When Fear Meets The Manger

Dear Friend,

Have you ever noticed how our deepest fears tend to surface in the quietest moments?

Maybe it's at 3 AM when sleep eludes you, or during that long drive home when your mind wanders to all the "what-ifs" of life.

I've been thinking a lot about fear lately—not just the big, dramatic kinds, but those subtle anxieties that color our daily lives.

This week, as I've been meditating on the Christmas story, something struck me about those shepherds in the field. They were going about their ordinary night when suddenly—light, angels, and a message that would change everything. Their first reaction? Fear. Completely understandable, right?

But here's what fascinates me.

The angel's first words weren't "Behold!" or "Listen up!" but "Do not be afraid."

It's as if God knew that before any news could take root in their hearts, fear needed to be addressed.

Isn't that just like our own lives?

Before we can embrace opportunities, step into new seasons, or experience joy, we often need to deal with our fears first.

However, the same God who orchestrated the most magnificent announcement in history to simple shepherds sees you in your fear.

He doesn't dismiss it.

He doesn't shame it.

He addresses it head-on with His presence.

Here's what I believe the Christmas story teaches us about handling fear:

1. Fear is a normal human response to the unknown

2. God doesn't just command us not to fear; He gives us reasons not to fear.

3. The antidote to fear isn't courage; it's the presence of God

This week, I want to challenge you (and myself) to do something different with your fears. Instead of suppressing them or overcoming them through sheer willpower, try this:

• Name your fear specifically

• Remember that Jesus came into our messy, scary world on purpose

• Let His presence be bigger than your fear

The beauty of Christmas isn't just that Jesus was born—it's that He was born for us, into our fear-filled world, to be God with us. Emmanuel. Not God watching from a distance, but God right here, during whatever makes us afraid.

This season, remember that the shepherds' fear turned to joy through their encounter with God, not because of changed circumstances. The same invitation extends to us today.

What fear do you need to bring to the Lord this week?

Which thoughts of freight do you need to set aside to embrace the message of salvation?

What are you afraid might happen if you accept Christ's invitation to live in him and walk by his grace?

Walking with you in faith,

Eryeza Kalalu

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P.S. If you're struggling with fear, reply to this email. Let's pray together. You're not alone on this journey.