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Luke 2 8-14 The Message

8-12 There were sheepherders camping in the neighborhood. They had set night watches over their sheep. Suddenly, God’s angel stood among them and God’s glory blazed around them. They were terrified. The angel said, “Don’t be afraid. I’m here to announce a great and joyful event that is meant for everybody, worldwide: A Savior has just been born in David’s town, a Savior who is Messiah and Master. This is what you’re to look for: a baby wrapped in a blanket and lying in a manger.”

13-14 At once the angel was joined by a huge angelic choir singing God’s praises:

Glory to God in the heavenly heights,
Peace to all men and women on earth who please him.

 

As we sit in the year 2020 on the eve of the longest night of the year take a moment to grieve your losses this year. Say them out loud, give them a name. Acknowledge them, it is good for you grieve them. It may be the loss of life or a big milestone looked differently than planned. You may be grieving the loss of a job or a medical diagnosis that will change your health and wellness. 

I find comfort and power in the words of a great teacher, Father Henri Nouwen.

When I trust deeply that today God is truly with me and holds me safe in a divine embrace, guiding every one of my steps I can let go of my anxious need to know how tomorrow will look, or what will happen next month or next year. I can be fully where I am and pay attention to the many signs of God's love within me and around me.

Lord, thank you for sending your son to save us. Thank you for holding us safe in your embrace and guiding our steps. Lord take away all anxiety and fear for the future. Teach us how to be your hands and feet to those we come in contact with this day. May your light would shine from us into the darkness of this day and night. In the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, amen.

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