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<\/a>I started a tradition a couple of years ago that I am enjoying now. Once women\u2019s Bible study ends for the semester, I allow myself to read for pleasure. But in recent years, I\u2019ve enjoyed reading books about the birth of Jesus.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Several years ago I read through Francine Rivers novella\u2019s about the women in Jesus\u2019 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.<\/p>\n
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In Unafraid<\/em>, Francine Rivers paints a beautiful picture of Jesus\u2019 parents, their relationship and the events leading up to His birth. Ms. Rivers herself states, \u201cThis 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.\u201d[i]<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n 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\u2019s 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\u2019s Son. Mary knew that God would protect her. She indeed was unafraid.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The second little book I\u2019ve enjoyed reading through again is Hugs from Heaven: The Christmas Story<\/em> 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\u2019s just a fun way to look at Jesus\u2019 story through a fresh view.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n In one section of the book, Ms. Myers writes of the encounter between Mary and the angel. She says, \u201cAssurance quickly replaced her fear as she (Mary) listened intently.\u201d[ii]<\/a> Mary\u2019s confidence was in God. There was no room for doubt.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n We too can have confidence and assurance in God\u2019s words. There is no reason for us to live in fear. Remember, over and over in the Christmas story we hear the words, \u201cDo not be afraid.\u201d And we shouldn\u2019t forget the last words the angel said to Mary. \u201cFor nothing is impossible with God.\u201d <\/em>(Luke 1:37 \u2013 NIV)<\/p>\n <\/p>\n 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\u2019 death, burial and resurrection all fear is cast out. And for that, we have reason to rejoice today.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Have a blessed Christmas!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Grace and peace be yours in abundance,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Donna<\/p>\n [i]<\/a> \u201cUnafraid,\u201d Francine Rivers, Tyndale House Publishers, 2001, introduction.<\/p>\n