And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Luke 2:8-12
Gracious Jesus, like bookends of glory, we’re confronted with the command, “Do not be afraid,” at both your birth and your resurrection (Matt. 28:5). Ever since our first parents sinned… feared… and hid, I’ve helped to keep the family tradition alive. At times, fear has more power over my life than your love. Even though I’ve been clothed in your righteousness, I still reach into my closet for “fig leaves”.
This morning I join shepherds in hurrying off to come to you, Jesus, for you alone bring the good news of great joy for which my heart longs every day. You alone can charm my fears and set this prisoner more fully free.
Because the gospel is true, I can tell you what you already know to be true, Jesus. My fears aren’t all that noble. I’m not afraid of angelic hosts and I’m not really afraid to die, for you’ve already set me free from that defining fear. I’m not even afraid of facing the final judgment, for I humbly cling to your cross as my judgment day. You’ve exhausted God’s judgment against all our sins—past, present and future. Hallelujah!
So what fears hunt me and haunt me? For what fears do I need to obey the command, “Do not be afraid”? I’ll start with “the fear of man.” Jesus, at times there are some people whose praise and disdain have more power over my heart than the gospel. It hurts to say it, but it’s true.
Then there’s the fear of redundancy and irrelevancy—the fear of disappearing into a cloud of not mattering any more. Jesus, even as I acknowledge this fear, I praise you for your non-condemning gaze. It’s not easy to confess my weakness and brokenness. May the joy of being used by you never supersede the much greater joy of simply being known and loved by you.
Jesus, these aren’t the only fears I have needing some “gospel-charming.” But I bring these to you today without hesitation, for you’re no longer a newborn baby lying in a manger, but our resurrected King reigning from heaven. For being such a wonderful and merciful, Advocate and Intercessor we simply say… thank you… thank you… thank you. May your perfect love continue to drive out all our fears. So very Amen, we pray, in your loving and liberating name.