The opening words of Luke’s gospel might seem unimportant, but they paint a picture of the world Jesus was born into. A world filled with rampant oppression, economic disparity, uncertainty, and instability. A world in which there was plenty to fear.

 

And yet, all through the gospels, the whispers of angels deliver a surprising message: “Do not fear.”

 

Is it even possible to be fearless in a fearful world?

 

But the thing is, when Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and the magi are visited by the angel they don’t deny their fears—they move through them. They ask questions. They hold fast to courage. They trust in good news. They say, “Here I am, Lord.”

 

Put simply, they choose to enter God’s story even though there is plenty to fear.

 

When we find ourselves in fearful times, can we acknowledge our fears while also insisting on hope?

 

Because the angels’ message is true and Christ’s birth truly is good news of great joy for all people.

 

This Advent, we will light candles, sing carols, and pray for Christ’s coming because we believe God entered a frightened world to bring good news. We too will choose to hold onto hope because we believe that Christ did come—that’s the promise of the season. Our hope is not flimsy or fleeting. It’s gritty, resilient, and can endure—no matter what we fear or face.

 

And so, may we insist on hope and trust that good news is greater than fear.