The Angels’ Song: A Prayer of Fearlessness

And in the same region, there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear.”- Luke 2:8-9

Father God, your Word reminds me that you chose to deliver the message of Jesus’s birth first to shepherds, to a group of people who at the time were regarded as lowly and disreputable. You came not for perfect, put-together people, but for those who know their need for you. By the power of your Spirit, further reveal to me my own sin, my great need for your grace, that I might more fully receive you and your power this Christmas season.

And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” -Luke 2:10-11

God, just as the shepherds were filled with fear when they encountered you and your glory, so I am aware of my sin and inadequacies before you, a perfect God.

Thank you for the Gospel message delivered by the angels, reminding me that there is no need for fear, shame, or guilt before you. As the angels declared, Christ’s coming brought forth a reality of fearlessness and great joy.

Assure my heart as I stand before you that, in Christ, I am spotless and righteous. My relationship with you is eternally secure. Nothing can separate me from your love. Thank you, God, for this joyous reality.

“And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” -Luke 2:12-14

God, the salvation that Jesus secured in his coming to Earth, dying on the cross, and rising from the dead means that we can be reconciled to you. We can be at peace with you. May this peace overflow in my life.

Help me to live at peace with myself, free from all regret and shame in Christ.

Help me to live at peace with others, free to forgive and reconcile with other people because of the great grace I’ve been shown by you.

For this peace, Lord, I praise you, and I join in with the angels, declaring:

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!

This Christmas, God, tune my heart to perpetually sing your praise. May every experience of peace and joy serve to point me back to you and give you the glory.

Amen.