Devotional: The Wonder of Christmas – Finding Peace Through the Good News
But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.
Luke 2: 10-11 (NIV)
There is something about the Christmas season that intensifies whatever we are feeling. When life is going well, joy seems brighter. When life is heavy, the weight feels sharper. Yet into all of this, the gospel speaks a steady word. The message the angels brought to the shepherds is the message our hearts still need today. Do not be afraid. Behold.
Fear grows when we believe life depends on us. It grows when we try to control what we cannot control and carry what we were never meant to carry. But the alternative the angels offer is simple and powerful. Behold the good news. Fix your eyes on the Savior who has come near. When we behold the gospel, fear begins to lose its authority and faith begins to rise.
This is the heart of Christmas. Jesus did not come only for humanity in a general sense. He came for you. He knows the places where fear speaks loudly. He knows the weight you carry. He knows the unspoken worries in your heart. And His invitation is to look again at who He is and what He has done. As you take in the beauty of the gospel, peace slowly fills the places where fear once lived.
Faith grows when we behold the gospel more than we behold our fear.
Questions for Reflection
What fear has felt the loudest in your heart lately?
Where has Christmas made certain emotions feel sharper or heavier?
What part of the gospel brings you comfort when circumstances do not change?
How does knowing Jesus came specifically for you strengthen your faith today?
How can you practice beholding the gospel throughout this week?
Prayer
Father, thank You for the good news that brings great joy. In the places where fear feels strong, help me lift my eyes to You. Teach me to behold the truth of the gospel in a fresh way. Fill my heart with Your peace. Remind me that I am not alone and that You came for me. Grow my faith as I trust You with the places I cannot control. Amen.
Dig Deeper
Scripture References
Additional Resources
Tim Keller Sermon: A thoughtful message on hearing God’s voice at Christmas.
https://gospelinlife.com/sermon/listening-to-god-christmas/Bible Project Advent Word Study: An Advent look at God’s peace. https://bibleproject.com/videos/shalom-peace/
Do not rush past the good news that has come to you. Take time this week to behold the gospel. As you do, fear loses its grip and faith grows strong.
