Christmas Day, December 25, 2023

But the angel said to them, “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.

Luke 2: 10-11

I am fortunate to lead half of LCS’ Lay Eucharistic Visitor Trainings offered throughout the year. These opportunities to walk with disciples from across the church who are called to extend their community’s witness of care is always a source of joy for me.

Lay Eucharistic Visitors minister to those in their communities who are sick, homebound, lonely, and often unable to gather for corporate worship. During our sessions, we explore healthy practices of visitation with the sick and the elderly, the church’s history of celebrating the sacraments as a community of mutual care, and God’s proclamation of forgiveness communicated by the Spirit’s power in gifts of bread, wine, and community.

Care lies at the heart of all healthy relationships, especially then relationship God envisions for us as Jesus’ disciples. From the first angelic declaration of Jesus’ birth, God proclaims the depths of care offered in real, tangible, enfleshed ways.

This message of care is God’s ongoing gift for us, born in the Christ Child whose resurrection life- and the care it brings- will never end.

Don’t be afraid. I’m with you, here and now, with good news. Your sorrow is ending, and joy is on the rise for you and for everyone! The Messiah, God’s anointed, who is God’s own self, is born for you, for all of you, today!

Experience this new birth from God again and again as this child greets you in water, Word, wheat, and wine. Trust in the angel’s message, and share it with a world hurting and in need of the care Jesus brings. Jesus is good news! God brings great joy! The Spirit’s gifts are for you- all of you! Taste and see that the Lord is good, caring for us in ways which still the fearful soul and jubilate the sorrow-filled heart.

Thank you, God, for sending us your Son to know, to love, and to worship. Guide us in the comfort of your care, and raise us up to the body of Christ, born and broken for a world hungry for the joy you bring. Amen.

Rev. Brandon M. Heavner serves as pastor of Weisenberg Lutheran, New Tripoli, as a member of the LCS Advisory Board, and an instructor for LCS’ Lay Eucharistic Visitor Training.