Thursdays - Devotions for Writers“Then the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring
you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there
is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior,
who is Christ the Lord.’” (Luke 7:10-11 NKJV)
What beautiful, powerful words . . .
I’ve heard the story of baby Jesus – the birth in a stable, the cattle lowing, the shepherds, and the wise men since I was not much bigger than a babe myself.
But as I’ve reread the Christmas story over the past few days, it’s touched and reminded me . . .
To not be afraid.
The shepherds were a little freaked out when the angels appeared. We would be too if they showed up one night out of nowhere in our backyard. The shepherds were told to not be afraid of the angel’s presence, but perhaps today we can also view it with another perspective. We don’t need to fear what life throws our way – nor do we need to fear death.
Great joy surrounds Jesus’ birth.
Christmas should be a time of celebration and sharing the good news with others.
"For there is born to you . . ."
I’ve heard the story of baby Jesus – the birth in a stable, the cattle lowing, the shepherds, and the wise men since I was not much bigger than a babe myself.
But as I’ve reread the Christmas story over the past few days, it’s touched and reminded me . . .
To not be afraid.
The shepherds were a little freaked out when the angels appeared. We would be too if they showed up one night out of nowhere in our backyard. The shepherds were told to not be afraid of the angel’s presence, but perhaps today we can also view it with another perspective. We don’t need to fear what life throws our way – nor do we need to fear death.
Great joy surrounds Jesus’ birth.
Christmas should be a time of celebration and sharing the good news with others.
"For there is born to you . . ."
The good news is for YOU and ME.
But not only us and a few other chosen people. It's for everyone. The person who sits behind you every Sunday in church hasn't been singled out. Nor the coworker who brings you Christmas cookies every year. Or the neighbor boy who mows your lawn and shovels snow off your sidewalk.
“. . . which will be to all people.”
That includes people who are homeless, in prison, dealing with addictions, and choosing alternative lifestyles.
It also includes those who are mean, spiteful, selfish, arrogant, and rude.
We, as Christian writers, have an important calling to share God’s love through written word.
Share the good news – the tidings of great joy – that Christ the Savior is born!
Merry Christmas!
Dawn
