Have you ever noticed that every time humans encounter angels in the Bible their first response is fear? Luke tells us that the shepherds were just going about their nightly routine when an angel appeared to them out of nowhere. No warning flight in, no nothing. Not only that, but God’s glory, the manifestation of His holiness lit up the place. No wonder they were terrified! I’m sure I would be, too! But themessage theangels brought to the shepherds that night was a message of good news! No wonder the announcement came with the words “do not be afraid.” Since when does good news bring fear? The shepherds couldn’t experience the good news as long as they remained terrified because joy and fear do not coexist. They are complete opposites, antonyms to be sure. While God knows we often fear because we are fallen creatures who are greatly limited, He doesn’t desire that we fear. The psalmist said, “when I am afraid, I put my trust in you” (Psalm 56:3). The apostle John said, “perfect love casts out fear” (1 John 4:18). This love that drives out fear is the kind of love God displayed when He “so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son that whosoever believes in Him will not perish but have everlasting life” John 3:16. Jesus said, “These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full” John 15:11. Joy is the experience of good news! Shepherds 78
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