By Paul Goodman
Luke 2:11-14
In the darkness, an angel of God appeared to shepherds. They were terrified, but the angel told them not to be afraid and that a Savior had been born, a baby. A choir joined the angel. They sang praise to God and Peace to all who please God.
I like to think that I can put myself in the sandals of the shepherds that night, but I’m not sure that sleeping on an air mattress in a state park is equivalent being alone in the wilderness with wild animals 2000 years ago. I am certain, however, that I would be as scared as the shepherds if an angel suddenly appeared in the night.
What is it that scares you? What is it that diminishes the peace you have? For many people it is a family crisis. For others it is a financial or health crisis. For some, ironically, it’s the holidays. There are a thousand things that can rob us of our peace, if we let them. And that’s the second question: How do you respond to your fears? I love how the shepherds responded. They listened to the good news and they ran to see the baby Jesus.
God wants peace for us. In all you do this season, focus on pleasing God. You are not in the darkness. You are not alone. You have been given a Savior. Set your wants aside. Set your fears aside. Focus on today’s good news and don’t worry about tomorrow. God will be pleased. God grant you Peace.