December 21, 2010: Peace and Comfort
Scripture: Matthew 1:20, Luke 1:30, Luke 2:10, 14 (KJV)
Fear not…
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men
Devotion:
On this first day of winter, it is wet and dreary. A day to be inside but one of those days that doesn’t seem to instill much joy. It’s the type of day that one’s thoughts may go to all the worries that plague us – money (lack thereof), purpose and direction, relationships, world issues, etc. But the words of the angels to Mary, Joseph and the shepherds is “Fear not”. I believe that word is for us today as well.
Now I don’t know about you but if an angel appeared before me, I might just be a little bit afraid (okay, a whole lot afraid – especially if the angel is as awe-inspiring as my imagination makes them out to be; no soft, frilly angels for me, thank you, I want my angels to be ready for battle!). And the first thing the angels say is “Fear not”. God’s first word to us is “don’t be afraid”. I’ve heard that fear is really an acronym for “false evidence appearing real”. This may be so but when you are afraid the evidence seems to weigh heavily in favor of running and hiding or finding some other way not to deal with the situation. Fear is strong but the angels’ words tell us that God is stronger: Fear not. The angels’ song praises God and proclaims his peace and good will – comfort – toward men.
Jesus came to bring us real peace, replacing our fear. He said that after He left, another would come – The Comforter or Holy Spirit. God has provided peace and comfort through the coming of a Child and through His Spirit. And the angels still stay, “Fear not”.
Speak the words again to us, Lord. Remind us not to fear, for You bring peace and comfort for we have found favor in Your eyes. Help us to trust You and to release the things that cause us to fear. You are bigger than all of our troubles and we trust Your Comforter today. In the Name of the Prince of Peace, Jesus, Amen!
