They were minding their sheep and minding their business when the angel suddenly appeared. In an instant, the darkness of night turned to brilliant light. The angel, coming from the presence of God, brought with him God’s glory, and the place lit up! There was light in the darkness! No wonder the shepherds were terrified! Let’s read their story.

Luke 2:8-12
And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.”

Just picture the scene. An angel lighting up the sky and announcing the birth of Jesus! Let’s review the angel’s message.

Fear not… Those are exactly the words you want to hear when an angel shows up unexpectedly. We never have to fear the news that God brings!

…I bring you good news… The good news is about a Savior, Christ the Lord. The long-expected Messiah had arrived, “lying in a manger.” Nothing would ever be the same again.  

… of great joy… The arrival of the Messiah meant the arrival of true peace. Through the work of Jesus, sinful man could be united with the holy God. A person bound for hell could have the gift of eternal life. That is the cause of unspeakable joy!

…for all the people. God’s free gift is for all people. God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son. Whoever trusts in Jesus as the only way to have a relationship with the living God is given eternal life.

Father, it can be a terrifying time when you prepare us for the next assignment. Thank you for always being with us to address our fears and remind us of the great joy found in you regardless of our circumstances. In Jesus’ name. Amen.