Bible Passage: “‘Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife…’” (Matthew 1:20 NIV)
Scripture Reading: Luke 2:1-7
Have you ever anticipated something so much that you could feel it in your body?
Christmas Eve is often a time of great anticipation, especially for kids. The idea of closing their eyes and sleeping while their presents are waiting to be opened can be overwhelming!
I can’t imagine the anticipation that Joseph and Mary must have had. Not only were they having their first child, but that child was the Son of God.
Talk about intense! So many questions and unknowns. So many lessons yet to be learned.
And yet, God knew this calling would come with a boatload of emotions, the biggest one being fear. But because of His goodness, He sent an angel to each of them individually, who told them not to be afraid (Matthew 1:20; Luke 1:30).
The instruction to not be afraid is common throughout Scripture. Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joshua, and Elijah were all godly men who were told not to be afraid (e.g., Genesis 15:1; Genesis 26:24; Genesis 46:3; Joshua 1:9; 2 Kings 1:15; etc.).
The same God who spoke to these pillars of the faith met with a scared young couple and gave them the same encouragement.
As we engage in the Nativity on this Christmas Eve, we may also be facing a range of our own emotions, questions, and uncertainties.
“God, where will work come from?”
“God, will I be healed?”
“God, I’m a new dad…what do I do?!|
“God, how do I be a better husband?”
But the amazing part is that the God who was with the Old Testament heroes is the same God who was with Joseph and Mary, and is the same God who is with men today.
And His message hasn’t changed:
“Do not be afraid.”
And get this: it’s even better for us!
Why?
Because we have the One the ancient ones were waiting for. The One that was coming. The One that was promised. The One who would change everything, whose perfect love would cast away fear (1 John 4:18).
Prayer: Jesus, thank You that You are with me in my fears. Help me to trust You and not be afraid. Amen.
Reflection: What is one fear you carry in your heart or thoughts? Pray and see what God wants to say to you about it.
Copyright © 2025 Impactus. All rights reserved.
About
