But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart.
Luke 2:19
Christmas can be an especially difficult time for many people for different
reasons. Those participating in Journeys through Grief understand the
complex mix of emotions people experiencing loss feel during the Advent
and Christmas seasons. Luke’s account of the birth of Jesus is a message
of hope for us all.
As the shepherds did their work under the cover of darkness, they
were startled by a burst of angelic light. I can’t imagine how afraid and
disoriented they must have been. In the midst of darkness, fear and
confusion, an angel gave them a message of unimaginable joy and peace,
“Do not be afraid; for see--I am bringing you good news of great joy for all
the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the
Messiah, the Lord.”
We are told they “made haste to see this thing that had taken place,”
proclaiming to Mary and Joseph what would be the beginning of the
greatest love story ever told—God’s love for all people poured out in this
savior Jesus. God with and for us forever…this is good news, indeed!
Like Mary, may we ponder these sacred words of comfort, joy and peace
in our hearts. Arise, shine, for the light has come!
Gracious God, may the light of your love shine in our hearts and lives today
and always. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
The Rev. Jennifer Heavner is the pastor of Star of Bethlehem
Lutheran Church, Bethlehem , PA, and serves on the Advisory Committee
of Lutheran Congregational Services.
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