Advent 1- Zechariah- Rev. Wendy McCormick- Dec 1,2024

 Luke 1:5-25, 57-64   “Do not be afraid” is the most frequently repeated message in scripture --- over 300 times --- From Genesis to Revelation; from the prophets to the psalms; from Jesus to the faithful ones who followed, the words have become a mantra across time and space. Clearly faith cannot thrive when fear is in charge. Maybe that’s why some of the most awe-inspiring expressions of this message appear in the Gospel stories leading up to Jesus’ birth. Angelic beings appear several times . . . . and each time the angels bear the same memo: do not be afraid. The primary origin story of our faith [the nativity] insists and relies on this compelling refrain: let go of your fear, and amazing things will follow. - Calling All Angels, Erin Wathen