Heavenly Father, you are the God who tells us, “Do not fear.” We are not to fear, but we are to reverence you. Let us feel your favor. Let us hear you speak to our hearts and not fear for anything. Let us learn to trust you, to trust your story of salvation and redemption and to trust in the hope of sharing heaven with you. Thank you for coming to save us from our sin and from your wrath. Open blind eyes and closed hearts to your Christmas story, Lord. Speak again through your Spirit and the angels. Let this be a year of amazing revival. I ask in the name and authority of Jesus, according to your good and perfect will. Amen.

“And the angel said to her, ‘Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.'” (Luke 1: 30 ESV)