Don't Fear Blessings

 

I cannot imagine being one of the shepherds who saw the angel appear to bring the good news of Jesus’ birth.  Shepherds who were out doing their job when an angel and the angelic hosts shared the news that all would be saved.  As we have walked through the Christmas story of Luke, we once again see a time when an angel proclaims the words, “Do not be afraid.” 

We saw Zechariah’s prayers being answered so late in life when he could have been afraid of what would be ahead for Elizabeth and him.  We saw Mary receiving God’s greatest gift, wondering why she was chosen, but the angel explaining she had found favor with God.  This week, we find ourselves with the shepherds, herding sheep, and being the first to hear of the great news of Jesus’ birth.  Do not fear good news!

Have you found yourself in that situation?  The Lord blesses you with some wonderful news that you may even fear?  You receive great blessings, and you wonder, “Why me?”  Something happens that you did not expect, and you say, “This can’t be meant for me?” Have you have even used the words, “This is too good to be true!”  I know I have found myself in these situations, almost afraid that the goodness that was bestowed upon me was not meant for me.  I have questioned God about the blessings He has shared with me, afraid that they would be taken away.  Have you ever found yourself in the same situation?

When our Lord blesses our lives, we should not be afraid of the goodness He gives to us.  We should rejoice in His name the bounty that He provides.  All good things come from God.   We should not be afraid to receive God’s blessings.  He loves us and cherishes us.  He knows exactly what we need when we need it.  He provided our Lord and Savior Jesus on that night in Bethlehem – sharing with the shepherds the greatest gift of all.  That wonderful night, the angels once again brought good news that was meant to be shared throughout the land. 

When blessings come our way, we should not question them.  We should not be saying, “Why me?” or “Are you sure this wasn’t meant for someone else?”  God has given to us what we needed, and our response should not be one of fear or disbelief, but one of joy and thanksgiving.  God never comes to us in fear, He comes to us in love.

When a blessing is bestowed, think back upon the greatest blessing we have received, our Savior Jesus.  During this Advent season, let us not be afraid to pray fervently, let us not be afraid to know that God has found favor with us, and may we never be afraid of the blessings God has given to us.   May we rejoice to God and thank Him always for His gifts – especially the gift of Jesus!

Heavenly Father, may we never be afraid to accept the gifts you so graciously give to us.  Let us cherish all that you provide, giving thanks and praise!  During this Advent, may we be reminded that you never come in fear, but you come in love.  Let us bask in the sunshine of that love each day.  Amen!