And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. –Luke 2:9-11 (KJV)

When my wife, Nanette, and I were married, the congregation of our church gave us a beautiful nativity set as a wedding gift. It is an Anri hand-carved treasure by an artist named Fernandez in which all the characters are smiling, even the animals. Many gorgeous nativity sets capture the profundity of the incarnation with each character having a very serious expression, but this one highlights the angel’s declaration that this baby’s birth is an occasion of great joy for all people. What we cherish most about Fernandez’ work is that all the characters are not only smiling but have children’s faces. This reflects Jesus’ teaching that we must become like children to enter the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 18:3).

I admit I always succumb to childlike anticipation and glee when Christmas is coming. I love the songs, the decorations, the food, the lights, and all the warm fuzzies that go with it. Whatever is happening in the world, I choose to embrace the phrase uttered by the angel: “Fear not.” It is a time to be reminded of God’s grace and sovereignty, and to live truly believing King David’s verse: “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me…” (Psalm 23:4 KJV).

Why should I “fear not?” Because born unto us is a baby with a three-fold title. He is first our Savior, then the Christ, and finally the Lord, which means that He is God Himself. With Him in the shepherds’ midst, why should they fear? They did fear when they first saw the angel but no more! So why would we ever fear? This same Savior, Christ and Lord said, “I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). Christmas is truly the season of joy. With childlike faith and trust in the One who loves me with an everlasting love and Who is always with me, I have a smile on my face and peace in my heart! May this Christmas bring to your life that same lasting peace and joy that only Jesus can provide!

-Pastor Steven Grant