Author: Aimee Little
But the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people.
Luke 2:10 NLT
Many of us feel fear first when something unexpected happens. The shepherds in the fields felt the same way when they were approached by an angel. The shepherds were ordinary people, just like you and me, which means they felt fear just like us too. But the angel continues and explains to them that he has something to share that will cause joy for ALL the people. I can’t even imagine how the shepherds felt during that moment. They were just working a normal shift in their fields and God chose them to be the first people to hear about the joy that came in the birth of His Son. To me, this shows the heart of God. He meets people right where they are. He doesn’t choose the most perfect or the most important, He brings great joy to all people, including those that are “ordinary.” When things feel hard or dark, try to remember the words “do not be afraid” (some translations say “fear not”). And remember the immense joy that followed that statement. What can you find joy in this week, despite tough circumstances?
Prayer: Father God, I pray this week to find joy in the small things. I pray that if fear tries to enter into my mind or heart that I remember the words of the angel in this scripture. I pray that You put someone in my path this week that I can share where I find my joy with this week as well. I love you, Lord. Amen.