December 22

Sore Afraid

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 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 (Luke 2:8, 9, KJV).

Scripture: Luke 2:8-14

Song: “Angels We Have Heard On High”

We were camped in the forest to complete our work more efficiently. Far away from the lights of the city, on a moonless night, it was completely dark. Even light from our small campfire seemed to be swallowed up in darkness. Suddenly a meteorite passed over in a tremendous burst of light and we were sore afraid.

Imagine the shepherds abiding in the field at night when suddenly an angel bursts upon them, quickly surrounded by the “glory of the Lord,” and followed up by a “multitude of heavenly hosts praising God.” These guys must have been basket cases! Even so, for them and for us the message was of “good tidings of great joy” and of a “Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” What other message could quiet terrified hearts? What other message could change fear into curiosity and boldness to go seek out the Savior? That message is still needed today as much as ever and we desperately need expressions of peace and good will toward others. Someone you meet today may need good will, good tidings, and an introduction to the Savior. You can skip the bright lights.

Savior, like a shepherd, lead me to those who need to hear Your message of salvation, joy, and peace. In Your name I ask, amen.