Don't be afraid

When we encounter pure, naked power, only the insane aren't afraid. When we are threatened to be engulfed by a power that rips all control from us, we are afraid. That is a natural response. The power of nature is a great example. A tornado, an earthquake, a hurricane, all can cause fear as we see how big the event is and how insignificant and powerless we are.

When God or his messengers come in contact with humans, the first words the Bible records that they say to the spectators is "don't be afraid". God, pure naked power, the power of the universe is concerned that we feel loved by him.  There is no fear in love, but perfect love drive out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. God knows that if he were to order us to "love" him, or frightens us to "love" him, it isn't really love. Love can only happen when we desire him, his goodness, his care, and his company.

Advent is about the coming of God in a form that we could understand. God came as a man who grew up like we grew up and made himself accessible to us. The season of Advent says, here comes your God. Don't be afraid.