The announcement of the angel is an important part of the Christmas story. We remember their message each year if only because it is celebrated in carols such as “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” and “Angels We have heard on High.” The gospel of Luke in 2:10-11 says, “And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”
We live in a very turbulent time in the world. Many live in fear due to: unemployment, our fragile economy, war throughout the world, lack of healthcare, domestic violence, and many other real threats. The angels’ announcement begins with a command that is most assuredly a promise…Fear Not! We don’t have to live in fear though that is a very powerful temptation. We can choose to live in the power of the good news of the gospel. Jesus has come with the good news of his love for all demonstrated in the Cross. It is good news for everyone, everywhere. It is not for the spiritual elite, it is for all people.
No matter how badly we have blown it, no matter how many people we have hurt, our God is mighty to save. By taking our judgment upon himself, he saves us from the penalty and the power of sin. He came to secure a destiny in heaven for us where in his presence there will be no fear, no war, no death, or sin’s presence in any way. He is Savior to all who call upon him in faith and the Lord who calms our storms in this life and commands our destiny in the next. He takes our fear replacing it with peace and joy in the Spirit that can transcend our present suffering. May we live the joy of the angel’s good news and announce it freely in this Christmas season.
Merry Christmas to you from the leadership team at Locking Arms and to your friends and your family!
If we can serve you in any way don’t hesitate to contact us.
Leo Wisniewski