We are living in a world filled with uncertainty. The threat of the Coronavirus is rapidly impacting our society in ways that we never even considered as we entered 2020. With reports about escalating numbers of infections and, sadly, deaths from this virus, the tensions only increase. No nation is exempt from this enemy. The accusations of blame only serve to further confuse the matter. As I heard on the radio, “We are living in the ‘new normal’.”
The ‘new normal’ in the Roman Empire was anything but positive for the Jewish people. A foreign entity occupied the land and ruled with an oppressive hand. Political leaders made decisions based on fear and paranoia. Herod had three of his own sons killed fearing they would overthrow him. The government imposed a census on the people forcing everyone to travel to the town of their origin.
This was the context of the passage. Mary and Joseph had travelled to Bethlehem for the census. Meanwhile out in the fields outside of town a normal night was suddenly thrust into turmoil as the silence was broken with an unexpected visitor. In Luke 2:9–14 we read:
9 Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid, for look, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people: 11 Today in the city of David a Savior was born for you, who is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be the sign for you: You will find a baby wrapped tightly in cloth and lying in a manger.” 13 Suddenly there was a multitude of the heavenly host with the angel, praising God and saying: 14 Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to people he favors!
The first words of the Angel were given to the Shepherds to calm their fears. I have never been aware of being in the presence of an angel of the Lord, but I can only imagine it would be quite hair raising, even on my bald head. As the shepherds quaked with fear, the angel gave a message of hope, joy, and peace. In the midst of the shepherd’s chaotic world, the angel called them to a “new normal”.
This announced Messiah would later grow up and deliver a similar message, Matthew 6:31–34
31 So don’t worry, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear?’ 32 For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you. 34 Therefore don’t worry about tomorrow, because tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
In these times of uncertainty, Christ reminds us to live life in the “new normal” that flows out of a relationship with Him.
PRAYER: Dear God, help us to live our lives in the bold assurance that you are God and that you are in control. Free us from our fears and help us to live in Your Peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Announcements:
Remember to contact the church office if you are still planning on attending the movie on Friday night at 7:30 at the Regal Theater in Wilder. We will be requesting a refund for any unclaimed tickets on Wednesday.
We want you to know that we are doing everything we can to continue to minister to the needs of our community. Though we were unable to meet yesterday the financial needs of our church remain about the same. We want to continue to support our mission partners even in these difficult days. The reality is ministry needs are probably greater during this time of crises. If you would like to give online visit our website www.pinerbaptist.org and click on the lines on the upper right corner and click on the giving tab. Your donation is secure and will be deposited in the churches account.
We are collecting the following items to help feed Piner Elementary families during this time. Bring your items by the church by Wednesday so that they can be delivered by Friday. Jody has requested the following items: Canned Soup and Fruit, Spaghetti and Sauce, Mac & Cheese, Boxed Cereal, Peanut Butter & Jelly, and Crackers.