

Mary was perplexed…and the shepherds were terrified!  Does this sound a bit familiar to the way we are feeling today?  Perplexed and terrified?  

For Mary, she was perplexed about what it was God was actually calling her to do and be. I imagine Mary was feeling confused, and surprised, and startled. God’s response to her was to tell her to not be afraid.  Why? Because God would help her face what was before her and “nothing will be impossible with God” (Luke 2:38b).  

For the shepherds out in the fields, they were terrified.  Something was happening around them that was beyond their comprehension and beyond anything they had ever  experienced before. They were overwhelmed and simply didn’t know what to do. God’s response to them was to encourage them and comfort them with the words, “Do not be afraid” (Luke 2:10). 

The point is:  Life is sometimes perplexing and terrifying, but God Most High comes to us right where we are and says, “Do not be afraid.  I am with you in your experience. I offer you my strength and comfort. I will help you face these things that are now confusing and daunting.  Hold on. Look up. You are not alone.”     

Prayer: 

Loving God, give us what we need today, as we lean upon your love to help us, and   

               hold us, and strengthen us.  Amen.

Focus for the Day:   “Nothing will be impossible with God.”

Author:   Bob Livingston