Ever watch the credits at the end of a movie? There are thousands of people involved in the making of the film. From the light crew, to the sound crew. Even catering gets a mention. Yet, we really only focus on the stars of the show.
Or, how about the kicking the field goal to win the game? All attention, and high-fives, are put on the kicker. Yet, it takes everyone making their block, the long-snapper making the perfect snap, and the placer holder getting the ball down, just right, to execute that winning kick.
In the Christmas story, all attention is put on the Manger where the Christ Child was born. But, there was a moment that jumped out to me this year, that, like the movie credits, and perfectly kicking a field goal, is sometimes overlooked.
“But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:20-21)
It’s easy to think, ‘well of course Joseph obeyed. He had an Angel speak to him in a dream’. But, think about it. If, today, an Angel appeared and spoke to you about something tough that you would need to walk through, what would your response be?
Sure, he had the assurance of the word spoken to him, but it didn’t make the situation less intense.
The good news is that you are NEVER alone! Whatever stressful situation that you’re facing, you can have assurance that you are not alone.
Whether it is a financial issue, ‘do not be afraid‘. A realationship that needs mending? ‘Do not be afraid‘. A meeting that you’re dreading? ‘Do not be afraid‘. Just as Mary and Joseph were never alone in their journey, you are not alone.
Go in confidence, with the ‘Good News of Great Joy’, that has been given to you, and kick that winning field goal!