News of Joy

“But the angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid, for look, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.”” (Luke 2:10)
 
                 
Good news is meant to be celebrated. Got a new job, new apartment, or even in a new relationship. Often good news is proclaimed when situations are going well on good days when people are happy. They do not want to contain their excitement. Even in situations when we are happy, we can be afraid. The new job can bring challenges on the first day, the new apartment we might need to find a different transportation route.

The words “Don’t be afraid” comes with encouragement and comfort. Fear can come easily in new situations. The saying is not a command to avoid hardships, but a promise that the story does not end when we are afraid. There is comfort in the God who sees each one of us. The good news is not that life will suddenly miraculously get easier, but that God draws near to each one of us during our hardship. He does not leave us alone in our situation but is there to comfort and guide us. The good news of the birth of Jesus is for all people. Not some. Not those who have it together. All.

Whether on good days or bad we can experience knowing there is great joy. Situations do not determine joy but come from within from knowing God. Joy is not fleeting but is experienced through knowing the love of God. That he will never leave us or forsake us. That he is near us when times are hard and when they are good. The good news today is that Jesus was born and is God with us. God drew near his people. We can take comfort for ourselves and others that God came near.

Heavenly Father, may you replace fear with your presence, may you move our hearts to reflect who you are through compassion, justice, and mercy
 
Walking with you,
Stacy Watkins