Advent Devotional 12-23-24

Please read Luke 2:1-20

Here we are, just two days away from Christmas! I remember this day growing up, just wishing it was Christmas Day already. Now, I wish for this day to last at least another week.

While preparing to write this, I was reading several translations of Luke 2 and what struck a chord in every translation was the angel’s proclamation, “Do not be afraid.” Today we have a lot of things to be afraid of, and when we let ourselves focus on all the negatives it can lead to a dark place filled with fear, anxiety, and loneliness. Having recently been in that dark place, I was reminded of an anthem near and dear to my heart that comes to us from lyrics based on Isaiah 43, “Do Not Be Afraid” by Philip W.J. Stopford. 

Do not be afraid, for I have redeemed you.
I have called you by your name;
you are mine.
When you walk through the waters,
I’ll be with you;
you will never sink beneath the waves.
When the fire is burning all around you,
you will never be consumed by the flames.
When the fear of loneliness is looming,
then remember I am at your side.
When you dwell in the exile of a stranger,
remember you are precious in my eyes.
You are mine, O my child,
I am your Father,
and I love you with a perfect love.

God’s love and faithfulness are beautifully expressed throughout “Do Not Be Afraid.” In the face of life’s uncertainties, we can be comforted knowing that God is always with us. He walks with us through the darkest valleys, protects us from harm, and is our guiding light.

This Christmas, as we reflect on the birth of Jesus, let us embrace God’s love. Let us find comfort in knowing that He walks with us through every storm, every valley, and every mountaintop. May the angel’s proclamation and the lyrics of the anthem inspire us to trust in God’s unwavering love and to live with hope and peace in our hearts.

Prayer: 
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your unwavering love. Thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus Christ, to redeem us. Help us to trust in Your promises and to live in the light of Your love. In Your name, we pray. Amen.

Christy Carson