LUKE 1:30

To Ponder:

"Do not be afraid." These were the angel's first words to Mary after announcing she would bear the Christ child. It's remarkable that the announcement of the world's greatest gift began with a command to release fear.

Fear is the opposite of peace. It grips our hearts, steals our joy, and blinds us to God's presence. But when Gabriel appeared to Mary, he didn't just tell her not to be afraid—he gave her a reason: "You have found favour with God."

This is the peace that Christmas offers us.

God's favour isn't something we earn or achieve; it's grace freely given. Through Christ, God extends His favour to all who receive Him. The baby in the manger grew to become our Savior, removing the barrier of sin that separated us from God. Because of Jesus, we no longer need to fear God's judgment, our uncertain future, or even death itself.

Mary's "yes" to God's plan, despite her fears and questions, brought the Prince of Peace into the world. This Christmas, we can follow her example—releasing our fears and anxieties into God's hands, trusting in his favour and goodness toward us.

When we embrace the truth that we are loved and favoured by God through Christ, fear loses its grip, and His peace fills our hearts.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of your Son and the favour you've shown us through him. Help us release our fears this Christmas and rest in your perfect peace. May we trust you as Mary did, knowing we are loved and held by You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Todays Devotion is written by Pr Nich Kitchen, LifeWay Epping