By Jennie Mayes
Luke 2:8-10
“There were sheepherders camping in the neighborhood. They had set night watches over their sheep. Suddenly, God’s angel stood among them and God’s glory blazed around them. They were terrified. The angel said, “Don’t be afraid. I’m here to announce a great and joyful event that is meant for everybody, worldwide: A Savior has just been born in David’s town, a Savior who is Messiah and Master.” (The Message)
How fitting that the verses assigned to me have at the core of their message, do not worry. I have worried about things from my very first memory in life. Sometimes, I worry about the big things we all do, like a family member who is ill or a friend who is struggling through hard times. But most of the time I worry about things of no consequence at all: Will I hit all the red lights on the way to work? Will my team win Amazing Race this season?
The shepherds who were tending their flocks that holy night were doing what we all do: their job. Their profession was not one of glamour or status, but was necessary and needed. While going about their typical routine, they had an encounter that would change their lives. Were they like me and worrying about problems big and small? And how did their view of problems change after their interaction with the angel? Though they were fearful in that moment, were they able to change their lives moving forward with the knowledge that God and now Christ would be with them always?
There have been moments in my life when God has captured my attention and my soul. In those times, I’m reminded that I don’t need to worry. I can rest in the knowledge that the love of God will carry me. I pray that you too will be able to fear not and rest this Advent season.
Good words for the day. It is easy to let worry consume us and we need reminders to trust God for the answers. Thank you Jennie.