I’ve never really understood the song “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” at least that part that talks about “scary ghost stories.” Other than Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, I’m not aware of any Christmas ghost stories. The idea of being frightened at Christmas doesn’t make a whole lot of sense.
Unless you think of Mary in Luke 1 or the shepherds in Luke 2. It’s not too far fetched to think that the sudden appearance of otherworldly beings in your home or in the night sky might be a bit frightening; otherwise, why would the angels have said to them, “Do not be afraid”?
Mary’s fear is certainly understandable, considering that she would become the mother of the Son of God. There’s something about coming face to face not only with God’s messenger but with God’s plans that can bring fear. As amazing as it was that God was going to work his plan of salvation for all people through a young girl and her fianc , it had to be a scary idea for both. But after the initial shock of the angel’s message, Mary recognized the blessing and praised God for what he was going to do through her and for all generations.
The birth of a baby is certainly cause for joy and celebration, but this baby’s birth brings joy to all. The angel’s message to the shepherds went on “I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.” The world that waited in fear and darkness for a new word from God has received not only a birth announcement but a declaration of freedom.
As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, let us embrace the implications of the birth of our Savior: forgiveness, freedom, and peace. This is what brings joy to the world. “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13).