There’s always some fear when your world is changing—even for the better. It’s helpful to remember this during Advent and Christmas when we read of Mary’s pregnancy and Jesus’ birth. While our predominant culture emphasizes the excitement and joy of this time of year, many of us struggle with fear.
To us comes the angels’ command, just as it did to Mary, Joseph and the shepherds: Do not be afraid! Emmanuel—God with us—comes into our world and into our lives.
We are called to be witnesses of God’s mighty acts and to respond with thanks and praise.
This message is an excerpt from “Fear not” by Katie Hines-Sha, the devotional in the December 2018 issue of Gather magazine. Today is the second Sunday of Advent.
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