Mid-Week Inspiration: Wednesday, December 18, 2024

The night was dark, and the coyotes howled, their cries cutting through the stillness like a blade. In a quiet moment of a Peanut cartoon, Linus turned to Charlie Brown. “When I hear those coyotes howling,” he said, “it depresses me. Makes me feel lonely. Then I get scared.” Charlie Brown looked at him. “I thought that blanket made you feel safe.” Linus shrugged. “Maybe the warranty ran out.”

Isn’t that how it is for us? The night howls in its own way, and we feel it deep inside. We fear life. We fear death. And all the spaces in between.

But there’s a cure for fear. Long ago, in the Garden, Adam’s first words were, “I am afraid.” We’ve carried that fear ever since. But then, at Bethlehem, we hear the message, “Don’t be afraid.”

That’s the thing, isn’t it? Love came down that night. Born to drive out the fear we’ve always known. We don’t have to live with it anymore. Fear doesn’t win here. Not with love among us.

Pastor Jamey

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Question to Consider

How does the message “Don’t be afraid” from the birth of Jesus challenge or comfort you?

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Mid-Week Prayer

Lord, we hear the howling in the night and feel the weight of fear in our hearts. Teach us to let go of the false securities we cling to and embrace the lasting peace found in You. Thank You for the love born among us in Jesus, driving out the fear that has long held us captive. Amen.

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