Hearing God’s Spirit
The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favour with God.”
—Luke 1:30
On Christmas Eve in churches, homes, and school gymnasiums around the Caribbean and North America, “Do not be afraid, Mary,” slips off the lips of thousands of readers. Sounds so easy doesn’t it? “Do not be afraid, Mary.” Now don’t we already know the whole story? But who at the beginning would dare believe that she, a young woman of no standing, had heard a word from God? Not many, not even Joseph until he too heard a word from God.
How is God’s Spirit speaking in you?
Do you allow yourself to let go and fall into your Bible reading? Imagine you’re Mary. What good news is God telling you but you’re a little afraid to hear? Who, me? What, now?
Too often we think (or someone tells us) that we need great education to hear a word from God. Certainly, as a church we’re careful that the preacher is a thoughtful, spirit-filled, disciple of Christ who has prayerfully wrestled with the Bible. We do take care of who preaches in public; we’ve all experienced sermons that have unintentionally hurt people. But we also know, because we have felt it in our very soul, that God’s word can powerfully speak to each one of us. No education is required, just the courage to listen and hear.
As we approach the birth of our Lord, do not be afraid but let the good news of God’s deep love for you and of Christ’s call on your life take hold of you. Do not be afraid but let the joy of new life in Christ take hold in you.
—Rev. Matthew Sams
Willowdale Presbyterian Church
Toronto, Canada
Willowdale Presbyterian Church
Toronto, Canada
Matthew is Minister of Word and Sacraments at Willowdale Presbyterian Church in Toronto, Canada, chair of the Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations Committee of the Presbyterian Church in Canada, and a member of CANAAC’s Steering Committee.