“Don’t be afraid!” was the first thing the angels said in their messages announcing the good news about Christ’s birth. Mary was told, “Don’t be afraid; you have found favour with God.” (Luke 1:30) Joseph was told “do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife.” (Matt 1:20) The shepherds were told “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” (Luke 2:10)
Fear is something we all have to deal with at some point in our lives. Many languages talk about ‘having fear’; in English now we talk about ‘being afraid’. Whether we think of fear as something we (hopefully temporarily) possess or are conscious of it being a more insidious state that pervades our thinking on an almost constant basis, God has much to say about fear.
Moses encouraged the Israelites as they were about to go into the Promised Land not to fear: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Deut 31:6) He encouraged Joshua with the words “The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” (Deut 31:8) Time and time again, as God’s people face difficult situations, whether personally or nationally, God reminds them that He is with them and that one fact is enough to turn the situation around. God is our helper. We need not be afraid.
In Ps 55, we read what we need to do with our fears and worries: “Pile your troubles on God’s shoulders— he’ll carry your load, he’ll help you out.” (Ps 55:22, The Message). May the knowledge that God is with us – Emmanuel – transform our thinking and help us to face the New Year without fear, but with hope and trust.