Advent Reader: Do Not Be Afraid

Luke 2:8-20

Reading this beautiful passage about the birth of Jesus, I was deeply touched by this verse: “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.” Luke 2:10

It is night. In the cold fields near Bethlehem, some shepherds are watching over their flocks. Simple people, often ignored by everyone. Suddenly, the sky shines brightly: the glory of God appears, and an angel speaks to them. His first words are: “Do not be afraid.”

How many times does God say the same to us! We know how small and fragile we are before His greatness, yet He does not come to frighten us - He comes to bring us good news. The Saviour has been born!This message is not only for a few chosen ones or for the religious; it is “for all the people.”

God chooses to reveal Himself to ordinary people, far from the temple and the city lights. This shows us that grace does not depend on our worth, but on His love. The news is truly amazing: God became man. He does not appear on a throne, but in a manger; not as a mighty king, but as a fragile baby. In this way, He teaches us that salvation comes through humility and simplicity.

After seeing the child, the shepherds cannot keep silent. They return full of joy, telling everyone what they have experienced. We too, like them, are called to welcome Jesus, to seek Him, and to share with others the joy that comes from His love.

Christmas is not just a memory of the past; it is an invitation for today. Let Christ be born in our hearts, driving away fear and filling us with that deep peace that only His presence can give.