You Need Not Fear
There are more encouraging words from the angel to Mary! We read: “Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favour with God.” (Luke 1:29–30 NIV)
This is very similar to what Zechariah heard from the angel in last week’s devotions. You’re not alone, and so don’t be afraid.
What anxiety must have begun to rise up in Mary’s spirit, as she realised what lay ahead of her. Luke writes that she was ‘greatly troubled’. And usually when we picture this meeting between Mary and the angel, we don’t think of her as ‘greatly troubled’. We see her as meek and mild and gentle and relaxed.
Finding Strength and Courage in God's Favor
I think she started to have a panic attack.
Luke is telling the story in a matter-of-fact way here, but I picture Mary really freaking out. And I can see the angel saying “Mary, it’s ok. Don’t be afraid. Don’t be afraid. God is gonna help you. You are favoured by Him! Don’t worry, don’t fear!”
I mentioned this very point last week too, when we saw Zechariah hear the same words. But it’s worth mentioning again – maybe you need to hear this again today, maybe God is really trying to push this one home into our lives this Christmas!
We need not fear. God is with us.
Read the first few verses of Psalm 27 today. Mary was a Jewish girl, she probably knew these words well. Maybe she held onto these words too as she battled her way through those months: “The LORD is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid? When the wicked advance against me to devour me, it is my enemies and my foes who will stumble and fall. Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then I will be confident.” (Psalm 27:1–3 NIV)
Embracing a Fearless Christmas Through Trust in God
Whatever wars against our spirits this Christmas, even if armies come against us, let’s keep being reminded of the fact that God is our light and salvation, our stronghold!
With Him by our side, why would we fear?
Place your trust in Him today. And have a fearless Christmas.
