Dear Friends,

 

Two thousand years ago, under a dark night sky, a group of shepherds were out standing guard over their flocks.  They were watching for predators that might sneak in to destroy the sheep, or a thief that might try to steal the sheep under the cover of darkness.  They were probably cold and tired after a long day of tending the sheep, too.  But, a shepherd’s job wasn’t over when the sun went down. 

 Then, all of a sudden, the Scriptures tell us: “An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them” (Luke 2: 9).  Imagine the look of amazement on those shepherds’ faces and the wonder in their eyes as they dropped to the ground in fear.  But, the angel said to them: “Do not be afraid.  I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.  Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord.”

 As I sat down to write this month’s letter, I couldn’t help but think about all the time I spend “watching out” for all sorts of  things in my life.  And, like many of you, my worries don’t stop when the sun goes down, either.  In fact, it is often at night, when we lie awake worrying about one thing or another, that Satan breaks in “to steal and destroy” the peace and joy that God wants us to have. 

 So, what are the things you’ve been worrying about lately?  Are you worried that your family won’t be together this holiday season?   Are there times when you lie awake wondering how all those bills will get paid?  Are you afraid that you won’t be able to get every thing done that needs to get done?  Will your joy be destroyed by anger and bitterness?  Will the joy of Christmas be stolen right from under your nose?

 It happens all the time – doesn’t it?  Statistics show that more people are depressed at Christmas than at any other time of the year.  That’s why, this Christmas, I pray that you’ll hear the voice of that angel say to you, “Do not be afraid.  I bring you good news of great joy…”  Because always remember, the Savior “has been born” and He was born for you!  And, while you’re at it, be an angel yourself by sharing that “good news” with all the weary people you know.