Do Not Be Afraid

In Luke’s gospel, an angel announces Jesus’ birth three times – to Zechariah, Mary and the shepherds. Each one starts (more or less) with the phrase “do not be afraid.”

This is a powerful and easily-overlooked message for us. Jesus Christ is coming! We humans are naturally afraid – with good reason! – but God has made our way safe. Ours is not a God of comfort and safety, but rather deliverance. Death may have lost its sting, but believe you me we will most certainly die.

So take up your cross, but remember: that yolk is (unexpectedly) light. Shout for joy!

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