That night, in a field near Bethlehem, there were shepherds watching over their flocks. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared in radiant splendor before them, lighting up the field with the blazing glory of God, and the shepherds were terrified! But the angel reassured them, saying, “Don’t be afraid. For I have come to bring you good news, the most joyous news the world has ever heard! And it is for everyone everywhere! For today in Bethlehem a rescuer was born for you. He is the Lord Yahweh, the Messiah.
Luke 2: 8-10 (The Passion Translation)
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, this is a different Christmas season for many of us. It seems everywhere we turn the news isn’t very festive. In fact, the reality of what is going on in our communities can be terrifying. New outbreaks of the virus, overwhelmed hospitals, weary healthcare workers, sick friends and family members, loved ones dying, canceled Christmas celebrations, and closed churches and schools. Combine that with months of political tension and division among people and it can be difficult to find much reason for celebrating this Christmas.
As I read Luke 2: 8-10, I feel we may be able to relate to how those shepherds felt when the angel of the Lord appeared to them lighting up the field with the blazing glory of God. They were terrified just as we may feel each day as we hear the latest news report or see the Covid-19 cases surging throughout our towns.
The angel assures them not to be afraid and that this visit was about bringing good news. In fact, the most joyous news the world has ever heard, and it was for everyone! What a wonderful reminder of the real meaning of Christmas. While things may be much different than previous Christmas seasons for many of us, the fact is we still have a reason to rejoice and celebrate. The birth of Jesus changed everything. No matter how discouraging or difficult our current circumstances are, Jesus is the most amazing gift of all. He is the reason we can still feel joyous, even if we have to give up participating in the usual Christmas celebrations and parties with the people we love.
While the things going on around us are terrifying at times, we need not fear. Jesus came to save lost souls and it truly is the most joyous news in the world. Turn off the news and listen to some Christmas music. Decorate your home. Bake some cookies. Address some cards to send. Capture the real magic of Christmas. Fix your eyes on Jesus, the greatest gift of all for everyone.
Lord, calm our terrified minds. Replace our fear with your peace. Fill us with joy in your presence. Remind us daily to celebrate your birth – the most joyous news in all the world.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
