And the angel said unto them, "Fear not, for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which shall be to all people." This joy is not just for Peter and Paul but for all people. Not just to apostles, prophets, and martyrs does God say, but to you, "Come, see the baby Jesus." "Fear not," said the angel. I fear death, the judgment of God, the world hunger and the like. The angel announces a Savior who will free us from fear. Not a word is said about our merits and works, but only of the gift we are to receive.
Martin Luther, from "Martin Luther's Christmas Book," Fortress Press
Taking a break from blogging (and everything) for a few days. Thanks for reading! Have a blessed Christmas. Christ the Savior is born! Christ the Savior is born!
