Today is Christmas Eve, and if you’re like most of the world celebrating Christmas, you have traditions. You may have already enjoyed some of these traditions, but there are probably many more coming your way in the next two days.

I started a tradition a couple of years ago that I am enjoying now. Once women’s Bible study ends for the semester, I allow myself to read for pleasure. But in recent years, I’ve enjoyed reading books about the birth of Jesus.

Several years ago I read through Francine Rivers novella’s about the women in Jesus’ lineage. Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba and of course, Mary. I probably could read all of these during Bible study break, but I chose to read just one. The book about Mary.

In “Unafraid,” Francine Rivers paints a beautiful picture of Jesus’ parents, their relationship and the events leading up to His birth. Ms. Rivers herself states, “This is a work of historical fiction. The outline of the story is provided by the Bible, and I have started with the facts provided there. Building on that foundation, I have created action, dialogue, internal motivations, and in some cases, additional characters.”[i]

While it is difficult to imagine the emotions that Mary experienced, I do believe Ms. Rivers got one thing right. Mary was confident of God’s words. She knew, maybe the only person who truly knew that the baby she carried was indeed the Messiah. Mary had no doubt that Jesus was God’s Son. Mary knew that God would protect her. She indeed was unafraid.

The second little book I’ve enjoyed reading through again is “Hugs from Heaven: The Christmas Story” by G. A. Myers. This little book takes a look at each group of people and individuals in the Christmas story. Including the angels view! It’s just a fun way to look at Jesus’ story through a fresh view.

In one section of the book, Ms. Myers writes of the encounter between Mary and the angel. She says, “Assurance quickly replaced her fear as she (Mary) listened intently.”[ii] Mary’s confidence was in God. There was no room for doubt.

We too can have confidence and assurance in God’s words. There is no reason for us to live in fear. Remember, over and over in the Christmas story we hear the words, “Do not be afraid.” And we shouldn’t forget the last words the angel said to Mary. “For nothing is impossible with God.” (Luke 1:37 – NIV)

I pray that as you go through this Christmas Eve that you are able to find the confidence and assurance in Jesus. Not just the baby Jesus lying in a manger, but in the adult Jesus who fulfilled the role of Savior of the world. Through Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection all fear is cast out. And for that, we have reason to rejoice today.

Have a blessed Christmas!

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

Donna

[i] “Unafraid,” Francine Rivers, Tyndale House Publishers, 2001, introduction.

[ii] “Hugs from Heaven: The Christmas Story,” G.A. Myers with personalized Scripture by LeAnn Weiss, Howard Publishing Co., West Monroe, LA, 1999, pg. 10.