Today's encouragement comes from Luke 2:10 & 11, where we read these great words:
"Then the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.' "These familiar Advent season words are applicable to the church, and to the world, at any time of the year. When we are given to fear, let us remember that overwhelming joy (Christ) has been sent to us—and not only to us, but to "All people." This heavenly comfort and consolation has a Name, Jesus, who is "born to [us]" in time and space—in fulfillment of all the OT promises of God.
Therefore, it matters not so much what we face today, as much as it does the One we direct our faces to (in faith). If we would but look to Jesus today, and simply ask for His help—surely we will share in the joy of His incarnation and atonement (of sinners).
[Puritan quote of the day: "And by the Spirit we have the beginnings of these liberties in this world, too. For, what is peace of conscience and joy in the Holy Ghost? Is it not the beginnings of heaven . . . ?” —Richard Sibbes, in, "Glorious Freedom"]
