Luke 2:1-14

“But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord.” vss. 10-11

All around the globe Christians of every stripe and persuasion will be gathering tonight to worship and sing songs of praise and joy. It really is remarkable, a singular event! There is no other night even remotely similar. And the centerpiece of every service will be this little story from the gospel of Luke! On the surface the story is not the least bit profound, and could easily be dismissed as a fanciful tale, a fabrication that defies reason. Yet we love the details…no room in the inn…a manger for a bed…shepherds in the field…visiting angels…and are touched by the reassuring words. “Do not be afraid,” the angel said, “I am bringing you good news of great joy.” Oh how we need to hear that message in our troubled times! Every day we hear that the world is a dangerous place, that terror and death are everywhere present, and that there is much to fear. Over and over those words pummel our brains, rob us of sleep, and cause us to seek false securities. On Christmas Eve we hear God’s answer to the turmoil of the times, “Do not be afraid…I am bringing good news,” and our trembling hearts are soothed. And at least on this holy night “all is calm, all is bright.”

Thought for the Day: What will I be looking for in tonight’s worship?