December 31 Christmas, the Boldness of the Gospel

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior who is Christ the Lord.”
Luke 2:10-11 (NASB)

This world is a mess, filled with devastation, death, disease, divorce, chaos, confusion, suffering and pain. It is impossible to escape it as hard as we may try. We are confronted at every turn with twenty-four hour news repeating all of the horrors of the day. Constant alerts, tweets and news feeds on our devices. We instantly know all of the inhumane, horrific things which take place all over the world. We now, as never before, taste the reality of the knowledge of good and evil. The result? Most are filled with panic, fear, stress, worry and anxiety.

This is one of the reasons I love Christmas. Its message is so bold and counter-cultural. In a world addicted to and submersed in bad news, Christmas boldly proclaims Good News. Here in Luke, it begins with a bold imperative, “Stop being afraid!” In a world devastated by sin, I need the bold reminder that my fear and worry accomplish nothing and add nothing of profit to any situation. I need the bold reminder that the most frequent command given to me by Jesus is “Fear not.” But what good news is powerful enough to calm my constant fears?

The only Good News that is powerful enough to melt my fears and to fill me with joy overflowing is this: A Savior has been born! A hero has come! A rescuer has arrived! His name is Jesus.

Jesus alone lived a life without sin.
Jesus alone was crucified and became sin for me so that I might receive His righteousness by grace through faith in Him.
Jesus alone is able to redeem, reconcile and forgive.
Jesus alone gives me a hope beyond this sin-soaked, fear-laden world.
Jesus alone has proven all these things by conquering death and rising from the grave.
This is the boldness of the Gospel given to us at Christmas. This is the Good News that I love, the Good News that stills my fears, brings deep joy and a peace that surpasses understanding.

May the boldness of the Gospel melt our fears this Christmas.
May the bold name of Jesus be exalted as we worship Him,
serve Him, love Him, adore Him, follow Him,
enjoy Him, obey Him and find rest in Him.

Pastor Dave Tooker