Today's Verse: Luke 2:10

"Do not be afraid." That's what the angel of the Lord tells the shepherds as they see him and the glory of the Lord" shining around them. They were terrified because the angel was unexpected, glorious, and overwhelming. So, what can cast away fear in such a moment of heaven's glorious radiance? The joy of knowing that God has come to earth to end the domination of sin, death, and hell over human existence (Hebrews 2:14-15). God has come himself in Jesus as Immanuel (Matthew 1:23) to end the evil one's curse and bring salvation for all people. Terror must not master our hearts, only holy fear, a deep reverence and awe as we realize that God has broken through every barrier to reach us with his overwhelming grace and presence in Jesus. Yes, we welcome this "news of great joy for all the people," and pledge to share it with the world because the Lord has come!