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Luke 2:8-10
In that region there were shepherds living in
the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. Then an angel
of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and
they were terrified. 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.
The first word
What is the first word
we hear? What is the first word divine messengers say to terrified human
beings?
Do not be afraid.
In one form or another,
this message occurs 365 times in Scripture, one for every day in the year.
It occurs in almost every scene in biblical Christmas stories. It is the first word heard by Zechariah, father of John the Baptist, the first word heard by Mary, Mother of our Lord, and the first word heard by Joseph.
Again and again, as if
this is the most important thing we can ever know: Don’t be afraid. God is God,
and God is all light and love.
Do not imagine you are
alone with the fears and pains of your heart. God surrounds you even now. The
sacraments of the Loving Mystery are always closer than you imagine, breathing
peace and care into your heart through souls who truly know the Love who is,
the Love who has one message in this holy time.
Do not be afraid.
Breathe and know: The Holy One is utter love, unlimited
compassion and constant presence.
The things you fear can and will happen, but they are nothing to fear. For Love endures to meet you on every path you will ever walk, clothing itself in flesh to touch yours.
And in every touch, you will know.
Be not afraid.
Pr. David L. Miller
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