Daily Devotional for December 26

 

December 26                                                        Luke 2:1-14

Patrick was young and very little. He sat with wonder in his
eyes as he listened to the Christmas story in the second chapter
of Luke. Great peace and joy seemed to come over his little
spirit as he listened and all tension left him. When I finished
reading, I asked, "How did you like that story?"

"It's the best!" Patrick was emphatic, yet calm and at peace.
The story had made such an impact that I had to ask, "What's
so good about the story for you?"

"Be not afraid," Patrick answered. "That's the best part. We
were afraid and the angel said, 'Be not afraid.' We don't have
to be afraid ever again."

I asked Patrick what kinds of things he might be afraid of as
this year draws to a close. He said, "Getting sick, being alone
in the dark, not having friends, not doing good in school -
stuff like that."

In his simple, innocent, unsophisticated way, little Patrick hit
the nail on the head! The meaning of Jesus' humble birth in
a rude stable in an obscure corner of the Roman Empire is "Be
not afraid."

No matter what our fears, today's Gospel message echoes down
the centuries to speak to us: "Be not afraid." Like little Patrick,
we are comforted with the knowledge that Christ has come
to bring "peace among those with whom God is pleased."

         Blessed Saviour, thank you for coming to us with
   your divine message of grace and peace. Thank you for
       having your angels comfort and assure us, saying,
                             "Be not afraid." Amen.

​

From The Road to Emmaus - An inclusive devotional Edited by Joseph W. Houle

Emmaus House of Prayer - Washington D.C